Youth Worker On Fire Podcast: Recent Episodes
Doug Edwards
Today's youth need youth pastors, mentors, teachers, volunteers, and most of all, they need YOU! Youth Worker On Fire is designed to give you the knowledge and inspiration you need to be the best youth worker possible. Youth Worker On Fire podcast is full of valuable information from people who work with youth on a daily basis. It also is about students years later in their adult life and how student ministry, or the lack of it, effected their future. Many are are changing their world and the world at large because of the influence of youth workers in their adolescent years. Listen as they share their stories of mentoring and positively influencing adolescents in today's world. In his interview, Mark Moore, tells how his youth pastor influenced him to become a missionary in Africa and now owns a non profit that feeds the hungry and cures S.A.M's, Severe Acute Malnutrition in third world countries. This is Youth Worker On Fire!
Feeling burned out in ministry or your parenting life? This short, but powerful episode dives into Isaiah 40:29–31, reminding us that God gives power to the weak and strength to the exhausted. Host Doug Edwards reflects on the challenges of leadership, answered prayers, and the unseen impact of staying faithful. Plus, hear a behind-the-scenes story about a life-changing event sparked by this very podcast. Whether you're a youth pastor, ministry volunteer, or parent, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a spiritual recharge.
🎧 Topics Covered:
- How to endure when you feel spiritually drained
- God’s role in giving power and purpose to youth leaders
- Practical encouragement for student ministry and parenting
- The surprising ways God uses your obedience
- A glimpse into something big happening behind the scenes
📖 Key Scripture: Isaiah 40:29–31 📩 Write to us: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com 📱 Follow & share to inspire others working with youth
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
From Student Ministry to Tech Leader & Soccer Devotional Author | Bradley Blake’s Inspiring Journey ⚽💻✝️
Meet Bradley Blake – once a passionate student in our youth ministry, now a dynamic IT expert and the author of the weekly Soccer Devotional 👉 https://soccerdevotion.com/
🆕 You may remember his dad from Episode 257 – Clark Blake’s Story – now it's time to hear Bradley’s journey of faith, leadership, and purpose.
From a young age, Bradley stood out. He loved to create, lead, laugh, and inspire. Whether organizing events, inviting friends to church, or participating in FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), he led with excellence and humility. Many came to faith in Jesus through his influence.
Today, he continues to lead – in his family, career, and ministry – bringing the same passion and purpose to everything he does. His weekly devotional blends his love for soccer with deep spiritual insights that challenge and encourage.
🎯 If you’re looking to grow as a leader, deepen your faith, or raise a purpose-driven family, Bradley’s life and devotional are must-follows.
—
📣 Subscribe for more stories of faith, leadership, and purpose ✅ Like, Comment, and Share to encourage someone today! 🔔 Hit the BELL or FOLLOW option so you never miss an episode.
—
#ChristianLeadership #FaithAndFamily #SoccerDevotional #BradleyBlake #PurposeDrivenLife #Testimony #EntrepreneurFaith #FCA #YouthMinistry
— Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
—
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
What happens when a former youth pastor follows a divine calling to write stories for children? In this unforgettable episode, we sit down with David Forbes, a gifted musician, devoted father of three, and debut Christian fantasy author of "Spring of Deception" — the thrilling first book in The Golden King Chronicles.
👑✨ Once deep in theological study with a Master’s Degree in Apologetics, David felt led to trade academic pages for enchanted kingdoms and powerful allegories — delivering biblical truths in a form kids (and parents) will never forget. His story is one of obedience, creativity, faith, and bold reinvention.
✅ Perfect for:
- Parents looking for faith-based adventure books
- Fans of Narnia, Pilgrim’s Progress, and Christian allegories
- Aspiring authors seeking inspiration
- Anyone who believes in the power of purpose and calling
🎵 We also dive into how David’s background in music and ministry shaped his storytelling — and how his family plays a pivotal role in his creative process.
🛒 Order your copy of Spring of Deception today → https://tinyurl.com/et552d7t 💬 Leave a review & share this episode with someone who loves faith-filled fiction!
📣 Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, RATE & REVIEW to support more interviews with today’s most inspiring children’s authors!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
I was asked to watch the Memorial Day celebration in Washington, DC on saturday night. It was very moving and the stories of sacrifice and loss of loved ones for the sake of our Nation was sobering at the very least. I proceeded today on Memorial Day to watch another Memorial Day celebration of sacrifice at Arlington National Cemetery where the President and Vice President of the United States gave very moving speeches and recognized many families who had lost loved ones. In student ministry, these soldiers are mostly still in our wheelhouse of ministry between the ages of 18 to 25 years of age, which is still adolescence. I felt God's move in me saying, "Get in touch with those you know whose life were almost lost serving our nation" and I was able to reach one of them. Clark Blake was a Recon Marine that served in Vietnam. This means he was the toughest of the tough! I asked Clark to tell his story and he graciously did thouroughly in this interview. Clark and his family are true national and heavenly treasures! _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
THE SALT NETWORK's mission, goal, and objective is to plant churches in every major university city around the USA. Greg and Amy Larson are about as good a fit as it gets for this calling! Greg Larson was a Fellowship Of Christian Athletes full time missionary after 2 years in Major League Baseball. Greg met Amy, they married, and then were onto full time missions in Central Mexico. Since coming back to the states, Greg has been an associate pastor for several years in Florida and now God is leading he and his family to start a church in Colorado near Colorado State University. Want to support a family who is on the move to fulfill their part in the Great Commission? Enjoy listening to Greg's Interview and share this episode with your friends and family who are wanting to support the good news about Jesus Christ, especially to university students. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SALT NETWORK AT www.thesaltnetwork.com _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
"...As far as East is from West..." (Psalm 103:12) That's how far God separates our sins from us. He gives us MERCY when we deserve punishment. He Gives us GRACE when we deserve to be chewed up and left in our misery... or worse. Billy's (one of my former youth students) story is a humbling one for a senior in high school. I hope his story helps you to see one of your young teenage students the way God sees them. God has personally shown me plenty of MERCY and GRACE that I do not deserve. I hope as you listen in to this episode that you see how God is speaking through you. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Character changes lives before talent. God will lift up the humble to confound the wise of this world. The old saying is this... "God does not choose the qualified, He qualifies the chosen." Even the National Football League (NFL) understands that great character trumps great skills. Listen in and find out how they identify this in the recent draft. Also, find out how a young lady whose character was so great that the Oval Office chose this small town girl to serve in the White House for two Terms. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Rainy days can be challenging, but it's all in how we look at them. In this episode, I refer to Elijah praying 3 times, but instead he prayed 7 times in 1 Kings 18:43-46. Often we will pray once or twice for something and decide that God is not going to do what we asking. Jim Halstead (who has 2 interviews on this podcast), prayed for me and my ministry every week for more than 10 years. It kept our student ministry on task and gaining spiritual ground in our church and community. It was almost 20 years before I knew about that and those prayers, but it made spiritual sense. There was a spiritual rainfall in our student ministry for almost 3 decades and Jim had something to do with that awakening in our community through our student ministry. Enjoy The Rain! God's Blessing over a dry and burned up land. The rain is on its way! Get out there and plant the seeds of faith before it comes, so you will be ready for the rain. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
You have a life license to Create! God created in advance good works for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). We are limited by our desire and trust that God is for us, not against us. The passion inside you can be nurtured or it can be crushed. You must decide! I spoke at a funeral for a 75 year old relative a few weeks ago. Then this week I heard a podcast about a famous rock star who at 75 is doing more for music and business than he has ever done. He is so excited that he automatically wakes up at 5:00AM to start his day from pure excitement. The power to create greater works, be more excited, and passionate about achieving life should be astronomically greater, because you have a heavenly Father that has created you to do so! _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Easter is our anchor! Easter is about the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and His Resurrection is what distinguishes from everyone else. This season can be and should be a fun and exciting time for our students and family. Especially if we lead them and teach them well.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Eat 10,000 Calories... 365 Days A Year! That's Right... You read the title correctly. But there is always an "IF" thrown somewhere in there... IF you want to work out like the greatest Olympian Of All Time, Michael Phelps. The greatest body builders use to wake up at 2:00AM to drink a protein shake. One of those guys said by the time the competition for Mr. Universe rolled around, we were exhausted from eating. What IF we devoured the word of God and prayed 365 Days a year like we were preparing for the Olympics? What IF we told people about the good news of Jesus Christ with the enthusiasm of a trained Olympian Athlete? How would it look if we believed that God had made us, the students, volunteers, staff, our friends and family to do great things, bigger than we ever believed that we were capable of? Jesus said, "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father" - John 14:12 What IF? _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Same Page Ministries is Mark Donohue’s ministry. Mark helps to guide CEO’s, business owners, coaches, pastors, and more on a journey of becoming as successful in their family life as they are in their business life and/or ministry.
Mark was responsible for leading 50 of his peers in high school to Jesus while being mentored in a student ministry by his youth pastor. When that happens in a small community, even the surrounding communities hear about it... and we heard about his reputation as a life changer through out our county!
Now years later, Mark is a husband, a father, a business man, and a ministry leader. There is much to be learned in this episode by a humble man who just wants to be on the right path of life that leads to building the kingdom of God.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Graduation Commencements happen all over the world at several educational levels. Some are even remember as some of the greatest speeches rememered for generations. The speech I am referring to in this episode is one of those memorable commencement speeches by Rick Warren. I felt compelled to tell you about it, so that you can see and hear for yourself as to whether or not it will inspire you in how you treat and inspire the students you are mentoring. Galatians 5:6 is the key verse expressed, but with a power that demands attention to the details. It affects all areas of life and is expressed by a man who God has used as a pastor, husband, dad, mentor and Global communicator. I hope after this episode you will look up his Commencement Speech and share it with others. Happy Graduation season to you and your family! _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
80 summers is about how many most individuals have to live... Let that sink in! So, would you rather spend those summers hoarding your stuff and time only for yourself... or would you rather promote kindness and goodwill to your family, neighbors and the world around you in Jesus name? What matters in eternity is who we've fed, clothed, and shared the salvation message with. What counts is serving our family whether we feel like they deserve it or not. The most important command is to love God. His most important ask of us is to share the good news with those closest to us and to every other part of the world. His Ask is that we love the less fortunate at home and around the world. He says he takes note of our selfless acts. In Matthew 6, the author quotes Jesus as saying, worrying doesn't add a single minute to our lives... WOW! Our biggest rewards are after this life in 80 Summers! Our comfort comes from the Lord who is our Shepherd. King David writes in Psalm 23 that in those 80 summers, He will give us comfort and lead us to safety and nourishment. That He will also protect us if we follow Him. Only 80 Summers... how will you spend yours? _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
CORE Values is about an article written by Greg Stier of Dare 2 Share Ministries. "How to Implement the 7 Values of a Gospel Advancing Ministry" is the name of the article. There are many organizations that you can find to help you with CORE Values that I mention in this episode, but this one is very good if you have been looking for direction and needing help in getting started and/or evaluating why things seem off centered or not focused. This might help get you back to center and seeing the Spirit of God move in your ministry. Be Strong and Courageous and keep moving forward. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
The World-O-Meter is pretty impressive. It's calculating the births and deaths in 20 countries by the second (or faster), to let us know approximately how many people are alive on planet Earth each second of every day. How can we as youth workers, youth pastors, student ministry leaders, and volunteers reach the millions that are being born each year, each second of every day? It's Overwhelming... So how? Jesus...said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are impossible." - Matthew 19:26 _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
The best time for college retreats seemed to be at the beginning of Christmas break and return from that trip the day before Christmas. Was it successful yes... for several years. Was it worth it? For the students yes.... for my family who was very gracious to me? No.
Why? Because all things in Jesus name are not necessarily the best thing to do. That sounds wild right?
We did eventually move these trips to fall during spring breaks, but you have to use at least 2 different spring break weeks to cover a lot of the students since they were not always at the same time. The beauty of the Rocky mountains was always amazing! But... I had not yet learned the one rule, in which I will repeat over and over again for your sakes as leaders... and for you and your families health. ”You MUST say NO to something BEFORE you say YES to something else."
FYI... That NO should be to some other equal project, ministry, or hobby that takes time from your family and health. All around health is important!
Peter Drucker, the Father of Modern Business and mentor taught Pastor Rick Warren that specific truth. He would always say, “Rick... Tell me what you gave up before you tell me what you are doing next."
A few things...
- It was the best time to get college students enthused and signed up.
- It was a beautiful time of the year to hit the slopes.
- Students came from all over the United States and that enthused the local students.
- The Gospel was shared and souls were saved.
What would I do differently now?
- I would never go at Christmas time. That time should have been reserved for my wife, children, and their memories.
- I would have moved it to every other year and not every year.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
If you want to know the value of investing in a child and especially in teenagers, Joel Johnson is one of the greatest examples. He grew up with a Father that left him, a step father that hurt him, threatened him, and left him. Yet... God saw him!
He asked Jesus into his heart and his youth pastor challenged him. He took those challenges and did what was unheard of as he kept sharing the salvation story of Jesus Christ boldly on campus. One day he spoke to several hundred students at lunch about Jesus, while having two assistant principals telling him to stop... One of them yelling at him "What gives you the right to speak about your faith?" Just wait until you hear how the students responded!
Joel has spoken to hundreds of thousands since he was one of the main speakers for the Acquire The Fire student conferences that were hosted in arenas and stadiums accross the United States. He has also written many books and his latest ("The Wholehearted Journey: 7 Skills to Develop a Wholehearted Life in a Heartbreaking World") is being made into a movie!
WATCH THE MOVIE TRAILER HERE: www.wholeheartedmovie.com
Joel also studied at Texas A&M and Harvard. He is an author, counselor, a national communicator, and podcast host of the "Wholehearted Podcast". This was an outstanding interview that is packed full of information that you can apply to yourself, your family, and your ministry.
_______________________________ YOU CAN CONNECT AND SUPPORT JOEL'S MINISTRY AT THE LINKS BELOW!
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.joeljohnson.org
JOIN WHOLEHEARTED UNIVERSITY: www.wholehearted.university
GIVE TO JOEL'S MINISTRY: www.joeljohnson.org/give
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WHOLEHEARTED MOVIE: www.wholeheartedmovie.com
GET YOUR COPY OF "The Wholehearted Journey: 7 Skills to Develop a Wholehearted Life in a Heartbreaking World": https://a.co/d/fFIhvHQ GET YOUR COPY OF "Personality Based Marriage": https://a.co/d/4PvYYGs
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
You can hike the Grand Canyon or you can be a RIM HUGGER. One experiences the canyon first hand. You get thirsty, dirty, and you use energy... but you see what rim huggers never see, the truth about the canyon.
We can do ministry. Spend time with people, lead them to Jesus, and disciple them (make a student out of them)... or you can just look at other people paying the price of ministry and never know the joy of doing the work of Jesus Christ as we are all called to do.
We walk on the water with Jesus or we stay in the boat.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
The Truth is always the right thing to talk about and believe. The Truth is not what society usually wants to hear. Real Truth usually goes against the grain of society. So... it has to be delivered in Love, Compassion, and Power through God's spirit. Not by our own self-righteous power.
Students (and humans in general) are drawn to God's conviction and driven away by human condemnation. This episode will provide you guidelines on delivering Truth with God's Power.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
What do you do when students and families need help on a professional level? This interview is going to help you find answers to those questions and situations. This interview is a straightforward discussion with a man who has given his life to the spiritual and mental growth students and their families. He has trained countless numbers to do the same. Dr. Larry Shyers has a long standing reputation as a pastor, therapist, owner of his own therapist group, and professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Dr. Shyers helped create laws in the early years to get family and adolescence therapy to a professional and safe level. He and his wife's love for students and families is very evident. The safety and protection of our, children, parents and families is important to God and our responsibility as youth workers, pastors, educators many more to students and families. Learn more about Dr. Larry Shyers here: www.larryeshyers.com
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Making God's Love Clear is important. It sounds like that should be easy and it is, but the power and passion of it needs to be fresh everyday. At the start of what would become one of the largest churches in the world, the pastor's first intention was that their church was going to intentionally make sure that every person that came to their church would feel loved and that they would know that God loves them. What if that was our intention for every student, volunteer staff, and family connected to our student ministry? What if God's Love was so intentional that your student ministry was known as the place that God's love was located in their community? The number one thing that every student is looking for is to be loved and to know that God is in love with them. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Pick your… WORD FOR THE YEAR! Yes, one word. A friend of mine has asked me and many other friends to pick their “word” for quite a few years now. What is that one word that you want to define the upcoming year?
Here are a few changes you can make to go from negative talk to positive and proactive thinking:
- Impatient…Patient
- Unprepared…..Always Prepared
- Not Confident….Confident
- Transactional….Relational
- Doesn’t Follow Up…Follows Up
- Doesn’t Advertise…Advertises
- Doesn’t Ask For Referrals…Asks For Referrals
Break the Link between…
-
Thought To Action: Waiting on God is also an action. Keep showing up and move forward as God keeps the doors open. Each time you think about what you are to do or want to do next… take Action again.
-
Stop Trying To Solve Problems That Are Made Up In Your Mind And Not Real: Stop being your own worst enemy. Start being your own best cheerleader. People need a leader who knows where he or she is going. Confident, but not arrogant. Strong, but not angry… confident.
-
It’s Ok To Be Upset And/Or Depressed: It’s not ok to stop doing what you are suppose to do. If you have those negative and painful emotions, you still need to do anyway.
-
Your Mind Hears What You Say: It’s meant to protect you and serve you. If you say “this hurts too much” or “I hate this”, your mind will try to protect you and help you quit. Its job is to protect you. If you tell your mind, “I can get through this pain. I need to be strong enough to be tougher than the pain, because the pain is there to make me stronger.”
Jesus said it,” if we tell a mountain to move it will move if we do not doubt.” God made our minds to work for us. Not against us.
Will the cost of reaching the goal or goals be worth the pain and possible destruction on the way? Make sure your goals are in alignment with God and the scripture. Will you be able to keep your character in check?
When Jesus commands His disciples to go to the people of Israel announcing that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 10:7), He gives them a warning and some advice: “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Matt. 10:16)
There will never be a perfect time to give, serve, lead, guide, or love.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Student Ministry is all about leading students to Jesus and then setting them up for success to live a Jesus centered life. In this episode, we talk about some books and authors that will help you guide students that love God and those who don't, answers to questions that we all ask at some point in our life. Lee Strobel, Josh McDowell, and his son Sean McDowell are people to listen to and utilize their resources (writings, videos and podcasts) to help guide your staff and students in being well equipped to live a life well lived. To serve God through Jesus who loves them so much. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
There are 4 of us. My oldest sister Deborah, then me (Doug), Deanna and Dawn in that order. Deborah and I being the oldest, pioneered the way as the first teenagers and we benefited big time from student ministries, family and music groups we sang and performed with.
Our volunteer youth workers Ronnie and Maxine Kennedy were superheroes to us. They sacrificed themselves and countless hours for years. Deborah and I traveled from coast to coast with music groups during our high school years.
Larry and Pat Freeman were pastors for our district in our greater church denomination and trained us as volunteer staff. We staffed in Hendersonville, NC at the Civitans Citizenship Center with chosen students from the best of their individual cities in the Southeastern United States during our college years.
In this episode, we cover our teenage to adult years and the effects of many people, including our parents, mentors, and many others. We talk about the legacy of student ministry that we passed down to our children and what their future holds because of peoples investments in our lives.
Longevity in peoples lives matter. We remind others of the miracles of God, so that we and they don’t forget what is held most important.
“So commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.” - Deuteronomy 11:18,19 (NLT)
_______________________________
PRODUCER NOTE: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR HOST DOUG EDWARDS! (January 1st)
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Friends who are always there and go way beyond the extra mile… You will encounter people who will inspire you. The journey will be fun, because of those people. Keep these people in your life. Their spiritual and emotional DNA will pass onto you.
The holiday miracles are Never convenient, they are necessary. There was no room at the Inn for Joseph and Mary to give birth to their first born son, Jesus, but God sightings sometimes come in a package you don’t expect.
The Eldridge family's gift was unexpected and better than we could have dreamed of. It was just what God had ordered… A God Size Gift… Always Bigger and Always Better.
One speaker said, “Don’t be so set on what you want that you won’t take something better.”
God Always has a better plan. God Loves Holy Surprises! Now pay it forward again and see what God does next. It’s all about the giving.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year... may this be your best year ever!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
When Jesus showed up the timing seemed off. It was a harsh and cruel time. No one was really looking for him. They were wishing, but not looking. They were hoping for someone to get them out of trouble, but not believing it could happen that day. The process had started, but not the release from another regime take over.
Joseph was not expecting it. He just wanted to marry Mary, a normal Jewish girl. Mary was not expecting it, but then this Angel named Gabriel shows up unannounced and nearly scares her to death. Then there was Elisabeth pregnant with John the Baptist. She and her husband are too old for this.
This whole story is impossible and it’s just going to take too long. The parents are not impressive. They are just plain folks. What’s wrong with this picture? It’s the kind of picture that God Loves to paint… Unpredictable, a great surprise. Impossible and yet it’s happening right before their eyes.
Christmas miracles are happening everyday in someway all over the world, but we don’t even notice them until much later because they always come “UnExpectantly”, at the wrong time, in the wrong way and God always uses the "wrong people"…by our standards.
Fortunately, God performs miracles by His standards. He loves to Love in Impossible ways. He is the Ultimate Mission Impossible Operative. He is our God and He only “gives good gifts”. He plans All Good things and Gifts in Advance for me as he does for you.
In student ministry, God gave us Unexpected Christmas gifts all year long. Each home, each child, each friend and each salvation from our children to family members, friends and students. Never when we expected it. Usually in unforeseen moments, in unforseen circumstances.
God Loves His Son’s story. His Unexpected, to humankind, predicted but not possible... Christmas Birthday Story. He is the God of Holy Surprises!
Keep looking up! You never know when a host of angels are going to start singing like a choir in the sky.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
The two phrases Brent Crowe says most often are...
- “Leadership begins at the feet of Jesus.”
- “Self preservation never changed the world” The reasons behind these phrases are right in line with a God sized World View. Brent Crowe is Vice President of Student Leadership University. He has a lot to do with why Youth Pastor Summit is hosted in major cities all across the United States. As if that’s not enough, he also has a PhD, two masters degrees, and has written a host of books. Brent speaks all over the nation and is a globetrotter throughout the year. How does he do it all? How does Brent find his RHYTHM? You’ll find out how in this episode!
Learn more about Student Leadership University here: https://slulead.com/ Sign Up for Youth Pastor Summit here: https://slulead.com/yps/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
This episode was inspired by Mark Batterson’s book "Not Safe: Discovering God's Dangerous Plan for Your Life". It talks about people who believed God was up to something great and then would take huge leaps of faith at a moments notice. In business, it's called people who are able to be decisive! People have to learn to make quick decisions when life or God calls for it. Who are you? Someone who questions everything so much until then opportunity is gone? I hope this excites you about being all in when it comes to faith! _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
This episode was inspired by a reading from the John Maxwell's "The Maxwell Leadership Bible". If you have this leadership resource, go to 2 Timothy 2:2 and you will see the list of "Leading Followers verses Leading Leaders".
I hope that this episode will help you on a path to leading leaders!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
I took what I knew and I maximized it. I was relentless, because I knew it was the right thing to do. I never felt trained enough nor that I had enough knowledge. God calls us to trust Him and to go with what He has shown us until... He shows us more.
It's like driving in the fog at night in the mountains. Traveling through Blowing Rock, North Carolina at 2:00AM, I would have to rely only on the road I could see with my headlights. I would many times stick my head out of the window to see more clearly, so that I would not fall off the mountain. I had to go with what I knew!
In student ministry... I knew this. Students and families would not come to me unless I went to them first. I had to go to them and I was relentless.
I went to high school and middle school campuses 3 to 4 times every week. Then I would go to recitals, ball games, birthday parties, and awards banguets. I was invited to supper by students parents sometimes and I would say yes just to be where they were. I would go and meet principals, teachers, superintendents of school districts, school board members, etc. There was no list of places that I could not or would not go. Sometimes they might come to one of our student ministry meetings... but I had to go to see hundreds and sometimes thousands to get 40 and 50 students together on a regular basis so that we could lead and disciple them. There were times when we would attract hundreds for big events.
