{"version":"https://jsonfeed.org/version/1","title":"The YDisciple Podcast","home_page_url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm","feed_url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/json","description":"Welcome to a space where curiosity meets mission.\r\nIn this podcast, we explore the shifting landscape of youth culture and what it really means to walk with young people in faith today.\r\n\r\nWhether you’re a youth minister, teacher, pastor, volunteer, or simply someone who cares about the next generation — you’ll find insight, encouragement, and community here.\r\n\r\nWe don’t pretend to have all the answers. But through years of experience (and conversations with incredible ministry leaders in the trenches), we’ve gathered stories, lessons, and honest reflections worth sharing.\r\n\r\nThis is a space to stay curious, spark new ideas, and learn together as we serve young people and help them encounter Christ in a rapidly changing world.\r\n\r\nWe’re learners and leaders on the same journey — and we’re so glad you’re here.","_fireside":{"subtitle":"A podcast exploring the shifting landscape of youth culture and what it means to walk with young people in faith today. Hear honest conversations, fresh ideas, and real stories from ministry leaders in the trenches — as we learn, lead, and stay curious together.","pubdate":"2026-04-20T00:00:00.000-04:00","explicit":false,"copyright":"2026 by NET Ministries","owner":"YDisciple Podcast","image":"https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/cover.jpg?v=1"},"items":[{"id":"72505f1b-b912-4eea-b96f-900430da08b5","title":"EP19: Receiving the Whole Person with Anna Carter","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/19","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat does it look like to truly receive someone’s story with reverence, curiosity, and care?\n\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Anna Carter, co-founder of Eden Invitation, to talk about what it means to listen well when someone shares something vulnerable. Drawing from Anna’s work accompanying people with LGBTQ experiences who are seeking to follow Jesus and His Church, this conversation explores the difference between reacting to someone’s story and truly receiving it.\n\nTogether, they unpack how easy it is to fill in the gaps with assumptions, explanations, or quick answers—especially in ministry—and why a better first response is often simple gratitude and genuine curiosity. Anna shares how Eden Invitation builds a culture of listening by helping people move from vulnerability to empowerment, and why receiving someone’s story is not just a one-time moment, but an ongoing posture of accompaniment.\n\nPete, Annie, and Anna also reflect on the challenges that come with this kind of listening: compassion fatigue, over-functioning, numbness, and the temptation to fix what is not ours to fix. Along the way, they offer practical wisdom for ministry leaders, parents, and mentors who want to become safer, more attentive people for others.\n\nWhether you’re walking with a young person, leading in parish ministry, or simply trying to become a better listener, this episode offers a thoughtful and deeply human vision for how to honor the holy ground of another person’s story.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere am I tempted to make assumptions instead of asking another question?\nHow do I typically respond when someone shares something vulnerable with me?\nWhat would it look like for me to receive another person’s story as holy ground this week?\n\n\nPray for the grace to listen with compassion, humility, and patience—and to become someone who helps others feel seen, honored, and safe in the presence of Christ.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat does it look like to truly receive someone’s story with reverence, curiosity, and care?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Anna Carter, co-founder of Eden Invitation, to talk about what it means to listen well when someone shares something vulnerable. Drawing from Anna’s work accompanying people with LGBTQ experiences who are seeking to follow Jesus and His Church, this conversation explores the difference between reacting to someone’s story and truly receiving it.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they unpack how easy it is to fill in the gaps with assumptions, explanations, or quick answers—especially in ministry—and why a better first response is often simple gratitude and genuine curiosity. Anna shares how Eden Invitation builds a culture of listening by helping people move from vulnerability to empowerment, and why receiving someone’s story is not just a one-time moment, but an ongoing posture of accompaniment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePete, Annie, and Anna also reflect on the challenges that come with this kind of listening: compassion fatigue, over-functioning, numbness, and the temptation to fix what is not ours to fix. Along the way, they offer practical wisdom for ministry leaders, parents, and mentors who want to become safer, more attentive people for others.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re walking with a young person, leading in parish ministry, or simply trying to become a better listener, this episode offers a thoughtful and deeply human vision for how to honor the holy ground of another person’s story.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere am I tempted to make assumptions instead of asking another question?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow do I typically respond when someone shares something vulnerable with me?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat would it look like for me to receive another person’s story as holy ground this week?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePray for the grace to listen with compassion, humility, and patience—and to become someone who helps others feel seen, honored, and safe in the presence of Christ.