How NOT To Be a Youth Pastor: Recent Episodes
Derek Mumm and Kyle Besch
Teenagers are interesting creatures. Even more unique are the brave individuals who commit to loving and serving them.
Join Kyle and Derek, two of your neighborhood youth pastors, who dive into all things youth ministry. Their comedic transparency is sure to leave you with a few laughs and a greater understanding of the "how" and "why" behind a successful youth group. Whether you're a student, parent, youth pastor or aspiring glutton for punishment...you are sure to find something of value here in our podcast.
On their final episode, Kyle and Derek welcome two guests to the show for some fun and games. Also, they distill all their knowledge (it didn't take long) into their Top 10 Tips for Ministry.
You've got questions, we've got answers! On the penultimate episode of the podcast, Kyle and Derek answer questions live on a Wednesday night at Kyle's youth group.
Public school, private school, homeschool... every youth ministry sees students from every type of educational system. In today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about the pros and cons of each school type from a ministry perspective.
The world is a changing place, and technology is always at the forefront. A.I. is the new thing, and like most technology, it can be both a blessing and a curse. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into the world of A.I., talking about how it can help in ministry and areas to avoid using it.
We have questions! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek tackle questions ranging from their first sermons to ministry struggles to preferred golf clubs.
Most towns have multiple churches. Many churches are even on the same street. But on today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how churches competing against each other is completely missing the mark.
Churches, and other places of worship, have heightened their conversations on security over the last 20 years. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about what church security and medical teams should look like.
Ministry can feel like a silo sometimes, and the health of pastors often gets ignored. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into some practical advice when it comes to asking those around you for help and accountability.
On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into baptism, what it was in Jesus' day, and what it should look like in our churches.
Everyone has different tastes when it comes to worship music, and that's ok! But there are some songs that we... just... disagree with. At least on some level. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek discuss some of the worship songs that they don't think are right for certain settings.
Ok, hear us out... On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into a wild theory that maybe, just maybe, the MCU and Jesus are connected in ways we never thought of before.
Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and then... Gen Alpha?!? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into what makes this next generation unique and how to best reach them in youth ministry.
No matter how hard we try, there are times when writing sermons is more fun than others. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about some of the ways that pastors can break the cycle and get a fresh start writing their sermons.
Alright, it's time to get nerdy! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek break down their thoughts on the statistics of Youth Pastors' salaries in 2023.
It's a classic story. David vs Goliath. Favorite vs Underdog... or was it? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into some of the myths we believe about this classic story.
Did anyone else think that Kyle and Derek were just making up their wives this whole time? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek share conversation with their wives about their time in ministry, lessons that they've learned, and what they would tell couples just starting in ministry.
"Seeker-Friendly" churches are all over. Their goal, as evidenced by the nickname, is to purposefully operate with the top goal of attracting unbelievers to the church. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek wrestle through whether or not this is a good model for youth ministry.
Politics is one of those topics that you're not supposed to bring up at the Thanksgiving table. But our walk with Christ should cover every aspect of our lives. So how do we talk about and teach on politics in the church? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how to have a Christ-filled discussion around such a polarizing topic like politics.
In ministry, a new boss can mean great things, but it can also mean... losing your job?!? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek wrap up their series on pastoral transition by talking about what it looks like for a church to bring on a new Lead Pastor and how Youth Pastors should approach that transition.
How does ministry change when you have an interim pastor? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about what Youth Pastors can do in the interim period to best get ready for a new Lead Pastor to come in.
When a Lead Pastor leaves a church, they typically transition out over a few weeks. In some cases, however, that "transition" can happen overnight. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek continue their series on Pastoral Transition by talking about a sudden change in church leadership from the church's point of view.
It's the thing you hope and expect never happens. Unfortunately, when God works with imperfect people, people fail. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek discuss what happens to a pastor when they have a moral failure.
When you sign up to shepherd God's people, you sign on for a higher standard than other people are held to. With great responsibility comes great... responsibility? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into their highly anticipated series on pastoral integrity and what happens when pastors fall.
Many Youth Pastors think they are doing everything they possibly can for their students. In reality, there might be a whole lot more you should be doing. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about the ways Youth Pastors are sometimes inefficient, and how they can get more done faster.
