Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 289 is titled “Why so guarded?” Tonight Jay will tell us all about his Young Life camp trip and dive into why young people seem to be more open than adults. That’s what we’re talking about at The Table this evening.
Pull up a seat at the table and join us!
Episode Summary
In episode 289 of the *Lunchtime in Rome* podcast, titled "Why So Guarded?", the guys dive into a heartfelt discussion about vulnerability, openness, and the differences between how teenagers and adults share their personal stories. The episode kicks off with the hosts—Jay, Eric, Joe, and Amy—sharing their excitement for an upcoming group vacation to Sandbridge, Virginia. They reminisce about last year’s rain-soaked trip, plan for beach time, disc golf, and seafood feasts, and even joke about navigating the nearby naval base fence for some prime shelling.
The heart of the episode centers on Jay’s recent experience leading a Young Life camp trip to Lake Champion in Glen Spey, New York, his first in 17 years. Jay shares the challenges of managing administrative hurdles, like health forms and medical waivers, and the chaos of a norovirus outbreak and heatwave at camp. Despite these obstacles, the camp provided a powerful backdrop for building connections with high school students. Jay describes a pivotal moment on day three when he asked the teens three deep questions:
What’s something that happened to you that you wish hadn’t?
What’s something you did that you’d like a redo on?
What’s something people believe about you that isn’t true on the inside?
To Jay’s surprise, several teens, including some he barely knew, opened up with profound and vulnerable stories about family hurts, personal regrets, and hidden insecurities. One teen, initially perceived as closed-off, revealed a trusting side that transformed his demeanor, earning him the affectionate nickname “Uncle” among peers. This openness led Jay to question whether teenagers today are more willing to share than adults, sparking a lively discussion among the hosts.
The guys explore why teens might be more open, suggesting that their desire for attention and lack of prior betrayals could play a role. They contrast this with adults, who may be more guarded due to past hurts or a stronger sense of self-protection. However, they also consider that in a safe, non-judgmental environment like the camp, adults might open up similarly if given the chance. The hosts reflect on their own regrets and the importance of living transparently, emphasizing that vulnerability fosters deeper connections. Drawing from their faith, the guys tie the conversation to the idea that Jesus knows everything about us, encouraging listeners to share their “darkness” to receive love and forgiveness fully. The episode wraps up with a call to be open and honest, a nod to their supportive community, and an invitation for new subscribers to join the “head of the table” with a special two-month free offer.
Join the *Lunchtime in Rome* crew in two weeks for episode 290, and until then, visit lunchtimeinrome.com to take their relational needs questionnaire and connect on social media. This episode is a reminder that whether you’re a teen or an adult, opening up in a safe space can lead to transformative moments of connection.
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