How do we guide the next generation when their world is digital, fast-changing, and often confusing for adults?
In this episode, Michael Easley sits down with sociologist Dr. Josh Packard to unpack the surprising truth: you don’t need to master every platform or trend to meaningfully influence teens. You need presence, curiosity, and listening.
Together they explore why today’s teens feel digitally confident yet relationally insecure, how this tension shapes their everyday lives, and what caring adults can do to build trust in a world full of noise. If you’re a parent, pastor, mentor, or leader investing in Gen Z or Gen Alpha, this conversation will reshape the way you think about discipleship and connection.
What You’ll Learn
- Why adults don’t need to “keep up” with technology to guide teens
- How the digital confidence vs. relational insecurity gap impacts students
- Why listening is often more powerful than teaching
- The shift from “truth → trust → time” to “time → trust → truth”
- Practical ways to engage the next generation with presence and consistency
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation
07:31 Understanding Generational Differences
13:16 The Role of Trust in Ministry
18:53 Sacred Listening and Relational Ministry
23:32 Growing Up Online: The Impact of Social Media
27:34 Navigating Teen Social Media Spaces
31:18 Understanding the Digital Generation
35:02 Curiosity Over Expertise in Youth Engagement
38:48 Building Trust Through Presence
43:00 Cognitive Dissonance in the Digital Age
47:57 The Challenge of Information Overload
52:15 The Power of Listening and Curiosity

Links Mentioned

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Influencing The Next Generation in a Digital World with Dr. Josh Packard