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell talk with Anna Carter about what it means to receive someone’s story well. Together, they explore the role of curiosity, gratitude, and ongoing accompaniment in ministry, and why learning to listen well is essential for anyone walking with others in faith.","date_published":"2026-04-20T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/72505f1b-b912-4eea-b96f-900430da08b5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":57283376,"duration_in_seconds":1755}]},{"id":"b2fd2a08-7155-4d1b-81c8-5741f056613c","title":"EP18: The Life-Changing Power of NET Training","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/18","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat happens when a young person is given the space to encounter God, grow in community, and be challenged to live on mission?\n\nIn 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.\n\nPete 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.\n\nThe 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.\n\nWhether 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.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere do I see a young person who may be ready for a deeper challenge or missionary step?\nHow can I offer encouragement that calls out their gifts and potential?\nAm I creating spaces in my ministry that form young people spiritually, relationally, and humanly—not just practically?\n\n\nPray 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.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat happens when a young person is given the space to encounter God, grow in community, and be challenged to live on mission?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePete 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether 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.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere do I see a young person who may be ready for a deeper challenge or missionary step?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow can I offer encouragement that calls out their gifts and potential?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAm I creating spaces in my ministry that form young people spiritually, relationally, and humanly—not just practically?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePray 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.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell explore the heart of NET Ministries’ missionary training and why it has been so transformative for so many young adults. They unpack the power of spiritual formation, small group discipleship, relational growth, and missionary challenge—and why inviting young people into deeper formation may be one of the greatest gifts we can offer them.","date_published":"2026-04-13T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/b2fd2a08-7155-4d1b-81c8-5741f056613c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":59795054,"duration_in_seconds":1828}]},{"id":"693f60fa-3438-4b55-9a52-8ccdf9c5b1c7","title":"EP17: Let’s Get Practical with Andy Baker","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/17","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat does it look like to lead with a discipleship mindset from the diocesan level—not just in theory, but in a way that actually transforms parish ministry?\n\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grande sit down with Andy Baker from the Diocese of Palm Beach for a rich conversation on relational ministry, diocesan leadership, and the slow, faithful work of culture change. Drawing from more than two decades in ministry, Andy shares how his own journey led him from program-centered ministry to a deeper conviction: discipleship is not primarily about the product you use, but the process you build.\n\nTogether, they explore what it means to foster discipleship by walking closely with ministry leaders, building trust over time, and helping parishes shift from maintenance to mission. Andy offers a compelling vision for diocesan ministry that starts not with policies or programs, but with friendship, accompaniment, and a genuine investment in the people doing the work on the ground.\n\nThe conversation also dives into one of the biggest challenges facing parish ministry today: finding adult mentors. Andy shares how parishes in Palm Beach are building strong mentorship cultures by inviting people personally, discerning leaders prayerfully, and drawing adults from across the life of the parish into the mission of discipleship. The result is not just stronger ministry structures, but visible fruit—young people showing up hungry for Jesus, adults stepping into spiritual mentorship, and parish communities beginning to move together on mission.\n\nWhether you serve at the diocesan level, lead in a parish, or are simply longing to see a more relational and fruitful vision of ministry take root, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. It is a conversation about trust, patience, and the kind of ministry that changes lives because it begins with people, not programs.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere in my ministry am I relying too heavily on programs instead of investing in people?\nWho are the ministry leaders, parents, or mentors I am being called to walk with more intentionally?\nWhat would it look like for me to lead less like a manager of systems and more like a builder of trust?\nAm I creating space to listen deeply before trying to fix, teach, or direct?\n\n\nPray for the grace to embrace the slower, relational work of discipleship—and for the courage to trust that real fruit often grows through conversation, accompaniment, and fidelity over time.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat does it look like to lead with a discipleship mindset from the diocesan level—not just in theory, but in a way that actually transforms parish ministry?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grande sit down with Andy Baker from the Diocese of Palm Beach for a rich conversation on relational ministry, diocesan leadership, and the slow, faithful work of culture change. Drawing from more than two decades in ministry, Andy shares how his own journey led him from program-centered ministry to a deeper conviction: discipleship is not primarily about the product you use, but the process you build.