Embrace the Awkward Podcast

Summer can either be a season of ministry growth or a season where everything slows to a halt. In Episode 106, Kyle and Mike discuss practical ways youth workers can build and maintain momentum during the summer months. From creating meaningful events and discipleship opportunities to balancing rest, relationships, and ministry, they share what has worked in their own contexts and how to keep students engaged when school is out. Whether you're planning camps, hangouts, mission trips, or simpl...

Last episode, we opened the door to the world of gaming. This episode, we step into it. If video games are a massive part of student culture, how do we actually use that in ministry? We’re getting practical—sharing how to start, structure, and lead a video game ministry in your context. From creating connection points to building community and discipling students in a digital space, this is all about turning gaming into a meaningful ministry tool. It’s an uncharted mission field… but one wort...

Are video games ruining students… or are we missing one of the biggest ministry opportunities right in front of us? In this episode, we dive into the good, the bad, and the complicated world of gaming culture. From screen time concerns to connection, community, and influence, we unpack why video games are such a huge part of students’ lives and why youth workers can’t afford to ignore it. Instead of fearing it, what if we learned how to understand it and even use it as a tool for ministry? Le...

In this episode, Mike and Kyle are joined by AJ from The Gathering — a young, passionate youth pastor who has some cool things happening in his ministry. AJ shares how he’s intentionally building a youth ministry culture that fosters both authentic worship and real community. From creating environments where students feel safe to engage with God, to building relationships that actually last beyond youth group nights, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and honest ministry talk. ...

Is Wednesday night still king… or is Sunday night (or another night entirely) the better move for youth ministry? In Episode 102, Mike and Kyle jump into one of the most debated topics in youth ministry programming: What night of the week actually works best? From tradition and volunteer availability to student schedules, sports, church culture, and family rhythms — we break down the real pros and cons of Wednesday nights, Sunday nights, and even alternative options. We also talk about how ...

After more than a year away, Embrace the Awkward is officially back for Season 2. And yes… things look a little different. DJ is out as co-host, Mike is in and we decided the only right way to handle it was to fully embrace the awkward. (No, you will not actually see DJ get fired live… sorry to disappoint). In this relaunch episode, we’re being fully transparent. We talk about where Kyle and DJ have been over the last year, introduce you to Big Mike, and share what you can expect from the fu...

Let's face it. Small groups can be pretty tough. Sometimes it can seem like no-one is listen... or maybe worse, they just don't like you. MOST OF THE TIME, these things aren't true. But you don't have lead small groups with students long before you face your own potential horror story. In this episode, DJ and Kyle share a few of their horror stories from over the years; some more minor, some... well, you'll hear for yourself.

Social media is an incredible tool, but if we are being honest, we wish our socials were better. Even if you only have instagram, it is worth evaluating, and in this episode, we help you not only start to evaluate how your social media is doing, but we also give some tips and tricks on how to have a better social media for your ministry!

Are games going away in youth ministry? In recent years, playing games has fallen under controversy. Should you still be playing games and having a fun loaded youth ministry? Kyle and DJ address the topic head on in this episode. What do you think? Let us know on our instagram at @theetapodcast!

In the last episode, Kyle interviewed DJ about his new job and about his process of leaving his last church. In this episode, DJ and Kyle give practice tips and tricks to help you handle the awkward season of a job transition well!

Why are youth workers leaving so fast? No career choice is immune to the great resignation. In this three part series, Kyle and DJ talk about why youth workers are leaving, how to leave well, and some big news from DJ! God will never leave you nor forsake you, but your youth pastor? They’ll be gone before you graduate.