I did what I was taught… I had to GO so that some might hear the good news. ALWAYS GO... but when your family needs you… STAY.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
"The second you have expectations of others, is the second you’re vulnerable. Expectations of others often leads to deep unhappiness… This doesn’t mean you don’t have standards of how people should act, but it does mean that all the social media dm’s and thousands of expectations out there are drowning weights that give no clear direction.
These expectations, often very selfish... are hurting you, upsetting you, and there is such a clear path to happiness. Focus on what you expect from you… not from others around you.
If people fail to deliver, you can move on and adjust. Look yourself in the mirror and understand this truth... These expectations come from insecure and selfish frameworks - you are in control of changing this.
Do things for others with no expectations. Live life with understanding and compassion when people don’t “deliver”... perspective up!
You’ll be a lot happier not worried about what others are doing live and act for you, not for the expectations of others." - Gary Vaynerchuk
There is also family, friends, and enemies who give advice that is more to protect them than you. Choose carefully who you listen to and what their motives are.
Proverbs 3:5-6 - ”…Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and He will direct your paths.” Or rather the changes you should make in words, attitudes, or actual moves.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
When you are feeling stuck and don’t have the words to pray know this scripture…
26 Also, the Spirit helps us with our weakness. We do not know how to pray as we should. But the Spirit himself speaks to God for us, even begs God for us with deep feelings that words cannot explain. 27 God can see what is in people’s hearts. And he knows what is in the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit speaks to God for his people in the way God wants.” - Romans 8 NCV
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
We are taught at an early age to be an extrovert... It’s the way to be they say (or something like that). Although, introverted people are typically more thoughtful about who they are, what is happening around them, and caring for others. THEY THINK!
People want to listen to them, because those who know them or know about them, know that those introverts have thought through what they are going to say. They leave us with usable information. In history, it has many times been the Introvert who became the most sought after public speaker... the one who would change the world around them.
We think of extroverts as the public speakers and life changers, because they are loud and love large groups of people. But throughout history it was and is the Introverted thinker who people seem to be sought after in many cases.
The Introvert, by personality trait, is often drained by large rooms or groups of people. They prefer a one-on-one time. They often need no one else around and are quite content. They are often deep thinkers and writers of their thoughts. They require long periods of solitude.
Then why do they end up attracting crowds in some cases? Also.... WHAT ON EARTH IS AN AMBIVERT?
Find out on this episode of the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Ken Davis was one of my mentors in my early years. In Gatlinburg, my 2nd year with Youth For Christ / Campus Life, he came out to speak to over 2,000 students and staff. Before he spoke the first night, he told how he was going to approach us for those 3 nights. Ken said… "But I believe you are ready now." He gave the invitation and over 500 students came to receive Jesus. He sent them to us counselors to receive Jesus and then he spoke to the rest of the audience.
This was a monumental time for me as a spiritual leader. It was obedience to God’s Holy Spirit that caused an awakening within those 2,000 students. I was never the same after that night.
My prayer is that God would cause an awakening through you... for the church, christian student organizations, and the community that you serve.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
All public school teachers are not created equal. They have different talents, teaching styles, and skills. They have different backgrounds and purposes that drive them.
Jim Curtis is one of those supreme educators with his students and colleagues in mind. He served during the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 with us, because his students were going and he wanted to be apart of what they were doing. That is waaaaay over the required work of a teacher!
We slept on the floor of a church and served in harsh conditions during an impossible situation. In this episode, Jim shares he and his wife’s experience during our missions trip to South Florida to assist the people of that area that were affected by this natural disaster. He is one of those teachers I loved to be around. I had the privilege of sitting in his classroom on many occasions and was captivated each and every time.
Jim is also an avid world traveler... the long time Geography educator and visionary living and experiencing what he teaches on! We also dive into his many world travels and experiences that fueled his passion for the educational teaching path he chose.
Enjoy this episode as we navigate through Jim's incredible life experiences, as well as, his personal take on past and present education within the school systems.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
To assist with the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, consider donating to local relief organizations that provide emergency supplies and support to affected families. Volunteering your time to help with cleanup efforts or offering temporary housing can also make a significant difference in the recovery process.
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38)
For additional resources on how you can assist, please visit: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/nam/#volunteer-now
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“Wise as serpents…harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16) You will make mistakes in your ministry and in life. Had some of my mistakes been avoided, there were certain events and interactions that would have been life changing for many people. But mistakes have happened to me.
Some mistakes were my fault and some were out of my control... and yet still, I was responsible. As a leader of anything, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE! This is one of my most epic mistakes.
In this episode, I talk about a personal mistake that was so embarrassing that I have not shared it publicly until now. Some will say, “Awe, get over it! It just wasn’t meant to be.” But when you are fighting to change the world and especially your world around you, you don’t get over that kind of mistake. It follows you wherever you go in your mind and heart.
It’s not the only epic fail I have had in my life, but it is the one that still bothers me consistently. Maybe this story will help you carry on from one of your failures or maybe it will make you choose your words more carefully wherever you go. Maybe it will make you call on God and ask for “His words in your mouth".
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Dad and mom owned a construction business. Dad started at age 11, buying his first piece of property to build his mom her first home to own.
When I grew up, at a very early age, I would go to the worksite with dad on the weekends and work all week during the summers for as long as I could remember. We had an unwritten rule… no matter the weather, we worked. I remember working in the blazing heat, the rain, and one time we had to break the ice off of the lumber in the snow to get a job done. Why? Because there was a timeline and a deadline. If we missed it... our family lost money.
As a youth pastor in Florida, we were use to the sun, surf, sand, lakes, and hurricanes. Each year we would take students and staff outside of sunny Florida and chase bad weather. You know, stuff we were not use to. Mountain altitude, snow storms, frigid temperatures, hiking up and sliding down mountains. Things that would change it up and put us into another type of environment to talk about how God loves us in all of our seasons and environments in life... not just where we are comfortable.
It was very successful, but very challenging at times. It took lots of preparation and lots of planning. But there was this one time that we had to make a choice because the weather had gotten really bad, but the plan was set…
How many times did Jesus save his disciples when they were sailing on open waters in a storm? How many times have you based decisions on feelings rather than faith? If your like most Christians and Jesus followers, the answer is “A LOT!”
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Jesus's student, Peter, got out of the boat and walked on water toward Jesus.
You immediately want to focus on what happened on the way, but I don’t think so….
Everybody else stayed on the boat. The only one who experienced that event completely was Peter. He will always be known as the one who walked on water with Jesus.
Many times, figuratively speaking, most of us won’t even get on the boat, or plane, or even start the journey. Why? Because we are afraid of what might happen badly. When we should be looking at the opportunity that God has set out for us.
We were “Designed to Do Good Works…” - Ephesians 2:10.
This week my niece takes her 9 year old daughter to Africa on a mission trip, because she sees the opportunity. There are many reasons to say this is too dangerous, too scary, too hard or too costly.
We all have excuses to not even get in the boat, but Peter walked on water… Why Not You?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Russ Ewell's first son was born while he and his wife Gail lived in the Washington, DC area. The doctor said to him “Congratulations! You have a son.” Next the doctor said, “He has down syndrome…”.
In time, they moved to Silicon Valley. Russ and his wife, Gail’s, journey as parents of two children with special needs led them to start:
- Spiritual Resource Ministry at Bay Area Christian Church, which offers individuals with special needs and their families the ability to thrive spiritually alongside their neurotypical peers in every area of the church, which they may not otherwise be able to do.
- E-Sports and E-Life are free, inclusive community programs across the Bay Area enabling kids with special needs to participate in sports and activities alongside their neurotypical peers.
- Hope Technology School is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian K-12 school, started by Russ and Gail. HTS serves neurotypical kids and kids with special needs from all backgrounds and operates independently of BACC. HTS is regularly recognized as one of the best private schools in the Bay Area.
- Digital Scribbler, a company Russ founded which develops assistive tech tools for individuals with disabilities.
They also have developed a Special Needs Ministry Manual that you can download at the Bay Area Christian Church website for free. (https://bacc.cc/small-groups/srm/manual/)
Listen as we unpack Russ’s Ministry, family life journey, and the tools to help you develop another great ministry in your area!
Contact with Russ at: https://russewell.com/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
God would transition me after he stripped everything... I was secure in a way. Each time He would build me to be a NEW person. Humble and totally dependent on Him.
I would go from... strength, to broken insecurity, to desperation, to praying in brokenness, to God opening His doors, and me then walking through them in His strength. That's how He likes us... good and humble.
A lot of it is like the story of Jonah found in the Old Testament. I like where I am, I am comfortable, and I am secure. I know who I like and who I don’t like... it all makes sense. When we are those things for a long period of time, as humans, we stop growing. God is all about growth and preparing us for what He designed us to do.
It's possible that there is more to you than you ever imagined!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
What ever you are building, whether for yourself, your family, or ministry... get your priorities straight! God used Haggai to tell the country of Israel to stop building for themselves and build His tabernacle first. Then He would bless them.
They had not seemed to learn their lesson yet, so God reminded them through Haggai. Its the same for you and I. God wants us to do what He has called us to do first and then He will bless us. (Matthew 6:33)
Our human nature says, “When I catch up and have enough time and money... I will, of course, give back to God.” God’s nature says, ”I am waiting to bless you when you give to Me first. I am your source. Believe and give me the first of your everything and I will give all things to the fullest, and finally running over with Blessings.”
When will we ever get it right?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Most of the country is hot this time of the year. Even so, the school year has started. Everything is gearing up for students and families. Let the Hot, Hot, Hot days remind you to find a quiet and cool place to spend time with God.
The more you spend time with God, the more clear your mission will be each day this year. If you are on the other side of the equator, let the cold days be your reminder. (Romans 8:28)
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego found out that the furnace of fire was a great place to encounter God. He met them in the fire that was to destroy them and He made it a place of comfort, safety and victory. (Daniel Chapter 3)
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Heather Strong Clendinen grew up in a Christian home and went to a Christian school. It was at 5 years old, a teacher discovered her gymnastics ability. Her mom enrolled her in gymnastics that year and the rest is history.
She was influenced by her parents, her church, a student ministry, FCA at her high school, and Intervatsity Fellowship at Florida State University.
Her story is a story of commitment on many levels, several tradgedies and the way God pursued her in all the light and dark places.
This is one to take notes on. It is packed with stories and information.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Running your race is different than running in someone elses race. This is the race God has prepared in advance for you to run. (Ephesians 2:10)
The more you try to look like, act like and minister like other people, the more you will feel like a fish out of water.
God has designed you a certain way to run... Find your groove! Find your rhythm and God will use yiu in amazing ways you did not think possible.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Simone Biles (Team USA Gymnast) was hit by the mental block called "the twisties" (a Gymnastics term) during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Since then, according to a recent interview given by Simone, "Life has not been easy". The twisties happens when a gymnast is in midair and loses their sense of where they are and how they'll land, making the move risky. Biles described it as being "lost in the air."
In our calling to lead students to a spiritual awakening in Jesus Christ, we can do more than God is asking and burn ourselves out. We should see all students as potential Simone Biles types. Far beyond the average, but help them become even more by being full of God’s power.
(24) Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! (25) All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. - 1 Corinthians 9:24,25
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
This TV series caught my attention... "Bear Grylls Survival School"!
Series Description: A group of brave children leave technology at home and embark upon an adventure in the wild. For two weeks, they must work as a team while Bear Grylls teaches them skills they'll need to survive.
This podcast episode will help you understand that you can ask more of your students... You SHOULD ask more of your students! Those who are ready will rise to the occasion.
Through out history (especially Biblical history), we see young men and women take on huge, painful decisions and tasks as God strengthened and honor them.
How much more can you ask of yourself, your staff, and your students?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
It’s difficult discipling teenage guys (young men). Dr. Jonathan Denton, Assistant Professor at Charleston Southern University, who wrote a book on the topic, says "We ask for too small of a commitment. We have to set the bar high for them."
Dr. Denton's background is impressive! The courses he teaches, the books he has written, and his seasoned (20+ year) full-time student minstry experience... and that only covers a small portion of his acheviements.
He majored in Civil Engineering at Clemson University, he was a youth pastor for 10 Years at a church in Mississippi and he is currently an Assistant Professor of Christian Studies/Student Ministry at Charleston Southern University. On top of that... Dr. Denton is sought after communicator, all of this while raising 2 boys along with his wife.
For the past 3 years, Jonathan also has been a part of Youth Pastor Summit (YPS) where he leads break out sessions at their trainings across the country. YPS is developed by Student Leadership University (SLU) under the leadership of Founder Dr. Jay Strack and Brent Crowe.
This interview is packed with uplifting and priceless information that you can use on a daily basis for your personal and student ministry's future!
Connect with Dr. Jonathan Denton: https://www.charlestonsouthern.edu/directory/denton-jonathan/
Purchase Dr. Jonathan Denton's Books on Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/4tj9yprv
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Human Being or Human Doing? ... Kelsey O’Connor said it best in her commencement speech at NC State University. She suffered a career ending brain injury while playing softball for the NC State Wolfpack. After she recovered... she understood more about life.
Everyone wants to know... What Are You Going To Do In Life? Very few ask ... Who Are You Going To Be?
That is where this episode comes in! Hopefully we can take a moment to reflect on who we want to be and see if that changes what we are going to do in life.
Kelsey O'Connor - NC State University Commencement Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHudhietNso
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Avery Hooper is a brilliant young lady who knows how to face obstacles and overcome them!
Her father and mother led the way spiritually and familiarized her with Jesus Christ as Savior of the world. They also led the path of student ministry in her life through church and their own involvement in FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and CRU (formally known as Campus Crusade For Christ), which are both national and international evangelism organizations.
Avery has been a leader in FCA since middle school and is now on her way to the University of Colorado at Boulder. There she has determined to be a part of CRU and work on her degree in Biomedical Engineering... in which she has incredible dreams of how she plans to advance and enhance people's lives in a HUGE way with this degree!
Listen as Avery tells us about her journey with Christ. Listen as she tells about her obstacles with public speaking and how God strategically kept teaching her go take the platform.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
The past few weeks have been very, good, hard, motivating, hurtful, joyful and inspiring. In other words, “Normal... with a bit of an edge".
Matthew 6:24 - 7:14 NLT - “…God cares more about you…”
“NOW” matters!
Jesus said, “Why are you worrying about what you wear or what you are going to eat? God clothes the lillies of the field and He cares more about you…”, but we worry anyway.
This is about seeing what is around you in this exact moment. The more we spend time with God now, the more we are secure and at peace with God taking care of us now... and in the future. When we are driven, because we have a calling that God has placed in us, that is different than worrying about what we do not understand.
More time spent with God, takes care of the past, the present, and the future. More dependence on God every moment of every day gives us a drive that we cannot create without him.
“For we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” - Romans 8:28 NLT
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
In 1 Kings 19:10-18, God tells Elijah that He will speak to Elijah on the mountain. So Elijah climbs the mountain! Some big and loud and terrifying things happen, but God is not in any of those things. Elijah hears a gentle breeze and he knows that this is God and he comes out from hiding.
God often speaks in a whisper. I think because He likes the intimacy with us. There are a few times in my life I have heard the whisper. It was so clear. It was the 2 times I mention in this episode that His whisper would change the direction I was going.
The first Whisper said “Will you stay?” when I wanted to go. 24 years later in the middle of a board meeting, God would whisper, ”It's Over.” I knew what that meant. This whisper meant it was time to go.
How many times has He whispered to you. Have you ignored the whisper or did you obey Him when He whispered. The choice is always ours.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Youth Pastor Summit is a premier conference and training for next gen pastors, youth pastors, educators, and their teams. Youth Pastor Summit (presented by Student Leadership University) is conference designed to encourage and equip every leader. This conference includes breakout / small group sessions, labs, worship, lunch, fun activities (free day at Universal Studios Orlando we chat about in this episode), and free resources for student ministries.
Our team here at the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast have been to this conference many times, as well as, had many students attend Student Leadership University at their locations all over the world!
Caleb Turner of Factory Church (located in Concord/Charlotte, North Carolina), who we interviewed a few months ago (EP 195), went to his first Youth Pastor Summit this year (2024). In this episode, we dive into Caleb's firsthand experience at YPS Orlando, Florida and how it has enhanced his vision for student ministry.
If you haven’t been to a Youth Pastor Summit, then check out their website we've listed below to sign up when registrations become available for next year. Make sure to sign up quick, because they do fill up fast!
Learn more about Youth Pastor Summit here: https://slulead.com/yps/
Pick the YPS city that is closest to you here: https://slulead.com/yps/attend/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
There’s an old saying that still stands true, “Facts tell and STORIES SELL.”
Jesus often told stories, some as parables, to illustrate the truth of God. There was no written Bible for many years after Jesus died and rose from the dead. It was the stories by word-of-mouth and the reading of the Old Testament, Jewish scriptures, and letters of the apostles, which were not highly distributed amongst the people. They would recite them or tell others about those letters from memory. In the first 70 years, there were witnesses to the events. Their stories changed the world!
The stories that are developing in student ministry matter. It’s important that you tell stories and let your students share their stories with the people who support you. The stories of your students and their families will transform your churches and communities.
Don’t under estimate the power of a truly great (and honest) story!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
You may be an amazing speaker. You are probably an incredible person, but people listen and believe you are who you are when other people, students, staff, parents and colleagues say great things about you (what you and/or your ministry have accomplished).
It’s still happening to me. People are still talking about good things, God things, that we accomplished. We accomplished the most and gained the most in all of the ministries that I headed up when student’s started publicly telling how their lives were changed. I could talk all day about these moments, but it was their testimony, their witness, that changed the course and growth of all we did in Jesus name.
It will happen to you. Stay true. Stay the course. Let others talk!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“Do for others what you want them to do for you.” Have you ever had someone hold a door open for you when your hands or arms were full? Felt pretty good knowing someone cared. How many doors have you held open for people? Some of those doors you opened were emotional, spiritual, life changing, job or vocation changing doors.
This episode includes a NASA scientist, his 3 interns, and a 75 year study on relationships and love. Lastly, it includes 2 young business ladies who talk about the lies taught to their generation.
Opening Doors will change your life!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Mackenzie Balmer was a girl who grew up without the church. When she encountered Jesus, she found out that God had a wonderful plan for her life already in place. She and her husband Zane have a unique love story and they both have a ministry profession.
Mackenzie is with Apex Missions for students with the EFCA (Evangelival Free Church of America). She helps youth pastors and their youth groups get onto the national and international mission field. She also works with Apex's Mission and Leadership Team and their "TEN:Two Team", so students can serve Christ and His Church during the summer.
Listen in as we dive into Mackenzie's story!
____________________________________________________
You can learn more about Apex Missions here: www.apexmissions.org
You can connect with Mackenzie and the Apex Team at: apex@efca.org
____________________________________________________
Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
____________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
This episode is about taking action! Especially, acting like (aka modeling) the person you want your children and/or students to be like.
“Do what I say and not what I do!” Was an old saying. It didn’t work when it was popular and it doesn’t work now. What do you want your children, grandchildren, students, volunteer staff to be like? Whatever that is... you need to be modeling exactly that. You will start seeing the results!
Jesus modeled to his disciples, family and friends who he wanted them to be. You do the same and you will see the results.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
25 years seems like a long time until you compare it to history.
We overestimate what we can accomplish in a year and under estimate what we can accomplish in 10 years. Time and longevity matter!
Invest in teenagers and your personal future will change. Life changing events happen. Students grow up and in a few years after school, they are making decisions that change all of our lives.
When you plant the seeds... God grows the people like compounding interest. Trust that God is doing a good work!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
How does an Oncologist end up on a podcast like this? Why would she take her precious time to give to us her knowledge and kindness? Great questions! Dr. Sarah Friend (formally Sarah Cooke) was a student in the youth ministry I was the pastor of. She gives great credit to my wonderful wife, Colleen, for disciplining her during high school. She talks highly of our adventurous mission trips and student ski trips. She gives her time to us, because we gave our time to her when it counted most during her teenage years. What I consistently told our volunteer staff and church was that the students we poured our life into deserved to be respected and treated as though they were world changers. I said much more about the things and leaders our students would become and Sarah is a great example of why long term commitment to student ministry in one place, for as long as God wants you there, is important and necessary. In this episode, Sarah shares about her time in student ministry, about her journey to becoming a doctor and eventually an oncologist (a doctor who treats cancer). As well as, how she approaches patients and the staff that train under her leadership. We hear about the life she and her husband Nick lead with their 2 children, their life story, and their recent trip to Japan where her husband Nick ran in the Tokyo Marathon! But most importantly, we hear the heart of one of the kindness and most caring human beings I have ever met. Whose enthusiasm for life, family and friends has been consistent since she was a little girl. Your journey is to pour Jesus and the Love of God into students, so when they grew up to be greater than you can imagine, that the Creator of the Universe and Lover of each soul ever born, has a light placed in each student that leaves your care. Thank you Sarah for shining His light in you and in the work you continue to do! _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Having fun with students is hard work... Gettting students to laugh along with you and/or making them smile is even harder!
Why does it matter? When you get students to laugh or smile it raises their IQ levels... no joke! According a study, it makes a person 31% smarter. When you make someone smarter, they feel better about themselves... and about you.
That’s why you hear most public communicators tell a joke or a funny story. They are engaging the crowd. They are winning the crowd over. Youth Workers have to win the crowd over every time they meet with students. It’s not a one time thing... it’s an every time thing.
The Apostle Paul said that, “Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible… I have become all things to all people, so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessing.” - 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 NIV
We laugh with them and engage with them, so that they might hear what we need them to hear!
Here are a few fun and engaging games (provided by the Ministry Coach Podcast): www.youtube.com/@MinistryCoach _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Organizations and churches want to save money, so they try to hire people for one thing and put too many hats on them... that way they don’t have to spend more on staff. As a result, they complain about everything, because you are doing "little to nothing" well.
That responsibility lies on those who hire without the faith to believe that God wants to do more. It’s your responsibility to say “No” to everything you are not called to do. If you say yes, it will not end. You will not be able to do anything with excellence for long.
So... NICHE DOWN! If you are new in a ministry, focuse for the first 2 years on what you do best. Work most with the type of staff and students that you relate most with. Focus on that type of student... such as the leadership types, art lovers, sports enthusiasts, academic thriving, technology driven, music performance, mechanical, social media aware, homeschooled, private schooled, public school. Not all of those… but one of those at least one day a week.
When that works, then start being "all things" to all students, but maybe through volunteer staff who have the other personalities and leanings. Niching Down makes perfect sense. That’s how students live life and that’s how they will share their faith best.
Stop trying to be the cookie cutter student ministry. Niche Down and make it personal, so that the Holy Spirit has a chance to move and multiply through your students and volunteers. The fastest way to a city wide awakening and beyond is by micro-focusing and teaching them a Great Commission Vision. Teach them about a God World View!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Breaking Strong Holds… Maybe you have been praying for someone or for a certain person to have an encounter with God. An encounter life changing that it would have them seeking to ask Jesus Christ personally in their heart. Has it maybe seemed like it’s taking forever? Not even a sign of hope?
Jim Halstead (Founder of Go and Tell Ministries) asked Jesus into his heart in 1976. He started praying for his family to ask Jesus in their heart in 1977.... this brings us now to 2024. This is how long it took for his sister to ask Jesus into her heart.
We discuss in this episode how each and every person has a different timetable when it comes to their spiritual change.
Why do some people take so long?
Why do some people seem to accept this life changing moment so quickly?
When strong holds are broken with one person, it sets off a ripple effect, strongholds are broken with not just one person, but many people!
Learn more about Go and Tell Ministries at: https://goandtellministries.org/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
During a recent interview between Erika from "Erika Taught Me" and Chris Voss (Author of "Never Spilt The Difference" and a former FBI Hostage Negotiator), she asks this question: Chris, how do you use these special communication methods that you've developed during your time as a hostage negotiator in your every day life?
We dive deep into these every day methods and practices in this episode!