Many pastors tend to overwork themselves. Often times, everything we are doing is good, there's just too much of it! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek start a two part series on workload by talking about some of the signs that you might be doing too much.
Mathematically, more young people will choose careers in secular fields than in ministry. Which is how it should be! In the conclusion of their three part series, Kyle and Derek take a look at how students can prep for a career in a secular field, and how God has still called them to be a part of the Body of Christ.
Serving God around the world is a noble choice to make, but also a difficult one. For students who want to go into missions, what are the next steps to get there? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek discuss some of the practical steps students can take to prepare themselves for missions.
Many students feel called to go into ministry. But are you? And if you are, what are the next steps? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how to know if you're called into ministry, and some next steps to take.
Many ministries and churches will utilize clothing, mugs, or other merchandise to promote their brand and create unity amongst their congregation. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about some of their experiences with merch, as well as some common mistakes to avoid.
The toughest part of youth ministry is that all your students eventually leave. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about what to do when you have a large group of seniors leaving at the same time.
As a Youth Pastor, you work under the authority of the Lead Pastor at your church. Being a part of a staff can be difficult at times, and ministry takes all hands working together. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how Youth Pastors can support their Lead Pastor, and how to best communicate their own needs.
With most jobs, being married has little to no effect. In ministry, being married can look drastically different. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek discuss the advantages (and a few disadvantages) of being married while in ministry.
Studies are showing that with each new generation, biblical knowledge is lower and lower. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about some of the ways Youth Pastors can increase biblical literacy in their students.
Depending on the denomination of your church, there is a very wide array of beliefs on who the Holy Spirit is, what the Holy Spirit's involvement in our lives is, what the Holy Spirit's function is in the church today. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about what the Bible says about the Holy Spirit.
There are natural rhythms to a year of ministry. Fall brings a back-to-school vibe. Winter in Minnesota feels like it drags on... and on... and on. If you plan for it, you can take advantage of these rhythms and use them to help lean into ministry. Join Kyle and Derek as they dive into how to fall into helpful rhythms in ministry.
There's a lot of work that goes into being a Youth Pastor. To borrow from Kevin Malone, "Why use many words when few words do trick?" Join Kyle and Derek as they kick off Season 3 by discussing how doing more work up front can really set you up well for success long term.
Studying the Bible is one of the most important parts of our faith, but it can be an intimidating thing to start to do. On today’s episode, Kyle and Derek aim to equip people to start a Bible study with their friends.
A lot has changed in ten years. From the polarization of politics in America to the cherrypicking of Scripture in the church, Kyle and Derek take a look how ministry has changed over the last decade, and what are some of the biggest talking points in today's ministries.
In today’s episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how to identify leadership fatigue, as well as some ways to try and break the cycle and get back to passionately doing what God has called us to do.
In the final episode of their series on the Ideal Graduate, Kyle and Derek talk about how we can grow hearts of service and generosity in our students.
On today’s episode, Kyle and Derek continue their conversation about what the ideal graduate looks like by discussing spiritual disciples and attendance goals.
We know that, as youth pastors, we are supposed to be shepherding students toward Jesus. But what, exactly, should we be aiming for? On today’s episode, Kyle and Derek discuss what the ideal graduate might look like, and how we can aim to get there.
COVID-19 had a huge impact on every aspect of our culture, including churches. Many aspects of “doing church” were forever changed, whether that was for good or bad. On today’s episode, Kyle and Derek talk about some of the ways that church life has changed in the post-COVID era.
As a leader, there are plenty of things we CAN do. But as you rise in leadership ranks, there are rights that you give up voluntarily that make you a better leader. On today’s episode, Kyle and Derek talk about some of the things that Youth Pastors, executives, or anyone in a leadership position can no longer do.
Having a soundboard is good. Deafening your students is not. Having lights and haze can be impactful when done well. Setting off the fire alarms is not. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into the elements that go into creating the right atmosphere in the room, and some mistakes to avoid.
We've all been there. Sitting in a church service, scrolling through social media, or watching professional athletes, and... there it is. A Bible verse quoted, but totally out of context! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek share some of the top verses they see misinterpreted and give the true heart behind the words.
