272. Creating a Place to Belong for Kids from Hard Places with Chris Cox of Back2Back Ministries

272. Creating a Place to Belong for Kids from Hard Places with Chris Cox of Back2Back Ministries

Author: Zach Garza & You Can Mentor: Faith-Based Mentoring for Churches, Non-Profits, Youth Ministers, and Teachers July 10, 2025 Duration: 47:44

In this powerful episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Chris Cox from Back2Back Ministries. With over two decades of experience in youth work and 13+ years at Back2Back, Chris brings a wealth of wisdom around trauma-informed holistic care and mentoring vulnerable youth.

Chris shares his journey from youth pastor to launching Back2Back’s first U.S.-based site in Cincinnati, where he now leads a team serving children and families with trauma-informed, gospel-centered care. Together, Zach and Chris unpack what it means to create safe spaces for kids who’ve experienced hard things, how to mentor without fixing, and why community and consistency are essential in a child’s healing journey.

You’ll hear practical insights about the five components of holistic care, the difference between mentors and coaches, the power of presence over performance, and how Jesus modeled a trauma-informed ministry before the term even existed.

If you work with kids from hard places, or want to, this conversation will inspire, equip, and remind you that showing up consistently does make a difference.

Check out backtoback.org, traumafreeworld.org, and learn more about Chris’s work at https://back2backcincy.org/

Rate, review, and share the show, and don’t forget... You Can Mentor.

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Chapter 1: Introduction and Welcome (00:00)
Meet your hosts, Zach Garza and Chris Cox
Overview of the episode's focus on mentoring and community

Chapter 2: Chris Cox's Journey (01:23)
Chris shares his background and work with Back to Back Ministries The global impact of Back to Back's mission

Chapter 3: The Power of Youth Ministry (04:24)
Insights into the role of youth ministry in mentoring Personal experiences and lessons learned

Chapter 4: Trauma-Informed Holistic Care (08:00)
Understanding trauma and its impact on youth The importance of a holistic approach in mentoring

Chapter 5: Building a Community of Belonging (12:00)
Creating a sense of belonging and trust Strategies for mentors to foster inclusive communities

Chapter 6: Faith and Mentoring (16:00)
The role of faith in mentoring relationships Choosing faith over fear in challenging situations

Chapter 7: Self-Care for Mentors (20:00)
The importance of self-care in effective mentoring Tips for maintaining personal well-being

Chapter 8: Conclusion and Call to Action (24:00)
Recap of key insights and takeaways Encouragement to get involved in mentoring

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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
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