John Chapter 4 - Jesus, talks to “the woman at the well.” A very well-known Jesus encounter and community transformation. He saw her and let her know that he knew who she was. He brought out her true feelings. She felt seen and heard. Verse 15: The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” Verse 16: He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back. Verse 17: “I have no husband,” she replied. She was amazed that he actually saw her, knew who she was and still treated her as though she still mattered. She was so taken back that she told her entire community who Jesus was and that he just might be the Messiah, the Savior.
People are hoping someone will actually hear what they are truly thinking. People want to be significant and worthy. When we use the correct questions and communication methods, like Jesus did (and still does), people want to have us in their life on every level. Both business and personal levels.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Caleb Turner is the Youth Director at Factory Church located in Concord, North Carolina, USA (a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina). Caleb has been in full time student ministry for a little over one year at the time of this recording and we cannot wait to share with you his life story here on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast!
Saved by his adoptive parents first and then saved eternally by Jesus, Caleb was mentored by his Sunday school teacher Andy Williamson, who is now his senior pastor at Factory Church. Andy had a vision that Caleb was to be the Youth Pastor at Factory Church. Listen as Caleb's story unfolds in this podcast episode, as we dive into how his student ministry and life journey are just beginning.
God has already and still is creating good works for Caleb to do in Christ Jesus!
_______________________________
Connect with Caleb on social media here: https://www.instagram.com/c_turner56/
Learn more about Factory Church here: https://thefactorychurch.com/about/
Check out Factory Youth here: https://thefactorychurch.com/factory-youth/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Jeff Bezos, the founder owner of Amazon, understands and believes in the difference between a Calling and a Career.
If a great business man believes in a calling, how much more should we? Are you called to serving others and adventure? Or are you stuck, because you can’t see beyond a pay check?
Jesus said an earthly father knows how to give good gifts to his children. How much more does your Heavenly Father give good gifts beyond imagination to his children?
Ask God for His passion with in and His Calling for you in this world.
Ephesians 2:10 and Psalm 139
Jesus said “Greater works will you do…..”
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Andy McDaniel... Leader... Ripple... Tsunami!
What is a tsunami? A tsunami is a series of extremely long waves caused by a large and sudden displacement of the ocean, usually the result of an earthquake below or near the ocean floor. This force creates waves that radiate outward in all directions away from their source, sometimes crossing entire ocean basins.
Andy McDaniel was born and raised in poverty in Alabama, USA (or Bama as he would say). He was 1 of 5 children. In high school, a girl he liked invited him to a Campus Life Club, which is a division of Youth For Christ. That was the first RIPPLE. This young lady had no idea that she had awakened a sleeping Giant of a Leader! She simply did the right thing.
His Campus Life Director led him to Jesus and discipled him... RIPPLE #2 has now begun! Andy feels called to Campus Life Ministry with YFC and thus the ripple becomes an EARTH SHAKING event that has occurred, but no one has yet identified. He becomes a Campus Life Coordinator for Clearwater and later Orlando and that starts a quake in me (Doug) and my ministry. When a Tsunami begins it can’t help but to take everything and everyone around it with them. Executive Director, (now Andy) calls the shots in Miami, Nashville, Grand Rapids, and Miami for a second time! People he has led to Jesus and the young men and women he has trained to be leaders are all over the USA and the World. Now people not only see, but feel and know the Tsunami effect cannot be stopped.
36 years in Youth For Christ and 15 years in Moriah Ministries, Andy has done his good works that God planned in advance for him to do in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:10) His wife Valerie, his 3 children, and many grandchildren know this Tsunami of a leader well. He has now gone to heaven and waiting to see all that God has done yet to come.
You are the man Andy... I love you my brother!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Lenita Abouchabake is from Sydney, Australia and the Founder of Teen Coach Academy. This is her second interview on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast.
Lenita's business is helping adults who already serve teenagers and their families become teen life coaches. That may seem odd to some of you, but life coaching has been around for quite a while... and this is even better! Youth workers need to make a living and they are seldom paid what they are worth. In fact, they are well undervalued in churches who should be pouring the bulk of their resources into their Youth & Family Pastors, students, and their families. Why? Because we say that students are our future, but what many unfortunately mean by this is students are our future... as long as it doesn't cost us too much. If we were to pay workers what they are worth and build a budget to support these future leaders, then we would see frequent worldwide changes in our society. Instead, with the exception of a small percentage of churches and schools worldwide, we "Hope" they will become world changers, but we are not willing to put money and action to that statement of importance. Lenita, on the other hand is willing to put her reputation, resources, and giftedness on the line. She believes youth workers, students and their parents are worth the effort and sacrifice. In this episode, Lenita will guide you how you can support yourself, so that you can afford to make a good living while serving the teens and families that you know are ready to change their world. Lenita's company (Teen Coach Academy) trains great leaders to grow up great leaders. Why? Because Lenita was a teen of a single mom who paid coaches to help her become the great woman of God, a world changing leader, and the successful business owner that she has become. Thank you for sharing Lenita (all the way from The Land Down Under) to the rest of the world! You can connect with Lenita and the Teen Coach Academy team at: https://teencoachacademy.com/contact/ You can jump into Teen Coach Academy's FREE training here: https://teencoachacademy.com/start/ _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Most people really do not know why they believe what they believe. Many of us who do, need to be refreshed, so that we can fight spiritual warfare more effectively.
But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect. - 1 Peter 3:15 (Amplified Bible)
"A Ready Defense" by Josh McDowell is a book I gave out to seniors at our church as we honored them for their right of passage out of high school. I knew only some of them would use it and a close friend of mine, currently is getting ready to go through this a page a day over the next year.
You will have to listen to this podcast episode to learn why this almost 500 page reference book is so key to our faith and especially our students. It can be used as a "Bible Book Study" to prepare students for life... especially if they are going to college.
Why should you follow this advice? Well, I am a very simple person. I don’t like complicated messages that make me or somebody else feel smart and everyone else feel dumb. That's counter productive. This is the most clear book, compiled from 16 volumes of Josh’s books, the most important and clear parts. They are evidence based and historically and legally sound.
I hope this helps you and empowers you to help others to be all you can in your ministry and calling in life!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
While you may be teaching, coaching, raising or leading adolescence it is important that you pay the most attention to your young children while doing the work.
Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest. - Luke 9:48
When children are present you must be mindful of them. You must look them in the eyes, listen to them, and tell them how much you love them. The rest of the world will be changed by the way you love your family. Your children and spouse are watching and paying attention.
But the world around you is especially watching... They recognize how you treat your own.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
COMFORT... IS IT A TRAP?
Most of us "work forward" -> to being comfortable, but comfort can kill you or at the least make you lose the ability to achieve or live up to the purposes God has made you for in this life. Too much comfort slows creative juices down. To much comfort can set you up for moral failures as it did for King David.
"Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do.” - Jeremiah 42:3
Stanley Tam - US Plastics Company: Gave God 100% control as Senior Partner over his company. Stanley took only a salary for himself.
Why? Because Stanley knew God would do more with the money than he could. He also knew that the treasures in heaven would last through eternity so Stanley said that he was just paying it forward.
A little comfort is good for renewal. A lot of comfort is good for destruction. Choose wisely!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
YOU MATTER… Everything You Do Counts… Everyone You Meet Is Important!
You were bought with a price [you were actually purchased with the precious blood of Jesus and made His own]. So then, honor and glorify God with your body. - 1 Corinthians 6:20 (Amplified Bible)
For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us]. - Ephesians 2:10 (Amplified Bible)
All the above and much more is what I am talking about on this episode. God does not make mistakes and has already pre-arranged and set in motion your events and intersections with people, places and good works.
Keep in mind that every person good, sad, happy, glad, mad and annoying are important. God is using them to give you opportunities. He is also giving you for them for their spiritual growth and good works. We see with human eyes. God is teaching us to see with spiritual eyes… His eyes. He wants us to act and react by His power. He is setting us up. He is setting YOU up for God Size Wins!
Treat Young and Old like they are the Princes and Princesses of Heaven. Heaven’s the stage, the guardians and the audience. Heaven is lending a helping hand and cheering you on.
Make No Mistake… You Count! You Matter! You Are On The Hall Of Fame List In Heaven!
Heaven Knows Your Name! God Knows Your Name! Jesus Knows Your Name! The Holy Spirit knows your name and is nudging you this way and that way, strategically to line you up for world changing events and encounters that you were made for in Christ Jesus!
Just Show Up… Keep Showing Up! Be Bold… Be Strong! Act with Love and Strength!
“Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
In this episode, we interview Chase Allen (Youth Pastor at First Baptist Church Umatilla) about his month long sabbatical in 2023.
Here are some of the questions we discuss:
-
How long have you been in student ministry and how long have you been at this Church?
-
Who decided you needed a sabbatical?
-
Did you think you had time to take a sabbatical?
-
What changes did you feel with the extended time off while on sabbatical?
-
What did you do or not do?
-
Was your time off refreshing?
-
How did this time off affect your wife and children?
-
Do you feel, see or have any thoughts on what changes in yourself have occurred or not? Has anyone else noted anything better about you?
-
Could you have used more or less time?
To the listener of this episode… How does this translate in your life? How can you take a sabbatical even though it looks impossible in your busy world?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Better to have little, with fear for the LORD, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil. (Proverbs 15:16)
Ed Sheeran (Songwriter/Artist) - “Writing music is like turning on a faucet. At first you get muddy water. The more you run it, the clearer the water gets. The same thing happens when writing music. At first the ideas are unclear, but as you keep writing the thoughts and ideas become clearer and better.”
Here are a few important topics we discuss in this podcast episode:
- Small goals that gives you wins.
- Scale down your big habits or goals to small wins.
Every action should be about “casting a vote” for the type of person you want to become.
A few examples of the consistent habits I complete on a daily and/or weekly basis:
- 11 minutes in the gym during my lunch hour.
- 3 to 6 minute cold plunge in my pool during the winter season to prepare for upcoming cold weather events.
- Record a solo or interview style YWOF Podcast episode.
Short consistent wins are better than long sporadic wins! People need consistency. It’s better to do something toward your goal everyday than a lot someday… “Someday” seldom comes. Confidence and encouragement comes by making steps in the right direction.
What small steps or actions can you take each day that are achievable?
Habits come with seasons of life. Some years your habits take different shapes. Prime your environment to make your new habit easier. Schedules matter! Sometimes you have to put things out not polished to meet deadlines and meet your goals. Creative minds usually have to create “trash” first. The creative “trash” always leads the good ideas to the surface.
(1 Kings 17: 8-16) Elijah asks the woman to make him some bread…
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
God has a plan for you and your team!
Moses had a lot of energy when he was in Egypt and thought he knew everything. However, he found that his energy alone and his willingness to lead got him into trouble. It took God about 40 years to get Moses in the mindset to where he actually could lead with humility.
In this episode, you will learn about the four major excuses Moses used with God, thinking that would get him out of leading. God led us all from somewhere to ministry and I bet you possibly had one, if not all, of Moses same excuses… I know I did!
God always has a better plan for your life. He also has appointed a team of volunteers and employees to make things possible to build His kingdom through student ministry and through our student’s families. God is interested in your humility and your willingness to follow him even when it scares you to your knees.
Ironically, his way is a lot more fun than your way! I would’ve been a pretty boring person even with the exciting life that I had planned for myself compared to the life God pushed me, coached me, and drove me into. The ride has been wild and exciting and full of emotion… I have never laughed so much in my life.
Keep looking for the right team members, because God has already prepared them for you!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Happy New Year! God has a plan for your life.
I always knew I was meant for something good since I was very young… around 5th grade to be exact. But it was seldom easy. At age 15, I had a God encounter that would send me on the journey I saw in a daydream when I was 10 years old. That journey has never ended. God continues to open and close doors.
What about your life? What about the lives of students and families that God has used you to speak hope and love into?
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)
We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
Enjoy where you are and who you are with… be grateful! God loves a cheerful giver and a loving heart. Press forward even if it’s only one step at a time in this New Year!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Pick your… WORD FOR THE YEAR! Yes, one word. A friend of mine has asked me and many other friends to pick their “word” for quite a few years now. What is that one word that you want to define the upcoming year?
Here are a few changes you can make to go from negative talk to positive and proactive thinking:
- Impatient…Patient
- Unprepared…..Always Prepared
- Not Confident….Confident
- Transactional….Relational
- Doesn’t Follow Up…Follows Up
- Doesn’t Advertise…Advertises
- Doesn’t Ask For Referrals…Asks For Referrals
Break the Link between…
-
Thought To Action: Waiting on God is also an action. Keep showing up and move forward as God keeps the doors open. Each time you think about what you are to do or want to do next… take Action again.
-
Stop Trying To Solve Problems That Are Made Up In Your Mind And Not Real: Stop being your own worst enemy. Start being your own best cheerleader. People need a leader who knows where he or she is going. Confident, but not arrogant. Strong, but not angry… confident.
-
It’s Ok To Be Upset And/Or Depressed: It’s not ok to stop doing what you are suppose to do. If you have those negative and painful emotions, you still need to do anyway.
-
Your Mind Hears What You Say: It’s meant to protect you and serve you. If you say “this hurts too much” or “I hate this”, your mind will try to protect you and help you quit. Its job is to protect you. If you tell your mind, “I can get through this pain. I need to be strong enough to be tougher than the pain, because the pain is there to make me stronger.”
Jesus said it,” if we tell a mountain to move it will move if we do not doubt.” God made our minds to work for us. Not against us.
Will the cost of reaching the goal or goals be worth the pain and possible destruction on the way? Make sure your goals are in alignment with God and the scripture. Will you be able to keep your character in check?
When Jesus commands His disciples to go to the people of Israel announcing that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 10:7), He gives them a warning and some advice: “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Matt. 10:16)
There will never be a perfect time to give, serve, lead, guide, or love.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Fundraising… Blessing or Nightmare? (Answer: They can be both.)
Usually you are either a good at:
- Ministering to people or 2. Fundraising (Occasionally some are both.)
But it doesn’t matter. It’s not about you, it’s about God. It’s about you transferring your knowledge and your abilities to others. When you’re not good at something, then you find somebody else that is. We often say if we show by example and do it, all the people will follow our example of doing. Most of the time that’s not true. You must do a little show a lot and handed over.
What we want to do is rescue people when they start failing. All that means is now we are discouraging them to think that we are better than them and that we will have to rescue them… and guess what? They’ll let you. You need to help them find a way to win, but never win for them. That’s what Jesus did for his disciples. He did not win for them (and at times they were frustrated), so He would say… do it this way.
Do you believe God has placed you in the most important ministry that the church has to offer?
Best Fundraisers EVER:
- The ones your student’s parents are running… Not you! My biggest fails were the fundraisers I ran. Why? Because it shows me as an incompetent leader! You and I are there to lead, inspire, and teach… not to do what other people are suppose to be doing. Allow them to use their gifts.
- The ones that take no time and effort away from your ministry.
- The ones that will make $5k, $10k or $50k.
- No show Banquets, setting up fundraising meetings with people who already believe in the program and ask them to donate to a specific trip, retreat, discipleship weekend, conference, etc. (Mission trips are separate from this, they usually sell themselves if you do the right things). These can be short meetings or long depending if the individual or couple wants to talk longer. Be respectful of the person’s time.
- The best ones repeat each year.
Ask… Seek… Knock
7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Always pray and ask God for His guidance in raising the funds needed. If the project doesn’t excite you it won’t excite others.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
This episode is an episode unto itself, but came out of an original interview with Chuck Mingonet (Episode 101, Navy Jet Pilot and Commander).
Chuck and his wife have two children. Their daughter and her husband, became missionaries based in Spain. Ian their son (Chuck’s grandson), became ill while on the mission field with a brain tumor that was known to be fatal. The family came back to the USA for treatment. In the process, they were told that Ian would not have long to live… But Ian comes from a genetic and spiritual background of warriors, nationally, and spiritually. So at a young age, Ian learned to be a warrior.
Ian asked to go back to the mission field in Spain, so he could share Jesus with his soccer team and church. After a discussion between Ian’s parents, grandparents, and doctors, the decision was “If this is what Ian wants to do, he has the green light from his doctors to go.” And so they went!
This episode is about being able to change peoples lives, no matter how young or old you are. Ian has made an impact on his friends, his family… (and with this podcast) the world! Because even though Ian’s life was ending, he wanted to make sure that his friends would meet up again in heaven. We hope this story is inspiring to you as youth workers, parents, grandparents, and just people in general. No matter our size, shape, or age… God has created good works for us to do in Christ Jesus, which he created in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)
We hope this episode helps you to see the value of pouring God‘s love into adolescence, as well as, children before they reach that time of their life. We have no idea who God‘s going to use to change people all around this world or what circumstances will give them that platform to speak from.
You are amazing people, so let God use you in amazing ways today!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
From the Mission Possible Devotion: "Hard days will come. People will try your patience. What you worked for won’t happen the way you hoped it would… when you want to stop pursuing excellence, just keep showing up."
1 Cor. 15:58 - "My beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
The 10,000 hour rule (as written by Malcolm Gladwell) is not quite enough to become an expert. There are “4 things it takes to be an expert”, according to a YouTube personality.
- REPEATED ATTEMPTS WITH FEEDBACK.
EXAMPLE: A tennis player must have immediate feedback to become great or good.
NOTE: Be weary of experts who don’t have repeated theory through feedback.
-
VALID ENVIRONMENT
-
REPEATED EXPERIENCES
-
TIMELY FEEDBACK
After doing all of these things, do we then become an EXPERT? Unfortunately NO! We have a tendency to like being comfortable. Don’t get comfortable - learn to be uncomfortable.
Deliberate practice is important and attempting things you can’t do quite yet.
Trumpet (Instrument): I became proficient on a pro level over a period of 22 years, because of teachers, college professors from 2 Universities, and countless hours / sleepless nights of private practice, performing with multiple bands, solo performances, failures, wins, rejected auditions, etc.
Still on some levels I am an expert and other levels not at all… Then my world changed to student ministry.
My friend, Andy McDaniel, showed up in my 6th year of student ministry. He was a coach’s coach… A leader’s leader. He helped me see that I was on the right track. Finally, I had someone local that knew more than me. He was the true expert.
Who is your coach or mentor? Who is far ahead of you, so that you can be led with confidence?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Matt Ferguson is the CIO (Chief Innovation Officer) and Head of Storymaking at Storyland Studios and PlainJoe (A Storyland Studio).
Matt is a master of encouragement and leadership. His creative and insightful nature has led him to incredible opportunities vastly beyond our time together, when he was a student in my youth group.
Our main focus in this episode is about Matt’s work with PlainJoe. This part of Storyland Studios focuses on non-profits, churches, schools, and more. They help develop these non-profits to make clear their vision and value within their community and the rest of the world.
We hope you enjoy this interview between Matt and Doug!
_______________________________
Learn more Storyland Studios here: https://www.storylandstudios.com/
Learn more PlainJoe here: https://www.plainjoestudios.com/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Environments your students, parents and volunteer staff drive into, walk into, and engage others with… It sets the mood and the tone for learning and caring. All student Ministries are not made or created equal. All students are not made for all student ministries. Both students and student ministries have their own personalities, dispositions, and characteristics.
Set the pace! Who are you wanting the personality and character of your student ministry (or other organization) to be? What do you want regular and new students to feel when they walk in and when they leave those small and large group meetings? This can apply to your family, business, and volunteer groups. It works with non Christian groups as well as Christian ministry groups.
A few tips to inspire your environment:
- Visit the best student ministries in several counties or beyond and take notes on what you felt and how to adapt that to your groups.
- Go to concerts that students love, Christian and secular. What are they responding to and what leaves them disinterested?
- Theme parks that students love. You can't duplicate, but you can bring that 1 element that will bring an atmosphere of warmth and energy.
The above is for your main meeting. Things I could not bring back or buy I had great craftsmen from our church create for very little money. We let students add their touches and ideas and we would incorporate as much as possible so that they had ownership.
What initial small changes can you make in the places you meet with students and staff now? What changes say, “We love you and care about you… we believe you deserve our best!”
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
How is Different good? It’s good because God has made us very unique and individual since before birth, according to Psalm 139.
People as a whole (or in groups) don't usually like “Different”, because conformity is easier to understand. Conformity is predictable and doesn't cause surprises. Difference-makers change their world and the world around them. They do not conform to the standards of the world. Jesus was different and He shook the standard up!
Student ministry shakes the standard up, because students are full of energy and life. They cause people to rethink their positions and thoughts in life, because they have fresh creative minds that want to know “Why and How?”. Those questions demand answers and Jesus was the same in that He made people rethink the way they were doing life.
How about you? Are you stuck in conformity or are you asking God what He thinks and what He wants you to do in life?
Do you think you are too flawed for Him to use you? Think again! God Loves you as messy as you are and He will turn your mess into purpose for the life He has set up for only you to live.
Romans 12:2 - “Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person..."
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“Be slow to speak…” James 1:9
Recently, I sent a video to a church event out of state. No not the one I served locally. They asked me to speak and I asked if I could send a video if I could not show up. They said yes so I did.
I found out the new pastor decided not to use it, because it was too long. However, it was told to me that he was going to tell people what I said anyways (in their own words) without my consent…Hmmmmmmmm!!!
I asked that they say nothing about the video or me, because I knew something just didn’t feel right. Then I was told, ”No they are going to do that any ways.”
So…whats the Big Deal? Great question. Pastors and people in general really like to change words up for their benefit. I have had more pastors, in public, say things that they say, I said, that I didn’t say. As a whole not only do people say wrongly what other people say, or their intent, but very few people or pastors are truly confidential.
If you did one thing in your ministry or life, it would be this… “Be as wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” Do No Harm! Do not share “Ever” others confidences or you have labeled yourself as an unsafe person.
I have one rule, which I told my family, staff, and students. Everything is confidential unless it means life or death! Otherwise they could count on me to keep my mouth shut.
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” - James 1:19 (NLT)
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Here is a good place to emphasis this well known fact in great businesses and great ministries… What have you GIVEN UP to go to the NEXT LEVEL? What have you said NO to before saying YES to something better?
You will find here that Emelia Hartford (Record Breaking Car Builder & Driver, Actress, and Producer) had to give somethings up in order for Ferrari to help her! It was funny, but true! Ferrari won’t run without Ferrari parts. A Ferrari mechanic said, ”Yeah… Ferrari’s only work well with the parts they were designed with.” Aftermarket parts don’t work!
When Emelia pushed on the gas and asked for more power, it went into “limp mode”, because the parts it was designed for were not there and the car knew something was missing.
So what did Emelia Hartford have to give up? Listen to this podcast episode to find out!
We were made with a design that included God in our very being. Without Him there, we try to fill that hole with aftermarket parts. We don’t run correctly and nothing seems to quite right. Like the Ferrari, we were made to run fast and at full throttle!
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. - Psalm 139:14 (NLT)
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Rick Eldridge started out as a music artist and Campus Life director for Youth For Christ in Orlando. So… how did he becoming a movie producer / film director? We dive into this here and also talk about his new movie, NEVER GIVE UP - The Brad Minns Story.
The true story of how twenty-year-old Brad Minns does the impossible in the Men’s Singles Tennis Finals in the 1985 Deaf World Games. In a five-hour match for the ages, Minns somehow comes back from match point in the third set to winning the Gold medal in the fifth set. The match serves as a framework for the story of this inspirational man who became deaf at age three and rose to the height of his sport thanks to God helping him to NEVER GIVE UP.
Watch the movie trailer here: www.reelworks.com/projects/nevergiveup
Enjoy this episode about an inspiring movie maker with an inspiring story!
Learn more about Rick's upcoming and past projects here: www.reelworks.net/projects
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Mike Wolfe from the TV show American Pickers says, “It’s the smalls that keep us in business.”
These guys go after big items like, high six figure vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They restore historic buildings. They shop through out the USA to fill their stores in Iowa and Nashville. But the things that keep them going are the small items that can be sold to anyone. Those individual valuable items they buy with certain people in mind.
The church is the same way. It’s those one-on-one times with individuals that change the trajectory of your community and the world. It’s the smalls that keeps your student ministry in business too!