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they explore what it means to foster discipleship by walking closely with ministry leaders, building trust over time, and helping parishes shift from maintenance to mission. Andy offers a compelling vision for diocesan ministry that starts not with policies or programs, but with friendship, accompaniment, and a genuine investment in the people doing the work on the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe conversation also dives into one of the biggest challenges facing parish ministry today: finding adult mentors. Andy shares how parishes in Palm Beach are building strong mentorship cultures by inviting people personally, discerning leaders prayerfully, and drawing adults from across the life of the parish into the mission of discipleship. The result is not just stronger ministry structures, but visible fruit—young people showing up hungry for Jesus, adults stepping into spiritual mentorship, and parish communities beginning to move together on mission.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you serve at the diocesan level, lead in a parish, or are simply longing to see a more relational and fruitful vision of ministry take root, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. It is a conversation about trust, patience, and the kind of ministry that changes lives because it begins with people, not programs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere in my ministry am I relying too heavily on programs instead of investing in people?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho are the ministry leaders, parents, or mentors I am being called to walk with more intentionally?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat would it look like for me to lead less like a manager of systems and more like a builder of trust?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAm I creating space to listen deeply before trying to fix, teach, or direct?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePray for the grace to embrace the slower, relational work of discipleship—and for the courage to trust that real fruit often grows through conversation, accompaniment, and fidelity over time.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell talk with Andy Baker from the Diocese of Palm Beach about how relational ministry can transform diocesan and parish leadership. Andy shares why discipleship is a process, not a product, and offers practical insight on mentoring ministry leaders, engaging parents, building teams, and creating a culture where young people and adults can grow in faith together.","date_published":"2026-04-06T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/693f60fa-3438-4b55-9a52-8ccdf9c5b1c7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":66072846,"duration_in_seconds":2028}]},{"id":"a408a0b1-9844-4ff8-ab21-7a043299dcd0","title":"EP16: Unlocking Your Influence","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/16","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn this episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie explore what it looks like to unlock your influence in ministry. Drawing from Pete’s recent workshop at the NFCYM Exchange, this conversation is a thoughtful and practical look at leadership, especially for ministry leaders who feel the tension between wanting change and not always having the authority to make it happen.\n\nThey discuss the common ministry shift from maintenance to mission, and why healthy ministry cannot stop at simply managing buildings, budgets, policies, or attendance. Instead, real mission calls leaders to become more relational, more intentional, and more responsive to the work God is already stirring in their communities.\n\nPete also unpacks Stephen Covey’s idea of the circle of concern and the circle of influence, encouraging listeners to stop fixating on everything they cannot control and instead ask a better question: What does this make possible? The episode offers practical encouragement for leaders who want to build trust, cast vision, cultivate community, invest intentionally, and model the kind of mission they hope to see in others.\n\nMentioned in This Episode\n\n\nThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey\nMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl\nHow to Lead When You’re Not in Charge by Clay Scroggins\nDivine Renovation by Fr. James Mallon\n\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nTake a few minutes this week to reflect on the difference between your circle of concern and your circle of influence.\n\n\nWhere is God inviting you to lead more intentionally right now?\nWhat is one area of ministry, one relationship, or one next step where you may be tempted to stay passive instead of responding with courage?\n","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie explore what it looks like to unlock your influence in ministry. Drawing from Pete’s recent workshop at the NFCYM Exchange, this conversation is a thoughtful and practical look at leadership, especially for ministry leaders who feel the tension between wanting change and not always having the authority to make it happen.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey discuss the common ministry shift from maintenance to mission, and why healthy ministry cannot stop at simply managing buildings, budgets, policies, or attendance. Instead, real mission calls leaders to become more relational, more intentional, and more responsive to the work God is already stirring in their communities.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePete also unpacks Stephen Covey’s idea of the circle of concern and the circle of influence, encouraging listeners to stop fixating on everything they cannot control and instead ask a better question: What does this make possible? The episode offers practical encouragement for leaders who want to build trust, cast vision, cultivate community, invest intentionally, and model the kind of mission they hope to see in others.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eMentioned in This Episode\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to Lead When You’re Not in Charge by Clay Scroggins\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDivine Renovation by Fr. James Mallon\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake a few minutes this week to reflect on the difference between your circle of concern and your circle of influence.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere is God inviting you to lead more intentionally right now?