

The Youth Group Podcast
A Bunch of Youth Pastors
A bunch of youth pastors talk about their youth groups to help you think about yours. It's for youth leaders. It's for youth pastors. It's for youth group enthusiasts (that's a thing right?).
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 11, 2025 β’ 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.

Jun 4, 2025 β’ 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.

May 28, 2025 β’ 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.

May 21, 2025 β’ 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.

May 14, 2025 β’ 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.

May 7, 2025 β’ 40min
Star Wars, Bunnings, the Fat King, and Regular Bible Reading
The hosts share hilarious stories from a recent Bunnings/Star Wars game and reflect on their youth group's antics, including Nerf wars. They discuss the biblical lessons from Ehud and a fat king, emphasizing faith in tackling life's challenges. Leadership and planning in youth ministry are explored, alongside engaging discussions that fuse scripture with pop culture. A humorous shopping misunderstanding adds a lighthearted touch, showcasing the importance of community connection and trust.

Apr 23, 2025 β’ 57min
The Theological Youth Group (with Mike McGarry from Youth Pastor Theologian)
Mike McGarry, author of A Biblical Theology of Youth Ministry, joins Tom to talk about how to run a youth group that is theological without being boring. Mike is also our first ever international guest, which means we're really in the big leagues now.If you have a question, suggestion, or just want to make us feel better about ourselves, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastYou can find more from Tom at https://tomfrench.com.au. You can find more from Mike at https://youthpastortheologian.com/. You can order his new book from Emperor Bezos at https://www.amazon.com.au/Iconic-Reflecting-Gods-Image-World/dp/1645075133AI made an episode summary for us:In this episode of the Youth Group Podcast, Tom French and Mike McGarry discuss the intricacies of youth ministry, focusing on the importance of theological depth, engaging students' questions, and creating a fun and meaningful environment for young people. Mike shares his journey into youth ministry, the structure of his programs, and the significance of teaching theology in a way that resonates with youth. They also explore cultural differences in youth ministry practices and the upcoming release of Mike's new book, 'Iconic', which addresses the doctrine of the image of God.

Apr 16, 2025 β’ 49min
The Best Books, Podcasts, Movies, and TV Shows for Your Youth Ministry
Tim and Tom chatted about the best books, podcasts, movies, and TV shows for your youth ministry, just like the title says. Full list of the resources mentioned down below.If you have a question, suggestion, or more resources for us to check out, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastYou can find the previous best books episode here: https://share.transistor.fm/s/98b383c0AI made an episode summary for us:Tom and Tim share their favourite books, podcasts, films, and shows to help you grow as a youth leader and better understand the teenage world. From theology for teens to stand-up comedy that sparks ministry reflection, there's something here for everyone. Perfect listening for your youth group break or whenever you need fresh inspiration.π BOOKS & BOOK SERIESLittle Black Books β Scott PettyFollowing Jesus When Life Feels Complicated β Chris MorphewWhy Am I Feeling Like This? β David MurrayWhy Is My Teenager Feeling Like This? β David Murray3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager β Kara Powell, Brad Griffin, Kristel AcevedoFaith Beyond Youth Group β Jen Bradbury, Brad Griffin, Heather FliesThis Changes Everything β Jaquelle CroweMore to the Story β Jennifer M. KvammeKnowing God's Truth β Jon NielsonDemons β Michael S. HeiserThe Unseen Realm β Michael S. HeiserSticky Faith β Kara Powell, Chap ClarkGrowing Young β Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, Brad GriffinYour Story (Key Findings) β Graham Stanton & Rowan LewisThe Art of Group Talk: Teenage Guys β Jeremy Zach, Tom Shefchunas and Brett Talley The Art of Group Talk: Teenage Girls β Ashley Bohinc and Crystal ChiangA Biblical Theology of Youth Ministry β Michael McGarryLead Them to Jesus β Mike McGarryπ§ PODCASTSYouth Pastor Theologian β Mike McGarryQuestions You're Not Asking β Tom French & Chris Morphewπ¬ FILMS, TV & VIDEO PROJECTSEighth Grade (2018) β Directed by Bo BurnhamJames Acaster: Hecklers WelcomeInside Out 2 β PixarSocial Studies β Disney+Adolescence β NetflixLUMO Project Gospel FilmsThe Chosen β Angel StudiosHouse of David β Amazon Studios

Apr 9, 2025 β’ 28min
Hot Cross Bun Competition, Intergrating Youth into Church, and Navigating Demographic Changes
Alex's youth group had a hot cross bun bracket competition and kept talking about Luke. Lauren's crew slightly changed a game to not be offensive and finished off Galatians.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, Lauren and Alex discuss their experiences leading youth groups, particularly focusing on Easter celebrations, community engagement, and the importance of inclusivity. They reflect on the growth of their youth groups, the challenges of transitioning younger members into church services, and the significance of creating memorable experiences for the youth. The conversation also touches on future plans for the youth group, including upcoming camps and activities designed to foster spiritual growth and community involvement.

Apr 2, 2025 β’ 46min
Shark Tank, Building a Culture of Supportive Leadership, and Youth Prayer (with Jocelyn Bignill)
Jocelyn Bignill from All Saints, Petersham joined to share about her youth group, and their culture of prayer and leadership support. Tom's youth group had a night about the future and Shark Tank.If you have a question, suggestion, or amazing youth ministry story, email us: hello@youthgrouppodcast.comGet more podcast resources at https://tomfrench.com.au/youthgrouppodcastFind more from Tom at https://tomfrench.com.au. You can listen to more Jocelyn on the Centre for Christian Living Podcast (Episode 136) https://ccl.moore.edu.au/podcasts/AI made us an episode summary:In this episode of the Youth Group podcast, Tom French and Jocelyn Bignall discuss various aspects of youth ministry, including the structure of youth group meetings, the importance of prayer, and the integration of youth and kids ministry. They share insights on engaging youth with biblical teachings, the dynamics of youth group activities, and the significance of community celebrations within the church. The conversation also touches on the challenges and joys of leading youth, as well as the importance of aligning teachings across different age groups. In this conversation, Jocelyn and Tom discuss various strategies and experiences in youth ministry, focusing on effective leadership, engaging discussions, and fostering a supportive environment for both leaders and youth. They explore innovative approaches to youth engagement, the importance of prayer, and the dynamics of youth group interactions. The conversation emphasizes the significance of creating a culture of leadership and the impact of shared experiences on youth perspectives regarding the future.