The “face to face asks” have been the most impactful, long term effective moments in all of my ministry life. The big events, trips, camps, adventures, and big meetings where we had everyone we could invite show up were incredibly important. But…the after meetings of small groups, asking a student or parent, or someone who is wanting to know more, the question… “Would you like to have a personal relationship with Jesus?” or “What’s happening in your life?”… “Is there something I can pray for you about?”
Those smalls! That’s what keeps us alive. That’s what fuels a movement, a mission… not just a program or something that won’t last.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
You are not alone… So give your best to your family and give your best to your ministry!
Episode Scripture Reference: Psalm 139 :1-18
Heaven knows your name and so does your family and friends. Give your best to both worlds, because God is there to help you succeed in your family and ministry.
So with this in perspective, when you are in a tough place… with your church, board members, parents, students, senior pastors, or even your own family, there is one thing that you must keep in perspective…
WHO DO YOU WORK FOR?
- You work for God! Not arrogantly, but confidently. God put you on this road of ministry and He will keep you there.
- Stay confident that you are not subservient to your other pastors or board members. That your calling is as high a calling as all the rest…if they aren’t on that same page with you, then are you sure God has called you there?
- If you aren’t sure that God has brought you to this place in ministry then…find another place or vocation. Sounds harsh, but don’t waste your time where you are not suppose to be.
- Your war is not with those people, your war is with the true enemies called principalities and powers, not flesh and blood.
Heaven already knows your name and they are cheering you on! So, ask God to give you power and wisdom. Leadership isn’t always fun. Most of the time it’s pure WORK! The more people you lead… unfortunately, the better chances you have for people to be upset or angry with you.
In order to thrive, you must know that you belong to God and that you are a leader in His army. That means His authority and power are at your access. “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of this world…” That means we have weapons at our command to fight!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11
Did you know that Johnny Cash was one of the great philanthropist of student ministry?
Johnny Cash… the man, the singer, the legend changed my life and I wasn’t even a country music fan! His decision to say “YES!” to Youth For Christ got me to Florida with that organization.
In this episode, I dive into how and why this happened for me and many others!
God will use whoever He wants to get you wherever He has planned for you. He has made you to do good works. (Ephesians 2:10)
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Iron Sharpens Iron (Proverbs 27:17 NLT), so a Friend Sharpens a Friend. More than one mentor brings strength!
I have always tried to lead students in ministry (and my own children) by directing them toward several mentors. Dr. John Maxwell said, “With one mentor you get their good qualities and their bad ones too. With many mentors you can take the good from each one….”!
I was watching the University of Colorado vs Nebraska football game recently. The coach, Deion Sanders (Coach Prime), is an intriguing leader. Pastor and Coach Harold Kelly knew Deion from FCA and during his time with Coach Bobby Bowden. Bobby was Deion’s coach at Florida State University and Pastor Harold Kelly is the one who reminded me about Deion’s Christian influence.
Deion said in an interview about coaching at the University of Colorado and his life in general, “I am a part of all the coaches from pee wee league to the NFL that coached me. I am all of those combined.” We are all the cumulative effect of the many influencers (mentors) in our life.
My grand children call me Papa and my little granddaughter definitely says it the loudest and most often! We mentor according to needs. My grandchildren, my children, and their spouses are the joy of my life. I pray they will always be able to look at me as an example of love and commitment to them and to God.
Mentoring will be caught more than taught… It's about being a living example!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Sammie Smith was an NFL (Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos) and College Football (Florida State University) running back, as well as, a track star at Apopka High School and Florida State University. After a career ending injury and 7 years in prison, God’s plan for his life started unfolding!
During his pro career, his son died of SIDS and life was not the same. Sammie and his wife have served God full-time with FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) for many years and recently released his first book about his journey with God titled, “My Name Is Not 18121-018”.
In this episode, we talk about how his new ministry with FCA is developing, including the addition of Salt and Fresh Water Fishing to his sports area of outreach. Sammie and his family gave a lot of years to Ole Miss University through FCA and now he has come back to Florida. Blessing us with his leadership and care for students, leadership, and families.
Listen up as we dive into the many things God is doing through Sammie and how you can get involved!
You can purchase Sammie's book here: https://tinyurl.com/yckjtt3a
You can watch our 2016 video interview on YouTube here: youtube.com/youthworkeronfire-sammiesmith
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
I can’t afford time off… But I can afford a hospital visit after breaking down from the stress I am under.
You might say that sounds ridiculous! But people say these things all the time, but they don’t say the second part. They feel justified or tough by saying I don’t have time or money to fix what’s hurting me. So now what…?
Jesus the Messiah often talked about REST. Here is one thing he said…
Matthew 11:28-30
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
True REST is a radical concept! My upcoming book could have easily been titled radical REST! If you want to radically change your world, you are going to have to radically move and maneuver. Without extreme REST you CANNOT be the best version of yourself that God intended for you to be. So REST UP MY FRIENDS! Wake up and smell the coffee, smell the roses, see clearly for the first time in years or for some… decades.
Get back that ability to soar and massively impact your world!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“I came that you might have life in ALL of its Abundance.” - John 10:10
Volunteers and student leaders… train them and educate them regularly on what is expected and consistently remind them of God’s vision through you for themselves and your student ministry. During my time as a student minister, we would take our volunteer staff to various trainings hosted by student focuses groups (YPS, SLU, YFC, FCA etc.) and a few weeks before the school year would start, we would have one weekend for training at a special location (beach, mountains, etc.) with our volunteers and their families.
That was the best, but one year I decided to change it up! At that time you could park at any of the Disney World hotels for free and and hold impromptu sessions in the lobby or on the outside of the property. I loved the Animal Kingdom Lodge, with the outdoor fire pits, rocking chairs, all while being surrounded by wild African animals roaming the zoo like setting onsite. If you knew someone working there, in upper management, you could even get a special room set up in the lobby or a special meeting room.
Larry Stephens With CRU (episode 140 on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast), came to train our volunteer staff and it was beyond amazing! Another time we used Disney University, because of Don Levonious (episode 06 on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast). He was the Executive who was in charge of the University (yes it is an actual University). Several of his staff were Christians who were Professors at the University of Central Florida, UCF, and Valencia State College. They and Don became the trainers for our volunteer training weekend. Yes, living near Disney World and the ocean has its perks. However… wherever you live has its perks also! You just have to be willing to interact with your community, pay it forward, and the world around you that God is using will open up.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Dr. Cary Ferree has been a volunteer for student ministry and Guatemalan Missions for many years. She is also a full-time Pharmacist for Bay Lake Pharmacy for the Long Term Care Division, servicing much of Central Florida.
Cary volunteered for the student ministry I was pastor over for several years and her husband Eric was a volunteer as well. In this episode, you will hear how and why she was on her church's latest student missions trip as a leader and medical personnel, both volunteer positions. There are qualities in Cary and her family that are environments to grow strong and committed people to God, family, and ministry (especially volunteer ministry). My hope for all you youth workers is that you can develop a volunteer force as strong as Dr. Cary and her husband Eric are.
You can connect with Dr. Ferree here: https://mhm-guatemala.org/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
To Youth Workers - Cracking the Code: “Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.” - Matthew 10:16-20 NLT
Youth For Christ taught me that we need to know the strategies for reaching students, families, and communities. How to be a valued part of the schools we serve. Then YFC trainers said this, “But… if you do that without the Spirit of God guiding you, you are no better than any other club or student group on campus.” You must be prayed up to be fully prepared!
Here are a few key things to CRACK THE CODE:
- Assess the “flavor/aroma/personality of your community”… church expectations, parent expectations of current students, community rituals and values, schools rules and values. He will prepare you and the people you are to encounter. God’s leading will save you a lot of wasted time and effort. “Ask, and God will give it to you. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be open for you. - Matthew 7:7-11 NCV
- Volunteers and student leaders… train them, educate them regularly on what is expected, and consistently remind them of God’s vision through you for themselves and the student ministry.
- Maximum Impact… Throw a giant party at your church or a rented facility. Burger Bash, Fall Bash! Something your church and community, schools are proud to see you do. No expectations! Just a time of loving students, school administrators, coaches and teachers etc. “They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
- FOLLOW THROUGH!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Tom Yohe (Hope For Hurting Parents) has returned for a 2nd interview on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast to discuss his new book called “Moments of Clarity: Wisdom from the Father of a Prodigal”. Yes, Tom and Dena Yohe have been on this podcast before! You can hear more of their story on episode 50 of Youth Worker On Fire Podcast and all about Renee Yohe, their daughter. As well as, a group that started a movement around her story called “To Write Love On Her Arms”.
Tom Yohe and his wife Dena Yohe started on this journey when their middle daughter at age 12 started cutting herself. Tom was a pastor at the time. They thought they had everything under control by the time she entered high school. Tom and Dena felt led to join Campus Crusade For Christ (CRU) as staff. They moved their family to Russia for a missions project and not long after, found that their daughter’s problems had gotten worse instead of better. They left the mission field and came back to the United States of America, so their daughter could have more therapy and this time it included the parents as well.
This episode with Tom will help you even more and his book will be a tool for many parents, youth pastors, educators, and the list goes on and on! For years after their daughter graduated high school, the nightmare continued and for many years as parents they felt lost and not sure what to do next.
Tom fills in the blanks of how his family found help through pain and suffering and how you can too. Treatment programs, relapsing, and how the journey continues. Through it all, God is still faithful even through the guilt, embarrassment, and isolation. So listen in to see how that could possibly change after all these years!
You can connect with Tom Yohe at:
WEBSITE: https://hopeforhurtingparents.com/
EMAIL: hope@hopeforhurtingparents.com
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Bend… but not break! It seems like a good thing, but when analyzing objects that keep bending, they eventually lose their shape. Bending items (and people) lose their ability to bounce back at some point and some eventually break… Yes, eventually they BREAK!
This episode is a look into how often we bend to pressures, people, and spiritual battles thinking we are more flexible and resilient than we actually are. Sometimes we are a bit too proud of ourselves for being so strong and unbreakable. But are we really?
Is it possible that we are broken already, because we have lost our “True North”, our “Core Values”, or our belief that we are called to stand strong? Also, with God's Love (His Agape) shake up the darkness and make it bend to God's ways, which are our Shield and Fortress.
"We do not fight against flesh and blood."
"The weapons we have are not of this world, but are there to tear down strongholds."
BENDING WILL BREAK YOU!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
GROWN UPs! Now those are big words to live up to. My wife would say that has never applied to me, Ha! Ha! But, that is not what this is about. This is about a 4 episode podcast I listened to, by Andy Stanley, that takes a very interesting look at when and how the Christian Bible came about and especially the New Testament. I like this, because otherwise I might not have taken the time to understand all the facts and fun history on how all of this was put together. It might be something that you can use with other adults or students that want to think a little deeper or wider.
Even if you don't agree with everything it is a great discussion starter for you and your family, friends and colleagues. You might say, "This is beneath me, I already know this stuff." That's great, but in what context do we get to have these discussions and share these truths? In many cases, we get to share fractions of what God has shown us because of time and space and who we are ministering to.
Either way enjoy soaking it in or tearing it apart by yourself or with others. "All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right..." - 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT
With that scripture in mind and how the Bible New and Old Testament came to be, this could be a very interesting journey!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“Keep your eyes focused on what is right, and look straight ahead to what is good. Be careful what you do, and always do what is right. Don’t turn off the road of goodness; keep away from evil paths.” - Proverbs 4:25-27 NCV
I did not become who or what I wanted to be. God had a better idea. It’s OK! The disciples had other plans too and Jesus changed their direction and goals twice.
-
Being called to His ministry.
-
Being filled with Power at Pentecost.
Both were overwhelming and not in their plans for life. Many of you are experiencing the same or similar things. Not your original plans for life and didn’t see that God encounter coming. I did not do things on a grand scale by my standards, but God gave me a better standard.
He used my weaknesses more than He ever used my strengths. And… in my frustration, He still does. God let me focus in one area of our state for almost 30 years. I spent countless hours on medias, speeches, volunteers, and no one ever sought after me as a speaker or consultant. My friends and my children have and are achieving far beyond my expectations for myself 1,000 times over. God allowed my failures and staying in a community to benefit world changers. I wanted to be them and in my frustration God wanted me instead to pour into them.
I am more blessed in my short comings, failures, and frustrations than I could have been in my personal visioned achievements... which I failed at over and over and over again. It wasn’t because I wasn’t talented enough. Less talented people have rocked this world and changed this world with much less talent.
God has designed us to be who we are and to do the good works He designed for us to do in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:10) So you… be encouraged! Where ever God has planted you, remember that He adds the increase and success. We are not our own, we are paid for with the blood of Christ who was hyper-focused for us.
So for now, stay Hyperfocused and be blessed where you are and with whom you are with. Be the best God has designed you to be. He will add the increase! If God has given you a massive vision walk that way or stay on your prayer journey until He does what you cannot.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Zane is a 3rd Generation Pastor. Zane’s grandpa was a pastor for many decades and his dad is currently a pastor in Iowa City, Iowa. In this episode, you will hear about his life and the legacy left to him that he is carrying down.
Zane was born and raised in Freeport, Illinois and spent his college years in Chicago at Trinity International University and Divinity School where he also played basketball. anything that includes being active or being outside. Zane and his wife Mackenzie got married in June 2020 in the middle of the pandemic and spent the first six months of their marriage in Chicago. Not long after, they received the call to Trinity Church in Eustis. He has been serving as the youth pastor at Trinity Church the last two years.
Zane went into college with his eyes set on business and “making it” as the world would describe, but soon felt God leading him in another direction… to pursue ministry! In the process of switching his major from business to Biblical studies, God laid youth ministry on his heart. Zane is now passionate about discipling students to truly know Jesus and live sold out for their faith.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Jokes and laughter are important in student ministry. So in this episode, I recall and discuss a few jokes that were exchanged between me and a young man in college recently.
But the message here is this… If we don't tell the next generation about God's miracles, stories, love, and truths… they won't pass this down to the next generation after them. It’s our responsibility to pass on to them that responsibility.
Based on Psalm 78:2-6
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
WHISPERing draws us closer, because it’s so quiet. It requires attention. So, though we may shout, scream, and cry out to God, He usually responds with a WHISPER. At least that's how it works with me and many others I have discussed this with.
So, WHISPER… He did when someone asked me to baptize them, even though we had never talked about that particular topic. As you remain in ministry (and in particular student ministry), those people grow up and they or their friends will ask you to be at a “God event” with them. God will WHISPER to you, "See, I have not forgotten you. I can use you whenever I want. You are still very needed and wanted by me and others." Maybe not those particular words, but well, you get the idea!
It’s all about the WHISPER…
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Showing up is half the battle! Many people don't even show up, but the other half that do... Share The Love! We have to be ready to meet the needs of the people God has annointed us to talk to about the Gospel, God's Story, His-Story.
Jesus was an "on the way" friend, rabbi, prophet, and forgiver of sins. That's what He has given us the power to be in this world for Him. Share The Love. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Mary Lomma was one of my student ministry volunteers (Associate Staff as I called them) working with our middle school girls. Mary is one of those volunteers you hope and pray for! She took everything she learned and never stopped telling people about Jesus Christ. Recently, Mary texted me a link to the story written below…
___________________________________
"STORY TELLER - MARCH 2023 ISSUE"
When I was about 45 years old I felt like there was “more” I could do. Our oldest daughter Tina was just married. Tamarah was in high school and Nicholas had begun kindergarten. First time in over 25 years I wasn’t working or having a preschooler around my legs. So, I volunteered to help our youth pastor Doug Edwards with middle schoolers. After all, both our girls had been delightful people in middle school, so I was experienced! So I thought.
All the middle school adult helpers were herded over to Daytona Beach for a week-end “discipleship training” class. My first time at Stavro’s Pizza. The following Christmas break we boarded a huge bus in Eustis Fl. It had king size bunk beds across the back. Many kids had earplugs hooked to various electronic devices which helped them to isolate themselves. Groups of boys practiced fart contests to the squeals of the groups of girls. Giggles and chatter came from every direction and all this went on nearly all night as we traveled to some mountain in VA – where there was snow. My buddy Karen Mielke and I huddled together under out blankets. Finally, the buses parked in a public park. No snow yet. The drivers opened the sides of the buses and produced gas burners and hearty bacon, sausage, eggs, toast and all the good trimmings to a ravenous and tired gang.
Soon Doug called out groups of kids and to one gang he said “You all go up that mountain with Mrs. Lomma for a bible study.” I almost fell over! I thought I was still in training! I prayed as we hiked up that hill, feeling very insecure. I will never forget this 1st time. Of course with my handy discipleship leader’s guide I was way ahead of the kids and actually captured their attention. The lesson was about trust.
Later we drove another several hours to the camp where we would stay a few nights doing mostly outdoor things with the kids. Still no snow. A few more 1st time episodes for me. And I thought this was a sledding trip and it would be so much easier than the high school skiing trip! Horseback riding – Oh sure I did that a lot as a kid. Fast forward to age 45, mother of 3, not wanting to die riding a wooded trail up and down steep banks and forging a half frozen creek! I shot a few bullet prayers that day too! But the coup de grace for me was the next day.
Our fearless leader Doug took us way up a hillside to a small raised up building on the edge of a cliff. I had no idea of the coming test of my faith and bravery in front of the kids as I was led to repel off that cliff backwards from the raised building. I was carefully strapped into a harness attached to a pulley system of ropes. A guide instructed me, with much reassurance, on the joys and safety of just falling backwards out of a perfectly safe building and how to push my feet gainst the side of the cliff as I gently bounced and dropped to the bottom of the ridge!
WHAT! Was I crazy? My heart was pounding in my chest. I really loved and trusted Doug and was confident he did not want me to die, but to be an example of trust to these kids.
I cheerfully, although in my heart reluctantly, conceded to this act. YIKES! All went well, but the amazing part was, I think the greatest lesson was mine. I really had to trust the harness, the man with the ropes and Doug’s confidence. But in my heart I was praying and trusting God!
It is a whole another story where this week-end of 1st time trust events took me over the next 30 years of leading and discipling teens and women in the places Tony and I have been.
You never know where trails will lead when you go the 1st time. Just this trip prepared me for the trips to Hurricane Katrina cleanup, Hurricane Andrew in Homestead, Charlotte, Weddington and Asheville NC, West Virginia, Pass Christian MS, Eleuthera Island, a tornado torn town in Idaho, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Chattanooga, Savannah and now back here in Mount Dora where my life is quiet for now – until the next 1st time!
_______________________________
This episode is packed full of encouragement, laughter, and wisdom! Enjoy our interview with Mary Lomma on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“When Words Don’t Come Easy” is the title of Andy Howard's book (andyhoward.com). It’s about how God redeems our stories, gives purpose to our pain, and still uses us to change the world.
Andy says… Have you ever looked at your life and wondered, “How on earth did things get so hard?”
“I have—more times than I can count. I’ll never forget how helpless I felt when it seemed like our life was falling apart, when our oldest daughter faced seemingly endless brushes with death, or when our finances were in shambles. In those moments, I felt everything I’d ever dreamed of, or God had ever promised, was shattering at my feet. But I’ll also never forget when things changed, when on the darkest of days I heard a voice whisper, “There is beauty in the broken.”
Andy was strong for so long then overwhelming depression hit him without warning! Because Andy and his family are on the other side of the depression we made sure to focus on humor and joy in his family’s life, so people could feel the joy on the other side of a tough life. Humor and laughter are 2 things that keep the human state alive and well during hard times.
I hope you will enjoy this interview as much as I did hosting it. Andy is someone who knows great, joy, pain, happiness, sorrow and how to win through it all.
You can connect with Andy at: andyhoward.com or instagram.com/andybhoward
You can find Andy's book "When Words Don't Come Easy" here: andyhoward.com/books
_______________________________
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty [emancipation from bondage, true freedom]. - 2 Corinthians 3:17 (Amplified Bible)
We have all the resources we need and all the power, which brings us TRUE FREEDOM. The more time we spend with God the more Freedom we feel and have. Freedom is a result of God flowing through us. Look for “Holy Surprises” coming your way! God loves handing out good surprises to His kids. His children are a Royal Priesthood.
Today… We also discuss some of YWOF’s upcoming episodes / interviews that you are not going to want to miss!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Ephesians 2:10 - “…God Created in Advance good works for us to do.”
I was made to have a relationship with God. He had a plan for my life and I pursued it. Many times it wasn’t what I thought I signed up for. But when God makes you a leader and the opportunity to lead arises, you will find yourself in the middle of leading. You can’t resist it… It’s a part of your Spiritual DNA!
Leaders work on a 24 hour clock. It never leaves their heart or mind. They own it. They were made to serve this way!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
How do you progress in ministry or life in general when people say you are too old?
Your response should be, “When God tells me to do something else I will change direction”. Everyone in the scriptures was too old or too young, too inexperienced, too unqualified, and the list goes on.
God looks at the heart. There are guidelines in scripture and there are cultural guidelines that God uses sometimes to keep us safe. We can be our own worst enemy! But… how have some people lasted 40 or more years in student ministry, school systems, college ministries, etc and still maintain great character and integrity, while remaining relevant and respected by younger generations, peers, and community?
We hope you enjoy this new episode from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Dan Istvanik is a 28+ year youth ministry veteran and the founder of Youth Ministry Hub (www.youthminhub.com). He is also a nationally-known ministry resource creator, writer, speaker, coach, and currently a Family Pastor just outside of Chicago.
When you and your family suddenly become homeless, you find out quickly who your real friends are. Ministry found one tough man and his family who said “YES” together when ministry choices became almost unbearable. In this episode, we dive deep into Dan and his family’s story of long term student and family ministry. His family’s story of, what I consider, "Heroic Faith" came through a question I seldom answer. True heroes of the faith seldom intentionally tell about their pains and God’s provision. They focus on the ministry at hand and keep moving forward.
This episode will…
• Remind you to pray when the odds are against you.
• Remind you to always include your family in your decisions.
• Remind you to follow God’s leading and not your emotions.
(Scripture Reference: Romans 8:18, 8:28)
You can contact with Dan at: www.youthminhub.com/contact/
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
FAIR… When people say, “I just want what's fair.” They are saying you haven’t been fair to them or they think you are getting ready to take advantage of them in a business deal, a family situation, or something else... you fill in the blank.
Chris Voss says “fair” is a word of “power “. The person who used it first has the power, unless you know how to turn it around by asking, “Fair?” and letting them talk more. Check out his book “Never Split The Difference” and look up his chapter on the word FAIR.
In reality few things are “fair”. Life is not fair. However, we would not like it if it were! What I prefer is mercy and grace.
Mercy and Grace is what God showed us through His Son Jesus on the cross. He died in our place! That was not fair, but that was love, AGAPE LOVE. Mercy and Grace come out of Love. They do not come from “fair”.
This world is not fair. So how do we help students and their families understand “fair” when it comes to God, when there is so much suffering in the world?
It's important that our students and their leaders know that God is good even when their is horrible suffering in the world. Remind yourself and students who want answers to hard questions that God uses us to change our world. It won’t answer all of their questions or ours, but it will make them a part of the answers instead of leaving them believing God is cruel and uncaring.
So we move forward… How? We must pray and fast for God’s intervention. Ask him to show His Grace and Mercy through His Love to others and through us others.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
3 THINGS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE FOREVER...
Pray a grateful prayer to God in the evening before bed and in the morning when you get up.
Ask God to put His words in your mouth before you speak to your family, business, or if you are a public speaker. His words will bring Power, Peace and Love. "My Spirit, who is on you, will not depart from you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will always be on your lips, on the lips of your children, and on the lips of their descendants-from this time on and forever," says the LORD. - Isaiah 59:21 (NIV)
Ask for His Favor before you enter a building, go to a meeting, your home, or any plane, train or automobile. Sincerely ask for His Favor...consistently.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Tim Brokopp lives in Pennsylvania, USA and serves as the Executive Director of Operations for the Amoveo Group. The Amoveo Group is a non-profit development organization, which exists to see broken systems fixed in communities all over the world. They mobilize people, material, and financial investment in projects which spur sustainable solutions to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The team at the Amoveo Group looks to local leaders to determine needs and strategically utilize volunteers and pathfinders.
