Summer camp is not just a spiritual high point. It is a strategic opportunity for gospel impact. In this episode, John and Ian walk through what it means to lead students well before, during, and after camp. From setting expectations to creating margin, they share hard-earned wisdom for making the most of camp season.

They also dive into one of the most debated questions in student ministry: Should we baptize students at camp? You will hear their honest conversation on timing, accountability, and local church connection when it comes to responding to salvation decisions.

What we cover:

• How to plan for discipleship, not just hype

• What to prioritize before the bus ever leaves

• Leading your team well while at camp

• Making follow up a strategy, not an afterthought

• What to consider before saying yes to camp baptisms

Listen in and equip yourself to lead camp season with intention and clarity.

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Welcome to Season 2, Episode 4 of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast — where we believe every student pastor should get better, not just busier.

In this episode, Ian and John unpack what it means to be a tone-setting leader. What kind of atmosphere do you create when you walk into a room? How do you influence your team’s energy, your students’ sense of belonging, and your ministry’s culture over time?

Whether you lead with boldness or quiet strength, this episode is for you. We’ll help you shift from reactive leadership to intentional influence—because student ministry doesn’t just need good vibes, it needs godly leaders who lead on purpose.

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Your lesson is prepped, your leaders are ready, the snacks are out… but the students? Scattered. Travel ball, AP homework, rehearsals—and let’s be real, some just don’t show.

In this episode, John and Ian dive into one of the most relatable challenges in student ministry: how to disciple students in a culture of inconsistent attendance. You’ll walk away with ideas to shift your mindset, refocus your strategy, and stop equating faithfulness with full rooms.

Topics include:

• Why showing up isn’t the only metric for success

• What it looks like to redefine the win

• How to disciple students when schedules get in the way

• Building intentional rhythms and micro-connections

• Why Jesus wouldn’t panic about your numbers (and neither should you)

Grab your 2-week free trial of the SSM Community and get access to exclusive content, Touchpoints, and leadership cohorts:

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Also, check out our curriculum at: https://shapingstudentministry.com/lines