You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast

In this episode of You Can Mentor, we welcome Matt McGill, a longtime pastor and baseball coach who shares wisdom gained from years of ministry and mentoring. Matt highlights the importance of meeting people where they are and responding faithfully to real needs. He also unpacks four key dilemmas he believes will help mentors better prepare for the challenges and opportunities they will face along the mentoring journey. If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

On today’s episode of You Can Mentor, we’re joined by special guest Bobby Lopez from Passion SoCal, who shares his heart for mentoring youth in Los Angeles communities impacted by drugs, gangs, and homelessness. Bobby reflects on moments from his own life and how God used mentors to shape his journey. This encouraging conversation reminds mentors that even small acts of presence and love can spark light and hope through Jesus in the lives of the kids they serve. Please make sure to follow @bobbylopez.jr on his socials!https://www.passionsocal.com/aboutIf this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

In this powerful conversation, Zach sits down with his friend Derek Sire from Restore OKC to talk honestly about race, culture, and mentoring across differences. They unpack how easy it is for mentors (especially white mentors) to step into a kid’s world with good intentions but harmful assumptions—about their neighborhood, their family, their faith, or their “potential.”Derek explains what it means to be an asset-based organization—seeing the gifts, skills, and strengths already present in a community rather than arriving as rescuers with outside solutions. Together, he and Zach name the subtle “savior” mindset that can creep into mentoring, and they model what it looks like to repent, grow, and move toward curiosity, compassion, and honor.Along the way, Zach shares vulnerable stories about his own biases in the classroom, assumptions about dads based on race, and a humbling encounter with a Muslim mom who became one of his biggest supporters. Derek shows how curiosity—about a kid, their family, their neighborhood, and the systems around them—transforms pity into true, Christlike compassion.In this episode, you’ll hear about:What asset-based ministry looks like in real life at Restore OKCHow our brains “put kids in boxes” and why mentors must slow downCommon assumptions about Black fathers and why the narrative is often wrongWhy language matters (“fatherless,” “the hood,” “that’s ghetto”) and how it shapes identityPractical ways mentors can champion single moms, dads, schools, and neighborhoods as assets, not problemsHow to lead with confession, repentance, and Spirit-led curiosity instead of rescueThis is a great episode to share with your team or mentoring community and then ask: “What assumptions do we need to confess? How can we grow in curiosity and compassion?”www.youcanmentor.comwww.restoreokc.org--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

Jose Rodriguez went from gang life in North Tulsa to helping transform cities through Jesus, coaching, and the power of presence. In this episode, Zach sits down with Jose, founder and CEO of Rescue a Generation, to talk about what it actually looks like to love and disciple kids from hard places for the long haul.You will hear Jose’s wild story of growing up around drugs, gangs, and chaos, finding unexpected family through a bus ministry, and how a youth worker named Nancy refused to give up on him. Together, Zach and Jose unpack:How to have thick skin and a soft heart with studentsWhy “giving up on giving up” matters in mentoringHow gangs often disciple better than churches and what we can learn from thatThe ministry of presence and earning the right to be heardWhy changing a young person’s mind can change their entire lifeThe power of calling out identity and potential, even in the “worst” kidIf you mentor or work with urban or at risk youth, this conversation will fill your tank and sharpen your approach. Learn more about Jose and Rescue a Generation, and walk away reminded that love is a universal language, relationships change lives, and yes… you can mentor.--To find out more about Rescue A Generation, check out their website - https://www.rescueageneration.com or @rescueagen--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

In this episode, guest host Derrick Sier from Reverb Mentoring joins us for an honest conversation about the challenges and growth that can come from interracial mentoring. Together, we explore how differences in upbringing, culture, and lived experience can shape relationships, and how humility and listening open doors for deeper understanding. Through a Christ-centered lens, we discuss how mentors can create safe, compassionate spaces where every young person feels seen, valued, and supported. --https://www.reverbmentoring.com/https://www.restoreokc.org/--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.--Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor Gathering--You can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on Instagram @youcanmentor