Every youth ministry has them. The kids that sit in the back every week, probably on their phones or distracting others, and definitely not paying attention. As a youth pastor, what do you do? They're causing disturbances, but that probably means they need Jesus! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into this conundrum Youth Pastors face on a weekly basis.
Tithing is talked about as an important aspect of our faith when we are adults. But what does that look like for teenagers? Kyle and Derek talk about lump sum giving, inconsistent paychecks, and how to teach tithing in youth ministry.
The goal of a youth pastor is longevity; being in students' lives for a long time. Sometimes, that might result in being asked to officiate the wedding of a former youth student! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek break down the elements they use in pre-marital counseling.
We cannot stress enough that, as a pastor, the Bible should be the first, second, and third place you draw from. Whether it's inspiration, leadership, or self-development, that's where our growth should start. But if you're looking for supplemental resources, this episode is for you! Kyle and Derek share some of their favorite books that they've read recently.
There comes a point as a Youth Pastor where you can't do it all. Besides, you can't even be there all the time! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about delegating within youth ministry, especially with Kyle's upcoming paternity leave.
There are many, many things our students might be struggling with. But porn is as close to a certainty as you can get. Statistically, if you have at least two students in your youth ministry, one of them is probably struggling with porn in some capacity. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk through some of the struggles Youth Pastors face in this arena, and how we can have healthy conversations with our students that lead towards real progress.
Parents get to live with their kids and raise them for 18 years. Youth Pastors? Well, we get them for maybe an hour per week. In today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about why it's so important to partner with parents in youth ministry, and some key ways to do it.
Adding people to the Kingdom of God is one of the biggest goals of ministry. But in today's episode, Kyle takes the stance that, in an ideal world, no student ever accepts Christ during one of their youth services. Is it lunacy, or are Kyle and Derek on to something about how we should be approaching evangelism?
Many listeners have wondered how in the world Kyle and Derek managed to convince their wives to marry them. Was it a trick? Hypnosis? Did they pay them off? Nope! Check out today's episode for "biblically founded sayings to win over the opposite gender." Or, as some people would call them, Christian Pickup Lines.
Riley is back for another episode as the gang closes out 2022 with a friendly round of The Initials Game, courtesy of the Power Trip Morning Show on KFAN.
Stepping into a new pastoral role can be a challenge, and there are plenty of obstacles to navigate. On today's episode, Derek's new Youth Pastor, Riley, joins the show to talk about the joys and challenges that come with being new on the job.
Ministry tends to introduce us to individuals or situations that are... unpleasant. Youth Pastors get put in tough situations all the time where there isn't always a right answer, but you're forced to act like there is. Or, more likely, you have to pick between two less-than-ideal choices and go for it! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about some of the ways to make these uncomfortable situations a little more comfortable.
We are all familiar with the Christmas story, right? Jesus' birth has been portrayed by small children for generations. But do we have all the details right? Join Kyle and Derek as they dive into the Christmas story and shed new light on some of the details we've gotten wrong.
Churches talk all the time about how terrible idols are. But last we checked, most people aren't making sacrifices in their backyard to Ba'al anymore. So where do we look for idols today? Kyle and Derek talk today about some of the modern idols that Youth Pastors have, and they might not be what you think.
We are living in an unprecedented age of mega-churches. More and more of them seem to crop up every year. But is that a good thing? Can youth ministry be effective on such a large scale? Join Kyle and Derek as they dive into the touchy "church size" conversation.
Hurt is unavoidable. Students (and definitely parents) will offend and insult you as a Youth Pastor. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how to process and bounce back from conversations that might otherwise knock you out of ministry.
Kyle and Derek welcome fellow Youth Pastor Heidi Rausch onto the podcast to talk about downtown Chicago mission teams, investing in young leaders, and being a woman in youth ministry.
Youth ministry is a lot like running a small church, with one big distinction: every 6 or 7 years, your entire congregation changes over. Every student will eventually graduate and leave your ministry, so how do you set them up for success? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about what it takes to launch students into young adulthood well.
With Halloween just around the corner, Kyle and Derek discuss some of the stories and moments in their ministries that would send anyone running! From hotel fires to mischievous students, they share some of their experiences and how they handled some of their most bizarre moments in youth ministry.
