Claim OwnershipVolunteer Youth Worker Podcast
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Youth Ministries rise and fall on teams of volunteers, so this podcast is for the WHOLE team. Join the conversation as we tackle the practical questions you’re asking so you'll be encouraged and equipped as you head into your role in your youth ministry this week. Welcome to the Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast.
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Jeremy is joined by Steve Zacharias to explore a topic most youth workers have wrestled with: how do you have meaningful conversations with students who are anxious, shut down, or unsure how to engage?Steve draws from both personal experience and practical ministry to unpack how anxiety shows up in student behavior and how youth leaders can respond with empathy, curiosity, and calm. They talk about fight/flight/freeze/fawn responses, why students often seem resistant or disengaged, and what we can do to build trust, slow the pace, and help students feel seen and safe.If you've ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “Did that even work?” this episode will help you rethink success, show up more helpfully, and ask better questions.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community or steve@youthworker.communityHere are a few of the practical next steps from Steve’s episode…Take a deep breath before youth group—your presence matters more than your pressureLearn to identify the four responses to anxiety: fight, flight, freeze, fawnRegulate your own anxiety first—what tone, pace, and posture are you bringing?Let students choose the space for deeper conversations (not always the foyer!)Ask fueling questions to explore anxiety:“What are you feeling? How do you feel about talking with me?”“What’s it like for you to feel this way?”“When did you start feeling this way?”“What was going on at the time?”Ask flipping questions to reframe the situation:“If you switched places with someone else, what would you see?”“Whose voice do you hear in the pressure you’re feeling?”“What would you imagine Jesus saying to you in this moment?”Avoid “why” questions—reframe with what or how to reduce defensivenessUse Scripture gently to help students reflect, not just correct
In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Dr. Jason Burtt, sociology professor at Trinity Western University and former youth pastor, to explore the intersection of culture, discipleship, and what actually helps students grow and flourish today.From pirates and pig roasts to positive sociology and generational shifts, Jason offers insights rooted in both research and real-life youth ministry experience. This wide-ranging conversation covers how students are formed, why embodied relationships still matter in a digital age, and how the love of Jesus is the most powerful and most often overlooked discipleship tool we have.If you're a youth worker wondering whether your investment is really making a difference, this episode is a timely and encouraging reminder that your presence, love, and consistency are shaping students more than you realize.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.You can catch up with Dr. Jason and check out Trinity Western University by heading to twu.ca
In this episode, Jeremy and Sid sit down with legendary youth ministry scholar and practitioner Dr. Chap Clark to unpack how cultural shifts have radically shaped the identity formation of today’s teenagers and what that means for youth workers today.Chap introduces the idea of “avatars” (the multiple versions of self that students present in different spaces) and explains why helping young people discover and integrate their real identity in Christ through community is more urgent than ever. He shares insight from decades of research , youth work, and teaching, and offers a powerful vision for building ministry cultures that move beyond transactional relationships toward healing, belonging, and purpose.This episode is rich, deep, and hopeful. If you want to help your students thrive as whole people in Christ, not just perform as Christian teens, don’t miss this one.Check out Chap’s books on Amazon or see what he’s up to these days at MinistryLeadership.Church.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Jeremy and Sid tackle a question every youth worker will face at some point: What do I do when I’m struggling personally (whether it's emotionally, spiritually, or mentally) and I still have to lead?They explore what it means to lead with integrity while feeling emotionally off, how to understand the difference between burnout and being overwhelmed, and how Scripture reframes our emotions as meaningful but not final. With stories from camp, personal leadership failure, and wise encouragement from Scripture, this episode is for every leader who has ever shown up tired, anxious, or unsure whether they should even be there.