What if mentoring wasn’t just one person investing in a kid—but an entire circle of caring adults surrounding them with encouragement, accountability, and faith? That’s exactly what Ben Bevis, Executive Director of Encircled, is doing. In this episode, host Zach Garza talks with Ben about how “mentor circles” are transforming the way we support young people from hard places.On this episode, we will chat about:The Vision Behind Encircled: Ben shares how thirty years of youth ministry, therapy, and family coaching led him to launch Encircled—a nonprofit helping parents, mentors, and communities form intentional “circles” around youth.The Power of Many Mentors: Research shows that youth with multiple trusted adults are more resilient, more likely to thrive, and less likely to fall through the cracks. Ben explains why one mentor is good—but five can be life-changing.How the Encircled App Works: Using free resources and a simple app, mentors (or “guides”) help kids discover their God-given identity, gifts, and vision, then invite key people into a mentoring circle that walks with them for the long haul.Stories that Inspire: From the heartbreaking loss of a former mentee to the redemption story of “Bill,” whose circle helped him rediscover his love for music and faith, Ben illustrates the beauty and impact of shared mentorship.“This next generation wasn’t meant to do life on their own, but in community.” — Ben BevisMentors don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself—and your mentee—with others who will show up, pray, encourage, and share the load.Learn more about Ben Bevis and Encircled at encircled.org.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza reunites with Stephen Murray to discuss their journey in mentorship, the importance of balancing work and family, and the impact of building relationships with mentees. Stephen shares personal insights on fatherhood, the challenges of fundraising for their organization, and the significance of being present in both family and mentoring roles. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of mentorship and the need to impart values to the next generation.Give it a listen and share it with your mentoring friends!Connect with Stephen @forerunnerementoring.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

In today's episode, we explore the power of Christ-centered mentoring and the impact of walking alongside others in faith. In this episode, Ron shares wisdom, stories, and practical insights that equip mentors and mentees alike to grow spiritually, build stronger relationships, and live out their God-given purpose. Whether you’re new to mentoring or a seasoned guide, you’ll be encouraged and inspired to invest in the next generation through the love of Jesus. If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

277. Simple Mentoring with Ray Chang of simplementoring.org & Tenx10Join Zachary Garza and Ray Chang as they delve into the transformative power of mentorship. Discover how the TenX10 initiative is mobilizing faith communities to engage with young people, addressing the rapid disaffiliation from Christianity. Ray shares insights on relational discipleship, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of small acts in mentoring.Key Points:Introduction to TenX10: A collaborative effort to make faith matter for 10 million young people over 10 years. Challenges in Mentorship: Addressing stereotypes and the need for authentic connections. 3 Keys to Effective Mentoring: Small Acts > Big Gestures. Authenticity > Pretending. Questions > Answerssimplementoring.org offers free tools and resources for mentors. Upcoming Event: Join the TenX10 summit this October in Atlanta for collaboration and worship. https://www.tenx10.org/Quotes:"A future that looks very ancient." "Mentorship is about being present and meeting people where they are."

In this  episode of "You Can Mentor," host Zach Garza engages with Dr. David Yeager, a leading expert in psychology and education and the author of "10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, to uncover the profound impact of mentorship.They explore the mentor mindset, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining high standards and providing unwavering support. Dr. Yeager shares his expertise on cultivating a growth mindset, emphasizing how mentors can encourage resilience and adaptability in their mentees. The conversation delves into the art of delivering wise feedback, offering practical tips on how to communicate effectively to inspire and empower young individuals. Through compelling stories and research-backed insights, this episode provides valuable strategies for mentors seeking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they guide. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the foremost voices in mentorship and education. --You can find the book "10 to 25" here.Learn more about You Can Mentor here.--[00:00] Introduction to Mentorship[02:00] David Yeager's Journey[08:00] The Mentor Mindset[15:00] Balancing High Standards and Support[22:00] Insights on Growth Mindset[28:00] The Role of Feedback in Mentorship[34:00] Stories of Impactful Mentorship[39:00] Conclusion and Key Takeaways--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

In this heartfelt episode of "You Can Mentor," we welcome Dr. Zac Bauermaster, a dynamic principal, author, and former college basketball player known for his viral social media content (21 million views) that spreads positivity and encouragement. Dr. Bauermaster shares his philosophy on building a school culture rooted in high fives, fist bumps, and genuine connections, emphasizing the transformative power of relationships in education. We explore his personal journey, from his early days as a teacher to his current role in school leadership, and discuss the mentors who shaped his path. Dive into stories of resilience, faith, and the profound impact of simply showing up for others. Whether you're a mentor, educator, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a leader who truly embodies the spirit of mentorship.For more info about Zac, go to https://linktr.ee/zbauermaster--ChaptersIntroduction to Dr. Zac Bauermaster0:00 - 2:00Meet Dr. Zac Bauermaster, a principal, author, and former college basketball player known for his viral social media presence.Creating a Culture of Encouragement2:01 - 8:00Discover how Zac fosters a school environment filled with high fives, fist bumps, and genuine connections.The Power of Presence8:01 - 15:00Explore the importance of showing up and being present in the lives of students and mentees.Personal Journey and Mentorship15:01 - 25:00Zac shares his personal journey, the mentors who shaped him, and the impact of relationships.Balancing Roles and Responsibilities25:01 - 32:00Insights into how Zac balances his roles as a principal, speaker, and family man.Final Thoughts and Advice32:01 - 37:23Zac's advice for mentors and how to keep showing up for those you mentor.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