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat is one area of ministry, one relationship, or one next step where you may be tempted to stay passive instead of responding with courage?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e","summary":"In this episode, Pete and Annie talk about what it means to leverage your influence in ministry, even when you are not the one officially “in charge.” They explore the shift from maintenance to mission, the difference between your circle of concern and your circle of influence, and the practical ways ministry leaders can lead with intentionality, trust, and vision.","date_published":"2026-03-30T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/a408a0b1-9844-4ff8-ab21-7a043299dcd0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":62175812,"duration_in_seconds":1903}]},{"id":"6887b40c-777f-41a8-84fd-b0415978ee57","title":"EP15: Should Catholic Youth Ministry Exist with Fr. Chad","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/15","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn Episode 15 of The YDisciple Podcast, Annie and Pete are joined by Father Chad Van Hoose, chaplain of NET Ministries, to wrestle with a question that many ministry leaders quietly (or loudly) ask: Should Catholic Youth Ministry exist?\n\nRather than offering easy answers, this conversation dives into the real tensions, objections, and assumptions behind the question. Together, they unpack:\n\n\nThe claim that “youth ministry has failed”\nWhether declining Church engagement proves anything about ministry models\nIf youth ministry isolates teens from parish life\nHow peer community fits into Christian maturity\nThe truth behind “parents are the primary educators”\nWhether youth ministry competes with family ministry\nThe role of emotions in faith formation\nIf the Church is just “one more demand” on teens’ time\n\n\nFather Chad offers a grounded pastoral perspective, reframing many objections by asking deeper questions:\n“How should the Church love, form, and accompany young people today?”\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nTake a moment to reflect:\n\n\nWhich objections to youth ministry resonate with me most?\nDo my frustrations come from youth ministry itself — or how it’s been implemented?\nHow integrated is youth ministry within the broader parish community?\nAm I forming disciples… or just running programs?\nHow am I helping young people reorder their time around Christ?\n\n\nAsk the Holy Spirit to renew your vision for ministry —\nnot as maintenance, but as mission.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn Episode 15 of The YDisciple Podcast, Annie and Pete are joined by Father Chad Van Hoose, chaplain of NET Ministries, to wrestle with a question that many ministry leaders quietly (or loudly) ask: Should Catholic Youth Ministry exist?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRather than offering easy answers, this conversation dives into the real tensions, objections, and assumptions behind the question. Together, they unpack:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe claim that “youth ministry has failed”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether declining Church engagement proves anything about ministry models\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf youth ministry isolates teens from parish life\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow peer community fits into Christian maturity\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe truth behind “parents are the primary educators”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether youth ministry competes with family ministry\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe role of emotions in faith formation\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the Church is just “one more demand” on teens’ time\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFather Chad offers a grounded pastoral perspective, reframing many objections by asking deeper questions:\u003cbr\u003e\n“How should the Church love, form, and accompany young people today?”\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake a moment to reflect:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhich objections to youth ministry resonate with me most?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo my frustrations come from youth ministry itself — or how it’s been implemented?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow integrated is youth ministry within the broader parish community?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAm I forming disciples… or just running programs?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow am I helping young people reorder their time around Christ?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk the Holy Spirit to renew your vision for ministry —\u003cbr\u003e\nnot as maintenance, but as mission.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Annie and Pete are joined by Father Chad Van Hoose to explore a provocative question: Should Catholic Youth Ministries exist? Through an honest discussion of common objections, this episode reframes youth ministry through the lens of evangelization, discipleship, and mission.","date_published":"2026-03-23T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/6887b40c-777f-41a8-84fd-b0415978ee57.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":69444704,"duration_in_seconds":2125}]},{"id":"cec1ec5c-85c6-48f9-b2e0-02d6fcc0e57a","title":"EP14: Sacred Listening with Dr. Josh Packard","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/14","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn Episode 14 of The YDisciple Podcast, Annie and Pete welcome sociologist and researcher Dr. Josh Packard of Future of Faith for a deeply timely and surprisingly practical conversation: Listening.\n\nDrawing from years of research on young people, trust, and religious engagement, Dr. Packard challenges common assumptions about discipleship, formation, and what actually builds credibility with today’s generation.