286. The Importance of Investment with Aaron Parrott from MentorKids USA

286. The Importance of Investment with Aaron Parrott from MentorKids USA

Author: Zach Garza & You Can Mentor: Faith-Based Mentoring for Churches, Non-Profits, Youth Ministers, and Teachers January 22, 2026 Duration: 47:11

On this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Aaron Parrott of Mentor Kids USA to explore how relationships rooted in faith can transform kids and communities. Aaron shares how his experiences growing up as a missionary kid shaped his leadership and mentoring philosophy, along with lessons learned from building sustainable, Christ-centered mentoring programs. Together, they discuss leadership development, measuring impact, and staying humble and faithful while serving kids from hard places in the name of Jesus. 

  • If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.

Want to go deeper?

• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community

• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop

• Come to our annual You Can Mentor Gathering


You can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor


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…