That's not an easy task, but it helps ministries stay longer and stronger!
Before that appointment, Tim was executive director of the E4 Project, a faith-based international leadership community that brought sustainable solutions to impoverished communities in Gabon and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tim grew up in Sub-Saharan Africa and has worked in international development since 2008. He is fluent in French and specializes in working in cross-cultural settings, leadership development, and international community development.
Tim Brokopp was a child on the mission field with his parents in Africa. Later he moved from Africa to Lexington, NC as a high school student. He went from being a MK (missionary kid) to being a PK (preachers kid) in the United States as his dad became a pastor.
In this episode, you will hear how this all takes place and how you can get involved with these short term missions projects!
You can contact Tim and the Amoveo Group at: amoveogroup.org/contact
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
LONGEST LOCK-IN EVER
Rust out or Burn out
Funny story: Three years in a row we had the same event happen on one of our toughest annual youth road trips. Every year we took middle schoolers to the mountains in the winter time (most of those years we had a sleeper bus). The “Skittles Event” came out of one middle school boy on this trip 3 years in a row. You will have to listen to the this episode to know what happened.
Noah longest lock-in ever! 120 years to build the Ark. Stayed on the boat for 150 days. He left the boat on the 27th day of the second month of Noah’s 601st year of life. How do you like that for a fun boat trip?
I found this article on my LINKEDIN account:
“Burnout at work is a well-known problem. But a new opposite term has recently surfaced in wellbeing discussions: rust-out. Rust-out occurs when employees feel underutilized and under-stimulated in their jobs. Work seems monotonous and devoid of personally meaningful aspects, which can hurt performance and mental health. Gallup’s global workplace report for 2022 found that only 21% of people feel engaged in their jobs. Europe was the region with the lowest percentage of engaged employees at 14%.”
This came from an ER Doctor responding to the mentioned post above. I think leaders may help rust out by:
-
Setting challenging and meaningful goals.
-
Providing opportunities for learning and growth.
-
Offering job rotation or cross-training.
-
Recognizing and rewarding accomplishments.
-
Asking their team, "what are you interested in" and how can I help?
The bottom line is that it is critical to create a culture of trust where leaders are asking the right questions and employees feel comfortable sharing their honest opinions.
People who feel like they’re rusting on the job can share with their managers, look for a new role, and re-inject enjoyable activities into their personal life. Bosses who spot rusty workers should help them speak up and co-develop a progression plan.
My thoughts: This happens especially. If the staff, congregation, or whatever organization you are a part of, if they have not run you off in the first 1 to 2 years, then they may just let you run yourself in to the ground being satisfied with what they are getting out of you and giving you no room for growth or expansion.
Especially if we are doing work on a God Size scale, we need God Size Rest. Like Jesus or the prophets of old. Rusting out may be better than burning out!? But Burning UP… while often reducing stress and taking breaks like Jesus did is better, because Burning Up includes, Rest, Fuel, Encouragement, Fresh Ideas, Spiritual Food, Physical Food, Mental Renewal, and Creativity… Plus, Plus!!!
God gives us no more than we can endure if we’re following him and depending on him. That’s why Matthew 11:28-30 is some of my favorite verses.
(Matthew 11:28–30 NLT) - Jesus said, “Come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart and you will find rest for your souls, for my yoke is easy my burden is light...”
And yoke meaning that thing that’s around an oxen or animals neck. It helps pull whatever load it is. So get His yoke, the thing that’s going to make your burdens easier, because it’s when it’s Him it’s light and it is easy.
I found my way is complex and hard. What about you? Are you frustrated doing things your way instead of getting God’s game plan?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Jesus is still relevant. Salvation is what students are looking for, but passionate sold out people are what they are attracted to.
Focus on praying for students and their family members and friends, present the gospel clearly and quickly to them, and follow through with care over months and years.
Ask the QUESTION… HOW?
- Praying with them.
- Bible study together.
- Be Pro-Active with them, so you are not Re-Active.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
“My grace is sufficient for you...” 2 Corinthians 12:9
“The process of elimination!” is the first step to success and identity. “Eliminate who you are NOT first… Stop the victim mentality…you are not entitled to anything… you are the author of your life.” - Matthew McConaughey
Also on Joe Rogen’s Show, Matthew McConaughey said… “When I receive an award I give create to God on stage. I am not afraid of losing my place in Hollywood, but I have friends of faith in Hollywood who are afraid to clap for my confession of faith on stage because they are afraid of losing.
Give up your life to save your life!
(23)Then Jesus said to all of them, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me. (24)For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. (25)What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet lose or forfeit his very self? - Luke 9:23-25 (Berean Standard Bible)
Arnold Schwarzenegger 2018 - The speech that broke the internet - “I hate plan B… it causes you to stiffen up and you think about what you might lose. You must relax in order to win…And don’t feel afraid to fail…We all fail…Michael Jordan said in an interview…I missed 9000 shots in the NBA in order to be the greatest player of all time.”
Arnold, “Failure is part of climbing the ladder of success…”
“Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us,” — Ephesians 3:20 Amplified Bible
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
A Tribute to My Youth Pastors: Ronnie and Maxine Kennedy
Ronnie passed away recently and Maxine passed away a few years ago of cancer. They have 2 boys who are now men with families. They were bi-vocational pastors during the Jesus Revolution in North Carolina and did not know it. Yet, to them, and for many many others, we are indebted to their sacrifices. They bought a bus with their own money to transport us. They had meetings with us awkward teenagers in their house. We were not nearly as grateful as we needed to be to such sacrificial people.
They died not knowing the magnitude of what their sacrifices created. But now… in the presence of Jesus Christ they are amazed at their rewards and the rewards that are still building. They were not treated as the heroes while they were here on Earth, but in heaven they are well known among the heroes and saints of old. How…?
Because they suffered the little ones to come to them as Jesus had done before them. The prayed and worked with and reached out to teenagers which few understood or would not even consider them as worthy of time or importance. But Ronnie and Maxine were on a mission!
They were called for a time, so others could live eternally and brought to Christ decades later, still growing to reach a lost and dying world . Unsung heroes, visionaries ahead of their time. They looked liked normal people, but they were Saints of God with a calling much like Jesus and his followers. They were normal people with a God filled heart in each one. They gave too much, but it was heaven’s gain. “Little is much when God is in it.”
“One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.” Mark 10:13 NLT
When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.” Mark 10:14 NLT
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms ( https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
David Kelly graduated from the University of Florida in 1995 and married his wife Karen in 1996. When they moved to Eustis, Florida (30 miles west of Orlando, Florida) they joined New Hope Presbyterian Church and began volunteering with the youth.
From 1997 to 2001 he taught English/Journalism and coached 3 separate sports at Eustis High School. On July 1, 2001, he came on staff as the full time youth director at New Hope, a PCA church. Later that year, David and Karen became parents with the birth of their daughter and the next year welcomed their son.
David is a member of Southland Camps leadership team. Southland Camps is a 501(c)(3) youth organization under the umbrella of the PCA that connects students to Christ and Community. David is also a volunteer at Tavares High School and works closely with the football team.
He graduated from RTS-Orlando in May 2016 and received his Masters of Divinity degree. In April 2017, he was ordained and installed by the Central Florida Presbytery as an Associate Pastor at New Hope.
David now has a focus on men’s discipleship and leadership training with an emphasis in church planting. He also continues to be a youth director at New Hope. Some of his favorite activities (outside of youth ministry) are hunting, fishing, and drinking ice cold Coca-Cola from a mason jar.
David said,"I love families and students, but I am most glad that Jesus loves us and allows us to know Him more and more."
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Be more transparent and less dramatic, so that God has room to be God. That way everyone knows when He changes people and there is no doubt that it was Him!
Teenagers and young adults are always looking for what is real and though they may not have the discernment or wisdom, they seem to know intuitively when someone is not being true to themselves. As I have watched the stories going on right now, Jesus’s spirit is moving in big ways at Universities and in the entertainment industry just to name a few examples. I have noticed that the people He is using are not extremely great speakers nor are they impressive. They seem to be very normal people. The same type of people He used all through the bible and throughout history… and now!
God wants to use you in a big way to unleash His power so that He can empower young people to change this world right now. While they are still young and continuing throughout their adult life. Is this task too much for you?
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Larry Stephens is a name you are not going to hear unless you are in certain circles. He is a Director at I AM SECOND and CRU's (Campus Crusade for Christ International) representative to Hollywood. Larry has had influence in over 30+ motion pictures and counting, as well as, a new footprint in the Esports gaming world!
In this interview we will talk about...
-
The current ministry impact and future of video animation and gaming.
-
A sneak peak into a full length motion picture animation film that no one is supposed to know about yet. (The biggest budget faith based film of its type ever!)
-
The “Jesus Revolution” movie. (Now available as of February 2023.)
-
A global initiative paving the way to reach every "people group" in the world for Christ, with assistance of new technology.
-
The challenges in raising 4 children along with his wife, while traveling all over the world.
… and much more!
I got to know Larry because of Amanda (his now wife) who was one of the students in the student ministry that my wife Colleen and I worked with and had the privilege of watching her and her sisters grow in their faith. In Amanda’s journey, she went into a ministry called “CRU”, where she was a colleague with Larry for a few years until they fell in love. Once they were married, I got to know Larry much closer.
I came to know Larry as an unassuming powerhouse who made world events happen by putting great people in the best places, training students to become leaders for The Kingdom of God, and turning leaders into world changers… literally world changers! All while being a part of an initiative that can now be found on every major college campus in the United States of America.
_______________________________
You can directly connect with Larry at the links below:
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/larry-stephens-52384a7/
Facebook: facebook.com/larry.stephens.18041
Learn more about the organizations Larry is involved with:
I AM SECOND: iamsecond.com
CRU: cru.org
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
“Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us,” — Ephesians 3:20 (Amplified Bible)
Yet… many of us have a tendency to hold on to what is safe, good enough, and/or familiar. We have been taught that “safe” and normal (average) is better than letting go and being courageous. Dreams are for those other people, but not you. They are for special, unique people that are untouchable. UMMMM!? WHAT?!?! NONSENSE!
Chris Voss, of the Black Swan Group, said, “Never be so sure of what you want that you wouldn’t take something better.” Better….hmmmm!? God always has something better for you and God LOVES bold prayers from his children. God rewards Faith.
Termination is often the key to future innovation. What have you given up to go forward?
We are Salt and Light in this world and we need to stand up and shine our light. Please pray for what you want God to do in your life and let God do MORE.
“Our God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.” — Ephesians 3:20.
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ )
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Don't Worry! Take ACTION! So...why do people keep talking themselves out of taking ACTION! Mel Robbins says, "Our brain is hardwired to protect us and when we hesitate for a second from taking action, our brain goes into override into protect mode...making you think of the “Why’s” that will keep you from taking immediate ACTION at the right time. Jesus talks about worry as a lack of faith. He then says, stop worrying and instead seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things you are worrying about will be taken care of.
I can not tell you the amount of times I have walked on public school campuses knowing it was not going to be easy. Easy would have been staying on my church campus and waiting for everyone to come to me.
I can tell you the many times I talked myself out of it and my excuses. I can tell you that every time I went to schools, after school, parent, student, teachers, coaches and administrators events that I would say, “Why am I here?”, and the number of times someone or several others come to me and say how much it meant to them or some crisis was averted.
How about you? What ACTION do you need to take? 5-4-3-2-1 Go!
_______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
On this week's episode, we dive into PART 2 of our interview with Kristen Lascola (Host of the Ministry Coach Podcast).
February is the month of LOVE! So why not begin this episode discussing...
- A Love Story: Kristen & Jeff
- The Heart: Physical and Spiritual
- Couples in ministry
and much more!
_______________________________
Kristen Lascola is the host of the “Ministry Coach Podcast” and the middle school pastor at North Coast Church based in Vista, California, roughly 30 miles north of San Diego. She is a coach to the coach-less, mentoring pastors and volunteers in student ministry who are looking for guidance and inspiration.
Her husband Jeff believes in her so much that he encouraged her to let him produce her podcast and YouTube channel to help people just like you to be the best version of themselves. Kristen’s content is as good as any 5 star level coaching materials on the market…and plus it's FREE!
Watch Kristen’s YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/3kVpsd9
We hope this episode provides you with new tools, spiritual and emotional support, and continued vision of what a long term student ministry can look like. Kristen speaks wisdom into everything she says and creates. Enjoy PART 1 of our interview!
Learn more about Kristen Lascola here: https://bit.ly/3JM3GDh
_______________________________
Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Kristen's photo provided by: Ministry Coach Podcast
Kristen Lascola is the host of the “Ministry Coach Podcast” and the middle school pastor at North Coast Church located in Vista, California, roughly 30 miles north of San Diego. She is a coach to the coach-less, mentoring pastors and volunteers in student ministry who are looking for guidance and inspiration.
Her husband Jeff believes in her so much that he encouraged her to let him produce her podcast and YouTube channel to help people just like you to be the best version of themselves. Kristen’s content is as good as any 5 star level coaching materials on the market…and plus it's FREE!
Watch Kristen’s YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/3kVpsd9
We hope this episode provides you with new tools, spiritual and emotional support, and continued vision of what a long term student ministry can look like. Kristen speaks wisdom into everything she says and creates. Enjoy PART 1 of our interview!
Learn more about Kristen Lascola here: https://bit.ly/3JM3GDh
_______________________________
Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Krstien's photo provided by: Ministry Coach Podcast
Right when you are just over it... Whether it's for a moment, for the day, or you feel like you want to stop trying, pray this prayer and be still. "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." - 1 Samuel 3:9.
God is listening and soon He will speak when you need It the most. _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
"Happiness is good medicine..." (Proverbs 17:22 ERV)
Emotions are there for a reason. If we know what each emotion in our lives is there for then we are able to identify how to respond correctly to each emotion instead of reacting to the emotions in a way that they control us.
Episode 76 of the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast is where this theme first came from, while interviewing a world changer who grew up in a violent alcoholic family. Maury and his wife grew up in homes of alcoholic parents. His healing knowledge of what it took to finally deal with it emotionally is worth taking notes on.
Happy, Sad, Mad, or Glad… and sometimes Scared or Numb (according to OliveMe Counseling).
"Good things happen to those who learn from their experiences…” (Proverbs 16:20 ERV)
_______________________________
Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
K.T. Griffiths is the author of “Shhh… Mental Illness: The Silent Disease”. In today’s episode, we are discussing a topic that many quickly write off or ignore all together.
We try to keep mental illness quiet, because it’s sensitive and hard for many people to understand. Everybody seems have an opinion, even if they’ve never had to experience it directly. Friends reject you. while others will embrace you for the long-haul. You will find out who your friends are when dealing with this personal pain. If you aren’t going through this, you probably have a friend or family member who is.
According to Romans 8:18, the sufferings that we go through now are nothing compared to the glory that we will receive. When you go through the pain of a child who is hurting in any way, you can breathe and fight for that child even if it takes the rest of your life.
Thank you youth workers, parents, grandparents, and volunteers. Thank you for fighting the fight for these and those who cannot fight for themselves. You are true heroes!
You can find “Shhh… Mental Illness: The Silent Disease” on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3k6JVvg
Please consider purchasing a copy or a few to gift to those you know will gain value on this topic.
For more information, please visit: https://ktgriffiths.com/
______________________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
K. T. Griffiths offers her first book, a memoir, to all those who faced the realities of life and parenting. As a mother of 6 children, she has been tried and tested in so many ways that this book became a necessity. People know her for her wisdom, honesty, and authentic empathy for the plight of others. It is exactly this trait that has equipped her in this book to introduce you to chaos of the mind amidst life’s relational struggles and emerge stronger than before.
______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
______________________________
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MORE YWOF PODCAST EPISODES: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
Rest is a gift from God! Our ego and insecurity makes us think that our abilities and strengths are more important than God's abilities and strengths in us. Some people rest too much. Some people rest too little.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST EPISODE AND MORE: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
In this episode, we dive into the first chapter of my book “Burn Up, Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” plus much more!
Get your copy on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3jzwELe
We discuss…
- Using the gifts God has given you.
- Looking for the good works that God has prepared in advance for you to do. (Ephesians 2:10)
- Why “NO” is better answer than “yes”
Be encouraged, go long in your calling, and stay STRONG!
_______________________________
CLICK HERE FOR MORE YWOF PODCAST EPISODES: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
NEVER RETREAT UNLESS GOD SAYS TO RETREAT… ALWAYS CHARGE AHEAD!
If you are in your position of leadership, then this episode is for you! We discuss some direct leadership strategies from a few of the very best current leaders and a leader from the past that you may never have heard of.
In this episode…
- We talk about Jesus’s leadership style verses the religious leaders of His day.
- How a woman became the hero in Jesus’s story when others thought she should have been labeled a villain.
- You will learn about bravery in the face of projected loss and defeat.
_______________________________
Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Sydney to Melbourne, Australia is no little jog. 543.7 Miles according to this ultramarathon endurance race. So how do you prepare for a challenge like this? According to Cliff Young, who showed up in his overalls and boots, you spend a lifetime herding 2,000 sheep on 2,000 acres of farmland by foot for 3 days at a stretch without sleep when the storms would roll in. They were intrigued and laughing at Cliff until the end of the race. But, how did this first time racer compete with these professional runners and change the way the race was run?
This episode is all about the fragile ECOSYSTEM between students and student ministry.
How can you keep the balance of life from failing or dying in your student ministry? How can you keep yourself and your family alive, while thriving in such a fragile environment? We dive deep into these questions and much more (Chapter 6 in my book, “BURN UP NOT OUT”.) in this episode!
You can read “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder’s Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy
This is a great reminder that as the new year approaches, that GOD IS BIGGER than the challenges you and I will face day to day… and sometimes moment to moment! Nothing is impossible. God is chasing after you...but even MORE amazing things happen when WE chase after God.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST EPISODE: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Jason Mages is a brilliant person who consistently changes the environment around him. Top of his class academically, leader to his peers, and highly respected by the faculty. “The 3-2-1 Principle” is a Jason Mages original that he teaches high school students, as well as, business associates. Jason and I met when he was a 16 year old teenager and I was a youth pastor in the community of Eustis, Florida.
In this episode we discuss:
- A life changing moment of disaster when a tornado tore through his home as a teenager.
- His experience as a student in my youth ministry in the early 1990s.
- Missions that he helped lead as a teenager.
- My memorable encounter with his discipleship leader at Florida State University.
- The 3 principles: Serve Others First - Own It - Repeat
- Tips for youth workers from the point of view of the student.
Enjoy this valuable interview with Jason Mages and we hope it continues to fuel your student ministry fire!
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST EPISODE: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
By the time you hear this…Thanksgiving for this year has passed. Now, we are on our way to Christmas and the New Year!
Christmas is about new beginnings. Jesus was a new beginning in time and space that God had planned a long time before Christmas on Earth ever happened.
It’s also about doing the right thing, not the safe thing. And I am not talking about making things dangerous for you, your staff, and students. Safety is a priority. “Not safe” meaning… by challenging their comfort zones in letting God in to change their lives. That’s scary enough on its own!
In this episode, I reminisce on my craziest Christmas memory as a teen (Christmas Fireball), my best Christmas memories, and much more! We also dive into many tips for your ministry during the holiday season.
Happy Holidays and let’s get things started!
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST EPISODE: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_______________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
So you want to have an effective student ministry, but you want to stay small? Well you can! If you are willing to GO DEEP… WHAT!!! Many of us are afraid of the big fish that might challenge us in ways we just might not want to be challenged.
Dr. Jay Strack (Founder of Student Leadership University), would say that we need to teach our students to be leaders and show them that they can learn to swim with the sharks. Students would have their first meeting in the underwater tunnel looking into the shark tank at Seaworld. Once you swim with sharks, your fear level shrinks, and everything else looks easy or at least easier. You realize that many things are possible that you never thought were possible before.
Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” - Matthew 4:19 NLT
So keep diving deep to discover who God has designed to build a lasting student ministry in your church. The next generation is depending on you and God is waiting for you to take a swim in the deep end!
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST EPISODE: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
This is our second time interviewing Maury Buchanan. Maury is the Founder of Mission Discovery: Short Term Missions and has hosted thousands of students / adults all around the world.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Maury’s latest trip to Bulembu, Eswatini in South Africa.
- A thrilling encounter with wildlife while on Safari.
- Passing along his position of leadership within the organization post retirement.
- So much more…
Enjoy this amazing story! This may or may not be your next destination, but you will receive more than you bargained for by listening to this episode. Welcome to a life well lived and still living!
You can connect with Maury at: maurybuchanan@gmail.com
Get involved with Mission Discovery at: https://www.missiondiscovery.org/
_____________________________________________________________________
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_____________________________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Being ON MISSION is not as romantic as it sounds. In fact, a lot of the time its just plain lonely and sometimes worse!
"Believe in the Mission" is what one of Tim Tebow's shirts says.
Beth Moore, in her address to over 70,000 College age students at the Passion Conference in 2017, stated, “All of you will be affected by the Gospel of Jesus Christ at this conference, but some of you will be Infected. It will turn you upside down from what you thought would make you happy. You are going to want to lock it down and give it a definition. At least that way people will not think that you are out of your ever loving mind!”
Enjoy this episode and stay On Mission!
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
___________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
While climbing a snow capped volcano, the climber asks the Sherpa, “Can you get me to the volcano’s summit?” The Sherpa replies, “Yes. If you will follow me completely, stay on my path, and do everything I do." The climber asks, "What happens if I don't?" The Sherpa answers with, ”You will die."
My takeaway? Trust the Sherpa (ha ha)! Now that is serious leadership and what you do in ministry is just...that...serious!
Two things you must know to be successful and impactful:
-
Wear the Right Equipment.
-
Follow someone who knows the way with an impeccable track record.
In this episode, I tell another story from one of my student ministry trips and the result of following the wrong people, but having the right equipment. (Ephesians 6:10-18) The Whole Armor of God, in particular the helmet.
We are in spiritual battles all the time, but I believe most of us dismiss the fact that we who serve are a threat. Therefore, always being challenged and tempted to take a wrong turn.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
____________________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
A secret service agent came to meet with our high school group one Sunday and talked about his experience with identifying real vs counterfeit money. The agent mentioned that they spend more time learning about real currency and a less time on counterfeit... Why? Well… when you know the real thing, it's much easier to spot a counterfeit!
“The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking... The Lord…He hears the prayers of the righteous. A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health. If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise.” - Proverbs 15:28-31 (NLT)
Here are a few notes from this episode:
- It's hardest to hear criticism from those who know us well, but if we could accept criticism without negative emotion, we would become much wiser. We could use this criticism to become better!
- Laughter and smiling effects the brain. According to research it makes us 31% smarter and 31% more productive.
- Remember Great speakers start by making people feel good about themselves. When that happens, people become smart enough to listen.
Look more at what God does for and with the Godly first and foremost!
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq
_____________________________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Hank Schneider is one of the most loyal volunteers I ever had on my student ministry staff. Hank tells us all about...
- Some life threatening and heartfelt missions trip moments.
- His experience as a foster parent.
- Working in the school system.
- College Football
- And more!
This episode is packed full of stories that will inspire and fuel your ministry journey!
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://www.hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
I was in San Diego, California for a conference and one of the speakers began with this prayer, “Your words in my mouth Lord. Not my words, but Your words.” That conference was many years ago, but I have never forgotten the impact of that prayer on my life. It came from Jeremiah 1:9.
This episode is about making sure we are building God's Kingdom and not letting our ego get in the way of His plans for our life. Making sure that our integrity stays intact and that we are concerned for His reputation and not our own reputation. When we focus on God's reputation good and great things happen. When we are concerned for our reputation, we have entered a very dangerous space and time.
HIS WORDS - HIS REPUTATION
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://www.hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Dr. Fred Hill was my pastor since I was in middle school. I came to know the love of God for the first time through him and his ministry. All ministries that God has led me to and allowed me to lead are because Dr. Hill said “Yes” to God when asked if he would become the pastor at our church.
