Episode Overview

In this deeply personal and Scripture‑saturated episode, Rich walks through Psalm 71 and shows how an aging, battle-worn King David becomes a surprising mentor for today’s NextGen leaders. Drawing from David’s life in his early 60s during the heartbreak of Absalom’s rebellion, Rich unpacks what it means to declare God’s greatness to the next generation even when we feel tired, limited, or overwhelmed.

“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation.” (Psalm 71:18)

This episode is a call to remember God’s faithfulness, embrace our limitations, and recommit to the lifelong calling of discipling the next generation.

Key Themes

David’s Context: A King in His 60s on the Run yet Trusting God

 * Rich explains that Psalm 71 was written when David was likely 62–63 years old, during or immediately after Absalom’s rebellion.
 * David is no longer the giant‑slayer. He’s older, physically diminished, emotionally drained, and carrying the weight of family brokenness — yet still clinging to God.

Three Angles on David’s Life

Rich frames Psalm 71 through three lenses:

 * Past Dependence — “From birth I have relied on you.” David remembers God’s      steady presence across every season.
 * Present Vulnerability — “Do not forsake me when my strength is gone.” David      feels his limits, his aging body, and the pain of betrayal.
 * Future Purpose — “Even when I’m old and gray… let me declare your power to      the next generation.” David doesn’t want comfort — he wants usefulness.

What This Means for NextGen Leaders

Rich connects David’s story to the calling of ministry leaders today:

 * We all have history with God — sacred moments where He met us.
 * We all feel limitations — fatigue, discouragement, cultural shifts, aging.
 * But we still have a calling — and it doesn’t expire.

“Your calling doesn’t have an expiration date. Your influence doesn’t have a retirement age. Your voice shouldn’t get weaker but weightier.”

Resources Mentioned

Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/
Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]
Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

The Bible (Scripture references in order: Psalm 71-1-24; 2 Samuel 15–18; 2 Corinthians 12:10; Psalm 78)

Timestamps

00:01 – Introduction to Psalm 71 and the Next Gen focus
01:17 – Context and authorship of Psalm 71
03:18 – Historical setting: David during Absalom’s rebellion
09:49 – Understanding David’s emotional and spiritual state
12:42 – Three perspectives: past dependence, present vulnerability, future purpose
18:51 – Applying David’s story to modern ministry leaders
25:13 – The ongoing calling to reach the next generation
27:54 – Practical call to action: reflect, pray, share, and lead
33:06 – Personal story and legacy-driven leadership

#23: NextGen Ministry Lessons from King David (Psalm 71)

This episode is a rich, relational deep‑dive into how student ministry can move beyond programs and personalities and into genuine disciple‑making. Rich sits down with longtime friend and former student, Dakota Gregg, to explore how a nearly collapsed student ministry was rebuilt into a thriving, mission‑driven culture where students pray, serve, lead, and share the gospel.

Dakota shares candidly about inheriting a ministry that had dropped from 150 students to 20, the painful history behind that decline, and the intentional steps he took to rebuild—not around himself but around equipping the saints for the work of ministry. Through prayer gatherings, student‑led leadership teams, and high‑expectation mission partnerships, Dakota has cultivated a culture where students own the ministry and embrace their calling as ambassadors of Jesus.

This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, honest reflection, and inspiring stories of students stepping into real ministry—from leading prayer gatherings to sharing the gospel on university campuses in Canada. It’s a masterclass in sustainable, Spirit‑led student ministry.

Resources Mentioned:

Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/
Experiencing God [https://a.co/d/01cvzkKD]by Henry Blackaby
North American Mission Board (NAMB) - https://www.namb.net/
Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
Email for Dakota Gragg (Spotswood Baptist Church) dgragg@spotswood.org

Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]

Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

The Bible (Scripture references in order: John 15; Ephesians 4:12; Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:14–15)

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Dakota’s ministry background
06:00 – Rebuilding a struggling student ministry and shifting the leadership mindset
09:00 – Why ministry cannot revolve around one leader
12:30 – How a simple prayer gathering became a student leadership team
15:30 – Rethinking student leadership: application vs. nomination model
20:30 – Mission trips redefined: from projects to gospel-centered engagement
28:30 – Training students for evangelism (locally and globally)
30:00 – Creating everyday ministry opportunities for students
33:30 – Advice for new ministry leaders: start small and build slowly
37:00 – Advice for seasoned leaders: avoiding burnout and finding harmony
41:00 – Final encouragement: longevity, gratitude, and faithfulness

#22: Why Work? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.5

Episode Show Notes

In this episode, Rich sits down with longtime friend and student‑pastor Mike Camire of Parkway Baptist Church (Moseley, VA) to explore what it really takes to build a culture of witness in student ministry. With only 4% of today’s adolescents affirming core Christian beliefs and professing faith in Christ, the urgency is real — and the opportunity is massive.