Success stories are always more fun. But Youth Pastors fail A LOT. People, in fact, fail a lot. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about what to do when you do something that doesn't work, and ways to learn from it to make the next move better!
Most people don't like asking for a raise, but what if your boss is your pastor?!? Money is a tricky subject to talk about, but on today's episode, Kyle and Derek dive into the world of youth pastor compensation.
Every Youth Pastor likes to think they have great things to say. You know, like the stuff that would go viral on TikTok. But equally important are the things that Youth Pastors maybe SHOULDN'T say. Whether it's a text to a student or from the stage, join Kyle and Derek discussing some of the things they would recommend YPs maybe don't talk about.
If you're in ministry, at some point you have probably stopped and asked yourself, "Why did I sign up for this?" On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about how pastors can hold to healthy boundaries, and how those outside of ministry can be supportive without jumping to conclusions.
Students have a LOT of things happening in their lives that can occupy their time. As youth pastors, how do we work with those schedules, instead of against them? And as parents or students, how do we navigate that balance? Join Kyle and Derek as they attempt to find the line between using the gifts God has given us and being so busy we aren't available for the core of what God has called us to.
As we head into a new fall of ministry, it can be an important reminder to stay focused as pastors and leaders. There is a lot within our control to focus on, and some things that are out of our control. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about focusing on what we can control in ministry.
Kyle and Derek are back for Season 2! We kick it off with a discussion on salvation calls, or altar calls. Many churches use a variation of "bow your heads, close your eyes, and raise your hands" to facilitate salvation with their congregation. But is that the best way to do it? At the very least, we think it's worth a discussion.
Kyle and Derek record this special episode live from summer camp! Many churches attend summer camps, but all of them are different. So on this episode, we talk about some of the structures of summer camp and why we enjoy going!
On the final episode of Season 1, Kyle and Derek talk about their favorite memories from Season 1 of the podcast and how to celebrate wins as a youth ministry. Listen in as they cover defining wins, where and when to celebrate them, and also catch some spoilers on Season 2!
One of the more intimidating and uncomfortable topics, Kyle and Derek talk about the realities of being mandatory reporters as youth pastors. Listen in as they discuss some of the things to look for, how to have these tough conversations with students, and who you might need to call if the situation arises.
Back on Episode 33, Kyle and Derek talked about how damaging "purity culture" has been to the church. On today's episode, they continue the conversation by talking about some of the positive steps you can take to turn the conversation in a healthy direction.
What should I name our youth ministry? Where do I find adult volunteers? How much pizza should I order? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek take a dive into what it would look like to start a youth ministry from the very beginning.
Sometimes, it can be hard to tell the difference between spiritual warfare and, well... our own stupidity. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk a little bit about what spiritual warfare is, and how the key to spiritual warfare is to just WRAP it out.
Small group discussions can take a sermon or lesson's effectiveness from good to great. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about four different types of questions to ask your students and the 10 Rules to Facilitating Small Group Discussion that they definitely didn't make up.
Easter and Christmas are the two big "church holidays" on the calendar, but it's not all roses and butterflies for pastors. Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about some of the difficulties pastors face when the calendar gets busy around these big church services.
As a Youth Pastor, there are some topics that might be important to cover every year. But you don't want to feel like you're preaching the same messages over and over. And I want to write all of my own sermons, but there's already so much good content out there. WHAT DO I DO?!?
Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about finding strategic and impactful ways to plan out their content and curriculum in ministry.
Churches, and specifically youth ministries, love doing events. Grab some pizza and games, and invite all your friends! But what happens when you have an event you've done forever, or maybe only once, that you don't want to do anymore? If the event was good last time, should you automatically do it again? On today's episode, Kyle and Derek break down some of the best ways to kill something that may, or may not, be working well for you.
"Purity Culture" was well-intentioned, but has done a lot of damage to how students growing up in the church view sex. Often times, it leads to a warped view of sex that lasts well into marriage. Join Kyle and Derek as they break down the myths and try to start a healthier conversation about what God designed sex to be.
Shepherding students through the transition from kids ministry to youth ministry is important. The transition from youth ministry to whatever comes next is maybe even more important. Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about how to do these transitions well!