Dr. Hill was also a professor at High Point University in High Point, North Carolina where he taught educational psychology. He was a man of great integrity and humility. He loved God and he loved his family. I am forever grateful for his example of God's Love.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://www.hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Happiness is something we need in order to be smarter and a clear state of thought. According to research, when we are happy, we become 31% more productive. Some researchers even say we become smarter.
The business world understands something’s about being “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” as Jesus talked about to his disciples. As the church in student and adult ministries, I think we often make things more complicated than God ever intended.
The topic of this episode came to me after watching a certain entrepreneur in one of her messages on quick tips:
Codie Sanchez - 2 things I wish someone had told me before starting a business!
-
Make a list of 3 happy places.
-
In order to win, you must surround yourself with people that are smarter than you and understand what it is you do… but better!
These are things I found out the hard way after many years of ministry and just plain life.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: https://www.hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
PEOPLE PUT THEIR MONEY WHERE THEIR HEART IS!
What’s inside this episode?
-
Seems like churches think student ministry is less valuable than adult ministry.
-
How can we change the tide from devaluing students and their families?
- If the world spends billions of dollars on winning over teenagers to buy what they advertise, then why does the church think they are not worth that kind of investment?
- How can we invest as the church in every effort to win, disciple, and sacrifice our lives with the Gospel of Jesus Christ to train young leaders to dream and serve now before another organization, group, or regime steals them away first?
- Louie Giglio, founder of the Passion Conference, challenges college students to give over $1 million for a world wide mission to save millions with clean water! Did they rise to the Challenge?
- Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them”.
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Jim Halstead started Go and Tell Ministries after working with students and discipling them for many years. Jim is a man who started life without a clue about who God is. A young man who did not grow up going to church.
When I first met Jim, I had been 5 years into a student ministry that would end up being my longest term student ministry position. We would meet together with youth pastors and volunteers as a district in ministry department for the southeast and helped to create one of three locations for Challenge 90 Evangelical Free Church of America.
I found out just recently that Jim would pray specifically for our student ministry and family for many years, while he was located in Jacksonville, Florida and I was in Central Florida. Jim has discipled so many students that are now adults, supporting him to help other workers do the same thing.
Go and Tell Ministries: Jim has a story that will inspire you to see far beyond the next few weeks and months into your student ministry. Maybe even a glimpse far into your future and what staying around and investing more will look like on the other end of your life.
Learn to Delight in God, declare the gospel and disciple others to fulfill the great commission.
Connect with Jim and Go and Tell Ministries here: www.goandtellministries.org
_____________________________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
“It’s later than you think” is a line in the movie “The Adam Project”, which is repeated several times. The movie is Sci-Fi, but even though it mentions time travel, the real story was about loving the people we are responsible for. God sees loving those we are responsible for as more important than the ministry he has called us too. In many cases, the ministry we have called ourselves to, may not always be where God was directing us.
I personally have been involved in some form of volunteer or full time ministry since I was 15 years old. I found I was sold out to Jesus as Lord and spending time with Him above all else. Not trying to do more, but trying to be in the presence of God more. By doing so, the people I love and am responsible for feel at peace and authentically loved by me. You may feel you have “missed the wave of opportunity” to love those closest to you the way Jesus loved. John Maxwell says, to not worry, “another wave is coming”. Stop grieving and start loving! Do the NEXT RIGHT THING.
“It's Later Than You Think”, but don’t give up… do not fear. Put Jesus first and you will love your family and friends better.
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” - Joshua 1:9 NLT
GOD LOVES YOU!
_____________________________________________________________________
EPISODE CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
3 things that will change how others receive you and your ministry… Be Heard. Be Seen. Be Gone. I don’t know about you, but I spend a lot of time making sure to set a good impression with people. Is it that maybe in certain enviornments we spend too much time attempting to do so?
I was a Campus Life director for an area in Central Florida for 6 years. One of the many valuable things Youth for Christ / Campus Life taught us was how to quickly make a good impression on people and leave before you over stay your welcome. Be Heard. Be See. Be Gone. This was something that would ring true for years. This piece of wisdom allowed me to be in places I needed to be and add valuable. You will bring excitement, encouragement, and a bit of mystery if you follow these tips!
People will say good things about you, because you gave them impact without disrupting their environment. Be Heard. Be Seen. Be Gone. This phrase will take you a long way in public as a ministry leader… use it to build influence!
___________________________________________________________________________
CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Wish you could change the outcome of a meeting or conversation before it even gets started?
What if someone could teach you how to position yourself in order to positively enhance your interactions with others? Seems like we all should know these kinds of things. Well… someone does!
This person has influenced me and many others. Even though this person has not been a guest on this podcast (...yet), in this episode I talk about her research and many other things I learned that have been extremely useful to my ministry interactions. Her name is Vanessa Van Edwards and she is a behavioral investigator with Science of People and the author of “Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People”.
In a previous episode I talked about being “…wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” - Matthew 10:16. There is more in each one of us that God has placed there to be like Him and He is the biggest influencer of all time and space. Be an influencer like Jesus. It’s in you already!
_______________________________________________________________________
CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Kevin is a former Fire Chief and trumpet student of mine back in my hometown. I was just out of college and he was a high schooler at that time. We have stayed in touch all these years later and he is now one of my go to prayer warriors.
When Kevin prays, God moves into action. While on the job as a Firefighter he had encountered many miracles. In this episode, Kevin talks about a few of these miracles, as well as, the tragedy of his home being destroyed by fire at a young age. Firemen were there for him and his family.
Ministry comes from places we don’t expect it!
CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
In our adolescents, we believe we can do anything! Then one day someone or somebody starts telling us to “be realistic”. They say we are not funny, not creative, not smart, not pretty, not likable, or not strong enough… and the list goes on and on. It grows on us and forms us into people who settle in all areas of life. We start believing the lies that we are not... And yet God has always told us WE ARE!
We are made in His image! We are fearfully and wonderfully made. - Psalm 139:13,14
That if we just believe we can say to a mountain move and it will move, that in Christ Jesus, God has created in advance good works for YOU to do. - Ephesians 2:10
Not for someone else to do, but for YOU TO DO! How many tragic individual loses could have been avoided if we believed that “I Am Enough”? It took a secular therapist to teach people that the human mind is not complex, but very simple. The mind simply needs to remember that “I AM ENOUGH”. When a therapist could not help a certain suicide patient, the therapist called Marisa Peer.
She would simply help the patient to know that they don’t think that they are enough. She would then have them repeat the simple truth to themselves several times a day, “I AM ENOUGH” until the patient truly believed it. Marisa became world renowned because her therapy was effective. Actors, athletes, business owners, and people of all walks of life would call her and still do.
Jesus taught this simple truth to his disciples and He speaks it to us... Go, do good works, faith as a mustard seed. What is Jesus saying to you? How about to the students and families you serve? I HAVE ALREADY MADE YOU TO BE ENOUGH. Now go and “do the same works that I have been doing, and even greater works…” - John 14:12.
You are enough! If you fall down, get back up, and keep moving forward! Say it Now: “I AM ENOUGH”!
CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
If I had known about these certain key word changes in the beginning of my ministry, many of the conflicts I experienced would have had a much different outcome!
Negotiate… seems like such a mean spirited word. Many people avoid it at any cost and for good reason. It used to mean that you could argue better than someone else or at least until you could wear them down enough to give you what you wanted. People who argue well are people many of us avoid, because they usually win. They leave those of us who do not like negotiating feeling like losers. We tend to see them as heartless thieves who steal our hopes and dreams.
What if I told you the word “Negotiate” has become word of kindness, that with a couple of changes in your vocabulary, would make people want to hear your needs and dreams? What if people actually started listening to your thoughts and desires? Then with a simple word change… make them want to give you the things you need and desire.
Instead of using the word “WHY” (which is a fighting word), use the word “HOW”!
This will allow others to think of you and want to hear you more clearly. Matthew 10:16 - Jesus instructs his disciples to be “..wise as serpents and as innocent as doves.” This episode is designed to give you the tools of wisdom and build you up to be a person that others want to help win in your ministry and life. The best form of negotiation is one that defuses mistrust and fear of lose.
So...HOW can I help you?
CREDITS:
Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Hosted by: Doug Edwards
Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
Edited by: Ryan James Edwards at Secret Roots Music House
Recorded by: Doug Edwards
Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
As long as I can remember there being a Mission Discovery (student missions organization), I remember Jimmy Rivera being there. He was at every missions trip I took my students on with Mission Discovery along with Mission Discovery founder, Maury Buchanan.
Jimmy is the guy you traveled with if you wanted to go to Tecate, Mexico. If you wanted to go to Kenya, Africa, you went with Jimmy. Among many other trips to other countries and through out the USA. He is dedicated his life to helping adolescents and students get a closer look at what it is to serve those less fortunate to themselves. He has sacrificed along with his family many luxuries in life to make sure people around the world have homes, food, medicine, and most importantly a relationship with God.
Jimmy is one of the kindest, toughest men I know! He definitely would not say this about himself, because he’s too humble and a true real servant along with his wife and children. He is Royalty in Heaven and believe me… Heaven knows his name.
Please listen and share this episode with every person you know whom works with students, their families, and who supports ministry. Jimmy continues to pay the price God requires and I am thrilled for you to hear his story on the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast!
Connect with Mission Discovery at: missiondiscovery.org
Credits:
- Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Student missions trips change students lives, their families lives, and will change your life forever! They give students a broader and better world view very quickly. They see the person of Jesus Christ’s teachings in action! It becomes real to them while building shelter for the poor, feeding them, clothing them, praying with them, and sharing the Love of God with them.
Student Missions can seem financially out of reach, but I will explain in this episode how you can make these life changing trips a reality for you with God’s help. Not easy… but easier than you might imagine!
In this episode, we discuss:
- The 1st missions trips our student ministry took. They were not perfect, but they set the foundation for the future of our student missions opportunities.
- Afraid to go? Seems to impossible to achieve? We will cover some of these fears and doubts.
Hold on and take notes if you want to take action! It’s never to early to start planning a student mission trip.
Connect with Mission Discovery at: missiondiscovery.org
Credits:
- Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Justin Cox is a brilliant musician, songwriter, and former youth student of mine. The band he is in, Fireflight, performed for student ministries in our area churches and later would become a worldwide name in the music industry.
He volunteered in our student ministry program, went on mission trips, and many of our other student retreats. All of this after he graduated from college. His story keeps going on but now, instead of Florida, he resides in the state of Michigan with his wife and 2 children… with another on the way! His parents were educators and his older brother is brilliant in his own right. Justin became a believer in Jesus Christ at a young age and was consistent in our student ministry.
He was so much fun and relatable with his peers that when it was announced that he was valedictorian of his high school, people were shocked! Students rushed to the school office demanding an explanation as to how that could possibly be, because surely this funny guy could not be as smart as them…but he was! Justin is a genius when it comes to his family, music, ministry, technology, and his love for Jesus Christ.
This interview will inspire you to go farther and longer to change the generations present and to come. Follow us, write us, and let us know if we are giving you what you need to run the race in ministry and personal spiritual growth!
To learn more about Justin's band Fireflight, visit: fireflightrock.com
Credits:
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Warning: This episode contains movie spoilers.
You might need to know this. If you do, it most probably will take you by surprise. When a student dies it’s unnatural… It’s unexpected… It’s unsettling… It shakes a community. It will shake you up as well, but you are who many will look to for comfort, answers, and strength.
- What do you say?
- What’s right to say?
- More importantly what are the wrong things to say?
#1 rule… Pray!
#2 rule… Just show up and keep showing up!
People seldom remember what we say unless we say something inappropriate. Mostly they remember who was there in difficult times for them. They remember if we were selfless, if we were kind, and if we LISTENED to them instead of talking over them. You don’t have the answers, but God does. Remember to ask for His wisdom as you face the unknown. Loving a family when they have lost their child and that child’s future and dreams is a place of honor… but it will not feel like it. It will be painful, scary, unnerving, and so much more.
When it’s about suffering and death, unexplainable sorrow, and pain… God says that He will be there to comfort you. (Romans 8:18, Proverbs 3:5,6)
Psalm 147:3 - He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Credits:
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Not what I expected! We should never be surprised at how God shows up and shows off but I still get surprised. Margot looked like any churched student and she hung out with those who were. But at one breakfast meeting I got more than I expected.
God doesn’t wait for us to be ready. He inserts Himself and His miracles at the right time and at the best we should expect a Holy Surprise at any moment in our life. There are students and adults like Margot all over the world and right in your presence wherever you are. They don’t have a sign on them that says “Hey, look at me!!! I have questions and I am ready to encounter God through Jesus Christ Right Now! Ask me anything about God because I know nothing, but I am desperate inside! Hey, over here…I don’t know what to ask or how to ask but I am RIGHT HERE!!! Please See Me!”
They aren’t wearing signs. They blend in and they look like they have it all together. Margot was a senior at the top of her class, but she was desperate for an encounter with God. She asked me after a Campus Life meeting, “Could we meet tomorrow? I have some questions.” Keep your eyes, ears and heart open! Be ready for the unexpected, because God is always moving on people’s hearts and minds. (John 3:16, Philippians 1:3)
Credits:
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: hypeddit.com/the808/thisisthe808)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Billy and Ashley are a boy and a girl that do not know each other. They are more than a decade apart in age, lived in 2 different cities, and from 2 separate ministries I was in charge of. They both had encounters with God in different ways, but the results were similar. The way they came to know Christ was more of an encounter with Jesus Christ and less about a conventional church experience.
Jesus was about leading people to himself as he was on his way somewhere. What do you mean, you may be asking…Well, like the woman at the well, her whole community came to know Christ because of his unconventional, unacceptable conversation about water at the well. 10 diseased men called out to him, he healed them all, and only one came back to say thank you. Jesus is an “on the way” God and teacher. The best encounters with God are “on the way”. Billy and Ashley experienced this “on the way” Jesus in our ministry and I experienced these God sightings “on the way” as well.
- My hope is that God will inspire you to see clearly His encounters in your life and ministry.
- You will hear about 2 lives that broke the rules, because they were more interested in knowing Jesus than doing things by tradition.
- These stories will remind you of times that God showed up and caught you off balance, so that you would start looking for the God who still performs miracles that we seldom see coming. He is the God of Holy Surprises. He loves to give good gifts and He loves surprise parties.
Put your party hat on. Here we go….
Credits:
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more at: the808music.com)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Chad stands 6 foot 3 inches and is built like a pro wrestler. When he walks in a room you know it! He is no nonsense and unconventional for a student ministry volunteer. He didn’t usually smile or just say hi to new students. He stood tall looked down at them and asked, “What’s your name?”… still no smile. The middle school boys would try to take him down every week without success. He was their discipleship leader, he was at their sporting events, their graduations from middle school and later on high school. Chad always showed up and the students he led knew it!
Normally I would get to know a person interested in volunteering for at least a year before inviting to them volunteer with our students, Chad was 4 months! He soon became a very big part of our middle school staff team and remained a long term volunteer staff member. He would consistently let me know by signaling from the back of the room that I had spoken to long, which was ok with me. I wanted to know and sometimes I would stop… sometimes. (ha ha ha)
We were blessed to witness his dating life to his now wife, Julie. They now have 3 children, the oldest in middle school. Julie was a public school high school teacher and in ministry before she met Chad. As of today, Chad is a supervisor for a large construction firm in the Greater Orlando Area.
There is a lot Chad says in this interview that will guide you:
- How to identify great volunteers.
- How to keep your volunteers in long term service.
- How to grow in your relationship with Christ.
- How to build life long friendships with your staff, students, and their families.
Credits:
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more here: the808music.com)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
To our listeners, you are the reason this podcast exists. We appreciate each person who listens and shares these episodes with others who need to know what they can do to love, coach, teach, disciple, encourage, lead, and volunteer to help teenagers grow in spirit and truth through Jesus Christ. Thank you for never giving up and always showing up when those in need of guidance are present. We hope you continue to find value and encouragement through this podcast.
It takes a TEAM to produce and distribute this podcast. My wife who pays the bills, my son Ryan who edits, creates visuals, and assists with distribution through Libsyn worldwide. Thanks to Michael Helms (Michael the Sound guy Podcast) for introducing me to podcasting and editing for my first 2 years. Mike Ligler and his high school class videoing the first 2 years of episodes.
In Memory of:
-
My Mom, Joe Ann Edwards: Thank you for always Listening, Encouraging and Caring.
-
Steve Troesch, 27 years of Student Ministry Associate Staff: Words can not express my gratitude. All the Trips, Events, Discipling, Missions, you always said yes.
-
Dennis Helms, Youth for Christ Accountant, My Friend, and a personal Hero to me: When others didn't get it you still were a warrior for me at the church and within the community.
-
Dottie Freeman, Associate Staff: Made sure that over a thousand students and staff had the money to travel all over the world. Hotels, camps, planes, sleeper buses, sometimes even your personal motorhome and automobiles. You were my friend, negotiator, notary and warrior.
Credits:
- Hosted by: Doug Edwards
- Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 (Listen to more here: the808music.com)
- Edited by: Ryan James Edwards
- Recorded by: Doug Edwards
- Graphics by: Ryan James Edwards
Top Pilot, “Vader One” Captain Chuck Mingonet considers himself a small town Florida boy, but if you know this Florida boy he is all Man. He entered into pilot training in 1984 with the United States Navy and was the distinguished graduate for his class. He received his Navy wings in 1985 and began a 25-year career with the navy, which included Commander of a combat carrier squadron 2004-2005, Electron Warfare Office for Central Command Head Quarters 2005-2006, Congressional Navy Liaison for Naval Warfare Director 2006, Commander of a Naval Air Station 2007-2010. His awards include Air Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.
Chuck married the love of his life, Sandy. After a semester in Seminary, he and Sandy moved back to Eustis, Florida to take care of his dad after his dad’s heart surgery. He helped his mom with the family business while becoming a youth pastor for 4 years at a local church.
After retiring, he is a father to his 2 children. He and Sandy are grandparents to 12 grandchildren. Chuck has discipled and mentored students through JROTC, has been involved in student ministry at 23 churches in the 23 separate locations the Navy stationed him. He mentors and disciples his grandchildren while helping his young grandson through a life threatening illness.
Commander and Captain Chuck Mingonet talks about mentoring young adults and teenagers in there Christian growth and helping many others through the foster care program. He shares his mentoring tips that have worked for him and may work for you. Captain Mingonet was involved with YWAM (Youth With a Mission) and the many other organizations.
This Commander has done it all in one life time. This is just the tip of the peak of his passions, calling, and accomplishments. Enjoy this episode, as it’s a roller coaster and high speed G Force ride with a great man who has a “NEED FOR SPEED” of the jet and life variety!
Ryan is my first born of 3 children, married to his wife Brittney of 10 years, and lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, music producer specializing in the TV/Film industry, multi-business owner, and avid adventurer.
His entire life from birth through his high school years were lived within the environment of a youth pastor’s home. Our family was based at one church for 29 years (which is very unusual). We chat about the good, the bad and the ugly of that lifestyle. We also dive into the opportunities that came along with remaining in the same community all of those years.
We navigate through some of his most memorable travel stories within the music industry, missions, and personal adventurers. Ryan toured musically both nationally and internationally throughout the USA, South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Canada. He also has personally traveled throughout many regions of Europe. Including, leaving Spain the day the World was officially being shut down due to the pandemic.
Where does God fit on this big canvas of life he is in? How can his story help you raise your children, while living under a microscope for all the world to see?
You can listen to some of Ryan's music and connect with him here:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PG4V7q
Apple Music: https://apple.co/3LEMaOy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanjedwards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryanjamesedwards
"Love makes the World go round!" is a saying I heard growing up. At least in Lisa and Chase's case it does make their world go round along with their now teenage girl. God's Love for us created a world and a Universe whether it, "technically", made the world go round or not, Love has certainly been a main theme through out the Bible. Love was why God sent His only Son to earth to live a humble but powerful life. Love is why God let him die for your sins and mine. But, Love, is why he created us to Love him but also saw that Mankind needed a Love relationship. Adam and Eve was God's idea. He intended for us to fall in Love. And Lisa and Chase fell in Love. Here is their story.
This Part 2 of my interview with Jim and Pat is very short and to the point. If you want to be in the right place, make God decisions and stay where God puts you then 1. Pray 2. Pray 3. Pray. If you need to change that habit that has followed you all of your life, then get a personal coach or trainer. the most successful people in the world use personal coaches to navigate what they cannot see. The Ferguson's will explain what all of this means in this 9 minute final words of their interview.
Jim and Pat met in South Florida. She was a cheerleader, he was a football player. Sounds like an all American love story and it was. But there were a lot of twists and turns through out the years. They would later be some of my wife's volunteer youth workers all before I met her in Lake County Florida, the back door to Disney World. Their 2 children Matt and Kim would be a part of our student ministry almost 10 years later. Jim and Pat would become a force in foreign missions taking people from the USA, our student ministry included. Their children and grand children would be a major part of Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC and Franklin Graham/s Ministry Samaritans Purse in Boone, NC as time keeps moving forward. Here is a normal American family that has done some Extraordinary works for the Kingdom of God because they would keep saying yes to God and their family learned to follow in their parents and grandparents footsteps. This is NOT a sweet little story. this story was born out of pain, failures, blood sweat and tears and a whole lot of prayer. These are some of the toughest people you will ever meet and unless you asked them, like I did, you would never know the courages acts of service their family has performed and they still give God the credit above all else and the Miracle of just showing up.
Jim and Pat met in South Florida. She was a cheerleader, he was a football player. Sounds like an all American love story and it was. But there were a lot of twists and turns through out the years. They would later be some of my wife's volunteer youth workers all before I met her in Lake County Florida, the back door to Disney World. Their 2 children Matt and Kim would be a part of our student ministry almost 10 years later. Jim and Pat would become a force in foreign missions taking people from the USA, our student ministry included. Their children and grand children would be a major part of Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC and Franklin Graham/s Ministry Samaritans Purse in Boone, NC as time keeps moving forward. Here is a normal American family that has done some Extraordinary works for the Kingdom of God because they would keep saying yes to God and their family learned to follow in their parents and grandparents footsteps. This is NOT a sweet little story. this story was born out of pain, failures, blood sweat and tears and a whole lot of prayer. These are some of the toughest people you will ever meet and unless you asked them, like I did, you would never know the courages acts of service their family has performed and they still give God the credit above all else and the Miracle of just showing up.
This Part 2 about Chase McAllister Retired United States Air Force but NOW working full time as a Campus Life Director from the same military base he spent his last years at as a soldier. This is a closer look at how he followed God's calling on him to ministry. How can his story help you? How can Youth Worker On Fire help you?
Included are several ways you can get in touch with Chase in Honolulu, Hawaii. Also included is how you can support him and his family as they reach children of military families.
There is more to Chases story. Do you want to hear more? It takes time, effort and money to do these interviews and edit them in a quick and timely manner. Wanna' Help us help you and others, like you, around the world? Then pray for God to fund us in a way that only He can do through others who are gifted and talented.
Pray that God will send the resources to continue this work. youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
I would love to hear from you. Your thoughts and feed back about each episode is important.
This Part 2 about Chase McAllister RetiredUnited States Air Force but now working full time as a Campus Life Director from the same military base he spent his last years as a soldier. This is a closer look at how he followed God's calling on him to ministry. How can his story help you? How can Youth Worker On Fire help you?
Included are several ways you can get in touch with Chase in Honolulu, Hawaii. Also included is how you can support him and his family reach children of military families.
There is more to Chases story. Do you want to hear more? It takes time, effort and money to do these interviews and edit them in a quick and timely manner. Wanna' Help us help you and others like you around the world? Then pray for God to fund us in a way that only He can do through others who are gifted and talented.
Pray that God will send the money and resources to continue this work. youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
I would love to hear from you.
Chase is 20 years retired military with the US Air Force. 2 years of his military career he was working with Campus Life on base. Now he is a full time Campus Life Director for the Military Base ministry.
@chazzymacirl on Instagram and @yfcclmilitaryhi will lead you to YFC Campus Life-Military Hawaii on Facebook. You can communicate with Chase and support his ministry that reaches countless teenagers and their families in the military. Chase’s bio in this episode speaks for itself. You will learn about his childhood, teen age years, and how they almost burned down his hometown with his youth pastor. But not to worry, his mom was ready with a garden hose to save the day, just in case.
