Episodes

  • Episode 128: Unapologetic Spiritual Formation in Youth Ministry w/ Anthony Lucarini

    Episode 128: Unapologetic Spiritual Formation in Youth Ministry w/ Anthony Lucarini
    Sep 15 2025
    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 grow deeper in their faith. And surprisingly, even students who don’t go to church seem more curious than ever.We talk through how youth pastors can rethink programming, messages, and culture to reflect this shift—and how to lead ministries that don’t just entertain students but equip them spiritually.It’s a rich and practical convo. We can’t wait for you to hear.

    Make sure to follow Anthony on IG:https://www.instagram.com/anthonylucarini/
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    53 mins
  • Episode 127: The 5 Things That Change Everything for Your Leaders

    Episode 127: The 5 Things That Change Everything for Your Leaders
    Jun 30 2025
    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 with intentionality.

    This one’s for every youth pastor, team lead, or ministry director who wants to build a culture that actually lasts.

    🔗 Links Mentioned:
    • Coaching, community, and connection: youngpastorsnetwork.com

    • Work with Justin 1-on-1: youngpastorsnetwork.com

    • Explore open youth ministry jobs at Flatirons Church: flatironschurch.com/jobs

    👀 Bonus: Stick around for a challenge at the end of the episode—your leaders will thank you for it.
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    48 mins
  • Episode 126 – We’re Back! Casting Vision, Finding Rhythm, and Leading Well

    Episode 126 – We’re Back! Casting Vision, Finding Rhythm, and Leading Well
    May 16 2025
    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:
    1. Remember your why for doing ministry

    2. Find a sustainable rhythm that fuels longevity

    3. Know your limits before they take you out

    4. Start equipping the next generation now

    5. Recognize that leaders are the pastors

    Whether you’re restarting, realigning, or just need fresh encouragement, this episode is packed with real talk and honest reflection to help you lead with clarity and purpose.
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    42 mins
  • Episode 125: What We Are Bringing Into 2025 With Our Leadership

    Episode 125: What We Are Bringing Into 2025 With Our Leadership
    Jan 17 2025

    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 Instagram Channel:https://ig.me/j/Ababaue99NXURdiv/

    Check out Coleader Curriculum! Coleader.co
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    38 mins
  • Episode 124: Hacks On Measuring What Matters

    Episode 124: Hacks On Measuring What Matters
    Nov 26 2024
    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 we should be looking for.
    Episode sponsor:onwardleader.com
    Join the YM Hacks Instagram Channel:https://ig.me/j/Ababaue99NXURdiv/

    Check out Coleader Curriculum! Coleader.co
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    20 mins
  • Episode 123: Youth Ministry Q&A Hacks

    Episode 123: Youth Ministry Q&A Hacks
    Oct 4 2024
    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 Channel: https://ig.me/j/Ababaue99NXURdiv/ Check out Co-Leader! Coleader.co
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    58 mins
  • Episode 122: : 3 Things We Have Learned Through The Summer

    Episode 122: : 3 Things We Have Learned Through The Summer
    Sep 10 2024
    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 and experiences in youth ministry!

    Episode sponsor: xpscripture.com

    Join the YM Hacks Instagram Channel: https://ig.me/j/Ababaue99NXURdiv/

    Check out Coleader Youth Ministry Curriculum! Coleader.co
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    51 mins
  • Episode 121: Hacks On Seasonal Approach To Ministry

    Episode 121: Hacks On Seasonal Approach To Ministry
    May 1 2024
    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:
    MessageBible.com

    Join the YM Hacks Instagram Channel:
    https://ig.me/j/Ababaue99NXURdiv/

    Check out Coeader Curriculum!
    Coleader.co
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    25 mins