\n\nTogether, they explore:\n\n\nWhy traditional ministry models aren’t “bad” — just less effective in a changed world\nThe growing trust gap between individuals and institutions\nHow relationships, not programs, are forming faith today\nWhy listening is not passive — but profoundly formative\nThe pressure ministry leaders feel to “say everything”\nHow accompaniment reframes formation as a long-haul journey\n\n\nDr. Packard offers a powerful insight from his research:\nWhen young people are truly listened to, something formative is already happening.\n\nRather than treating listening as a technique or strategy, this episode reframes it as a posture — one rooted in curiosity, reliability, and authentic human presence.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nLearn more about Dr. Packard’s work:\n\n\nfutureoffaith.org\nfaithfulfuturesbook.com\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nTake time to prayerfully consider:\n\n\nDo I approach listening as essential to ministry — or optional?\nWhen young people speak, am I truly curious or waiting for my turn to respond?\nWhere do I feel pressure to “cover everything” instead of accompanying patiently?\nHow reliable am I in following up on what others share with me?\n\n\nAsk the Holy Spirit to deepen your capacity to listen —\nnot as a skill to master, but as a way to love.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn Episode 14 of The YDisciple Podcast, Annie and Pete welcome sociologist and researcher Dr. Josh Packard of Future of Faith for a deeply timely and surprisingly practical conversation: Listening.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing from years of research on young people, trust, and religious engagement, Dr. Packard challenges common assumptions about discipleship, formation, and what actually builds credibility with today’s generation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they explore:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhy traditional ministry models aren’t “bad” — just less effective in a changed world\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe growing trust gap between individuals and institutions\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow relationships, not programs, are forming faith today\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhy listening is not passive — but profoundly formative\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe pressure ministry leaders feel to “say everything”\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow accompaniment reframes formation as a long-haul journey\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Packard offers a powerful insight from his research:\u003cbr\u003e\nWhen young people are truly listened to, something formative is already happening.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRather than treating listening as a technique or strategy, this episode reframes it as a posture — one rooted in curiosity, reliability, and authentic human presence.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearn more about Dr. Packard’s work:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003efutureoffaith.org\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003efaithfulfuturesbook.com\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake time to prayerfully consider:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo I approach listening as essential to ministry — or optional?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen young people speak, am I truly curious or waiting for my turn to respond?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere do I feel pressure to “cover everything” instead of accompanying patiently?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow reliable am I in following up on what others share with me?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk the Holy Spirit to deepen your capacity to listen —\u003cbr\u003e\nnot as a skill to master, but as a way to love.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Dr. Josh Packard joins Annie and Pete to explore why listening is central to discipleship in today’s world. Drawing from research on trust and relationships, this episode reframes listening as deeply formative, not merely supportive, offering practical encouragement for ministry leaders navigating modern challenges.","date_published":"2026-03-16T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/cec1ec5c-85c6-48f9-b2e0-02d6fcc0e57a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":70402272,"duration_in_seconds":2170}]},{"id":"dde156f8-54fc-4dd2-a498-063dfbf38e57","title":"EP13: Finding the Mentors with YD Coaches, Molly \u0026 H","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/13","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn Episode 13 of The YDisciple Podcast, Annie is joined by two voices who live daily in the realities of parish ministry: YDisciple coaches Molly Gallagher and H Dorian.\n\nThis episode marks the beginning of a new recurring series — Coaches of the Round Table — where conversations are grounded not just in theory, but in real stories from the field.\n\nTogether, they tackle one of the most universal challenges in youth ministry:\nFinding and inviting faithful adult volunteers to mentor young people.\n\nFrom the pain of repeated rejection to the mindset shift required to build an “army of adults,” this conversation names the obstacles ministry leaders face with honesty and compassion. The coaches share what they’re hearing from parishes across the country — including the discouragement of “there is nobody,” the fear of awkward invitations, and the difficulty of surrendering control of the process.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nDr. Kara Powell's Podcast:\nhttps://a.co/d/0hatWJrY\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nTake a few moments to reflect:\n\n\nWhere have I experienced discouragement or rejection in inviting others into ministry?\nDo I approach recruitment prayerfully — or primarily strategically?\nWho might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to notice differently?\nHow comfortable am I being vulnerable when making an invitation?\n\n\nAsk the Lord for renewed courage and trust, remembering that He is the one who calls, equips, and sends.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn Episode 13 of The YDisciple Podcast, Annie is joined by two voices who live daily in the realities of parish ministry: YDisciple coaches Molly Gallagher and H Dorian.