169: Dan Istvanik: Stop Preaching, Start Teaching In Youth Ministry
We are back! After a much needed holiday hiatus the most honest podcast in youth ministry is back with a powerful interview featuring our friend, blogger, minister, father, husband, and good dude Dan Istvanik.
You probably recognize Danny-I's name from a number places where he writes, curates, and contributes (he's very prolific!), but Dan recommends you start at Middle Year Ministry.
Dan's Blog Central
http://www.middleyearsministry.com/
Youth Ministry Booster Intensives (Next Way For You To Grow!)
https://www.youthministrybooster.com/intensives
Key Takeaways:
“When I was young, there was no junior high ministry for me”
“I use my counseling degree everyday”
Ducks, Bottle Rockets, and Underwater Explosive Training
"Networking has always been an important part of our longevity"
One of the first things we did when we got here was we sought out and built a network to be available to other youth ministry leaders.
"You need a network that will go with you beyond the address of the church you currently serve"
"Sometimes we wait so long to find a network of care that when we share, people only know how to offer you pity"
"Part of your job is finding care for your job"
"Sometimes network meetings are necessary group therapy”
“Parents can make amazing small group leaders they come pre-packaged with respect, life experiences, resources, and bring a lot to the table”
"You can be young and be a great youth minister, just don't make young mistakes"
"The greatest thing for you is when one parent compliments and defends you to another parent"
"Your greatest defenders and advocates are parents in your youth ministry”