282. Giving Up on Giving Up with Jose Rodriguez of Rescue a Generation

282. Giving Up on Giving Up with Jose Rodriguez of Rescue a Generation

Author: Zach Garza & You Can Mentor: Faith-Based Mentoring for Churches, Non-Profits, Youth Ministers, and Teachers November 27, 2025 Duration: 48:36

Jose Rodriguez went from gang life in North Tulsa to helping transform cities through Jesus, coaching, and the power of presence. In this episode, Zach sits down with Jose, founder and CEO of Rescue a Generation, to talk about what it actually looks like to love and disciple kids from hard places for the long haul.

You will hear Jose’s wild story of growing up around drugs, gangs, and chaos, finding unexpected family through a bus ministry, and how a youth worker named Nancy refused to give up on him. Together, Zach and Jose unpack:

  • How to have thick skin and a soft heart with students
  • Why “giving up on giving up” matters in mentoring
  • How gangs often disciple better than churches and what we can learn from that
  • The ministry of presence and earning the right to be heard
  • Why changing a young person’s mind can change their entire life
  • The power of calling out identity and potential, even in the “worst” kid

If you mentor or work with urban or at risk youth, this conversation will fill your tank and sharpen your approach. Learn more about Jose and Rescue a Generation, and walk away reminded that love is a universal language, relationships change lives, and yes… you can mentor.


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To find out more about Rescue A Generation, check out their website - https://www.rescueageneration.com or @rescueagen
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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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