Mike shares how Parkway has cultivated a sending culture rooted in John 20:21, where students see themselves as everyday missionaries sent into their schools, teams, neighborhoods, and digital spaces, including Mike sharing the story of Parkway’s long‑running public school tailgate ministry, From structured evangelism training to organic lifestyle witness, this conversation is packed with practical frameworks and real‑world stories that will inspire any ministry leader.

Only 4% of adolescents profess saving faith in Christ.

That means 96% need the good news of forgiveness and freedom in Jesus.

This leads us to answer four vital questions:

 * Who will reach them?
 * What can be done?
 * What will you do?
 * How do we build a culture committed to sharing the gospel?

Enjoy this episode and give us your feedback in the comments!

Resources Mentioned

Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/
North American Mission Board’s BOB Prayer - https://www.namb.net/
Barna Group - https://www.barna.com/
Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
Email for Mike Camire (Parkway Baptist Church) mcamire@parkwayfamily.org
Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]
Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

BOB Prayer:

 * Burden for lostness
 * Opportunities to share
 * Boldness to step into those opportunities

The Bible (Scripture references in order: John 20:21; Matthew 28:18–20; Philippians 1:27; Ephesians 2:1–5)

Timestamps

00:01 – The urgency of evangelism among today’s adolescents
00:44 – Introduction to the episode and guest Mike Camire
02:11 – Misconceptions about evangelism and redefining “witness”
03:29 – Building a “sending culture” in student ministry
05:23 – The story of Parkway Baptist Church and student-led growth
09:59 – Practical strategies for cultivating a culture of witness
13:21 – Tailgate outreach: engaging public schools creatively
21:21 – Vision for students living on mission daily
30:38 – Recent wins and student testimonies of sharing faith
32:15 – Encouragement for ministry leaders to model and teach evangelism
36:28 – Why witness matters: the urgency of reaching the next generation
40:06 – Final application: personalize, model, and teach the gospel

#21: Why Witness? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.4

Episode Show Notes

In this episode, the host welcomes Justin Lucas, student director at Mercy Hill Church, to unpack the critical role of creating a truly welcoming culture in student ministry.  Together, they explore why even the best worship and teaching fall short if students don’t feel seen, valued, and connected.  Drawing from nearly two decades of ministry experience, Justin shares practical strategies, leadership insights, and personal stories that reveal how meaningful relationships, not just well-run programs, are the foundation for lasting impact.

The conversation dives deep into the difference between simply greeting newcomers and cultivating a culture where every student, from first-time guests to long-time attenders, feels a genuine sense of belonging.  Justin emphasizes that welcome is not a one-time action but an ongoing, intentional process that involves leaders, systems, and most importantly, the students themselves.  From building strong volunteer teams to developing student leaders who take ownership of the culture, this episode provides a clear roadmap for moving from surface-level friendliness to transformational community.

Listeners will also discover how intentional pathways, consistent follow-up, and relational leadership create an environment where students not only stay but grow, invite others, and step into their God-given purpose.  Whether you’re leading a small group or a large ministry, this episode will challenge you to evaluate your own approach to welcome and equip you with practical tools to ensure every student who walks through your doors experiences the love of Christ in a tangible way.

Resources Mentioned:

• NextGen Matters Sustainable Cohort
• email Rich at rich@nextgenmatters.com
• email Justin at jlucas@mercyhillchurch.com


Mercy Hill’s 7 Traits of a Welcoming Leader:

 * High EQ 
 * Approachable 
 * Positive 
 * Proactive 
 * Intentional 
 * Inquisitive 
 * Energetic

Timestamps
00:02 – Why “welcome” matters more than programs
01:15 – Introducing Justin Lucas and his ministry journey
07:00 – The role of connection and community in student retention
10:14 – Building a welcoming culture (people + process)
12:20 – The 7 traits of a welcoming leader
20:24 – Developing a student-led culture of welcome
25:26 – Ensuring long-term students feel valued too
36:04 – What a “grand slam” welcoming ministry looks like
41:27 – Practical leadership application and call to action

#20: Why Welcome? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.3 

In the second episode in the five-part Vital Signs series of the NextGen Matters podcast, Rich sits down with Kyle Hoffsmith—family ministry pastor and fellow podcast host to tackle one of the most urgent questions facing NextGen leaders today: Is the Word of God truly at the center of our ministries?

