288. Your Pain Becomes Your Passion with Dena Petty of Mentors Care

288. Your Pain Becomes Your Passion with Dena Petty of Mentors Care

Author: Zach Garza & You Can Mentor: Faith-Based Mentoring for Churches, Non-Profits, Youth Ministers, and Teachers February 20, 2026 Duration: 51:53

 In this episode of You Can Mentor, Zach welcomes Dina Petty, founder and executive director of Mentors Care, a school-based mentoring program serving at-risk high school students across North Texas. Dina shares her powerful story of growing up in dysfunction and isolation, and how her pain ultimately became the foundation for launching a ministry that connects students with consistent, caring adult mentors on public school campuses. Together, they discuss the importance of leading with love over agenda, equipping mentors for the long haul, and partnering with schools to bring hope to students facing trauma, confusion, and hardship.

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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
Podcast Episodes
259. The Four Dangers of Mentoring with Kent Evans of Manhood Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:41
In this episode of You Can Mentor, host Zach talks with Kent Evans, founder of Manhood Journey, about the role of mentorship in fatherhood. Kent shares how a mentor shaped his teenage years and emphasizes the power of as…
258. Discussing God in Your Mentoring Relationship [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:09
In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza interviews Mike McGarry, a seasoned youth pastor and theologian, about the critical role of mentoring in youth ministry. They delve into the importance of presenc…
257. Identity & Mentoring with Norris Williams of Identity Exchange [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:08
In this episode of You Can Mentor, Zachary Garza and Norris Williams of Identity Exchange (www.identityexchange.com) explore the vital connection between identity and mentorship. Norris shares his personal journey, empha…
256. Mentoring in Public Schools with John Shearer of Academy 4 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:49
In this episode of the You Can Mentor Podcast, Zachary Garza interviews John Shearer, leader of Academy 4, a nonprofit mentoring over 4,200 fourth graders annually by partnering with local churches to build sustainable r…
254. Motorcycle Mentoring with John B and Zach Garza [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:22
In this podcast, John and Zach discuss the "motorcycle metaphor" to highlight important lessons about mentorship through John's experience riding motorcycles with his 18-year-old son. Here are the key takeaways:Communica…
253. Mentoring in Your Community with Christ Club Las Vegas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:13
In this episode of You Can Mentor, host Zach sits down with Annie and Dennis from Club Christ Ministries in Las Vegas, an organization dedicated to mentoring kids and transforming communities. Annie, the Program Director…