Episodes

  • Episode 43: More Than Words - The Impact of Simply Being Present

    Episode 43: More Than Words - The Impact of Simply Being Present
    Apr 22 2025
    Summary:In this episode of the Youth Ministry Soul Keeper Podcast, hosts James and Todd discuss the importance of presence and listening in youth ministry. The conversation highlights the power of being present for others, the significance of listening without interruption, and the role of coaching in helping youth leaders grow. Takeaways:If you're not stealing stuff from other youth ministries, you're not even trying.The deeper the hurt, the fewer the words.Listening will be the best thing you ever do.The best gift we give someone is our ears.You can be mad at God, but you can't stay there.Being intentionally under programmedPresence is everything.Trust the scriptures, trust God.Show Notes:EDGE Neon Nights Program Guide:https://docs.google.com/document/d/17RuQfAo7limDlSz-knMyZw8rf7w3a1R2/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114283713636819761122&rtpof=true&sd=trueADAM KEEHN FOUNDATIONhttps://adamkeehnfoundation.com/Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Instagram EDGE Students - https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Youtube EDGE Students - https://www.youtube.com/@MinistryEDGEYouthConnect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    34 mins
  • Episode 42: The Legacy of Adam Keene - A Father's Journey

    Episode 42: The Legacy of Adam Keene - A Father's Journey
    Mar 28 2025
    SummaryIn this episode of the Youth Ministry Soul Keeper Podcast, hosts James Sabin and Todd Pearage welcome guest Dave Keehn, who shares his profound journey through grief and faith after the sudden loss of his son, Adam. Dave discusses Adam's transformation from a struggling youth to a passionate youth pastor and the establishment of the Adam Keehn Foundation, aimed at supporting new youth pastors. The conversation delves into the challenges of ministry, the importance of community support during grief, and the opportunities for involvement in coaching within youth ministry. The Adam Keen Foundation is a resource for young youth pastors, offering grants, coaching, and a supportive network.Takeaways Dave Keene shares his journey from youth pastor to professor.The Adam Keene Foundation supports new youth pastors.Grief can challenge one's faith in profound ways.Community support is crucial during times of loss.Authenticity in grief is important for healing.Coaching can significantly impact youth ministry development.The foundation aims to equip youth pastors with resources.It's okay to have doubts and question God during tough times.The Adam Keen Foundation offers grants and coaching opportunities.Community and mentorship are essential for success in ministry.Show NotesADAM KEEHN FOUNDATIONhttps://adamkeehnfoundation.com/Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Instagram EDGE Students - https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Youtube EDGE Students - https://www.youtube.com/@MinistryEDGEYouthConnect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    38 mins
  • Episode 41: The Importance of Follow-Up (Part 2)

    Episode 41: The Importance of Follow-Up (Part 2)
    Feb 21 2025
    SummaryIn this conversation, James and Todd discuss effective strategies for youth ministry, focusing on the importance of follow-up with newcomers, creating a welcoming environment, and building personal connections. They emphasize the significance of incentivizing attendance, and the role of discipleship in fostering a strong community. Budgeting and resource management are also highlighted as key elements for successful youth programs. Takeaways Follow-up is a crucial ministry, not just a retention plan. Creating a welcoming environment encourages newcomers to return. Personal connections with youth are essential for effective ministry. Incentivizing attendance can significantly improve retention rates. Discipleship should be at the core of youth ministry efforts. Budgeting for youth programs is necessary for sustainability. Start small and be intentional in your approach to follow-up. Celebrate attendance milestones to foster a sense of belonging. Utilize creative resources to enhance youth engagement. Encourage open communication and feedback from youth and leaders.Show Notes Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Instagram EDGE Students - https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Youtube EDGE Students - https://www.youtube.com/@MinistryEDGEYouthConnect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    33 mins
  • Episode 40: The Importance of Follow-Up (Part 1)

    Episode 40: The Importance of Follow-Up (Part 1)
    Feb 12 2025
    In this episode of the Youth Ministry Soul Keeper podcast, hosts James Sabin and Todd Pearage discuss the significance of follow-up ministry. They emphasize the importance of making youth feel valued and connected, sharing personal experiences and strategies for effective follow-up. The conversation also touches on measuring success through numbers and transformational stories, encouraging youth leaders to start small and be consistent in their efforts to engage with students. Takeaways Follow-up is essential for making youth feel valued. Numbers can provide insight but are not the whole story. Starting small and being consistent is key to effective follow-up. Creating a welcoming environment begins in the parking lot. Follow-up helps youth feel they belong to a community. Transformational stories are a testament to effective ministry. Engagement through follow-up can lead to increased attendance. Utilizing social media can enhance follow-up efforts. Building relationships is crucial for youth retention. Every youth leader can develop a follow-up strategy that works for them.Show Notes Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Instagram EDGE Students - https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Youtube EDGE Students - https://www.youtube.com/@MinistryEDGEYouthConnect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    27 mins
  • Episode 39: You Don't Have To Know

