Episode 18

EP18: The Life-Changing Power of NET Training

April 13th, 2026

30 mins 28 secs

Season 1

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About this Episode

About this Episode
What happens when a young person is given the space to encounter God, grow in community, and be challenged to live on mission?

In this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell pull back the curtain on one of NET Ministries’ most formative experiences: missionary training. What begins as preparation for ministry quickly reveals itself to be something much deeper—a powerful season of human, spiritual, and relational formation that has shaped generations of young adults.

Pete and Annie reflect on what makes NET training so transformative, from the deep identity work of learning to pray and receive God’s love, to the small group discipleship that helps missionaries open up, heal, and grow in authentic community. They share why this kind of formation matters not only for missionaries, but for anyone walking with young people in faith.

The conversation also explores why a season of mission can be such a pivotal next step for young adults—especially those who are hungry for more, discerning their future, or ready to move from receiving the faith to sharing it. Pete and Annie talk about the long-term fruit of this kind of experience: greater maturity, stronger relational skills, deeper faith, and a clearer sense of identity and vocation.

Whether you’re mentoring teens, leading a parish, or walking with young adults who are asking what comes next, this episode offers a compelling vision for why intentional formation and missionary challenge can be life-changing.

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Reflection for This Week

Ask yourself:

  • Where do I see a young person who may be ready for a deeper challenge or missionary step?
  • How can I offer encouragement that calls out their gifts and potential?
  • Am I creating spaces in my ministry that form young people spiritually, relationally, and humanly—not just practically?

Pray for the young people in your life to hear God’s voice clearly, respond with courage, and trust that He is leading them into something beautiful.