Kyle and Derek talk about how power and influence become idols for pastors, and how they lead to public falls from grace that we unfortunately see all too often in ministry.
On today's episode, Kyle and Derek discuss Biblical literacy in today's teenagers, which Bible translations to read (or not to read), and how to encourage students to dive deeper into the Word.
On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about playing games in youth ministry. We'll discuss why they're important, as well as some of our favorite games that we play with our students!
On today's episode, Kyle and Derek answer listener questions about preparing sermons as a Youth Pastor. If you have questions that you would like to have answered on a future episode, reach out at hownottobeayouthpastor@gmail.com.
On our last episode, we talked about longevity in ministry. Today, Kyle and Derek dive into how to keep things fresh once you've been doing it a while.
Ministry often sees a high turnover rate, but there's a lot of value to longevity in ministry. On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about why longevity is so important, and some ways that Youth Pastors can avoid burnout.
Kyle and Derek love dodgeball and giveaways as much as the next guy. But on today's episode, they talk about how Youth Ministry MUST be more missional than that.
Kyle and Derek talk about one of the most common objections people have to volunteering in youth ministry, "I'm too old," and the value that each age demographic can bring to a youth ministry.
Kyle and Derek are joined by worship leaders Nate & Sarah Englar to discuss their heart for worship and how to integrate worship into youth ministry.
Kyle and Derek kick off the new year with a conversation about LGBTQ culture and how to respond as a youth pastor.
Kyle and Derek celebrate the season by welcoming two special guests to play a Christmas-themed game of "Password"
Youth Ministry can take a hefty toll on Youth Pastors and youth leaders physically, mentally, emotionally, and most of all spiritually. Join Kyle and Derek as they discuss seven myths around the burden that Youth Pastors carry.
Believe it or not, most ministry costs money! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek break down the ins and outs of how to handle finances as a Youth Pastor, some of the best things to spend money on, and what NOT to do!
Christian circles can throw around the word "calling" in many different ways. In this episode, Kyle and Derek dive into what the Bible actually means when it talks about what we, as Christ-followers, are called to.
On this special holiday episode of the podcast, Kyle and Derek turn Thanksgiving foods into on-the-spot sermons.
Being a Youth Pastor typically involves talking in front of people. Join Kyle and Derek as they discuss some tips and tricks to public speaking as a Youth Pastor!
Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about some of the different hats a Youth Pastor might have to wear as a part of a church staff.
Youth Ministry isn't always video games and pizza parties. Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about navigating some of the tougher parts of ministry, and how you can be there for hurting families.
Youth Ministry can look completely different in the summer. Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about some of the different fun events they do each year, and other ways Youth Pastors can maximize their summers!
As a Youth Pastor, what do you do with the students that are a little more difficult? Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about how to handle one of the more complicated sides of ministry.
Love and sex are always a hot topic in youth ministry. Students squirm when they hear those words almost as much as Youth Pastors! Join Kyle and Derek as they break down some tips for talking about love, sex, and relationships with teenagers.
Adult volunteers are SO IMPORTANT to youth ministry! On today's episode, Kyle and Derek talk about the role adult volunteers can play in youth ministry, and how to find the best ones.
Being in ministry takes up a lot of your time, but it still can't be the most important thing in your life! Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about the personal challenges that come with being a Youth Pastor.
We're back for more on mission teams! Join us for Part 2 of our missions-focused episodes.
You've heard our passion for mission teams... now hear how we make them happen! Join Kyle and Derek as they talk about some of the behind-the-scenes logistics of mission teams.
Ever feel like you have too much going on? Do you feel like you need to give an excuse every time you say "no" to something? This week, Kyle and Derek unpack the artform of saying "no" to things in ministry and in our personal lives.
Growth, both professionally and personally, is something that many of us pursue on a daily basis. In this episode, Kyle and Derek unpack the "why" and "how" behind their continual pursuit of development.
Humans love to compare. Whether consciously or subconsciously, we are always measuring ourselves against the successes and failures of other people. The result? Tune in to episode 3!
Social media is everywhere. Derek and Kyle unpack how social media plays a role in ministry, parenting, and life in general.
Preparation is key, but you can't prepare for everything. Kyle and Derek unpack some of their favorite "on-the-job" lessons they have learned in ministry.