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Jeremy talks with longtime pastor, professor, and former youth leader Ian Lawson about something every youth worker eventually faces: what do you do when you’re just not feeling it?Whether it’s emotional exhaustion, spiritual discouragement, or the weight of a busy life, there are days when ministry feels heavy and it’s tempting to pull back. Ian brings wisdom from decades of leadership, teaching, and front-line ministry to encourage youth workers not to give up too quickly, and to help us see how God meets us even in our weakness.Here are a few of the practical next steps from Ian’s episode…Don’t underestimate the power of simply showing upRemember that faithfulness over time is how fruit grows in ministryWhen you feel spiritual resistance or discouragement, text a friend and ask for prayerAsk God to use even your weakness, trusting that His power is made perfect thereHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Jeremy and Sid dive into a big, practical question for youth workers: What do I do when a student shares something heavy about their family?Whether you're at camp, in a small group, or hanging out one-on-one, chances are high that a student will eventually open up about something difficult at home. Sid unpacks what your role is (and what it isn’t) when that happens. They talk about mandatory reporting, emotional boundaries, practical tools, and how to love students without taking on more than you’re called to carry.This conversation is packed with wisdom, stories, and clarity for youth workers who want to care well without burning out or stepping outside their lane.Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these things…Never promise confidentiality; rather, explain that you will only tell people who can helpCreate a simple incident reporting system (here is a sample of some of the questions you might include)Know who to call: have a go-to list of professionals for legal or safety issuesBe clear about your emotional limits—don’t carry what you’re not meant toSpend time with both high-needs and emotionally healthy studentsConsider getting additional training if you’re consistently walking into deep situationsHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.You can also check out the podcast that Sid mentioned where he was a guest with his son Payton here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5g3Mz9Y62HvR8GzBc8WEjb?si=11c90542bf6a4637
In this episode, Jeremy is joined by veteran youth pastor Jonathan Kornelsen from Central Community Church in Chilliwack, BC, to unpack a question that every youth worker eventually faces: How do I care for a student whose family life is messy, broken, or confusing?Jonathan brings 20+ years of youth ministry experience into this honest, compassionate conversation about the limits and opportunities of our role as youth workers. From mandatory reporting to faithful presence, from avoiding the savior complex to knowing when to just take a kid out for ice cream—this episode offers a practical guide for navigating the mess with wisdom and love.Whether you’re a volunteer, point leader, or ministry director, this episode will help you better support students walking through complicated family dynamics.Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these things…Listen to Episode 104 – What Should You Know About Crisis, Trauma, Abuse & Neglect (interview with a police officer and social worker)If you’re unsure about a disclosure, report it or talk to someone who can.Be a calm, safe, trustworthy adult in a student’s life without trying to “fix” them.Know your community’s referral resources (counselors, food banks, support workers)Be quick to pray, often and out loud, for students navigating hard situationsCommit to the long haul—healing takes time, and your presence matters more than you knowYou should also get Jonathan’s new book Youth Ministry Blueprint, available on Amazon.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
Jeremy and Sid pick up where we left off last week, adding a few more ideas to help you reset your focus on what matters most. Jeremy and Sid explore:Why love for God and others is the true center of youth ministry.The vital role of anchoring students in Scripture, not just for knowledge, but to shape their affections and actions.Why your modeling of faithfulness in whatever environment you are in matters more than you realize.Whether you’re just stepping into a new season or coming off a hard stretch in ministry, this episode will encourage you to stay faithful, stay focused, and remember that what you do makes an eternal difference.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Jeremy is joined by longtime youth pastor, Alpha Youth Series co-creator, and speaker Ben Woodman for a thoughtful and practical conversation on the most important goal in youth ministry: helping students grow in their love for Jesus and their love for others.Ben shares stories and insights from over 20 years of ministry around the world, and together he and Jeremy reflect on how easy it is to get distracted from our core calling—especially in the chaos of running programs or managing small groups. From practical ideas to deeper theology, this episode is filled with encouragement and inspiration for any youth worker who wants to make space for real spiritual growth in students.Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these things…Be quick to pray with and for your students—even in spontaneous momentsTry leading a small group through a reflective prayer time using a PsalmPlay a worship song and ask students to listen for what God might sayCreate retreat, camp, or night-away moments where students can encounter GodRemind students (and yourself): you don’t have to start over—God cherishes every step you’ve takenYou can also try out these resources:Alpha Youth Series (free and online)Celebration of Discipline by Richard FosterPracticing the Way by John Mark ComerWe sent these things out to our email list too. If you’d like to join, head to youthworker.community/contact and hit subscribe.