274. The Ministry of Seeing People: Knowing and Authentically Encouraging Your Mentee with Author and Coach Mitch Matthews of mitchmatthews.com In this inspiring episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Author and Coach Mitch Matthews to explore the profound impact of mentorship. Mitch shares his personal journey from a small-town bike shop enthusiast to a successful coach and mentor, revealing how authentic encouragement and the "ministry of seeing people" can transform lives. Learn how to harness the power of curiosity, ask the right questions, and create meaningful connections. Whether you're guiding young minds or leading in the corporate world, Mitch's insights on being present and authentic will equip you to mentor with purpose. Don't miss this opportunity to discover how you can make a lasting difference by simply showing up as yourself. https://mitchmatthews.com/ & @mitch.matthews - Check out Mitch's "Dream. Think. Do" podcast wherever you get your pods!#Mentorship #Encouragement #Authenticity #Leadership--Introduction and Welcome (00:01)Zach Garza introduces Mitch Matthews and sets the stage for the conversation.Mitch's Journey to Coaching (01:19)Mitch shares his background, from a small-town bike shop to discovering his passion for coaching.The Ministry of Seeing People (06:35)Mitch discusses the importance of truly seeing and engaging with others in mentorship.Encouragement in Mentorship (10:54)The conversation shifts to how encouragement plays a vital role in mentoring.Authenticity and Dropping the Persona (23:39)Mitch talks about the power of being yourself and the challenges of maintaining a persona.Practical Mentoring Tools (34:03)Simple yet effective tools for mentoring are discussed, emphasizing curiosity and presence.Conclusion and Resources (44:05)Mitch shares resources and ways to connect, wrapping up the episode.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor

Making Faith Matter More: A Conversation with Shane SanchezWhat does it take to truly impact the next generation? In this episode, Zachary Garza sits down with Shane Sanchez—pastor, author, and strategic leader with Tenx10—to talk about the power of mentorship and discipleship in shaping young lives. From his early days playing baseball to his current work helping faith matter more to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, Shane shares his journey and what he's learned along the way.You’ll hear about the mission behind 10x10, why authenticity and humility are key in mentorship, and how intentional relationships can change lives.https://www.tenx10.org/Key Topics:Why mentorship matters more than everShane’s definition of mentorship: intentional relationships that develop othersUnique challenges and opportunities when mentoring Gen Z and Gen AlphaThe heart and mission of Tenx10Leading with authenticity, humility, and curiosityQuotes: "Mentorship is intentional relationship aimed at development by someone who sets an aspirational example." — Shane Sanchez "The next generation is seeking guidance and support as to how to navigate life as a whole." — Shane Sanchez#Mentorship #Discipleship #NextGeneration #Faith #Tenx10

