This is the episode that changes everything.

Shaping Student Ministry (SSM) and Youth Pastor Central (YPC) have merged into one unified network.

Why? Because student pastors need more than content—they need connection, coaching, and community. And now, you’ll get it all in one place.

In this episode, John, Ian, and Christopher walk through:

• Why we’re merging: What brought SSM and YPC together

• What changes for you (and what doesn’t): Access, content, cohorts, and more

• The new platform: A first look at our all-in-one coaching and resource ecosystem

• What’s coming next: Podcast expansions, resource drops, regional meetups, and a packed fall lineup.

Whether you’ve followed SSM for years or you’re a longtime member of YPC, this is the beginning of something brand new for all of us.

What you’ll get:

• A redesigned member experience

• One subscription that includes everything (yes, including Games on Games)

• National and regional cohorts

• A growing podcast network

• Access to exclusive curriculum and tools We’re not just joining forces. We’re building the future of student ministry leadership together.

Start your free trial: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/pricing-plans/checkout-1?planId=bdf7472e-3f3d-46f9-8d7e-08c08d9477fe&checkoutFlowId=d303b5ac-f322-4161-adc3-c73cda5fe9e3

What do you wish someone told you when you started in ministry?

In this episode, John Oliver is joined by Mark Santana from First Baptist Statesboro to reflect on the early days of leadership in the local church. From building trust with parents and volunteers to navigating expectations, they share honest lessons and encouragement for anyone just getting started or anyone guiding the next generation of leaders.

Whether you are leading students, adults, or your entire congregation, this conversation offers wisdom that reaches beyond youth ministry. Topics include:

• Why relational leadership always wins over performance pressure • What to prioritize in your first year that will actually last • The leadership rhythms that help you stay grounded • Real talk about failure, growth, and long term faithfulness

Watch now on YouTube Listen wherever you get your podcasts Connect with our growing community of leaders: https://shapingstudentministry.com

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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https://www.youtube.com/@ShapingStudentMinistry

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