Switch Leader Podcast

Gen Alpha Is Here: What It Means for Youth Ministry

This week on the Switch Leader Podcast, host Josh Baldwin sits down with Camry Rowan and Izzy Loranger for a fascinating and practical conversation about the future of youth ministry as Gen Alpha steps into Switch. Together, they explore the differences between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, why today’s students are more skeptical yet spiritually curious, and how leaders can adapt while staying grounded in the unchanging truth of Jesus.

 

You’ll hear insights from youth ministry in real time—like what it’s like leading a sixth-grade small group today, how slang reveals cultural shifts, and how leaders can balance grace and truth when walking with students through real questions and doubts. Whether you’re a seasoned youth pastor or a brand-new small group leader, this conversation will encourage you, challenge you, and equip you to reach the next generation with authenticity and intentionality.

 

🔑 Topics covered:

• What Gen Alpha is really like

• Why students are asking harder questions earlier

• The impact of media and skepticism on young faith

• How to build trust and speak truth that sticks

 

🎧 Tune in and share with your Switch team as we prepare to lead this next generation with clarity, confidence, and Christ at the center.

 

Check out this resource: Switch Leader Resources

 

Leading When You Have Nothing Left

As the end of the school year approaches, it’s not uncommon to feel worn out, stretched thin, and wondering how to keep going. In this honest and hope-filled episode, Josh Baldwin and Kaitlyn Caffrey talk about what it looks like to keep leading well even when you feel like there’s nothing left in the tank.

 

Together, they unpack the life-giving invitation Jesus offers in Matthew 11:28-30 and reflect on the difference between physical and spiritual rest, what it means to “come to Jesus,” and how to partner with Him in both work and rest. If you’re tired, this one is for you.

 

💬 Kaitlyn also shares a set of powerful reflection questions based on Matthew 11 to help you reset and realign your heart:

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Reflection Questions from Matthew 11:28–30:

1. “Come to Me…”

   How am I doing at coming to Jesus right now? (Rate 1–10)

2. ”…all who are weary and burdened…”

   What is the biggest burden I’m carrying right now?

3. ”…and I will give you rest.”

   What might rest from Jesus look like in this specific situation?

4. “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me…”

   What might Jesus be trying to teach me right now?

5. ”…for I am gentle and humble in heart…”

   How is that different from what my behavior says I believe about Jesus’ heart?

6. ”…and you will find rest for your souls.”

   Would I be able to say with integrity that I’m living in a season of freedom and lightness? Why or why not?

Can We Talk About Doubt?

Doubt isn’t the enemy of faith—it’s often the doorway to deeper belief. In this episode, James Meehan and Josh Baldwin explore how leaders and parents can normalize questions, respond with empathy, and create environments where students feel safe wrestling with their faith. Join us as we talk practical strategies for navigating spiritual uncertainty with honesty, humility, and hope.

Are You Relevant? Is It Even What You Think?

In this episode, Matt Lamberth and Josh Baldwin tackle the question of relevance in ministry and leadership. Does being relevant actually matter, or is it just a distraction? We break down what true relevance looks like, how it impacts student engagement, and why it’s essential for effective leadership. Tune in as we explore how to stay connected to the next generation without compromising the message that matters most.

Series Overview: The Lion and the Lamb

As we wrap up our series on relationships, we’re diving into a powerful new six-week series: The Lion and the Lamb. This series will explore the incredible character of Jesus, where seemingly opposite traits come together in perfect harmony. Join us as we unpack:

•Week 1: Prophecy and History (3/26)

•Week 2: Grace and Truth (4/2)

•Week 3: Humility and Authority (4/9)

•Week 4: Criminal and King (4/16)

•Week 5: Lion and Lamb (Easter message 4/23) 

•Week 6: Now and Not Yet (4/30)

 

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your faith and invite others to experience the true power of Jesus.

The Power of a Story

Stories have the power to connect, inspire, and transform lives. In this episode, Josh Baldwin and Dustin Wells dive into the art of storytelling and its impact on youth ministry. From personal childhood memories to the parables of Jesus, they explore how great storytelling creates curiosity, brings intentionality, and offers new perspectives. Learn how to use your own experiences to engage students and point them toward Christ.

Advice From Switch Students

In this special episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, we’re flipping the script and hearing directly from Switch students! Host Josh Baldwin sits down with Kayla and Madison, two senior students, to discuss how Switch has shaped their faith, the power of small groups, and what they wish every leader knew about leading this generation well. Their insights will challenge and inspire you to invest even deeper into the lives of students. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!

You and the Holy Spirit

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, Josh Baldwin and Dustin Wells dive into the essential role of the Holy Spirit in youth ministry. From understanding how the Holy Spirit guides and convicts to recognizing its presence in leadership, they break down practical ways to rely on God’s power rather than just our own efforts. Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry or looking to deepen your connection with God, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to lead with faith, preparation, and the Holy Spirit at the center.

Relationship + Ownership = Healthy Leadership

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, Josh Baldwin sits down with Zach Dyck, youth pastor at Life.Church Des Moines, to tackle a challenge many ministry leaders face—losing passion over time. They dive into the importance of balancing ownership and relationship in leadership, revealing how too much of one without the other can lead to burnout or apathy. Through personal stories, biblical insights, and practical advice, Josh and Zach explore how cultivating both can reignite passion, create deeper connections, and help leaders thrive in ministry and life.

Sins and Wins

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, Kaitlyn and James break down the Sins and Wins section of the message guide—why it matters, how to lead it well, and how it helps students grow through confession, celebration, and authentic community. Plus, they share practical tips for creating a safe space where students can be real and take ownership of their spiritual growth.