In this powerful episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Chris Cox from Back2Back Ministries. With over two decades of experience in youth work and 13+ years at Back2Back, Chris brings a wealth of wisdom around trauma-informed holistic care and mentoring vulnerable youth.Chris shares his journey from youth pastor to launching Back2Back’s first U.S.-based site in Cincinnati, where he now leads a team serving children and families with trauma-informed, gospel-centered care. Together, Zach and Chris unpack what it means to create safe spaces for kids who’ve experienced hard things, how to mentor without fixing, and why community and consistency are essential in a child’s healing journey.You’ll hear practical insights about the five components of holistic care, the difference between mentors and coaches, the power of presence over performance, and how Jesus modeled a trauma-informed ministry before the term even existed.If you work with kids from hard places, or want to, this conversation will inspire, equip, and remind you that showing up consistently does make a difference.Check out backtoback.org, traumafreeworld.org, and learn more about Chris’s work at https://back2backcincy.org/Rate, review, and share the show, and don’t forget... You Can Mentor.--Chapter 1: Introduction and Welcome (00:00)Meet your hosts, Zach Garza and Chris CoxOverview of the episode's focus on mentoring and communityChapter 2: Chris Cox's Journey (01:23)Chris shares his background and work with Back to Back Ministries The global impact of Back to Back's missionChapter 3: The Power of Youth Ministry (04:24)Insights into the role of youth ministry in mentoring Personal experiences and lessons learnedChapter 4: Trauma-Informed Holistic Care (08:00)Understanding trauma and its impact on youth The importance of a holistic approach in mentoringChapter 5: Building a Community of Belonging (12:00)Creating a sense of belonging and trust Strategies for mentors to foster inclusive communitiesChapter 6: Faith and Mentoring (16:00)The role of faith in mentoring relationships Choosing faith over fear in challenging situationsChapter 7: Self-Care for Mentors (20:00)The importance of self-care in effective mentoring Tips for maintaining personal well-beingChapter 8: Conclusion and Call to Action (24:00)Recap of key insights and takeaways Encouragement to get involved in mentoring--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Chad Higgins of Lifeway Christian Resources explore the essential role parents play in mentoring and discipling their children. Chad shares his background in parent ministry and emphasizes the need to empower parents as the primary spiritual leaders in their homes. They discuss how mentors can build trust with parents, engage those who may be distant from faith, and remain faithful in their mentoring journey. The episode offers practical ways mentors can support families and create meaningful, transformative relationships for both parents and kids.Check out Chad's book, Define the Relationship: Growing a Parent Ministry that Brings Families and Churches Together, here. To learn more about Lifeway Christian Resources, visit https://www.lifeway.com/.--Takeaways:Parents are crucial in the discipleship of their children.Building trust with parents starts with knowing their names.Mentorship extends beyond the child to the family.Faithfulness in mentorship is essential for long-term impact.Engaging parents can lead to exponential growth in mentorship.The gospel is best communicated through relationships.Understanding parents' needs is key to effective ministry.Every interaction with a family can plant seeds for faith.Transformation in a child's life can influence their parents.Mentors should model healthy adult interactions for kids.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and Family Dynamics02:42 The Journey into Parent Ministry14:40 Understanding Parental Roles in Discipleship20:24 Building Trust with Parents28:01 Engaging Parents Who Are Uninterested in Faith36:24 The Importance of Faithfulness in Mentorship--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza talks with Brittany Sawrey-Coulson and Benjamin Crawshaw from True Face about the power of authenticity in mentorship and discipleship. They challenge performance-based models of discipleship, emphasizing identity in Christ and the value of genuine, trust-filled relationships. The conversation covers how mentors can create safe spaces for youth through authentic connection, meaningful dialogue, and shared experiences. They also discuss the role of food, curiosity, and presence in building trust, as well as the impact of social media and technology on mentorship. The episode wraps up with practical resources to help mentors guide deeper, more impactful conversations with their mentees. Check out Brittany and Benjamin's book, The Path: What if the Way of Jesus is Different Than You Thought? on Amazon here. You can also download a sneak peek of the book or learn more at https://www.trueface.org/thepath. --Takeaways: TrueFace helps Christians find peace through identity-based discipleship.Authenticity and humility are key to connecting with today’s youth.Mentoring starts with trust, not performance.The next generation craves real relationships and self-understanding.Safe, grace-filled environments foster growth and transformation.Shared meals and genuine curiosity deepen connection.Face-to-face, experiential learning is powerful in a digital age.Mentors must be secure in their identity to lead well.The Path Experience Guide provides practical tools for mentors.Social media brings both challenges and chances for deeper engagement.