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The Youth Group Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jul 16, 2025 • 43min

You need to think about AI in Youth Ministry (with Ed Sowden)

The lives of teenagers are going to be profoundly changed by AI. What role does youth ministry have to play in discipling youth as they engage with AI?Tom and Ed Sowden chat about AI. It's promises and dangers, and how to help youth navigate the new realities of AI.The Search Engine Episode Tom was talking about: https://www.searchengine.show/playboi-farti-and-his-ai-homework-machine/Made In Our Image, the book: https://matthiasmedia.com.au/products/made-in-our-image?variant=41331889569878Send us your questions, suggests, and thoughts on AI: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastFind more from Tom at https://tomfrench.com.au. AI made us a boring summary:In this episode of the Youth Group podcast, hosts Tom and Ed dive into the ethical considerations surrounding AI, particularly focusing on its impact on young people. They explore the rapid adoption of AI technologies, the moral implications of AI's creative capabilities, and the potential for AI to replace human interaction and even spiritual connections. Join them as they discuss the importance of maintaining a human-centered approach in ministry and the need for discernment in navigating AI's role in our lives. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
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Jul 11, 2025 • 43min

Game Architecture, Psalm Emotions, and Term 2 Highlights

Lauren, Alex, and Tim reflect on the term that has been and look forward to what is coming up.If you have a question, or suggestion, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastFind Tim's other podcast, Family Perspectives here: https://www.trinitycity.church/resources/podcasts/AI Made us a Description:Join Lauren, Alex, and Tim as they dive into the highs and lows of youth group leadership. From the chaos of youth camps to the reflective moments in the Psalms, this episode is packed with insights and stories. Discover how youth leaders across Australia are navigating challenges and celebrating victories in their ministries.
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4 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 1h 1min

Pancakes, Balloon Stomping, and Making Youth Join In (Reupload)

This episode dives into playful youth group adventures, from pancake parties to balloon stomping. The hosts share hilarious myths and quirky local legends, bringing a fun twist to community traditions. They address the importance of inclusivity in games, ensuring everyone feels welcome. A whimsical discussion on fast food prices adds a lighthearted touch. Personal stories about leadership challenges and a new car lead to reflections on youth engagement, emphasizing connections built through shared activities.
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Jun 25, 2025 • 38min

Sea Pigs, the Gospel Chain, and Youth Praying Together (with Chris Morphew)

Chris Morphew is back to talk about camps, youth group, and returning to a youth group left. Tom's youth group ate dinner and had prayer workshops.If you have a question, or thoughts on pancakes and youth ministry, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastFind more from Tom at https://tomfrench.com.au. Find Chris's stuff at https://chrismorphew.comAI made us a boring summary:In this episode of the Youth Group podcast, hosts Tom French and Chris Morphew engage in a lively discussion about their recent experiences in youth ministry. They share insights from various youth group visits, including a camp called Sea Pigs, and reflect on the importance of creating inviting spaces for youth. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of youth groups, the impact of mentorship, and the significance of prayer in building community. Tom shares updates from his own youth group, highlighting the challenges and joys of leading young people in their faith journeys. The episode concludes with thoughts on the ongoing chain of faith and mentorship that connects generations of believers.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 47min

Politics in Youth Ministry, Dating Your Sibilings, and Dungeons and Dragons

Tim's youth played Dungeons on Dragons and pretended to be at McDonalds. Tom's youth group combined with other youth groups.The Coles and Woolies mud cake is $6.60.Matthew Dicks on the Knowledge Project can be found here: https://fs.blog/knowledge-project-podcast/matthew-dicks/If you have a question, or thoughts on politics and youth ministry, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastFind more from Tom at https://tomfrench.com.au. Find Tim's other podcast, Family Perspectives here: https://www.trinitycity.church/resources/podcasts/AI made us a boring summary:In this conversation, Tim Blagg shares insights from his experiences in youth ministry, discussing the dynamics of engaging youth through creative activities, the importance of church family, and reflections on leadership and preparation. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating relationships within a church context and the significance of community building during combined youth events. In this conversation, Tom French and Tim Blagg discuss various aspects of youth ministry, including engaging activities, the significance of the Apostles' Creed, the role of politics in youth discussions, and the importance of storytelling in preaching. They reflect on combined youth events and share insights on how to navigate sensitive topics while fostering a supportive community for young people.
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Jun 11, 2025 • 48min

The Nerdiest Niche Game You've Ever Heard Of, False Teaching, and Vegan Dinosaurs