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Jeremy and Dawn sit down with 15-year-old Ashlynn from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to talk about how volunteering in youth ministry has transformed her faith. Ashlynn’s story is a powerful reminder that young people don’t have to wait until they’re older to start leading and making a difference.Ashlynn shares honestly about the insecurities she faced as a new Christian and young leader, what helped her overcome them, and how God is using her story to encourage others. This episode is a great listen for youth workers who want to know how to identify, equip, and support student leaders well.Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these three things…Invite students to step into leadership earlier than you thinkAssign real responsibilities that fit student strengths (announcements, small groups, game teams, etc.)Offer regular check-ins and training to help young leaders growHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Will sits down with two remarkable student leaders—Ethan and Wren—from the Saskatoon area to talk about the spiritual discipline of witness. What started as a simple Youth Alpha club in their school has grown into a city-wide ripple effect, inspiring students across the region (and beyond) to start conversations about Jesus with their peers.They share the highs and lows of starting something new, including two weeks of showing up to an empty classroom before things turned around. Now, their faithful witness is sparking a movement. If you’re a youth worker wondering how to empower your students to share their faith, this conversation will provide you with an inside look at what it truly takes.If you’ve not seen Youth Alpha, check it out here: alphacanada.org/youthLooking for a practical next step? Try out one of these three things…Help with the logistics: pizza, space, tech, encouragement, or check-insEquip students to be “hosts,” not experts—safe people who create welcoming spacesStay connected with students running Youth Alpha: ask how it’s going, offer prayer, and celebrate progressHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Will sits down with Clive, a grade 12 student and youth leader at Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon, for a thoughtful and honest conversation about what it looks like to actually love and engage Scripture as a young person.Clive shares his personal journey of growing up in the church, facing doubts, and navigating the tension between science and faith. What changed everything for him? A youth leader who made space for hard questions and walked alongside him. That mentoring relationship helped spark a deeper love for the Bible—and now Clive is doing the same for younger students.If you’re a youth worker wondering how to help students connect with Scripture in a meaningful way, this episode is packed with practical encouragement, lived experience, and fresh insight from a student leader who’s been there.Looking for a practical next step? Try out one of these three things…Talk about your own Scripture habits—let students see your love for the WordEncourage small, sustainable Bible reading goals (1 chapter or 5 minutes each day)Be honest: admit when you don’t have it all figured out—students will value your authenticityHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
As part of our series on spiritual disciplines, William Dmytrow sits down with Pastor Jaidon McCusker and student leader Maximus from First Assembly Calgary to explore the spiritual practice of generosity. This conversation dives into how young people can begin to develop habits of generosity right now—with their money, time, and everyday choices.Maximus shares his personal story of how a small decision to give years ago sparked a lasting posture of generosity in his life. Together with Pastor Jaidon, they unpack how youth ministries can create opportunities for students to serve, give, and live generously both within and beyond the church walls.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
You obviously care deeply about the discipleship of the students in your group, but what is the role of community and accountability in the midst of those relationships? University student Dayton Bracewell shares in this conversation all about his own journey from spiritual stagnation to vibrant discipline and how his understanding of the power of community and accountability has grown. The transformational role of spiritual community in your group is absolutely essential to cultivating lasting discipleship for the next generation.