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and True Face01:53 The Journey of True Face and Its Impact06:12 Authenticity in Mentorship and Discipleship08:55 Shifting from Performance to Identity15:07 Building Relationships in Mentorship21:07 The Role of Humility in Mentorship23:01 Creating Safe Environments for Change36:00 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Mentoring44:03 Resources for Effective Mentoring Conversations--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza talks with Susie Gallo of Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance about the life-changing impact of mentorship. They explore the value of compassion, curiosity, and authentic connections with mentees. Susie offers practical advice on supporting mentors, creative approaches to recruitment, and the importance of patience in building meaningful relationships. The episode emphasizes how small, everyday experiences can shape young lives and calls for greater community involvement in mentoring efforts.https://sonomamentoring.org/--Takeaways:Mentoring is about building authentic relationships.Compassion should come before comprehension in mentoring.Curiosity helps mentors understand their mentees better.Simple experiences can create lasting memories for kids.Setting mentors up for success is crucial for effective mentoring.Community engagement is essential for recruiting mentors.Patience is key in the mentoring journey.Kids often face challenges that mentors may not see.Mentors should be aware of their mentee's family dynamics.Creating a supportive environment is vital for mentoring success.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Connection07:12 The Importance of Compassion in Mentoring15:42 Building Authentic Relationships in Mentoring23:40 Setting Up Mentors for Success30:11 Innovative Approaches to Mentor Recruitment37:33 The Journey of Mentoring: Patience and Growth--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews Randy Odom, President of Kids Across America (KAA), to explore the powerful impact of mentorship and the unique opportunities KAA provides for youth. Randy reflects on his own mentorship journey and discusses how camp experiences play a vital role in shaping young lives. The conversation highlights the Kaleo program, which develops young leaders, and offers insight into daily life at KAA—where the focus is on building strong relationships in a safe and supportive environment. The episode wraps up with a call for listeners to get involved and support KAA’s mission.https://kaakamps.org/--Takeaways:KAA provides a safe and nurturing environment for kids.Mentorship is crucial for youth development and overcoming challenges.The camp experience can lead to significant personal transformation.Building trust is essential in mentorship relationships.The Kaleo program empowers youth leaders to support their communities.Effective training for counselors is vital for impactful mentorship.Real-life stories illustrate the power of mentorship.Daily activities at KAA are designed to foster relationships and personal growth.The camp emphasizes Christian values and community support.Investing in youth workers is key to sustaining mentorship efforts.--Chapters: 00:00  Introduction to Kids Across America02:11  Randy Odom's Journey and Mentorship05:04  The Impact of Camp Experiences08:31  The Need for Mentorship in Today's Youth11:06  The Role of Mentorship in Overcoming Challenges13:31  Training Counselors for Effective Mentorship19:05  Real-Life Stories of Transformation20:19  The Kaleo Program and Its Importance25:47  The Camp Experience: Daily Life at KAA35:38  Conclusion and Call to Action--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza speaks with Reverend Clarence Ford III, Program Director of the Crossroads Mentoring Program in Houston, Texas. They explore how mentoring serves as a form of discipleship and plays a critical role in youth development. Clarence highlights the power of building relationships within schools to bring hope to young people, and he emphasizes the importance of community partnerships and proper mentor training. Framing mentoring as a meaningful ministry, the conversation calls on listeners to take part in the collective effort to support youth and families through mentorship and service.https://crossroadsmentoring.org/--Takeaways:Mentoring is a form of discipleship.Building relationships is key to instilling hope.Hope can be restored by helping kids dream again.Partnerships enhance the effectiveness of mentoring programs.Meeting basic needs is crucial before mentoring can take place.Training is essential for mentors to be effective.Unity in diversity is important in community work.Mentoring can change the trajectory of a young person's life.Everyone has a role to play in mentoring and community service.Use your gifts to serve and build the kingdom.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Discipleship03:00 The Role of Mentoring in Youth Development05:58 Building Relationships in Schools08:56 Instilling Hope in Youth12:01 The Importance of Partnerships14:58 Training Mentors for Impact18:07 The Call to Mentoring20:59 Conclusion and Encouragement--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews Michael Morgan, founder of A Few Good Mentors, Inc. Michael shares his journey from being an FBI surveillance expert to becoming a dedicated youth mentor. The conversation explores the importance of mentoring, the challenges of recruiting male mentors, and the core values that guide their organization. Michael emphasizes the need for male role models in the community, the impact of mentoring on young lives, and the significance of faith in overcoming challenges. The episode concludes with insights on how to engage and retain mentors while addressing the evolving needs of today's youth.https://afgmentoring.net/--Takeaways:Mentoring is about caring for the next generation.There is a significant need for male mentors in communities.Succession planning is a crucial aspect of mentoring.Recruiting male mentors is a challenging but necessary task.Core values like SHIELDS guide mentoring efforts.Engaging mentors requires personal connection and support.Today's youth face unique challenges, including mental health issues.Education needs to be made fun to engage students.The impact of mentoring can be seen years later.Faith plays a vital role in the mentoring journey.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Michael's Background02:52 Transition from FBI to Mentoring Youth06:07 The Importance of Mentoring and Succession Planning09:00 Challenges in Recruiting Male Mentors12:01 Core Values: SHIELDS and Their Significance15:01 Engaging and Retaining Mentors18:08 Addressing the Needs of Today's Youth20:48 The Impact of Mentoring on Young Lives24:01 Overcoming Discouragement in Mentoring27:06 Final Thoughts and Resources for Mentors--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com