PCA NextGen

What does it take to stay in youth ministry for decades? In this episode, Matt and Lara talk with Pat Rolleston of New City Fellowship in Chattanooga about ministry longevity, discipleship, cross-cultural outreach, and building systems that help students truly belong in the life of the church. Pat shares his remarkable testimony, lessons from nearly 40 years in ministry, insights from Young Life a...

In a world where youth ministry often feels isolating and frantic, Isaac Terwilleger reveals the secrets to building lasting, Christ-centered relationships that transform lives—both for teens and leaders alike. What if the key to impactful youth ministry isn’t just what we do, but how deeply we connect—and stay connected—over the long haul? Isaac, a seasoned youth director and facilitator for the...

Join Mikey and Matt as they discuss the power of authentic relationships in youth ministry with guest, Paul Kangas, a PCA Ruling Elder with a diverse career and deep faith, shares how his journey—from art to law enforcement to church leadership—has shaped his understanding of shepherding the next generation.

Most church leaders and youth workers overlook the profound power of lament — but what if embracing sadness could transform your ministry and deepen kids’ faith? In this episode, Liz Edrington, the associate director of care at McLean Presbyterian Church and author of Anxiety: Finding the Better Story a Devotional for Teens , shares practical strategies for creating space for grief, lament, and jo...

Veteran youth pastor Danny Kwon joins Matt Hedinger and Mikey Puckett to reflect on 29 years in youth ministry, what it takes to stay faithful long-term, and his new book. The conversation explores mental health in teenagers, the role of the church in crisis care, and how gospel hope and practical wisdom come together in real ministry settings. Danny and his wife, Monica (a trained counselor and p...

What keeps young people rooted in the church? Matt and Mikey are joined by Heather Dirkse from Teach Us to Worship for a powerful conversation on worship, belonging, and why relationships matter more than entertainment when discipling the next generation. They discuss how churches can help children and students know they are a vital part of the body of Christ, how worship forms hearts over time, a...

What helps youth workers stay in ministry long-term? In this episode, Brad Robson joins the PCA NextGen Podcast to share his story, his heart for student ministry, and what has sustained him through 15+ years of ministry leadership. The guys discuss healthy church culture, relationships with senior leadership, adapting ministry over time, and why sometimes you shouldn’t be afraid to end programs t...

In this episode of the PCA Next Gen Podcast, we welcome Robert Row from See Jesus Ministries for a conversation about helping students move beyond head knowledge into a real love for Jesus. Robert shares how God transformed his own ministry philosophy and why discipleship must be centered not only on truth, but on the person of Christ. We discuss interactive teaching, student leadership, faith tha...

What if grace is not just the message of ministry… but the fuel for it? In this episode of the PCA NextGen Podcast, Matt Hedinger and Mikey Puckett step away from interviews and return to the heart of youth ministry: the gospel of grace. From hilarious stories about getting hit in the head with American cheese during middle school youth group, to deep reflections on weakness, leadership, repentanc...

In this episode of the PCA NextGen Podcast, we welcome veteran youth ministry leader Steve Dallwig for a rich conversation on calling, discipleship, longevity, and investing in the next generation. Steve reflects on how youth group shaped his own faith journey, the mentors who impacted his life, and the lessons learned from serving nearly three decades in one church. We discuss why long-term minis...

In this episode of the PCA NextGen Live podcast, the hosts engage in a lively discussion with Brown Peterson, a youth pastor and discipleship leader at Trinity Presbyterian Church. They explore Brown's journey into youth ministry, the importance of community and relationships in ministry, and the role of events like Southland camps in fostering discipleship. The conversation also touches on the dy...

In this engaging conversation, Matt , Mikey, and Todd Veleber discuss the intricacies of youth ministry, sharing personal anecdotes, insights on mentorship, and the importance of building relationships with students and parents. They explore the journey into ministry, the challenges faced, and the joys of serving the next generation. The discussion emphasizes the value of community, discipleship,...

In this engaging conversation, Tim Malone interviews Emilio Hood, a youth pastor at Christ Central Church in Durham, North Carolina. They discuss Emilio's journey into youth ministry, his passion for soccer, and the challenges and blessings he faces as a Hispanic pastor in the PCA denomination. Emilio shares insights on fostering cultural awareness, unity among diverse students, and the import...

