DREW’S STORY
I was in a season of struggling to recover from ministry burnout and personal hurt. After a few years of full time vocational ministry, I felt like I had way more questions than when I began. And there wasn’t much support from those around me in my ministry context. I was hurting and felt alone.
Signing up for coaching with Lead222 was one of the action steps I decided to do in order to climb out of burnout. I processed my hurt with my coach, as well as received encouragement and accountability. He helped me take growth steps both personally and in ministry. My second year of being coached was marked by further ministry refinement, as well as processing a job change.
I tell you part of my story to share with you that I don’t know where I’d be without my coaches. I’m so grateful for all those who have mentored me and helped shape me into who I am today. And I’m not the only one who has a story like this.
My story is common to what many other youth pastors face and highlights the need for quality ministry coaches. After year two, the door opened for me to become a coach, but I was hesitant. If that’s you, let me tell you what I’ve seen in becoming a coach with Lead222. Check out these 5 Tips for Becoming a Coach.
CONSIDER BEING A COACH
1. WE WANT YOU TO SUCCEED
EXPECTATIONS: Lead222 is clear about expectations, and the onramp was clear, helpful, and exciting.
SUPPORT: Every coach has a coach. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how much support is communicated and how they follow through.
2. COUNT THE COST
TIME: Becoming a coach does require a step up in time commitment, although most of these extras are geared toward equipping you.
TALENT: Whatever the hesitancy, please don’t let others be robbed of the gifts and wisdom God has given you to share. Your voice and experience may be exactly what another youth pastor needs.
MEMBERSHIP FEE: Being a certified coach is an investment into our coaching community and requires an active membership each year.
THE FLIP SIDE: There’s a cost to you not becoming a coach as well!
3. EXPONENTIAL IMPACT
MULTIPLY YOUR LEADERSHIP: As a coach, you have a unique opportunity to impact youth pastors. You could become what you have received from your coaches.
REACH MORE PEOPLE: The person you coach will be taking your coaching sessions directly to their family, ministry staff, volunteers, parents, and students. There’s a mustard seed opportunity here.
GROW PERSONALLY: You will also be sharpened as a coach and as a ministry leader. There’s no better way to learn the playbook than to have to guide another person through it yourself.
4. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER COACHES ARE SAYING…
I AM A COACH BECAUSE…
“I want to be a part of LEAD in a bigger way. I want to give back to other leaders because it was so valuable to me.” -Drew
5. DISCERNING QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT
Do you have a heart for other youth pastors, and for this coaching community?
Have you gone to God in prayer about this?
Does your current coach recommend this step for you?
Would you be sharpened by taking the role of a coach?
Do you have the availability to be a consistent presence?
RESOURCE:
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
CHECK OUT THE DETAILS AND SEE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A CERTIFIED COACH WITH US.
Authors: Drew Litwiller (Lead222 Coach) • Posted: March 2026
