Switch Leader Podcast

What Parents Want From Switch

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, host Josh Baldwin welcomes veteran youth pastor Nate Day to explore what parents truly value—and sometimes find challenging—when their children are part of a youth ministry. Drawing from his 26 years of experience and his perspective as a parent of kids in Switch, Nate shares heartwarming stories of leaders going the extra mile, like attending sporting events or giving meaningful gifts, and how these gestures create lasting impact.

 

They also discuss the unintended hurt caused when leaders step away without communication, offering practical advice on how to navigate such transitions with care. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting, this episode is packed with wisdom on building strong relationships with students and their families.

Series Overview: Don't Worry

Join Kaitlyn Caffrey and Josh Baldwin as they introduce the upcoming Switch series, Don’t Worry. In this episode, they unpack why worry is such a relatable topic for students and how you can make the most of this series to foster meaningful, faith-centered discussions. Tune in for insights and practical tips to help you create conversations that support your students in navigating their anxieties with confidence and faith!

Unlocking the Power of the Message Guide

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, hosts Kaitlyn Caffrey and James Meehan explore the transformative potential of the Message Guide in creating impactful, student-led discussions. Kaitlyn and James, both Switch content creators and dedicated small group leaders, share how this tool can empower students to engage deeply with the message and grow in biblical literacy. Tune in as they discuss the purpose, best practices, and common misconceptions around the Message Guide, offering practical tips to make group time meaningful and memorable for both leaders and students.

Time for a Check-Up: Evaluating Your Goals and Progress

In this episode, we dive into the importance of regularly checking in on the goals we set at the beginning of the year. Often, we create goals but don’t revisit them until it’s too late to make meaningful adjustments. Katie Roanhaus and Josh Baldwin discuss how goals are based on current information, and as things change, our strategies should adapt as well. They introduce four critical questions to help leaders evaluate their progress and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

 

From small group dynamics to overcoming leadership challenges, this episode highlights the need to pivot when things aren’t going as planned and the importance of asking ourselves tough questions. Whether you’re a small group leader or part of a support team, this conversation will help you reevaluate where you are and where you’re heading as a leader.

Many Parts, One Body: Unity in Switch Leadership

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, Josh Baldwin and Dustin Wells dive deep into the essential roles that make Switch thrive. Dustin, youth pastor at the Rio Rancho campus, shares how every volunteer—whether tearing down Nine Square, serving snacks, or leading a small group—plays a vital part in the success of Switch. They discuss how to foster collaboration among leaders and celebrate wins, no matter their role. This episode reminds us that true success in ministry comes from teamwork and mutual encouragement, not just those in the spotlight.

Series Overview: How To Pray

Josh and Kaitlyn dive into an exciting conversation about the upcoming series, How to Pray. This series continues with the journey through the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that prayer is more than a ritual—it’s a connection with a loving Father who knows us intimately. Together, Josh and Kaitlyn reflect on the importance of praying with the right heart, not for approval or to “crack the code” with God, but to align with His will.

From Algorithms to Authentic Ministry

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, Josh Baldwin and Zach Dyck explore how to meaningfully connect with students in today’s technology-driven world. With social media algorithms tailored to individual preferences, youth leaders face a challenge: can we connect with students more deeply than their phones do? Josh and Zach discuss practical ways to make youth ministry personal, emphasizing the need for leaders to “do for the one what you wish you could do for the many.” They dive into the power of spiritual rhythms over temporary algorithms and share actionable steps to create a more intimate, family-like environment where every student feels seen, known, and loved.

It’s Not an Off Night—It’s a Big Night!

This week on the podcast, Josh Baldwin and Macy Myrick from the Amarillo, Texas campus challenge the idea of “off weeks” at Switch. Discover how to see “No Switch IRL” nights as some of the biggest opportunities for connection and impact. Macy shares practical tips on breaking routines, partnering with parents, and letting students take the lead in planning creative, meaningful gatherings. Whether it’s serving the community, meeting at a coffee shop, or having a fun night out, this episode will inspire you to make the most of these unique moments. Tune in to learn how these nights can build deeper relationships and create unforgettable experiences for your students!

Sustaining the Call: Leading for the Long Haul

As Switch Leaders, we often emphasize the power of consistency in shaping the lives of our students, but what about the importance of longevity in our own leadership? Here’s a thought-provoking question: Is the way you’re leading today sustainable for the next 10 years? In this episode, Katie Roanhouse and Josh Baldwin dive into the rhythms that foster a healthy, balanced life. Together, they explore how we can become healthier individuals, more devoted followers of Christ, and stronger, more sustainable Switch Leaders—ensuring we’re in this for the long run.

Beyond Trends: Sustaining Impact Across Generations

To maintain influence in our relationships, staying relevant is key—but what does that really entail? Often, we get so caught up in aligning with the latest trends in student culture that we overlook deeper, more impactful opportunities. In this week’s episode, Qualan Johnson and Josh Baldwin explore the benefits of both relational and cultural relevance. They’ll discuss why you shouldn’t stress about feeling out of touch and how to continue making a meaningful impact regardless of your age. Tune in to discover how to bridge the gap between current trends and lasting influence!