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode marks the beginning of a new recurring series — Coaches of the Round Table — where conversations are grounded not just in theory, but in real stories from the field.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they tackle one of the most universal challenges in youth ministry:\u003cbr\u003e\nFinding and inviting faithful adult volunteers to mentor young people.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the pain of repeated rejection to the mindset shift required to build an “army of adults,” this conversation names the obstacles ministry leaders face with honesty and compassion. The coaches share what they’re hearing from parishes across the country — including the discouragement of “there is nobody,” the fear of awkward invitations, and the difficulty of surrendering control of the process.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr. Kara Powell\u0026#39;s Podcast:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https://a.co/d/0hatWJrY\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://a.co/d/0hatWJrY\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake a few moments to reflect:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere have I experienced discouragement or rejection in inviting others into ministry?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo I approach recruitment prayerfully — or primarily strategically?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to notice differently?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow comfortable am I being vulnerable when making an invitation?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk the Lord for renewed courage and trust, remembering that He is the one who calls, equips, and sends.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this first Coaches of the Round Table episode, YDisciple coaches Molly Gallagher and H Dorian join Annie to unpack the challenges of recruiting faithful adult mentors. Through stories, humor, and practical wisdom, they offer hope-filled strategies rooted in prayer, vulnerability, and long-term vision.","date_published":"2026-03-09T00:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/dde156f8-54fc-4dd2-a498-063dfbf38e57.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":72558403,"duration_in_seconds":2228}]},{"id":"77ae9cfa-5e96-47df-a827-de755e56f8f4","title":"EP12: Camps, Conferences, and Where They All Fit","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/12","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn Episode 12 of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie explore the role of conferences, camps, pilgrimages, and large-scale events in youth ministry.\n\nFrom Steubenville conferences to Extreme Faith Camp to World Youth Day, they share personal stories of powerful mountaintop encounters — moments of awakening, conversion, and deep consolation. They reflect on how these experiences shaped their own faith and the faith of the young people they served.\n\nBut this conversation isn’t about hype.\nIt’s about placement.\n\nThis episode invites ministry leaders to zoom out, think strategically, and place events within a broader process of evangelization — one that includes mentorship, community, scaffolding, and everyday faithfulness.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching.\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts.\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast.\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere do events fit in my current ministry strategy?\nDo I have a clear roadmap for forming disciples — or am I relying on mountaintop moments?\nWho are the adult mentors I could invite into deeper investment with my young people?\n\n\nTake time this week to evaluate your long-term vision for discipleship — and consider how your next event can serve that vision.\n\nRefferences\n\nhttps://www.centerforthenewevangelization.org/process-of-evangelization","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn Episode 12 of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie explore the role of conferences, camps, pilgrimages, and large-scale events in youth ministry.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrom Steubenville conferences to Extreme Faith Camp to World Youth Day, they share personal stories of powerful mountaintop encounters — moments of awakening, conversion, and deep consolation. They reflect on how these experiences shaped their own faith and the faith of the young people they served.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBut this conversation isn’t about hype.\u003cbr\u003e\nIt’s about placement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode invites ministry leaders to zoom out, think strategically, and place events within a broader process of evangelization — one that includes mentorship, community, scaffolding, and everyday faithfulness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere do events fit in my current ministry strategy?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo I have a clear roadmap for forming disciples — or am I relying on mountaintop moments?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho are the adult mentors I could invite into deeper investment with my young people?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake time this week to evaluate your long-term vision for discipleship — and consider how your next event can serve that vision.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eRefferences\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.centerforthenewevangelization.org/process-of-evangelization\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://www.centerforthenewevangelization.org/process-of-evangelization\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Conferences and camps can be powerful moments of conversion — but they aren’t the end goal. In this episode, Pete and Annie unpack the proper place of mountaintop experiences in youth ministry and challenge leaders to think beyond follow-up toward a long-term vision for forming missionary disciples.","date_published":"2026-03-02T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/77ae9cfa-5e96-47df-a827-de755e56f8f4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":64133257,"duration_in_seconds":1964}]},{"id":"f923e715-b1c0-4cd6-8f9f-45558ec96981","title":"EP11: The Ones Who Stayed with Chenele Shaw","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/11","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie welcome Chenele Shaw to talk about a theme that is both deeply personal and urgently needed in youth ministry: the power of adults who stay.