Tim's youth group played a creative and very niche game, and talked about 1 Timothy. Tom's group had dinner, and talked about prayer.If you have a question, or insight into the price of cake, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastFind more from Tom at https://tomfrench.com.au. Find Tim's other podcast, Family Perspectives here: https://www.trinitycity.church/resources/podcasts/AI made us a boring summary:In this episode of the Youth Group Podcast, hosts Tom French and Tim Blagg engage in a light-hearted discussion about dinosaurs, leading into a deeper conversation about youth group activities. They explore a unique game based on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, highlighting the educational aspects of youth ministry. The conversation transitions to Bible talks, focusing on the importance of recognizing false teachings in contemporary society, and how youth can be equipped to discern these teachings. In this conversation, Tim Blagg and Tom French discuss various aspects of youth group dynamics, including the challenges of identifying false teachings, the importance of engaging small groups, and the significance of shared meals. They reflect on their experiences with youth activities, addressing questions from the youth, and the integration of technology like AI into their discussions. The conversation also touches on the structure of prayer within youth groups and the adjustments made to youth group timings. Personal anecdotes, such as Tom's car buying journey, add a relatable touch to the discussion, while they also look forward to upcoming activities and themes in their youth groups.
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Jun 4, 2025 • 41min

Ready, Steady, Cook, a Feast Frenzy, and Listener Complaints

Alex's youth group did Ready, Steady, Cook and learnt about Mary and Martha. Tom's youth had a feast frenzy and didn't talk much about Zacchaeus. If you have a question, suggestion, or slow cooker recipe, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comFollow Alex's Youth Group here: https://www.instagram.com/darebinpresbyterianyouth/ Find more of Tom's stuff here: https://tomfrench.com.auGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastAI made an episode summary for us:In this episode of the Youth Group Podcast, hosts Tom French and Alex Sheely discuss their recent youth group activities, including a successful cooking night themed around Ready Steady Cook. They reflect on the importance of community, food, and faith in youth group settings, sharing insights from their experiences and the youth's perspectives. Tom also shares a unique activity called Feast Frenzy, where youth teams created meals using a budget, emphasizing teamwork and creativity. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of engaging youth in faith-based activities. In this episode, Tom and Alex discuss the dynamics of a recent cooking challenge among youth groups, reflecting on the judging criteria and the creativity displayed by different teams. They share insights from their experiences with youth church, emphasizing the importance of community and engagement. The conversation also touches on practical tips for youth leaders, including slow cooker recipes and upcoming events, highlighting the joys and challenges of youth ministry.
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May 28, 2025 • 37min

Psalm Pslam, a Talent Show, and a Listener Complains

Lauren's youth group did a Psalm Pslam and looked at Psalm 42. Tom's youth group had a talent night. An angry listener emailed us... twice.If you have a question, suggestion, or amazing youth ministry story, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastAI made an episode summary for us:In this episode of the Youth Group podcast, Tom French and Lauren Mahaffey discuss their experiences in youth ministry, focusing on creative teaching methods, engaging activities, and the importance of fostering a supportive community among youth. They share insights on their recent youth group activities, including a workshop on the Psalms, a fun 'psalm pslam' rap battle, and the transition from serving tea to hot chocolate. The conversation highlights the significance of encouraging youth to read Christian literature and the challenges of maintaining engagement in a fast-paced environment. In this conversation, Tom and Lauren discuss the complexities of motivation and reward, particularly in the context of youth ministry. They explore Psalm 42, emphasizing the importance of questioning faith and the role of community in spiritual struggles. The discussion highlights the nuanced understanding of faith, especially for young people, and reflects on recent youth group activities, including a talent night that encouraged youth expression and engagement. They also address feedback from listeners, showcasing the importance of communication and improvement in their ministry efforts.
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May 21, 2025 • 51min

Women in Ministry, Losing a Kid on Camp, and VCYC

The hosts dive into the complexities of women in ministry, discussing various scriptural interpretations and cultural contexts. They share hilarious camp stories, notably the chaos of losing a kid during a retreat. Personal anecdotes about the struggles of bedtime at camp lead to laughter and relatability. They celebrate youth creativity with a fun shopping game, and talk about stylish new hoodies and beanies designed by the group, reflecting their sense of community and identity.
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May 14, 2025 • 53min

Limbo, Youth Group Merch, and Syncing Youth Teaching with Whole Church Teaching

The hosts share a lively recount of their youth groups' milestones and unique challenges, including humorous mishaps with insurance claims. They delve into the significance of engaging youth through biblical stories and fun activities, like a game called 'Paradox'. The duo explores the excitement of new merchandise, including stylish hoodies, while reflecting on the vibrant atmosphere of their newly updated venue. Their conversation highlights the importance of community involvement and balancing spiritual growth with relatable youth activities.

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