In this engaging conversation, Matt Hedinger and Mikey Puckett explore the dynamics of youth ministry, discuss the importance of building community within diverse youth groups, creating a family atmosphere, and the critical role of prayer in fostering a supportive environment. The conversation also touches on practical resources and strategies for effective youth ministry, emphasizing the need for...

This season can feel like a marathon: fall kickoff, Christmas, then the grind of winter rolling straight into spring planning. In this episode, Mikey Puckett (Seven Rivers Church) and Tim Malone (Cornerstone Presbyterian) talk honestly about what it looks like to stay spiritually healthy in the middle of a packed youth ministry schedule —so you don’t feel like you’re ready to tap out. We get pract...

In this episode of the PCA Next Gen podcast, the hosts discuss the importance of recruiting volunteers for youth ministry, especially as the new year begins. They emphasize the need for a structured recruitment process, the significance of communicating a clear vision, and the value of diversity within volunteer teams. The conversation also touches on the role of prayer in ministry, the qualities...

In this Christmas wrap-up episode, Matt Hedinger, Mikey Puckett, and Tim Malone talk about what the end of the year really looks like in youth ministry. They share favorite Christmas party games (including the now-legendary Santa Dodgeball ), food traditions, White Elephant chaos, and why some classic ideas might be worth retiring. But more importantly, they reflect on rest, rhythm, and why youth...

In this post-Thanksgiving episode of the PCA Next Gen Podcast, Matt, Mikey, and Lara slow things down to reflect on gratitude, longevity, and why youth ministry matters more than we sometimes realize. From newborn babies and holiday chaos to decades-long relationships with former students, the team talks honestly about the moments that make youth ministry worth it—especially the quiet, unseen ones...

Matt Hedinger and Lara Jensen reflect on years of student ministry — from internships and inner-city work to burnout, rebuilding, and finding joy again. This honest conversation explores calling, identity, empowering students, and why faithfulness in the ordinary matters more than quick wins. If you’re tired, discouraged, or wondering what longevity in ministry really looks like, this episode is f...

In the latest episode of the PCA Next Gen Podcast, Mikey Puckett and Gianna Rakes dive deep into the unique challenges and joys of being involved in youth ministry while also juggling the responsibilities of parenthood. Gianna, youth director at New City Fellowship in Chattanooga ,TN, shares her personal journey, offering insights that resonate with many in similar positions.

Meetings, conferences, and the real work of student ministry: forming disciple-makers . Matt, Lara, and Mikey swap stories about “meetings that should’ve been an email,” how conferences refuel without becoming a comparison trap, and practical ways to equip students to serve (ushering, welcoming, tech, leading younger groups). Intergenerational ministry, the loneliness leaders feel, and the Good Sh...

Matt, Mikey, and Lara are back—laughing through budget season, and talking about how to help students live for Jesus in a world full of noise. Using Faith for Exiles as a framework, the team unpacks what cultural discernment really looks like for the next generation. From TV shows and pop songs to the deeper questions of what shapes our hearts, this one’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.

Mikey and Lara sit down with Tim Malone (Cornerstone Presbyterian, PA) to talk encouragement —how to give it, how to receive it, and why our identity in Christ matters more than weekly “results.” You’ll hear stories of student-led small groups, church prayer nights, and the surprising power of a handwritten “Barnabas note.” Practical ideas for encouraging your students , volunteers , and yourself...

In this episode of the PCA NextGen podcast, Mikey Puckett discusses the challenges and limits faced by leaders in youth ministry. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal limits, maintaining balance between ministry and family life, and the necessity of ongoing discipleship and community support. Mikey shares insights from Paul David Tripp's book 'Lead', highlighting how leaders can of...

Laughter, conference stories, and a needed reset: Matt, Lara, and Mikey talk instrument chaos, real friendship in ministry, and why your “Fellowship of the Ring” matters. Then they land in Acts 2:42–47—why shared life, prayer, meals, and honest friendship are ministry’s real fuel.