\n\nChenele shares her own story of being a teenager navigating her parents’ divorce, getting kicked out of high school, and reluctantly walking into youth group with a bad attitude and zero interest in faith. What changed her life wasn’t a flawless curriculum or a perfectly executed program—it was a youth minister who kept showing up. He didn’t take himself too seriously. He invited teens into his real life. He stayed.\n\nFrom that experience, Chanel unpacks what it means to accompany young people with presence, not perfection. She challenges the tendency in ministry to rely solely on formulas and metrics, and instead calls adults to embrace the art of discipleship—self-awareness, emotional engagement, mercy toward themselves, and authentic connection.\n\nThis conversation explores:\n\n\nWhy it’s not “unprofessional” to feel things in ministry\nThe tension between responsibility and surrender\nThe gap in forming adults to accompany teens emotionally\nHow belonging is built through vulnerability and trust\nWhy teens won’t remember everything you said—but they will remember how you made them feel\n\n\nIf you’ve ever felt pressure to be the “perfect” minister, this episode is a deep breath of fresh air. You are not called to be flawless. You are called to stay.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nTake a few moments to reflect:\n\n\nWho were “the ones who stayed” in my life?\nDo I give myself mercy when ministry doesn’t go perfectly?\nAm I willing to accompany young people emotionally—not just practically?\nWhere might God be inviting me to take myself a little less seriously?\n\n\nAsk the Lord to help you be present, authentic, and consistent—trusting that He is the one ultimately at work in every young person’s story.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie welcome Chenele Shaw to talk about a theme that is both deeply personal and urgently needed in youth ministry: the power of adults who stay.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eChenele shares her own story of being a teenager navigating her parents’ divorce, getting kicked out of high school, and reluctantly walking into youth group with a bad attitude and zero interest in faith. What changed her life wasn’t a flawless curriculum or a perfectly executed program—it was a youth minister who kept showing up. He didn’t take himself too seriously. He invited teens into his real life. He stayed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrom that experience, Chanel unpacks what it means to accompany young people with presence, not perfection. She challenges the tendency in ministry to rely solely on formulas and metrics, and instead calls adults to embrace the art of discipleship—self-awareness, emotional engagement, mercy toward themselves, and authentic connection.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis conversation explores:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhy it’s not “unprofessional” to feel things in ministry\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe tension between responsibility and surrender\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe gap in forming adults to accompany teens emotionally\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow belonging is built through vulnerability and trust\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhy teens won’t remember everything you said—but they will remember how you made them feel\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’ve ever felt pressure to be the “perfect” minister, this episode is a deep breath of fresh air. You are not called to be flawless. You are called to stay.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake a few moments to reflect:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho were “the ones who stayed” in my life?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo I give myself mercy when ministry doesn’t go perfectly?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAm I willing to accompany young people emotionally—not just practically?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere might God be inviting me to take myself a little less seriously?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk the Lord to help you be present, authentic, and consistent—trusting that He is the one ultimately at work in every young person’s story.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Chenele Shaw shares her powerful story of how a consistent youth minister changed her life—and why adult presence, not perfection, is what truly forms young disciples. This episode challenges ministry leaders to embrace authenticity, emotional engagement, and mercy toward themselves as they accompany teens toward Jesus.","date_published":"2026-02-23T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/f923e715-b1c0-4cd6-8f9f-45558ec96981.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":85709105,"duration_in_seconds":2627}]},{"id":"d6352c75-59a4-4115-8553-8a4b31bf32c0","title":"Bonus: Let's Keep The Conversation Going","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/10-1","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn this special mid-season episode of The YDisciple Podcast, we take a moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you.\n\nAfter ten episodes of honest conversations about discipleship, youth ministry, belonging, and accompaniment, we express our gratitude to the listeners who make this podcast possible. We reflect on the heart behind the show—not as a one-way delivery of content, but as a shared journey with ministry leaders and disciples walking with young people every day.\n\nThis episode also extends an open invitation to the YDisciple community. We encourage our listeners to share their questions, challenges, feedback, and ideas for future episodes, emphasizing their desire to build a podcast shaped by real ministry realities and real people.