262. Guiding Kids Toward Identity, Belonging, and Purpose with Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute

2025-03-06

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute explore the impact of mentoring teenagers, with a focus on identity, belonging, and purpose. Brad, drawing from his research at the Fuller Youth Institute, stresses the importance of genuine connections with young people and fostering safe environments where they can express their thoughts and emotions. The discussion underscores the value of trust, active listening, and guiding teens toward purpose through meaningful service and...

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute explore the impact of mentoring teenagers, with a focus on identity, belonging, and purpose. Brad, drawing from his research at the Fuller Youth Institute, stresses the importance of genuine connections with young people and fostering safe environments where they can express their thoughts and emotions. The discussion underscores the value of trust, active listening, and guiding teens toward purpose through meaningful service and community engagement.

You can checkout Brad's book, Three Big Questions here. To get free resources or find out more information about Fuller Youth Institute, visit https://fulleryouthinstitute.com/.
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Takeaways:

Mentoring is about listening to teenagers' questions.
Identity, belonging, and purpose are crucial for youth.
Building trust is essential in mentoring relationships.
Creating a safe space allows teens to be authentic.
Helping others gives teenagers a sense of purpose.
Mentors should not have an agenda when engaging with youth.
Follow-up conversations show care and build trust.
Teens often feel pressure from expectations around them.
Community and church can provide a sense of belonging.
God's will for our lives is broad and forgiving.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Identity

07:32 Exploring Identity, Belonging, and Purpose

15:32 Building Trust and Authentic Relationships

23:20 Creating Safe Spaces for Teens

33:20 Understanding Purpose and Community

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