From the opening minutes, Rich and Kyle go straight at the real issues: Are we teaching Scripture clearly and completely? Are students engaging the Bible on their own? Do they actually know what it says, and is it shaping their lives?  As Kyle puts it, “Whatever we put at the center of our student ministry will drive what happens in that student ministry.”

This conversation is a reality check for leaders who want more than hype, entertainment, or a “TED Talk” approach to teaching. Kyle shares how he builds a culture where the Word drives everything—leader training, discipleship, teaching rhythms, even how success is measured.

If you’re hungry to see students develop a real appetite for Scripture—students who bring their Bibles, ask deeper questions, and actually want to grow—this episode will fire you up and refocus your mission.

Resources Mentioned

Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/
The Word in Youth Ministry Podcast - https://cpyu.org/
Youth Ministry in the Vine (Book & Podcast) - https://matthiasmedia.com/
Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
Email for Kyle Hoffsmith (Old North Church, Canfield) khoffsmith@oldnorthchurch.org

Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc] https://www.nextgenmatters.com/ [https://www.nextgenmatters.com/%20%20]contact us
Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

Timestamps

00:00 - The big questions: Are we truly teaching and living out the Word?
01:00 - Introducing Kyle Hoffsmith and the “Five Vital Signs” series
04:30 - Why the Word must be the centerpiece of student ministry
07:00 - Letting Scripture shape the entire ministry—not just lessons
10:00 - The danger of shallow teaching and losing older students
13:00 - Building a culture of the Word over time
22:00 - Practical ways to disciple students beyond large gatherings
32:00 - The role of the Holy Spirit in transformation
35:00 - Vision casting: What a “Grand Slam” Word-centered ministry looks like
41:00 - Three key calls to action for ministry leaders

#19: Why the Word? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.2

Show Notes 

In this first of five episodes speaking into the Five Ministry Vital Signs, Rich is joined by student pastor Ryan Brown and worship leader Jimmy Gillespie to unpack a foundational question for every ministry leader: Why does worship matter?

Together, they explore how worship is far more than just a musical set before a message—it is a spiritual catalyst that prepares hearts for an encounter with God and shapes the culture of a healthy ministry.

Together, they unpack how worship prepares the heart for an encounter with God, unifies the ministry, and sets the spiritual thermostat before the message begins.

Through practical insights and real ministry experience, the discussion goes into the critical connection between worship and teaching, the importance of unity between leaders, and how worship helps reveal the spiritual temperature of a room. The conversation also dives into how to cultivate authentic worship in student ministries—regardless of resources—while emphasizing the balance between spirit and truth.

If you want to cultivate a ministry where worship is more than music—where it becomes a lifestyle that forms disciples from the inside out—this episode will encourage, equip, and ignite your vision.

Resources Mentioned

Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/
Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
Email for Ryan Brown (Waymaker Church) ryan.brown@waymaker.church
Email for Jimmie Gillespie (Waymaker Church) jimmiegillespie@gmail.com
Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]
Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

The Bible (Scripture references in order: Psalm 24; Romans 12:1-2; Psalms 33, 34; Judges 13)

Timestamps

00:00 – Why worship sets the tone before teaching
01:00 – Overview of the “5 W’s” of healthy ministry
05:00 – Unity between worship and the message
08:30 – How worship reveals the spiritual temperature of students
14:00 – Worship as more than music (Romans 12 perspective)
20:00 – The role of worship in student development and discipleship
27:00 – Dreaming of authentic, lifestyle worship in students
37:00 – Practical application: personal, modeled, and taught worship

#18: Why Worship? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.1

In this episode, Rich Brown walks ministry leaders through a practical diagnostic for evaluating the spiritual health of their ministry. Using the metaphor of a medical checkup, Rich introduces five essential markers of spiritual health. As Rich says, “Spiritual health grows in ministries that intentionally are cultivating five essential markers.”.

Drawing from decades of ministry experience and Scripture, Rich unpacks the five W’s, (Worship, Word, Welcome, Witness, and Work) and how they function together to create a culture where the Holy Spirit forms genuine disciples and where students grow into a thriving, gospel-centered community.

These markers act like spiritual lab work—they reveal strengths, weaknesses, and areas needing attention. “These five markers… are the spiritual diagnostics of your ministry.”  When they’re active, ministries don’t just gather students as groups, but they deepen these young disciples into ministries which will broaden gospel impact and glorify God.