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Jeremy sits down with a remarkable group of high school students from Moncton, New Brunswick, who are helping spark a prayer movement across their city’s schools. As part of our summer series on spiritual disciplines, this conversation focuses on the power of student-led prayer and how it’s transforming lives, schools, and churches across multiple denominations.You’ll hear firsthand how a youth camp, a student’s quiet prayer walk, and a desire to invite God into their school has led to hundreds of students gathering weekly, forming leadership teams, praying audacious prayers, and even seeing classmates come to faith and get baptized. It’s a story of unity, revival, and how God works through simple obedience.Looking for ideas on where to start with your group?Create space for students to lead and pray—don’t underestimate their hunger or capacityInvite students to ask God for “big” things: revival, transformation, salvationEncourage student leadership teams to identify their gifts and take ownershipStart small—consistent prayer walks, student Bible studies, or Alpha lunchesPartner with other churches and schools to build unity and momentumHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Will—youth pastor at Ebenezer Church in Saskatoon—for a powerful conversation about how ancient spiritual disciplines are reshaping his youth ministry. This is the kickoff to a special series featuring youth workers and students whose lives have been changed by practicing the way of Jesus.Will shares how challenges early in his ministry led him to rethink how he was engaging with spiritual formation practices. Now, years later, his youth ministry is thriving—not because of hype, but because students are being trained to follow Jesus for life through habits like Sabbath, fasting, prayer, and Scripture engagement.If you’ve ever wondered how to help your students truly grow, not just attend, this conversation is a must-listen.Learn more about Practicing the Way at their website: practicingtheway.orgHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
Jeremy and Sid are back to talk about something every youth worker eventually wrestles with: what happens when you're too busy, tired, or distracted to keep up with your spiritual disciplines? Whether it's summer camp season, the back-to-school ministry crunch, or just the demands of life, it’s easy for spiritual practices to get pushed aside.Sid offers helpful language to distinguish between guilt and shame, and reminds us that spiritual disciplines are not about earning God’s favor—they’re about posturing our hearts to grow in love for Jesus and others. They unpack how to rethink your current rhythms, adapt your practices to your life stage, and reframe everyday moments as opportunities for spiritual connection.This episode is also a launchpad for a series of conversations with youth workers and students about different spiritual practices and how they’re impacting lives.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
Noah Reed and Ryan Murray are two youth workers from Winnipeg, Manitoba who open up about how mentorship has shaped their preparation and fruitfulness in youth ministry. Both trace their ministry health and leadership development to intentional mentors throughout their lives—some formal, some unexpected.Listen in and learn about what mentorship looks like in practice, how to find a mentor (even if no one is offering), and why both practical ministry and spiritual mentorship matter. Whether you’re a brand-new volunteer, a seasoned youth pastor, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers practical encouragement and guidance to help you grow in both your leadership and your walk with Jesus.And as Ryan reminds us, the best mentors don’t just call out your weaknesses—they call out your strengths when you can’t see them.Learn more about MCS-Horizon at mcs.edu/about/mcs-horizonHave a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
This conversation has Jeremy sitting down with theologian, pastor, and author Cody Matchett to tackle a topic that keeps showing up—how to talk about the end times with students. This isn’t just about interpreting Revelation or breaking down scary apocalyptic imagery. It’s about offering students a vision of hope, justice, and renewal grounded in Jesus.Cody helps reframe the “end times” as not a roadmap for escape, but a call to live as future people in the present. Listen in to hear how you can use Revelation to engage questions about evil, justice, judgment, and God’s goodness in a world that often feels uncertain.You should pick up Cody’s book, Revelation for the Rest of Us on Amazon.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
In this episode, recorded live at the 306 Network Gathering, Will Dmytrow sits down with Hakeem Bradley from BibleProject to talk about how youth workers can help students engage Scripture in meaningful and compelling ways. Hakeem breaks down how understanding genre, embracing hard passages, and recognizing design patterns in Scripture can transform how students read the Bible. He also unpacks fresh ways to explain the biblical metanarrative using creation–decreation–recreation, and describes how biblical authors act like filmmakers, producers, and sculptors to help us see the big picture.Whether you're preparing a sermon, leading a Bible study, or sitting one-on-one with a student, this conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement for helping Gen Z encounter the beauty of the Bible.Follow Hakeem on Instagram @hakeembradley1 or check out his blog at hakeembradley.com.Have a question or want to dig deeper? You can email jeremy@youthworker.community.
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