In this episode, Chase explains how he was led to the Campus Life Youth for Christ Military ministry. He discusses his worst moment in ministry, which was a combo of multiple dramas and events that took place in a single week. Chase also discusses his best time in student ministry. The Replace and Not Cancel philosophy is part of our conversation and how it helped continue ministry through the pandemic.
You can view the entire interview on the Youth Worker On Fire YouTube Channel or part 1 of the Replace and not cancel discussion here on this episode.
Keep any eye out in the near future for additional parts of this interview on our podcast. We will dive into Chase and Lisa’s love story and the effects of ministry in marriage.
Call or write in to tell me what you think of this episode! Your thoughts and comments matter. It’s important that my team and I hear from you.
Email: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com
Instagram: @youthworkeronfire
Hurricanes, murder, betrayal, and acceptance. It’s all in this interview! Pepe's story will inspire you to keep moving forward even in the worst of moments.
Pepe Mesa was born in Cuba then family left and moved to Miami. He became a Campus Life Director in Miami Youth For Christ under great leadership Jim Green and later Andy McDaniel. Pepe was my room mate in intern School at Wheaton College in Illinois. We served separately in Campus Life. Pepe in Miami and me in Orlando.
B.U.R.N. UP! BELIEVE UNDERSTAND RECONCILE NURTURE! When others burn out and quit, you can keep running. That’s what my book is about. How to never give up until you have finished running, walking or climbing... maybe even crawling the race that God has designed for You and Only You to do according to Ephesians 2:10. Order this book on Amazon or Kindle today if you are working with teenagers or have a teenager in your life or have been a teenager. Its a must have for raising or understanding teenagers and those who work with them or who are them.
The Imposter Syndrome plagues many people through out the world and through out time and history. These answers will help people get beyond their fears of being found out when in reality they are even more than they think they are in their area of expertise and experience. Others have made it through to success by doing some of these action points listed in this episode. I did not know for many years what I had been fighting all my life until someone put a label on it, The Imposter Syndrome. Now we know. Now we have no reason to hold back knowing that our feelings of this syndrome are a lie. Is facing it daily still difficult? Yes!!! But now you and I can face the once unknown enemy. Its time to succeed and be who you were meant to be. Lets get to it! Ephesians 2:10; Ephesians 3:20.
Just when you feel you are in a good position, good job, or anything that you have prepared well for in life... it hit's you. I don't belong here! How about when you are in a place where you're getting paid well or acknowledged, but you feel like you're an imposter and someone is going to find out you are not all they think you are. That's the imposter syndrome!
Isolation? Now? This problem is WORLD WIDE...this is Crazy! So...What's happening in your world and mine? What Comfort is there for us? What does God have to say about this through the ancient writings of the Old Testament and New Testament authors? That's what I will talk about here. Peace, Hope, Love. "Be Strong and Courageous..."
Rachel unknowingly launched a life long non-profit business (GlamourGals)as a junior in high school. She is an NYC resident, a mom of 2 young children, and wife. She and her husband navigate life in the city together. She has almost 1,500 volunteers in 18 states. This our 2nd interview, but we are releasing this one 1st.
Is it possible that you might see the Super Hero in her that I see? Find out and maybe let her know as well! GlamourGals SUPER G.R.D. with D.E.
Lenita Is from Sydney, Australia and founder of Youth Biz. As a Former school teacher, she became a youth minister, a personal coach to students, parents and other youth leaders. She’s a kick boxer, author, and has a world wide coaching and speaking business. She projects and teaches key ideas to build up students which you can watch on Instagram, Facebook and other social media groups.
Secrets are intriguing and draw us in. Especially when someone says to us quietly, "Do you want to hear a secret?"
The more time we spend alone with God, the more intimate our relationship with Him becomes. When we spend time with God, He knows He can trust us with His secrets and mysteries. If anyone needs to hear God’s secrets to life, it is youth pastors, youth workers and volunteers.
Jesus revealed these secrets and mysteries to his closest disciples, because He knew they would use these revelations to further the kingdom. God trusted Joseph and Daniel to interpret mysteries within dreams, because of their relationship with Him. He had a plan for
their lives and He has a specific plan for yours.
Wanna hear a secret? Listen to this episode.
Adventure is a byproduct of student ministry and in this interview with Chase Allen there’s no exception to that rule. From student ministry intern to veteran Youth pastor, Chase and his wife Taylor mean business. They’ve been in a cage facing sharks and praying down the tsunami in the Pacific ocean. This life is a unique adventure because God wants us to have more than we could imagine or ask for. Ephesians 3:20
Prayer is a conversation between you, or me, and God. This is my journey with my family and friends over the last 3 years to present. Seems like you are praying but some people are getting "Yes" answers to their prayers while your prayers seem to be getting no response. How are people getting yes answers? Mark Batterson pastor in Washington, DC who wrote the book Draw The Circle ( The 40 Day Prayer Challenge ) says his batting average in prayer is no better than yours. He just asks for more, more often. A.S.K. = "Ask...Seek...Knock..." Those are Jesus Christ's words not mine. These are my personal encounters. If you choose to listen I pray it will bring the answer you are looking for.
Looking at life events that brought me to a career in student ministry. How I ended up in student ministry. Looking at life events that brought me to a career in student ministry. The best things sometimes come in from your blind side. That’s what happened to me. I had a music career finally taking off and life changed.
I moved to Orlando, FL. after being hired by Youth For Christ to
help develop Campus Life programs in Central Florida. YFC has to train me over the next few years and rehear the way I think about many things in ministry and a career ministry as born.
Darla Huddleston has had many titles but only 1 purpose educate adolescence and parents about abstinence. While many voices say its not possible for adolescence Darla's organizations and volunteers have seen teen pregnancy statistics drop continually in the counties that her team educates. Preventative verses post active. Its better to stop problems before they start than figure out solutions after the fact. Preventative saves a lot of heartache, pain, embarrassment and money. How does one person make a difference? Heres how.
This was recorded at Podfest 2018 where Kenn and I met for the first time. He was a Marine who guarded President Ronald Reagan, was later nearly abducted by terrorists in Brazil while a marine in the USAmerican Embassy. He became a C.I.A. agent then was married after a very unusual love story and courtship. Father of, now, 2 grown children whose dad became an assistant pastor and then a pastor to his online congregation through his Speak Life podcast show. This is a great story which will inspire you to treat every adolescent with respect because someday they may be working in the White House or with the C.I.A. You plant the seeds and watch young students become powerful mighty people off God in a Big World and making a difference for Jesus Christ and His Church. They just might grew a family of honor and service. Either way its a Great story of inspiring people for youth pastors and youth workers, volunteers to grow with and share with their youth groups and student ministry leadership groups.
While coming out of a media class room where I produce this podcast and video at a public school, I hear this voice, "Doug Edwards is that you?" I replied yes to turn around and See Breah Croak who is now married and is Breah Hooper. We reminisced and she graciously accepted to come to class the next day at her free period, she is a teacher, to record this episode. Breah has 2 adolescent children now and has taught at the school for 2 years and I had never seen her until that day. Breah's story is a great example of why longevity in a community in student ministry makes a major impact. Breah has always had a kindness about her but she has a spirit of adventure and a drivenness to make a difference in this world. You won't believe what this high schooler did in high school to change the parts of the world she could change to make the world a better place at the sacrifice of her own comfort and safety while she was in high school. To this day she and her family are making a difference. This episode will tell the detailed story of how 1 student matters to what the world becomes.
He played football for the University Florida Gators for a year then played for Bobby Bowden with the FSU Seminoles for his remaining college under grad years. He has worked with telemedicine and been an investment banker. He to this day works out like a body builder and yet he still had a fight with cancer but he's back working out again. He serves God through working with a non-profit christian foundation. In all these things He gives credit for his success to his Lord, Jesus Christ and secondly to his family who have been his biggest cheerleaders his entire life. Find out how his worst and best times in life can encourage you to keep moving forward no matter your adversity.
Jessica Hurley is from St. Augustine, Florida. She had a very bad mentor to make her loose and a Great Mentor that turned her life around radically, but it wasn't easy. It took a lot of time and years to keep Jessica believing she was worth more than she could ever believe.
She had been arrested multiple times as a teen because of the influence of a cousin. She now has her Masters Degree and helped run AMIKids in Tampa, Florida. She is a podcaster and podcast developer for others. She was designed by family never to go to college. Her mentor stuck by her for more than 4 years and made college a reality for Jessica.
To Youth Pastors. We talk about her encounter with the church. Jessica, a non-churched teen that felt like an alien and an outcast when she went to church with friends. It took Young Life and direct encounters from God to help her, because the church often gets in its own way when it comes to the unchurched. This episode is an incredible guide and gift on how to actually help those who have no clue but want to hear and receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior if they had to someone would guide them with empathy and no judgement.
I met Clean Ears Podcast Co-Hosts Simone Brown and Seretha Collins at Podfest 2018 Orlando, Florida along with their Program Director Courtney Pledger. They were gracious enough to give me an hour of their busy schedule at this incredible conference to tell me their story. one of them was born and still lives in Atlanta. One grew up in California with a few years in OKC, Oklahoma on her way to a life in Atlanta. One of them grew up in Jamaica before her move to Atlanta and was in a music carrier before developing together the Clean Ears Podcast in Atlanta. They call themselves The Collective. Their Editor who I have not personally met is Darryl and their Co-Editor is LeighAnn.
In this episode we talk about the affects of their adolescence on their future, their spiritual growth, student ministry, music ministry, why they do what they do, how they find all of these known and unknown Christian Hip Hop and Rap Artist, such as Lecrae. We have a lot of fun. we laugh a lot and we talk about food. Yes food. Jesus did a lot of meeting around food and did some miracles with food as well so we thought it was appropriate. Atlanta not only has Southern Cooking but they have food from all over the world and the best locations to get a taste of it in a few close locations to each other. I hope you check out Clean Ears The Collective and enjoy it as much as I did. They are great people. Youth Pastor, if you are looking for knowledge of Atlanta and need a well informed Christian connection then give this crew a call or email them, connection through social media. Enjoy this episode.
Maury Buchanan, Founder of Mission Discovery, speaks to youth pastors about how student missions helps build their students spiritual growth. You will hear about one student mission trip that was a surprise encounter for a student artist engaging with a local community.
Maury grew up the son of a war hero who was a POW. He tells about how God lead Him to salvation in college and about how long it took to start and continue healing from the emotional pain of family conflict in his life. You will then hear how his wife, Ann, led his father to a relationship with Christ Jesus. I asked him if he had had any angel experiences and he had. He shares that experience in this episode. He tells about the life journey that led him to start Mission Discovery and the mentors that taught him how to build a short term student mission nonprofit. Maury took his 1st sabbatical 2 years ago because his board members told him to. We look at the effect of long term rest and his hike through Spain with a little help from his friends, that he did not invite on this trip. The hike began in snow and was more than a 100 miles of a 500 mile trail which carried the body of James the apostle, Jesus' brother for his burial. This was a Pilgrimage. Wow! And there is more. That is just a very small glimpse into this value packed episode.
Sam Collier was on the Steve Harvey Show because his twin sister asked Steve to help find their biological mother. Now a speaking pastor at North Point Church where Andy Stanley is the lead pastor in Atlanta, Ga. Sam's new book is called Find Your Voice. It is a book written for teens and young adults about influence and leadership. But there is MORE as Doug Edwards asks questions that allows Sam to talk about how "His Story and God's Story together Create a Greater Story."
Darryl Perry, spent 24 days in heaven. Sudden death syndrome. No rhyme or reason as to why. He died four times and was revived. His wife and children wanted him back on earth and so did God. After 24 days in a coma, against doctors beliefs, he is back and he even rides a bicycle but he's also on a mission. He's a former University of Florida Gator football fullback who blocked for his best friend Emmett Smith. Today both of their sons play football for the Florida Gators. Kevin Laczko is a former Florida Gator football player who is also a friend of mine and a friend of Darryl's. Listen as he helps Darryl tell his story as his physical trainer at Kevin's gym, Journey Fitness in Longwood, Florida. I am thankful and amazed at the story and excited to share it with you. Check out Darryl's website at DarrylTheMiracleManPerry.org
Nicole Keene Dean is a woman of great surprises. She came with a friend to the student ministry where I was pastor. And after about a year I get a phone call and Nicole says excitedly, "I got it! I got it!" To which I said, "Got what?" Listen and find out. Valedictorian, Honors Graduate University of Florida. Surprise, Nicole became a 2 time missionary to Amsterdam. She became a volunteer in our ministry. And the story goes MUCH Bigger! You are going to LOVE this interview! It's PACKED with VALUE FOR YOUTH PASTORS and amazing to everyone else. Listen NOW!!!
Finding volunteers to help out with your youth program can be a challenge. Often you inherit existing volunteers when you start working with a new organization. Sometimes that's a good thing and sometimes it's not. But the important aspect of using volunteers to their full potential is to make sure they're in the right place. If they don't want to work with a certain age group then find another area for them to utilize their skills where they'll be happier. Listen now as Doug Edwards shares his experience finding the right volunteers.
This Episode is Saturated with Value for you:
Josh Douglas is a youth pastor in Mount Dora, Florida. He is a pastor's son, passionate about leading students and families to Jesus. He learned as a teenager how to live in a house with his 4 brothers, pay for his own vehicle and learn compassion for families who had lost children and other loved ones while working for Harden-Pauli Funeral home, all before he graduated high school. When he met the love of his life, she was foreign mission bound and wanted nothing to do with him. Josh was persistent, won her heart and married her and now they are on a mission to lead and disciple students and families. This episode is longer because Josh is so good at communicating. You will be left wanting more. My editor Michael Helms could barely find anything to take out it was so good. Enjoy the ride!
Let's be honest, fundraising is a challenge. Bake sales, car washes and spaghetti dinners are ok but golf tournaments are much more effective. You can raise enough funds for the entire year with one well planned golf tournament. Golfers love to play and don't mind paying, especially when it's for a good cause. When done in the off-season, you can get good discounts on green's fees when the courses are slower. Listen now as Doug Edwards shares his tips on doing golf tournament fundraisers.
Are you being intentional? By planning ahead and setting short and long term goals for what you want to happen in your daily life, career and ministry, you're able to stay focused and stay on track. Your staff and students need to know what is expected of them in advance, for example, before leaving on a trip. It's your job to give them that information. Parents want to know, in advance, the itinerary of the students while they're away. This gives them confidence and security that their kids will be cared for while they're gone. Planning ahead and letting everyone know what to expect is always better than just "winging it." Be intentional in all you do!
Listen as Doug shares his insight on taking students on winter ski retreats and summer mission trips. Structured youth camps and conferences are fun but consider planning winter ski retreats and summer mission trips where you get to be outside and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation as you serve. Safety is key so don’t go it alone. Always use an organization that knows the area you’re going to and student safety is a priority. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for the students to bring their friends that normally wouldn’t go with them. This episode is packed with great information so check it out.
Check out these links of trusted mission and travel organizations:
http://www.missiondiscovery.org
http://www.worldservants.org
https://www.highpointtravel.com
Mark Moore spent 10 years as a missionary in Uganda, Africa where he saw children die of SAM's (Severe Acute Malnutrition). He later returned to the USA with his family and worked in the United States Senate where he served as Legislative Fellow and Africa Specialist in the United States Senate for Senator Mary Landrieu. While at Ebenezer's Coffee House in Washington, DC, he prayed, then soon attended a meeting about R.U.T.F. Ready to Use Therapeutic Food which can cure SAM's. Mark's nonprofit, MANA Nutrition, was born to distribute R.U.T.F. Here is...the rest of the story! http://mananutrition.org/
This week Doug talks about being a dad when everyone wants your time. It can be difficult to divide your time between work and your family. Coaches deal with this especially during football, baseball or basketball season. Wives of coaches are often referred to as coach widows because they don't see their spouses much during the week due to practice and games. We need to make time to be with our spouses and children. Doug also talks about the perks when your kids get to be a part of what their dad is doing by being on the sidelines and also going on group trips. Listen to these valuable life lessons.
Sean Algaier was a foster child with a lot of pain. He was on the Biggest Loser TV show while being a youth pastor with his wife near Tulsa, OK. He worked as a tour manager in Nashville for Toby Mac, Rachael Lampa and several other artists. He has himself performed with a band in South Africa on a goodwill mission. He now is a minister of music at Providence Road Church of Christ in Charlotte, NC. My son Ryan is his sound and media guy for the church. This story will add great value to your ministry and life. He adds practical ways to make an impact and helpful change in your community.
In this segment, youth pastors will learn tips on how to choose churches. Although you're being interviewed for the youth pastor position, you need to have a list of questions to ask, also. Churches also need to learn how to choose a youth pastor that's right for them and not just fill a vacant position. *Another key tip is to separate the middle school students, high school students and college students into their own groups and have them meet at different times during the week. This can cause frustration with many families but each group is at a different developmental stage in life and you will be able to better minister to each group and give them your full attention. Hear this one out. This episode is simple but powerful! So here we go!
Irma was the biggest hurricane in Florida, 400 miles across. It brought back a memory of our student ministry taking 55 people to volunteer after Hurricane Andrew, 7 days later. A student, Jason Mages, decided we had to do something. He said the right things to the right people and the next thing I knew, we had a caravan of motorhomes, vans and trucks heading south from Eustis, Florida for a 2 night and 3 day work adventure in a place that looked like a bomb went off and had wiped out Homestead, Florida. Now we relive that experience but on a state wide scale. No where in the state of Florida or the Caribbean Islands escaped Irma's wrath. Today I just heard that a Catholic Nun in Miami is attacking Irma's aftermath with her own chainsaw, helping citizens remove trees from their property. With friends in the destruction of Harvey and Irma just days apart, there are plenty of places for us to lead our people to physically show that we are people of The Way, The Jesus Way, that helps the hurting. Get going Youth Worker Nation! Be the Force that God uses to change your world!
DJ Verkaik at the age of 19 sold his truck and a lot of other things to get his 1st pro video camera! He later bought a $50k 1st of its kind digital computer video editing system and became famous. But he started by volunteering with me as an 8th grader producing mammoth video shows for pep rallies, church and massive events all through his high school career. He and his buddy, Matt Johnson, worked harder than most people being paid. All I tried to do was show him how to have a relationship with God and he caught a vision for going far beyond where I could take him. He has a wonderful amazing wife and 4 great children getting ready to make their own marks in this world. What adventures we had! What a life of greatness he has! This is his story. Listen and learn why students are ready for far more than you expect!
Coach/Teacher/FCA Huddle Coach/Wife/Mom was NOT a great softball player but her dad worked with her everyday even when friends went to the beach, she cried, but she practiced. And she went D1 to Auburn University as a softball player and became the 1st female athlete to go to FCA with the football team, and then she brought her team as well to start an Auburn Legacy. She is still building Legacies! What a powerful person in the public school system. Listen to Coach Brittany Beall's story now!
He has always been a champion, raised by champion parents! Being forgiven was his only way back! He had hurt his wife, himself and his relationship with God. Now he is Fellowship of Christian Athletes Director in his home county. How in heaven's name did he get to do that when his failure was so painful. Matt Matulia is a bigger Champion now than ever before. But, how? Find out in this episode!
How can a person get arrested for drugs while in college, go to a rehab facility and later become a youth pastor for one of the largest churches in the Orlando, Florida area? And who is this person? Well his name is Matt Williamson. Listen to how this story unfolds. Further more, how does he score an amazing wife and start a great family with 2 little boys? You will hear the answers to all of those questions and more in this episode of Youth Worker On Fire.
Coach Jack Cole is a self employed missionary to Jamaica where he and his wife adopted a daughter, raised their own children, and was called by a principal in a public high school, "a man of great integrity and influence." He is what every coach, youth pastor and teacher should be. He puts Faith 1st, Family 2nd and others 3rd while making all feel and believe they are blessed to be with him. Coach Jack Cole is the mentor we all should be to those around us because we do the NEXT Right Thing.
Mike, who? MichaelTheSoundGuy.com on his website! Michael Helms, was a junior in high school when we met. He was a regular student, but brilliant, laughed and joked a lot. His dad was an international accountant and decided Michael, "Mike", needed to travel so he sent him to his company in Brazil where Mike met the love of his life, but he didn't know it yet. But, this young Brazilian lady, Silvana, knew he was the love of her life at 1st sight. Mike, makes Youth Worker On Fire sound AMAZING! He is a pro and brilliant! He and his family have sacrificed much for me, my family, this podcast and multiple ministries that I had developed over many years to reach students and families for Jesus Christ. Michael's oldest daughter Isabella, was even in the middle school ministry my last 2 years of my 29 years at Trinity Evangelical Free Church. Since Mike was in high school he has shown up every time God started a new wave of ministries through my family. I am forever grateful to you Michael for showing a servant's heart even when it came at a high price. Thank you Silvana, Isabella and Gabriella for loaning him to me to change our world with a piece of, "on earth as it is in heaven." I LOVE your story in this podcast of international love, pain, joy, brilliance, fearlessness and sacrifice. I am glad untold numbers of people will have a little glimpse into the man of God you are and all you have accomplished with your family. It's about time!
Three children, John, Michael and Rebecca, in that order. Yet, for 24 years they have been working with Michael to control his seizures which are located all over his brain. Jim has been a 20+ year student ministry volunteer, community volunteer and church board member. He and his wife Marilyn own a major screen printing business and have traveled to different parts of the globe trying to find a cure for Michael's condition. Sleepless nights in hospitals, educating John and Rebecca through college and trying to make life normal for them...but it's not! Life is not normal as we see normal. To them, all of the above is "Their" normal. Jim and Marilyn are the Ultimate Warriors for Family, Faith, Friends and Business. Why, What, How can you possible SERVE OTHERS when your needs are so great? Listen closely to the pain and the joy and the hurt and the laughter of a man who serves...
In 8th grade she joined us on a mission trip to the Appalachia poverty mission. She has been a world changer ever since. Alex went on 4 Colorado trips with our student ministry, she was FCA student leader at her high school for 4 years because she initiated it. Pat Williams, Manager of the Orlando Magic NBA Team, spoke to the 2013 senior class because she decided it needed to happen. She is a student at the University of Florida. She is a Biology/Medical Geography major, she in her college career studied in New Zealand, Went to a mission trip in Croatia; then Hiked through Europe and Russia with her best friend! "SUPER GIRL"! If you stay in student ministry long enough God will allow you to minister to students that are unbelievable.
My Travel Agent to date is Don Holme's in Texas! I have taken 18 plus years of Colorado trips booked and arranged by Don! When you travel with students and volunteers you want the guy who thinks ahead of you and cares about you and your people. That's why Don is one of my Consistent Heros. He has been working with High Point Travel in Dallas, Texas for 30 years. In Don's words, "And they said it wouldn't last." He was being funny. HaHaHa! 13 year's in Youth Ministry Married for 30 years, 2 daughters and both are in college. He also has a website that He covers the local high school sport's teams. He is immersed in his community and he is a World Vision thinker. Youth Worker Nation, Don is the real deal because everyone my team and I bring you on this podcast is and will be the REAL DEAL!
Blake Appleby was saved as a teenager and has been reaching and teaching young people as a pastor and evangelist to students for 9 years. He has a beautiful wife named Meredith and two boys, Micah and Wade. He is the Student Pastor at First Baptist Church of Umatilla, Florida. He enjoys sports, bass fishing, playing the drums, reading, and a good cup of coffee.
Anthony Sabatini was a sophomore in high school when his principal sat him down and said to him calmly, “You have some potential and you’re going to be one of two things, either you’re going to end up in the United States Senate or you’re going to end up in prison. And you have to make that choice.” Anthony recalls, "No one had ever talked to me that way before." It could have gone either way.
But Anthony was a leader and it was evident to all. He became Student Body President and is a proud member of the Eustis High School Class of 2007. Anthony went on to graduate magna cum laude from the University of Florida in 2012, with a double major in History and Philosophy and commissioned as an infantry officer into the Florida Army National Guard. A member of the National Guard since 2008, he currently serves as Executive Officer of an Infantry Company in Ocala, FL. Anthony is now attending the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law, where he is in his final year.
