The Heart of a Youth Leader
The Heart of a Youth Leader is for anyone who wants to help children and young people discover life in all its fullness with Jesus.
Hosted by Andy Castle from Thrive Youth Ministries, each short episode explores the heart behind Christian youth and children’s ministry — offering encouragement, practical wisdom and space to think about why we do what we do.
Whether you’re employed by a church, volunteering each week, or simply passionate about the next generation, this podcast will help you keep Jesus at the centre as you invest in young people.
The Heart of a Youth Leader
Latest Episodes
The Two Verses Every Youth Leader Needs to Remember
Youth ministry is busy, relentless, and often exhausting. In the middle of serving others, it’s easy for our own hearts with God to slip into the background.In this episode, Andy reflects on the shortest psalm in the Bible — Psalm 117 — ...
Did God Forget — or Are We Just Impatient?
What do you do when you believe God has given a vision — but nothing seems to happen?In this episode, Andy reflects on the tension between trusting God’s promises and wrestling with His timing. Drawing from Psalm 106 and personal experie...
Don’t Lose the Why: Returning to Your Call in Youth Ministry
In youth ministry it’s easy to become overwhelmed by programmes, pressure, and expectations — and slowly lose sight of the reason you started in the first place.In this episode, Andy reflects on the importance of returning to your wh...
The Leadership Move That Transforms Any Youth Ministry Team
What if the most powerful way to strengthen your youth ministry team isn’t a new programme, a bigger budget, or more volunteers — but clarity about who you are becoming together?In this episode of The Heart of a Youth Leader, An...
Passing on Faith When the World Is Pulling Them Away
How do we help the next generation genuinely trust God — not just enjoy the benefits of church or the comfort of belonging?In this episode of The Heart of a Youth Leader, Andy reflects on Psalm 78 and the challenge of passing on...