Justin Knowles and Sean Lord (2 great friends and veterans in Youth Ministry) have open conversations with each other and great guests about real life hacks in youth ministry. They will talk about things they are doing in youth ministry, what is working, what is not, and have some friends join the conversation along the way. The goal is to share real life, helpful, time saving and efficient hacks to help you do ministry better.
In this episode we link back up with Dr. Terry Parkman talking about his new book called Future Church: How Disruption, Innovation, and a New Generation Are Reshaping the Church. We live in an age defined by disruption―artificial intelligence, digital tribalism, decentralization. In our posttruth culture too many leaders cling to outdated models, unsure how to engage a world that has already moved…
In this episode, Justin and Sean sit down with Jake Hancock, Director of Students at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Arizona.Not only is CCV one of the largest churches in the U.S., but they also have a thriving student ministry making a massive impact.Jake shares how to cast clear vision, set strong expectations for leaders, and build a healthy student serve culture—from strategy to execution.…
In this episode, Sean and Justin sit down with Anthony Lucarini—Next Gen Pastor at Low Country Community Church in South Carolina—to talk about a major shift we’ve been noticing in Gen Z.The hype-driven, attractional model isn’t connecting like it used to. Instead, students today are hungry for something real—unapologetically spiritual environments where they can encounter Jesus, hear truth, and…
If you're leading a youth ministry team, there's a good chance you’re asking your leaders how things are going. But… what if you’re asking the wrong question?In this episode, Justin shares a simple shift that could totally change how you lead, how your team connects, and how your ministry thrives. These five questions aren’t complicated—but the impact? Game-changing. Don’t lead on autopilot. Lead…
We’re back! After a few months off, Youth Ministry Hacks returns with a fresh episode full of vision and practical leadership insight. Justin and Sean dive into the same foundational talk Sean recently shared with his new team—casting vision and setting the tone for how we lead in ministry.In this episode, we cover five key challenges and reminders every youth worker needs: Remember your why for…
Join Justin and Sean as they kick off 2025 with reflections on their lives and ministries. They’ll share insights on what they’re focusing on and how they’re bringing fresh vision and intentionality into the new year. Through ministry, leadership, and personal growth, they’re driven to make 2025 the best year yet.Come join the conversation! Episode sponsor: onwardleader.com Join the YM Hacks…
In this episode, Justin shares what he taught at the Download Youth Ministry Round Tables Conference about metrics. Metrics are something that is not talked about ina setting like this but it’s something we talk about weekly in our churches. We want to have a good, healthy view of metrics and what to track that is just butts in seats. Justin challenges us on how to do that and what types of things…
In this episode, Justin and Sean take on your questions about youth ministry and do their best to answer them. They hit topics like: ● Discipline in youth ministry ● Depression in ministry ● Delegation ● Lowest point in youth ministry for us ● Message prep ● When it's time to leave the church ● Follow up with new students ● And more! Episode sponsor: xpscripture.com Join the YM Hacks Instagram…
Welcome to Episode 122 of the Youth Ministry Hacks Podcast! In this episode, Justin and Sean are back after a summer hiatus to catch up on what's been happening in their ministries. They discuss Justin’s new role and the journey that led him there, the process of delegating tasks, God’s faithfulness, the importance of praying through strategy, and much more. Tune in to hear their latest insights…
Welcome to Episode 121 of the Youth Ministry Hacks Podcast! In this episode, Justin introduces a new seasonal approach to youth ministry. Instead of spreading themselves thin year-round, they're focusing on key aspects during specific seasons: Outreach and School Focus, Grow Deeper, and Training. Tune in to learn how this strategic shift maximizes effectiveness and impact! Check out our sponsor:…