Listen as Anthony tells us about some of those key moments that influenced his life in a major way.
Bryan Totten is currently teaching AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. This program helps prepare students who are in the academic middle for four-year college eligibility. These are students who are capable of completing a college-prep curriculum but may be falling short of their potential.
Bryan has been in public education for 7 years and has taught both middle and high school. He is a graduate of the University of Central Florida and Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary and is married to his wife Savannah. He's a member and Deacon at Lifepointe Church in Eustis, FL. Bryan is also a beard enthusiast.
What if your daughter tells you she was ______ 2 years earlier. What if you found out she was a cutter and later on drugs? What if soon after that she turns 18 and moves out and you wonder night after night if she is alive or dead? Tom and Dena Yohe have lived that life and still live on the tentative list. In Dena's book to parents, You Are Not Alone, she takes you through how their family felt alone and through much time found answers that you will not have to look for because they found the answers for you. This podcast episode 050 is an amazing story. Listen now and get answers!!! *Dena Yohe is author of the book, "You Are Not Alone: Hope for Hurting Parents of Troubled Kids."
http://www.HopeForHurtingParents.comRenee Yohe's friends started the non-profit, To Write Love On Her Arms - https://twloha.com
Ryan Schmitz was a rebellious teenager with a tough home life. With no boundaries, he dropped out of high school and got into a lot of trouble. Doug Edwards talks to Ryan about the positive adults who influenced his life and how his life was transformed through the grace of Jesus Christ.
A drug and alcohol addiction recovery program, Teen Challenge is the focus of this week's episode. Doug interviews Joe Batlock, who works for Teen Challenge, a drug and alcohol addiction recovery program. Teen Challenge USA works on a holistic model of drug and alcohol recovery. This means they are concerned with the body, mind, and spirit of those who come to their addiction recovery centers. They endeavor to help people become mentally sound, emotionally balanced, socially adjusted, physically well, and spiritually alive. For more information or help call 1-855-END ADDICTION or visit TeenChallengeUSA.com.
Carey Baker is a man among men. He and his wife Lori have 3 children and the oldest is 14 years old. That makes him qualified to talk to youth workers among many other things. He comes from a history of soldiers. In this episode, he speaks of 3 of our recent fallen young soldiers in the Middle East and Afganistan. His dad served in WWII and Carey joined the National Guard at age 18 and served for 32 years. In later years, he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives as well as serving a tour of duty in Iraq during the war. Later he went on to the Florida Senate and now serves as County Appraiser in Lake County, Florida. Listen to the great integrity and faith of this man, Youth Worker Nation.
I met Julie at the NRB, National Religious Brodcasters Convention. Great person and author. Fun interview.
Tim Latiff - Washington DC, was a young man I met while working at the NRB, which is the International Broadcasters Convention, in Orlando, Florida.
•Tim grew up in Maryland,
•His parents are pastors and Tim followed suit as a youth pastor at New Life Worship Center in Capital Heights, Maryland.
•Tim also works at the Center for Urban Renewal and Education where he oversees a clergy outreach program.
•There he addresses issues of culture, race and poverty in the urban communities, encouraging and educating pastors to be equipped to lead students and families concerning these issues.
•Tim believes that you should build relationships first with young people by taking time to show up at THEIR sports events, THEIR drama productions, to allow students and families to see their face in the crowd. Students are more open and receptive when YOU invest YOUR personal time into things that THEY care about and are involved in because it's important to them.
•Students and Families are real people, with real lives, needing real people, to genuinely care about THEIR world.
•WELCOME Pastor Tim Latiff Youth Worker Nation!!!!•
Urban Cure
Casey K. Shannon is a friend of Rick Eldridge from Youth Worker On Fire - Episode 043. While Casey, a Charlotte grown, North Carolinian was managing a hotel in Scotland, Rick and his film crew stayed at that hotel while filming part of The Bobby Jones Story movie. Rick and Casey, having the Charlotte area in common, met and have remained friends for many years. Casey was influenced by people in his adolescence like the rest of us. Like some, Casey's biological father walked away from the family and it was many years before Casey reunited with him to find a changed man and a wealth of knowledge. I had the privilege of working on a project with Casey at the NRB convention for broadcasters via our mutual friend Rick. Casey is now promoting a book tour for Pastor David and Marilynn Chadwick who have been pastors at their church plant for 30 years and a congregation of over 7,000. David played basketball for UNC-Chapel Hill under Coach Dean Smith of which he wrote a book about. Casey is a large part of making this happen. Meet Casey, a young teen who has grown into a "world changer" man. Listen up Youth Worker Nation!
Connect with casey at Moments Of Hope
Contact Doug Edwards at Youth Worker On Fire
Rick Eldridge has over thirty years in the entertainment business as a musician, producer, director, and entrepreneur, and he knows how to make projects happen. Whether sports programming, live production, animated series, or feature films, Rick has been involved in every facet of creative development and production management in the entertainment industry. Rick talks with Doug about his early days and those that influenced his life growing up. He shares the importance of networking and learning all the aspects of the production industry so you can better communicate, no matter what your role. Rick's company can be found at ReelWorks.net and the school Rick is involved with is Compass College of Cinematic Arts.
Tim Hancock was a youth worker for 3 counties in the Orlando, FL area for more than 25 years in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. To raise funds to get students to camp, Tim ran 55 miles from Winter Park, Florida to New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Who does that? An Ironman! Thats my nickname for Tim "Ironman" Hancock who finished the Hawaii Ironman at one point in his life. He has raised a family, iron-willed, resolute young men, Luke and Zack, along with his incredible wife Debbie. Easy Life? I don't think so. Listen to what this wellness expert and business man has to say about overcoming odds and choosing the right path for a balanced life. Listen Up Youth Worker Nation! This is a life to take note of. Get pen and paper.
Greg Larson is a 6'8" pitcher. He played basketball but he thrived in baseball. Lake Brantley High School, GatorNation UF, then to the pros with the Red Sox. Now Greg is in his home area of Seminole County, northern suburbs of Orlando, Florida. He is the head coach for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, FCA, for Seminole County Schools. He raises his own salary to do the work he is passionate about. Listen up Youth Worker Nation! There is value mentoring for you here!
Doug speaks with Juliet Oppong-Amoako and Reverend Abdoulaye Sangho from Trans World Radio in Africa (TWR). Their organization uses media to reach Africa for Christ.
Speaking fluently in more than 60 languages and dialects, their outreach in Africa engages millions in more than 40 countries.
Together with international partners, local churches and other ministries, TWR provides relevant programming, discipleship resources and dedicated workers to spread hope to individuals and communities around the globe.
Whether using high-powered radio to reach people, streaming content to Internet users and mobile phones or visiting face-to-face with listeners, TWR leaves a lasting spiritual footprint.
Trans World Radio
P.O. Box 4232, Kempton Park, 1620, South Africa
https://twrafrica.org
+ 27 11 974 2885
This week, Doug speaks with Zoro the Drummer. Zoro is an internationally renowned rock star, motivational speaker and author. He has toured and recorded with Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, The New Edition, Jody Watley, Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire, Sean Lennon, Lisa Marie Presley, Lincoln Brewster, Phil Keaggy and many others. He shares with Doug what his life was like growing up fatherless as one of 7 children and how he brings encouragement and hope to others. Zoro also talks about the impact the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America had on his life.
http://ZoroTheDrummer.com http://http://www.zoroministries.org
Serena Parkinson Burrows was one of my students in student ministry. At 18 years of age she became one of my best volunteers. Discipled by my wife Colleen and another volunteer, Karen Mielke, Serena volunteered and passed on her knowledge to middle school girls while organizing our programs for more than 10 years. She is the wife of a professional drummer, Jason Burrows, and raises their two little girls. She is to this day a surfer as she was raised to be by her Florida parents and her little first born girl wants to follow suit. Serena's story will help you to treat your volunteers like gold and what you should do and how you should protect your volunteers.
Eustis, Florida, Mayor Robert Morin is a motivator and a man who just loves people. After meeting his son who is a senior in high school, Cesar, I can see that not only does he love people but his family loves him. When your high school son says great things about you, something right is happening at home. Robert was in Army intelligence, and also received a masters degree in public administration which qualifies him to manage city government. What's in it for me, youth worker nation? This man has worked with DCF and has seen the best of the best families and youth workers and the worst of the worst. This is one confident man who has a vision for a city.
When you lead and teach students, I tell people to treat them well and with kindness because some day they may sign your checks, be a professional that helps you or marry your children. This middle school boy grew up and became my pastor.
Brooks Braswell was a leader in school and people followed. He has never stopped leading and changing people's lives with a simple message, The Good News that God Loves You through Jesus Christ! He wanted to be a professional comedian and in a way he still is. With every sermon he makes us laugh while driving home a message that I and others won't forget. He and his lovely wife, Jamie, have 5 girls and 1 boy. He is proud to be raised a country boy. A Bible teaching mom, a huntin', fishin' dad and a professional tennis playing brother. Brooks embraced all of that and did it all and carried it to draw others and hold their attention. You will laugh and take notes with this episode.
Coach Clark Blake sits down with a group of past students, some from 40 years ago, as they share memories of pivotal moments in their high school years. From playing football under Coach Blake's leadership, his crazy classroom antics, to being a part of the original students involved in the first Fellowship of Christian Athletes program on the Eustis High School campus.
Terrence Demps II is a senior at Eustis High School this year, graduating May 2017. He is a good guy and a compassionate guy who has the heart of a lion. He's an athlete, a runner for the track team. Hear what he says about the four-man relay and that final leg. He's a weightlifter who can bench twice his own weight. He is an international! His father is from the USA and his mother was born in Barbados where Terrence spends time with relatives. He is an FCA leader who meets his class mates once a week at 6:30AM. He is an AP Honor Student. Listen to his wise positive attitude far beyond his age.
*Bryson Tuttle 2nd & 3rd Baseman LSSC. His mom works for Hallmark and his dad works for the US Navy.
*Jay Prather - Short Stop and 2nd Baseman. Mom is a police officer.
*These 2 college athletes are much more than athletes. They are young men who are making marks of kindness and achieving academic and spiritual goals.
Take aways:
-
Winning because you try one more time.
-
Blinded families and getting along.
-
How faith is a key to balance and where to find it.
College baseball is a whole other level for those who have never played in college before. It's not like travel ball, it's not like high school baseball. Everybody's at a whole new level. And everybody is a competitor. Everybody is determined to win. Tucker and Quinn are the pitchers for the baseball team at Lake Sumter State College. I am their chaplain and these guys have a great attitude about life. If you're on the coaching level, FCA level, professor or parent of an athlete, you want to listen to these guys' stories.
Larry and Amanda Stephens are a force in this world. Two world changers that were changing this world before they met. They became best friends, fell in love and grew a family. They are major forces in CRU's world wide movement. How does their marriage survive such pressure. Find out now on YWOF - Youth Worker On Fire!
Larry and Amanda mention a great book by Gary Chapman called The Five Love Languages.
In part 2 of the interview with Fred Rohrdanz, he talks about some of the books that have influenced his life. Fred also shares a few studies that can help you on your spiritual journey. So how many people did you know that their dad was college roommates and football teammates with Bear Bryant the famous Alabama "Bama" University football coach. Well, that would be our guest, Fred Rohrdanz. He was football QB at Middle Tennessee State. Met his future wife Suan there. Fred has headed up a Bible Study for men for many years which is larger than most churches on the East Coast of the USA. He has volunteered in student ministry. He has raised 2 sons and a daughter who have now made him a granddad. His connections to the college and pro sports world is far reaching and a great sales and marketing professional. Who is this super hero? Well, he's just a Bama boy who raised his family in Eustis, Florida right outside of Orlando. He considers himself to be just a normal small town guy. His friends and family know different. He is a world vision leader who leads and teaches from where ever he stands because that's his DNA. The ultimate Southern Gentleman just like his father raised him to be. Listen up friends! There is great value here layer, after layer, after layer.
Youth Worker On Fire (YWOF) is produced by a team. Gabriella “Gabby” Templeton, David Whitty, Garrett “Bear” B. and teacher of Media Production at EHS, Mr. Mike Ligler. Mike has helped me with projects as I have volunteered for him and his media classes and school projects.
For 2 years Mike asked me if there was a project his students could help me with and May of 2016 I said, “Yes I do.” We produced 18 interviews in 2 weeks. Launched in August 2016 and haven't stopped producing. See and hear what saying YES can produce. I have others on the team from other entertainment industry areas but this episode is about a teacher and his top of the scale production crew that makes something transpire out of nothing. This is not the easiest way to produce but I LOVE working with this crew of talented future professionals.
It's hard enough for college students just to take classes and excel in getting your degree. But these two lady athletes go far beyond excellence and getting a degree. They practice day after day, week after week, all school year long and more. They expend many hours representing Lake Sumter State College as softball players. Madison and Brie are a catcher and pitcher duo. They are college roommates. But who influenced them to go so far into this sports career? Listen to every word because you are going to be inspired and learn from valuable stories of their life journey. Listen up Youth Worker Nation.
Larry Stephens is a FORCE to follow and learn from in the area of college students. He is the CRU trainer, facilitator, fundraiser, motivator for thousands of leaders both volunteer and full time on 1,600 universities and colleges. He is a mentor to professional athletes, keynote speakers and around the world projects for CRU students. We will talk virtual film making and what it's like to be a husband to a wife who has impacted the Greek world on several campuses and the dad of 3 young boys (2 are twins) and a beautiful little girl. He looks calm and collected but there is a driving force behind that "together" persona that says, "World Changers Line Up Behind Me! Now Dive, Jump, Run...whatever it takes!" THIS IS VALUE PACKED! But you've got to listen to this soft spoken hurricane! A Texas boy now an Orlando, Florida man!
Inspiring Principal Nancy Velez is an A+ high school principal. She grew up hearing graduation as a child because she was so close to the school and loved it. She is passionate for students and families and it shows. Listen to her inspiring story.
Though his life seemed tragic as a middle schooler, Clark Blake's football coach gave him hope in the face of tragedy. Listen to this Marine Corp veteran, teacher, coach, dad, grandad and husband explain the life events that molded him as he gives his last recorded talk as a guest speaker for FCA at 6:30AM December 2013. This is the same high school he taught, coached, and mentored many students and adults for over 30 years. He is still speaking into lives a decade after his retirement because people ask him to. 1 man, 1 life, 1 city. And yet people tell his story around the world.
Part two of Leslie Shamrock Campione is so full of leadership and servitude that it's a must listen. We will cover student groups at 6:30AM, student, staff and volunteer leadership. And hold on to the end... Leslie will talk about an epidemic of high school seniors bound for homelessness and how to help stop this tragic occurrence.
Leslie made an impact on her high school by meeting with the coach and influencing over 200 other students to meet at 6:30 in the morning once a week on a school day. Leslie Shamrock Campione is a mom of two, a lawyer and county commissioner. She's a person of influence but also a person who's been positively impacted by a coach in high school. Listen to the great value in her story.
If you are working or volunteering with the public school system it does you good to know people who are at the top and who have been through as many things as you can experience with students and families. Bill Miller is the guy you want to talk to. He's the Assistant Superintendent to Lake County Schools in Florida. He is a dad and a husband. Bill has been a coach and baseball player and grew up in a pastors home in Pennsylvania. He loves the music of Bruce Springsteen, "The Boss!" He was a great principal from the middle school to the high school level and always brought his "A" Game. He was a personal friend to me as I would visit his campuses and would welcome me at all times. He was user-friendly to parents, teachers, coaches, students, community and faith based organizations.
So how many people did you know that their dad was college roommates and football teammates with Bear Bryant the famous Alabama "Bama" University football coach. Well, that would be our guest, Fred Rohrdanz. He was football QB at Middle Tennessee State. Met his future wife Suan there. Fred has headed up a Bible Study for men for many years which is larger than most churches on the East Coast of the USA. He has volunteered in student ministry. He has raised 2 sons and a daughter who have now made him a granddad. His connections to the college and pro sports world is far reaching and a great sales and marketing professional. Who is this super hero? Well, he's just a Bama boy who raised his family in Eustis, Florida right outside of Orlando. He considers himself to be just a normal small town guy. His friends and family know different. He is a world vision leader who leads and teaches from where ever he stands because that's his DNA. The ultimate Southern Gentleman just like his father raised him to be. Listen up friends! There is great value here layer, after layer, after layer.
Megan Crouch is a YPK. In other words, the youth pastor's kid. She is the middle of three children and she's the only girl. Megan was a great college athlete in basketball. She is now athletic trainer for Umatilla High School and is also the FCA huddle coach on campus. Megan has some great value and experiences to note especially for those who are YPKs or students who grew up with their parents in ministry, teaching or coaching. We're all in a glass bubble if we're helping people and people are watching and critiquing us whether we like it or not. Find out how Megan copes and how she still excels today.
Coaches Rich and Betsy Billings are inspiring people each accomplished in their fields. Rich was the youngest varsity baseball head coach hired in the nation. Coached at LSCC, FAU, Leesburg High School, and now at LSSC. He met the love of his life, Betsy, at FAU where she was an Athletic Trainer. Betsy, a graduate of Troy State U., interned at Mercer U. There they had incredible things to say about her as an athletic trainer and a person and she is now Athletic Trainer at LSSC. They volunteer together as FCA Huddle Coaches at LSSC. During the pursuit of their relationship at FAU, Rich found a way to see Betsy personally on a daily basis as a coach until they went on their 1st date and the rest is history. Youth Worker Nation, you are going to love their story.
The lady I'm about to talk to is known to her friends and hometown as Amanda Hitchcock. To her husband Larry she is Amanda Stephens. To her children, she is mom. To her twin sister Valerie and baby sister Vickie, she's Amanda, to her parents she is their daughter. But in the eyes of many who she has encountered at FSU and to the Greek sororities of UCF, she is known as their mentor. She is known as the person who showed them the Way. My wife Colleen and I have worked with many incredible young ladies who we watched grow up from middle school to high school to college and into their adult years but Amanda, really I didn't see coming. She seems to have had it all together almost all of her life. Amanda was Salutatorian at Umatilla High School but it was in college, when I found her fallen on the ski slope during our college retreat to Colorado, sitting in the snow, was when our journey of understanding each other began. From there I got to watch a diamond being formed from a distance for years to come. This is a heartwarming and fun filled interview with Amanda Hitchcock Stephens. You're gonna love it, and the value, Wow! You are going to want to write some of this down. https://www.cru.org
Michael Geoffrion is an AP History teacher who was voted Teacher of the Year in 2016 at Eustis High School. He talks with Doug about his love for history and the importance of working your passion. If you work your passion, you'll never work a day in your life. Michael also has a podcast called Mr. Geoffrion's World History Podcast. It's designed to be a brief and informative podcast for history students at all levels, from high school to college. Mr. Geoffrion can also be found at MrGeoffrion.com
Dr. Gordon Greenhalgh has been a good friend for many years. We started Campus Life and Youth Guidance for YFC when we were in our 20s. He's a surfer. I witnessed him surfing with whales in California. He was a high school wrestler and more. Gordon is a licensed psychotherapist, has been in practice over 25 years counseling individuals, couples and families. He has a Master's Degree in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling and a Ph.D. in Psychology. He talks about the importance of youth workers and volunteers taking care of themselves, both mentally and physically, so you can better care for others. Dr. Gordon is a father and a husband. He's the homerun hitter that I send families to when they have real problems with their adolescents and young adults. I've seen him change the lives of inner-city students in Orlando, FL as a Youth Guidance Director/YFC. Outside he looks like a calm cool individual but inside he is full of fire to help those who are hurting. Get his books and go online to www.AskDrGordon.com questions. He's the real deal.
Part 2
Dr. Jay Strack talks about living in 6 foster homes growing up. He is the creator and CEO of SLU, Student Leader University, Rock The Universe at Universal Studios and Youth Pastor Summit. He has spoken to over 10 million high school students in school assemblies. He is about to make his hundredth trip to Israel. Jay has also started a virtual school in China. Jay shares his heart for helping young people and training the leaders of tomorrow.
Dr. Jay Strack talks about living in 6 foster homes growing up. He is the creator and CEO of SLU, Student Leader University, Rock The Universe at Universal Studios and Youth Pastor Summit. He has spoken to over 10 million high school students in school assemblies. He is about to make his hundredth trip to Israel. Jay has also started a virtual school in China. Jay shares his heart for helping young people and training the leaders of tomorrow.
John is an entrepreneur owning his own business developing software for the real estate industry and working from home. He graduated from Duke University with a degree in Public Policy Studies. He is a husband, a dad and his parents were educators. He is well respected in his home town and in business. He and his wife Heather are very family focused and committed to homeschooling their children. A lot of great value from a great man on this episode.
It Destroys Dreams. Perfection is not obtainable but Excellence is according to many authors of blogs, articles and books. Until someone tells you you probably won't believe it and then most of us are in denial and have excuses as to why we are proud to be a perfectionist. It takes a Team to be excellent. That is the Maker of Dreams come true...TEAM. Philippians 3:13 NLT "No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on...Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead," Paul the Apostle
Matt Ferguson, managing partner at Eric Mower & Associates, shares his story about growing up in a small town, playing football at Florida State University and his relationship with Jesus Christ. He and his wife, Lori, have 5 children.
Mike Matulia, Athletic Director for Lake-Sumter State College, shares his life experience as a father, baseball coach and the importance of being a volunteer in your community.
Mark McCoy has been a personal trainer for over 20 years and is a personal training certification instructor and instructor for the United Trainers Association. He is also head of Tomorrow's Champion - Giving you the tools you need to gain back control over your health and propel your fitness to the next level. http://tomorrowschampion.com/ Mark shares about the influences in his life and the Four F's - Faith, Family, Fitness and Finance.
Don Levonius is principal consultant at Victory Performance Consulting. His company provides training in the areas of employee and company morale, performance, ethics and leadership. VictoryPerformanceConsulting.net Don shares with us his background in training employees and management at the Walt Disney Company. He also encourages everyone, whether you love your job or not, to have their "own thing" on the side. Whether it's tutoring, multi-level marketing or just a part time thing, don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Kevin is a personal trainer and former SEC football player, husband, father and home schooler. He and his wife, Debbie, started Journey Fitness in Longwood, Florida. jfaw.com. Growing up, his family moved around the country many times and he ultimately found stability in sports. A number of coaches had a positive impact on his life.
Megan Hinton was a high school senior at the time of this interview and is now a freshman in college. Megan was considered one of the best students in her media production class and someone to be sought after by businesses.
She is highly respected by her former media production teacher, Mr. Mike Ligler. Megan has a bright future ahead of her in the area of filming, editing and a great work ethic.
Mike Ligler is the media production instructor at an area high school and was voted Teacher of the Year by his peers. He shares the importance of being there for the students as a mentor and leader. Mike trains 160 students in video production throughout the year in the public school system. He's a community leader and is a bridge to the business sector by allowing his students to produce for local business and charity.
Sammie Smith has had an amazing career playing football at Florida State University and as a professional NFL player for the Miami Dolphins and the Denver Broncos. He's had ups and downs, incredible family support, and heros that came back into his life from the college coaching team when he needed them the most.
High School Assistant Principal, Tracy Clark, shares the story of how he went from a businessman to a volunteer to a public education professional.
Darla Huddleston has had many titles but only 1 purpose educate adolescence and parents about abstinence. While many voices say its not possible for adolescence Darla's organizations and volunteers have seen teen pregnancy statistics drop continually in the counties that her team educates. Preventative verses post active. Its better to stop problems before they start than figure out solutions after the fact. Preventative saves a lot of heartache, pain, embarrassment and money. How does one person make a difference? Heres how.
Darla Huddleston has had many titles but only 1 purpose educate adolescence and parents about abstinence. While many voices say its not possible for adolescence Darla's organizations and volunteers have seen teen pregnancy statistics drop continually in the counties that her team educates. Preventative verses post active. Its better to stop problems before they start than figure out solutions after the fact. Preventative saves a lot of heartache, pain, embarrassment and money. How does one person make a difference? Heres how.