262. Guiding Kids Toward Identity, Belonging, and Purpose with Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute

262. Guiding Kids Toward Identity, Belonging, and Purpose with Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute

Author: Zach Garza & You Can Mentor: Faith-Based Mentoring for Churches, Non-Profits, Youth Ministers, and Teachers March 6, 2025 Duration: 45:07

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute explore the impact of mentoring teenagers, with a focus on identity, belonging, and purpose. Brad, drawing from his research at the Fuller Youth Institute, stresses the importance of genuine connections with young people and fostering safe environments where they can express their thoughts and emotions. The discussion underscores the value of trust, active listening, and guiding teens toward purpose through meaningful service and community engagement.

You can checkout Brad's book, Three Big Questions here. To get free resources or find out more information about Fuller Youth Institute, visit https://fulleryouthinstitute.com/.
--

Takeaways:

  • Mentoring is about listening to teenagers' questions.
  • Identity, belonging, and purpose are crucial for youth.
  • Building trust is essential in mentoring relationships.
  • Creating a safe space allows teens to be authentic.
  • Helping others gives teenagers a sense of purpose.
  • Mentors should not have an agenda when engaging with youth.
  • Follow-up conversations show care and build trust.
  • Teens often feel pressure from expectations around them.
  • Community and church can provide a sense of belonging.
  • God's will for our lives is broad and forgiving.

--

Chapters: 
00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Identity

07:32 Exploring Identity, Belonging, and Purpose

15:32 Building Trust and Authentic Relationships

23:20 Creating Safe Spaces for Teens

33:20 Understanding Purpose and Community

--

It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!
Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. 
Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com


Hosted by Zach Garza, You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast is a conversation for anyone guiding young people within a faith context. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a practical resource built for the real challenges faced by youth ministers, church volunteers, teachers, and parents. Each episode focuses on the tangible aspects of building relationships that matter, offering grounded advice on how to listen, encourage, and walk alongside the next generation. The core of this podcast is a shared belief that effective mentoring flows from a foundation of loving God and loving others, aiming to make disciples right where you live. We delve into the questions you actually have, because your input directly shapes the discussions. Many episodes are crafted from real questions submitted by listeners, making the content immediately relevant to your own mentoring relationships. Whether you're navigating a difficult conversation, seeking creative ways to connect, or looking to sustain your own spiritual health while pouring into others, this space is designed to equip and encourage you. The goal is to see Christian mentors not just manage, but truly thrive in their vital roles. Tune in for honest stories, actionable strategies, and a sense of community, all aimed at helping you cultivate a more meaningful and impactful mentoring practice.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast
Podcast Episodes
221. Identity Based vs. Skill Based Mentoring // Mentoring Minute [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:42
Identity-Based vs. Skill-Based Mentoring“Just like a good tool doesn’t make you a handy man. Knowing skills alone doesn’t fulfill your mentee’s potential” Skill-based mentoring usually goes like this: Think of things you…
220. Connection over Content // Mentoring Minute [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:31
Connection over Content - Let's keep it simple:Pursue Kids: Are you going after them?Pursue Jesus: Are you staying filled up so you can pour out?-What does it mean to connect?Are you reaching out consistently?Are you int…
218. We Need Your Help! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:08
Please give us a 5 star rating wherever you consume podcasts, visit our website, and join our mentoring network. Also, please share our information with anyone who you’d think would benefit from it. If you’d like to shar…