We’ve all said it.

“We want our students to grow.”

“We’re about depth, not hype.”

“Parents are the primary disciple-makers.”

“Volunteers are essential.”

But if you don’t have a plan to make it happen, it’s not a conviction—it’s a catchphrase.

In this episode, John and Ian unpack the problem with shallow ministry language that sounds spiritual but lacks substance. From overused phrases to borrowed buzzwords, we examine how student pastors can fall into the trap of repeating truths without building toward them.

This conversation challenges you to ask deeper questions:

• What does student growth actually look like in your ministry?

• Where does it show up in your calendar, your teaching, and your systems?

• Are you equipping parents and volunteers—or just talking like you are?

It’s time to move from catchy to convictional.

From slogans to strategy.

From surface to substance.

Listen now and take the next step toward intentional student discipleship.

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How do you keep your heart soft when students you poured into walk away from the faith?

In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian have a raw, pastoral conversation about the deep grief many student pastors carry, especially when students who once seemed “all in” lose their way. They talk through the emotional weight of those moments, how to grieve well, and how to keep showing up with hope instead of bitterness.

This isn’t about blaming ourselves or others. It’s about guarding our hearts with the truth of God’s Word and staying faithful to the call, even when the fruit is hard to see.

Inside the Episode

• Why it hurts so deeply when students walk away

• Paul’s example of grieving without giving up

• Why emotional maturity matters in ministry

• You are not the hero—God brings the growth

• Questions to ask when the grief feels heavy

• How to walk in hope, not cynicism

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What if discipleship was never meant to be one size fits all?

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Howell—a pastor, doctoral researcher, ropes course trainer, and 20-year student ministry veteran—to talk about what it really looks like to disciple neurodivergent students. From ADHD to autism and everything in between, Daniel offers honest insights from both his personal journey and years of ministry experience.

We cover:

• What youth pastors need to understand about neurodivergent students

• Why traditional age-graded ministry often falls short

• How to spot common traits and red flags

• Misconceptions that lead to ministry mistakes

• How to connect, disciple, and empower students with ADHD or on the autism spectrum

• Why every ministry should think more intentionally about neurodivergent inclusion

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence

00:52 Understanding Neurodivergence in Ministry

06:52 Defining Neurodivergence and Its Impact

12:13 Common Traits of Neurodivergent Students

13:04 Understanding ADHD and Autism in Students

15:17 The Importance of Consistency for Neurodivergent Students

17:29 Connecting with Autistic Students

21:26 Misconceptions About Neurodivergent Students

31:02 Embracing Unique Gifts in Neurodivergence

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed or under-equipped to lead students who don’t fit the mold. Let’s move from surviving awkward moments to creating intentional, Christ-centered connection.