Resources Mentioned

Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/

Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com

Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]

Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

The Bible (Scripture references in order: John 4:23; Colossians 3:16; Matthew 18:5; Acts 1:8; 1 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Ephesians 4:12)

Timestamps

00:00–01:30 – The ministry health checkup: why spiritual diagnostics matter
01:30–03:40 – Introducing the five markers of a spiritually healthy ministry
03:40–09:45 – Worship: cultivating genuine passion for the presence of God
09:45–13:45 – The Word: building ministries centered on Scripture and discipleship
13:45–18:10 – Welcome: creating a culture where every student belongs
18:10–23:00 – Witness: helping students live and share the gospel as a lifestyle
23:00–26:30 – Work: developing the heart of a servant and opportunities to serve
26:30–End – Final diagnostic questions and three practical action steps for leaders

#17: FIVE SIGNS your ministry is Spiritually Fit  

Episode Show Notes

Ministry comparison is one of the quietest and most corrosive forces shaping the hearts of NextGen leaders. In this episode, Rich continues the conversation he began with his son, Ryan Brown, and takes us deeper into the internal, external, and spiritual pressures that make comparison so powerful—and so destructive. But comparison doesn’t have to be a trap.  When handled with honesty and humility, it can become a teacher that clarifies calling, strengthens character, and deepens unity in the body of Christ.

This episode names the struggle, exposes the traps, and offers a biblically grounded pathway toward freedom, faithfulness, and joy.

Resources Mentioned

 * Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/
 * Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
 * Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]
 * Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ai4rFeutn1Y]

Scripture Mentioned
Scripture references in order: 2 Corinthians 3:4-5, Philippians 1:15-18, 1 Corinthians 12, Colossians 2:10

Timestamps

00:00–02:20 – The heart of Next Gen Matters and framing the comparison conversation

02:20–06:50 – Three primary sources of comparison: internal, external, and spiritual

06:50–10:45 – Ungrieved loss: the ministry you expected, the growth you hoped for, the opportunities that didn’t come

10:45–22:05 – When comparison becomes a trap: distorted identity, insecurity, competition, performance, loss of joy, and resentment

22:05–27:50 – When comparison becomes a teacher: clarified calling, diversity in the body, growth, collaboration, and seeing God’s faithfulness

27:50–35:05 – Practical frameworks: Flip the dashboard, the calling triangle (identity, assignment, season), and confidence vs. competence

35:05–41:30 – Fostering gratitude and choosing peer circles over performance circles

41:30–End – Call to action: name your comparison, celebrate another leader, and walk forward in joy

#16: Breaking Free from Ministry Comparison 

Episode Overview

Comparison is one of the most exhausting and unspoken pressures in ministry. In this father–son conversation, Rich and Ryan Brown unpack how comparison sneaks into our leadership—through social media, ministry highlight reels, church metrics, and even well‑meaning comments from others. Together they explore the roots of comparison, the ways it can be both healthy and destructive, and how ministry leaders can approach it with a godly, grounded perspective and can guard their hearts while celebrating others and staying faithful to their unique calling.

This episode invites leaders to slow down, name the pressure, and remember that God never asked us to run someone else’s race. He called us to be faithful with the people, gifts, and opportunities He has entrusted to us—right where we are.

Key Themes

- What Comparison Looks Like in Ministry
- Why Comparison Is So Common
- Healthy Comparison
- Unhealthy Comparison
- Biblical Patterns of Comparison

Resources Mentioned

• NextGen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/• The Bible (Scripture references in order: Genesis 4; Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 11:1; John 21)

Links

• Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com• Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]• Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

Timestamps  
• 00:00–03:30 – The pressure of comparison in ministry leadership
• 03:30–08:30 – Defining comparison and generational perspectives
• 08:30–15:30 – Healthy vs. unhealthy comparison and biblical foundations
• 15:30–22:30 – The root of comparison: envy, coveting, and insecurity
• 22:30–29:30 – Social media, metrics, and the hidden cost of comparison
• 29:30–34:30 – Calling vs. competence: staying in your lane
• 34:30–39:07 – Practical action steps: celebrate others, celebrate your wins, and remain faithful

#15: The Subtle Trap of Ministry Comparison

In this powerful conversation, Rich sits down with longtime friend Cody Mummau, high school pastor at Thomas Road Baptist Church, to unpack the heart, vision, and behind-the-scenes journey of transforming a long-standing single-church winter retreat into a citywide, multi-church movement called Episode. What began as one church’s long‑standing winter retreat has transformed into a multi‑church, kingdom‑minded movement—one marked by humility, collaboration, and a shared desire to reach the next generation.

Cody shares how God prepared him years earlier through ministry partnerships in North Carolina, where he learned the impact of churches working together rather than competing. Now serving in his hometown, he’s bringing that same vision to the 434 area code—inviting churches of all sizes and backgrounds to unite students around the gospel.

