Survival Guide for the Middle

Drew and Joel start a new series highlighting stories in the Bible that are often overlooked or not discussed. Listen to find out how a floating axe head can help us learn about the importance of prayer. They also discuss how a school in ancient Israel is similar to Charles Xavier's School of the Gift from X-Men, how Gideon is a good example for the purpose of prayer, and how a country song teache...

Survival Guide for the Middle is finally back, and joining Joel moving forward as co-host will be Drew Dawson. Drew is currently on staff at Elevate Christian Church here in Lexington, and has been one of the biggest ministry partners for LCA in helping during chapel services and other needs for Spiritual Life. Drew is married to Kayla and has two kids, Mikey and Luke, and we are excited to have h...

Joel kicks off a new series discussing various hot topics with students from his Biblical Worldview elective class. He interviews Carson Judd about the project he recently completed on Truth and Authority. This is a great listen for parents wanting to better understand their student and how they perceive life's biggest issues. 

The Resurrection of Jesus is the most important moment in history. In this short episode, Joel discusses three important lessons we can learn from this historical event.

Jesus is fully God and man who came down for one purpose, to redeem His people. This week, Joel discusses who Jesus is and why we can have confidence that He is who He said He was and did what He said He was going to do. 

This week Joel continues his "Foundational Truths" series and discusses the Bible and its role in forming a solid foundation for all believers.

In this week's episode, Joel discusses how the fundamental understanding of truth impacts our understanding of the Gospel. Jesus is the only one who can remove our sin.

This week Joel discusses how creation is an important foundational truth for students and parents to understand. When it comes to creation, focus on who God is and what He has done, rather than the gritty details that can turn into debates.

This week, Joel has a conversation with Matt Lee, Executive Director of Psalm 82:3 Mission, about how difficult it is to raise students that remain grateful in a culture that is always pushing for more. Matt talks about his experience working with overseas mission and shares personal stories that have helped shaped his humble approach to following Jesus.

This week, Joel is diving into Biblical Leadership with LCA 6th-8th Principal, Mr. Coleman Marshall! Don't miss out - tune in now to hear how you can implement this important value in your home.

Joel has a conversation with Marcus Schaeffer about helping a student read their Bible. They discuss the best place to start, different versions/translations and give practical tips for making reading the Bible a regular spiritual discipline. 

Joel sits down with LCA's School Resource Officer and discusses the drug epidemic that is facing students today. This episode is extremely important to help parents become aware of the trends that are facing their students. (We recommend that you do not allow your student to listen to this episode.)

Letting go of our kids can be one of the hardest things we do as parents — but helping them learn how to balance grace and truth can be so rewarding! This week, Joel is talking with Scott Hatfield, Minister and Lead Team, at Southland Christian Church, to explore how to do just that. Don't miss this special chat!

This week, Joel talks with Melody Ballard, LCA 6th-8th Technology Integration Specialist, about how to keep YOUR kids safe while using technology - from online bullying and the importance of thinking before you post, to safety measures and parental apps. We encourage parents with students of all ages to tune in for this must-listen advice!

This week Joel sits down with Zach Volz from Lakeside Christian Church (Lakeside Park, Kentucky) to tackle an important issue: helping a middle school student dealing with anxiety and depression. Join us for insights, advice, and tips on supporting students who may be struggling during this time in their lives.

This week our special guest, Mark Sullivan from White River Christian Church in Noblesville, Indiana, chats with Joel about raising boys to be Godly men. Hear some real-world wisdom and the tools to help boys become the best version of themselves!

This week Joel is talking with Lea Clark, LCA 6th-8th Asst. Principal and Nancy Jaeger, 6th-8th Guidance Counselor, about how to vet friendships.

This week, Joel sits down with Drew Dawson, Teaching & Discipleship Minister at Elevate Christian Church in Lexington, Kentucky, to share his insights on prioritizing faith as a family.

This week, Joel kicks off a new "How To!" series. First up, Brian Ray and his daughter EJ join Joel to discuss “How to Be a Successful Junior High Student & Parent.” We know junior high can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, students and parents can make it a successful journey.

It’s time for a new school year, and there’s no better way to kick it off than by tuning into the first episode of the “Survival Guide for the Middle” podcast for the 2023-24 school year! Get an overview of spiritual life activities for preschool to 12th-grade students, such as class retreats and two Spiritual Emphasis Weeks.

This episode features the third and final part of Joel's discussion with Zac Barnhart, LCA Preschool-Elementary Spiritual Life Director. They're talking about HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION - an exciting, yet intimidating milestone!

Join Joel for the second part of his conversation with Zac Barnhart, LCA Preschool-Elementary Spiritual Life Director. Zac shares his insights on transitioning from 8th grade to high school in this episode.

Are you and your student nervous about the 6th Grade Academy transition? We get it! Get some reassurance and advice from Zac Barnhart, LCA Preschool-Elementary Spiritual Life Director, as he joins Joel on the podcast this week!

In this episode, Joel talks to four of our 8th-grade students. Hear what they say about life in LCA Junior High--their favorite parts...and their not-so-favorite parts. Discover their thoughts on talking to their parents and social media - it's definitely a must-listen!