    Episode 39: You Don't Have To Know
    Dec 30 2024
    In this episode of the Youth Ministry Soul Keeper Podcast, hosts James Sabin and Todd Pearage announce the upcoming Youth Leader Summit, and share their favorite Christmas songs. They discuss the popular meme 'Mary, Did You Know?' and reflect on the balance between what we know and what remains unknown in our spiritual journeys. Through personal testimonies and insights from youth ministry, they emphasize the significance of being faithful servants of God, even when the outcomes are uncertain. The discussion also touches on practical aspects of youth ministry, sharing what works and how to encourage youth leaders during challenging times.TakeawaysThe Youth Leader Summit is a valuable retreat for networking and learning.The event includes great speakers and practical content for youth ministry.The hosts share their top five Christmas songs and the reasons behind their choices.Our response should be like Mary's: I'm the Lord's servant.We often don't know all the details of God's plan.God gives us sneak peeks into His work sometimes.Faithfulness in ministry is crucial, even when results are unclear.We serve an amazing God who works behind the scenes.Youth leaders should remain faithful despite challenges.Show Notes Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Connect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    28 mins
  • Episode 38: Thank You

    Episode 38: Thank You
    Dec 17 2024
    In this episode of the Youth Ministry Soul Keeper Podcast, hosts James and Todd discuss the intersection of family and ministry during the Christmas season. They share personal experiences and insights about the importance of appreciation in youth ministry, highlighting stories of gratitude from past students. The conversation emphasizes the significance of small, consistent actions in making a lasting impact on youth.TakeawaysAppreciation is vital for youth leaders.Small acts can have a big impact on youth.Networking with other youth leaders is beneficial.Thank yous are rare but meaningful.Consistency in ministry leads to lasting influence. It's the little consistent things that matter.Show Notes Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Connect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    28 mins
  • Episode 37: Take Some Time

    Episode 37: Take Some Time
    Nov 7 2024
    Summary: James and Todd talk about the importance of taking breaks and finding time for spiritual renewal amidst the demands of youth ministry. They share personal experiences from recent events, including a father-son camp and a trip to Scotland, emphasizing the need for self-care and intentional rest. The conversation highlights practical tips for integrating breaks into ministry life, the counterintuitive nature of rest, and resources available for spiritual retreats.Show Takeaways Taking breaks is essential for youth leaders' well-being. We are human beings, not just human doers. Creating rhythms in life helps prevent burnout. Spiritual renewal can come from recreational activities. It's important to reconnect with God regularly. Taking a break requires faith and courage. Youth leaders should not feel guilty for taking time off. Family time can be integrated into ministry activities. Small, inexpensive activities can provide significant rest. Planning for breaks is crucial for long-term sustainability. Show Notes Connect With The Show:Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.coFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8wTwitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeperConnect with James:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessabin13/ / https://www.instagram.com/edgestudentministries/Connect with Todd:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearageInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearageWe would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.comCheck Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.coSign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/joinGet help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.comYouth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben EddyInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    30 mins
  • Episode 36 - How to Agree to Disagree

    Episode 36 - How to Agree to Disagree
    Sep 29 2024
    In this episode of the Youth Ministry Soul Keeper Podcast, hosts James and Todd reflect on their summer family and ministry experiences. They delve into the current polarized culture, emphasizing the need for youth leaders to navigate political discussions with grace and kindness. The conversation highlights the significance of modeling love and acceptance, creating a safe environment for youth to express themselves, and the necessity of conflict resolution in ministry. The episode concludes with encouragement for youth leaders to embrace their roles with compassion and understanding.

















    Connect With The Show:
    • Webpage - https://ymsoulkeeper.carrd.co
    • sFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088943467640&sk=followers
    • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/
    • Youtube (watch pod vids here) - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIqvY3ftXO8-8poUuRYUZ8w
    • Twitter - https://twitter.com/YMSoulKeeper
    Connect with James:




    • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ymsoulkeeper/
    Connect with Todd:




    • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/toddpearage
    • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage/
    • Twitter - https://twitter.com/toddpearage











    We would love to hear from you with questions and comments at the following email: ymsoulkeeper@gmail.com


    Check Out Coleader and plan your next month of ministry in just one click - https://www.coleader.co
    Sign-up for Coleader here: https://share.coleader.co/SikZuk/join

    Get help with the weekly grind with the help of Download Youth Ministry here - https://www.downloadyouthministry.com

    Youth Leader Summit Conferences: https://www.youthleadersummit.com/

    Connect with Guest Co-Host - Eben Eddy
    • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ebeneddy/
    • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/eben.eddy
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    35 mins