As Rich says in the episode, “I want you to be motivated to ask yourself, what can I do to be a part of something greater than just me?”

And as Cody reflects, “There’s no possible way that even as large as our student ministry is, we can’t do it alone… The church has to reach the city.”

This conversation is a behind‑the‑scenes look at humility, collaboration, and the kind of leadership that builds a culture of “we, not me.”

Links

Episode Sessions (student gathering hosted by Thomas Road Baptist Church)
• Episode Recap [https://youtu.be/9LHSY45EPlk?si=oG9mSD8gAjvAigqH]
• Session 1 [https://www.youtube.com/live/vkF7y9G4mvA?si=SC97H2VYNrAQmrGc]
• Session 2 [https://www.youtube.com/live/g4kdd_TU5yo?si=Pb-pmGIGkH1K4NAe]
• Session 3 [https://www.youtube.com/live/_sUNkl3pAjI?si=l_flyyy6v-KjObxg]

• Email for Cody Mummau (TRBC): cody.mummau@trbc.org
• Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com
• Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email [https://share.hsforms.com/1n-kE71G4Qem-l1Sx5TSnVA47fkc]
• Watch this episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/Td0325NMyHI?si=VU2ETKbsrfbPehYh]

Timestamps

• 00:00–02:00  – The mission of Next Gen Matters and introducing Cody Mumaw
• 02:00–07:30   – From North Carolina to Lynchburg: Cody’s ministry journey
• 07:30–15:30    – The early days of collaboration: The 460 Project and multi-church retreats
• 15:30–23:30    – 180 Weekend: Scaling a shared student event across 30+ churches
• 23:30–30:30   – Returning home and reimagining “Episode” as a kingdom-centered gathering
• 30:30–36:30   – Building trust among churches and creating a culture of shared leadership
• 36:30–42:30   – Practical steps for leaders: Finding your people and starting small
• 42:30–End      – Don’t quit: Longevity, community, and a 24-hour action plan for collaboration



#14: When NextGen Ministries Unite (interview with Cody Mummau regarding Episode 2026)

Those leading in Next Generation ministries are navigating a complex landscape of relational, emotional, and organizational pressures that demand resilience, creativity, and deep community connection to sustain impactful ministry in a rapidly changing world. 

Does this sound like you?  Then we're glad you're here!

NextGen Matters and this podcast are here to guide you through the complexity by providing you with Biblically sound solutions to meet your ministry needs.

Why this podcast?

Our show helps NextGen ministry leaders overcome the stress of ministry by covering topics that matter for leaders that matter.  With over forty years of continual practical youth ministry experience, Rich understands the journey of where student ministry has been, the challenges facing ministry leaders today, as we prepare another generation to follow Jesus into tomorrow.  His desire is to see this podcast be a resource for those who are professional NextGen Ministry leaders, volunteer NextGen Ministry leaders, and anyone who cares about the Next Generation.  

"If we are going to have spiritually healthy students, we must have spiritually healthy local church student ministry cultures, which must come from a place of spiritually healthy ministry leaders.  This podcast exists for that reason!  I want to come alongside you by engaging with you, encouraging you, equipping you, and empowering you to fulfill the God-given calling He has placed on you in your ministry to this current generation of adolescents."  ~ Rich Brown

Each episode deals with the real issues today's youth leaders are facing with real solutions based on the timeless truth of God's Word.  And that is a promise!

About our Host

Rich grew up in a small town in central New York, which featured one stop light and two gas stations. Born into a godly ministry family and consistently seeing and hearing the gospel, Rich gave his life over to Jesus as a young age.

During college, he met the young lady of his dreams! Rich says, "Jesus and Janet were the two best decisions I’ve ever made!” They have been married since 1985. Rich and Janet have three adult children (two married), and five grandchildren. His two sons are ordained pastors in ministry, and his daughter owns her own salon. Most important, they all love Jesus!

While in college, God called him to student ministries and Rich has been working with students ever since, even now volunteering in his church’s high school ministry. With over 20 years as a student pastor in the local church followed by over 20 years in teaching student ministry in higher education, he loves students and student ministry leaders. In 2019 God called him to begin his own ministry, NextGenMatters, where he seeks to “relationally equip today’s leaders for tomorrow’s generation.” While his primary ministry is now ministering to adults, it all centers back to seeing teenagers be fully mature lifelong disciples of Jesus.

He avidly follows baseball, loves landscaping on his two acres, is a history nerd, and doesn't know a day without coffee. His lifelong desire is to live out Colossians 1:28-29.

NextGen Matters

Each episode deals with the real issues today's youth leaders are facing with real solutions based on the timeless truth of God's Word.

NextGen Matters

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