\n\nWhether you’ve been listening since Episode 1 or just joined along the way, this short episode is a reminder that you’re not listening alone—you’re part of a growing conversation centered on following Jesus and helping young people do the same.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this special mid-season episode of The YDisciple Podcast, we take a moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter ten episodes of honest conversations about discipleship, youth ministry, belonging, and accompaniment, we express our gratitude to the listeners who make this podcast possible. We reflect on the heart behind the show—not as a one-way delivery of content, but as a shared journey with ministry leaders and disciples walking with young people every day.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode also extends an open invitation to the YDisciple community. We encourage our listeners to share their questions, challenges, feedback, and ideas for future episodes, emphasizing their desire to build a podcast shaped by real ministry realities and real people.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’ve been listening since Episode 1 or just joined along the way, this short episode is a reminder that you’re not listening alone—you’re part of a growing conversation centered on following Jesus and helping young people do the same.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this brief mid-season episode, Pete and Annie pause to thank listeners for joining the journey so far and invite the YDisciple Podcast community to help shape what comes next. They encourage listeners to share feedback, questions, and episode ideas as the conversation continues.","date_published":"2026-02-19T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/d6352c75-59a4-4115-8553-8a4b31bf32c0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":4582741,"duration_in_seconds":139}]},{"id":"646f56c7-6cbb-4c52-8d6e-cf805de1ebc6","title":"EP10: How to Ask Good Questions","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/10","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn Episode 10 of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Annie Grandell and Pete Burds dive into the art and importance of asking great questions in ministry—and in life.\n\nDrawing from personal stories, scripture, and years of ministry experience, Pete and Annie explore how questions build trust, foster authentic relationships, and create space for transformation. They reflect on Jesus’ own ministry, noting that while He was asked hundreds of questions, He rarely answered directly—instead inviting deeper reflection through questions of His own.\n\nThe conversation unpacks why many ministry leaders are trained to give answers but not to ask questions, and how that imbalance can limit connection with young people. Pete and Annie discuss practical ways to ask better questions—from simple “cafeteria questions” that warm up conversation to deeper “living room questions” that invite vulnerability and growth.\n\nThey also address common pitfalls: moving too fast, asking questions that shut conversation down, or missing moments of vulnerability because of a desire to control the discussion. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to adopt a posture of curiosity rooted in confidence, empathy, and reverence for human dignity.\n\nThis episode is a practical and spiritual guide for anyone who walks with young people—youth ministers, catechists, volunteers, teachers, and parents—who wants to cultivate deeper conversations and help others feel truly seen, heard, and loved.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nDo I tend to lead with answers or with curiosity?\nWhere might I be moving too fast instead of staying with someone’s story?\nWhat’s one place this week where I can pause and ask one more question before responding?\n\n\nAs you pray this week, ask Jesus to help you see others as He does—and to trust the power of asking, listening, and accompanying.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn Episode 10 of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Annie Grandell and Pete Burds dive into the art and importance of asking great questions in ministry—and in life.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing from personal stories, scripture, and years of ministry experience, Pete and Annie explore how questions build trust, foster authentic relationships, and create space for transformation. They reflect on Jesus’ own ministry, noting that while He was asked hundreds of questions, He rarely answered directly—instead inviting deeper reflection through questions of His own.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe conversation unpacks why many ministry leaders are trained to give answers but not to ask questions, and how that imbalance can limit connection with young people. Pete and Annie discuss practical ways to ask better questions—from simple “cafeteria questions” that warm up conversation to deeper “living room questions” that invite vulnerability and growth.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey also address common pitfalls: moving too fast, asking questions that shut conversation down, or missing moments of vulnerability because of a desire to control the discussion. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to adopt a posture of curiosity rooted in confidence, empathy, and reverence for human dignity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode is a practical and spiritual guide for anyone who walks with young people—youth ministers, catechists, volunteers, teachers, and parents—who wants to cultivate deeper conversations and help others feel truly seen, heard, and loved.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDo I tend to lead with answers or with curiosity?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere might I be moving too fast instead of staying with someone’s story?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat’s one place this week where I can pause and ask one more question before responding?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs you pray this week, ask Jesus to help you see others as He does—and to trust the power of asking, listening, and accompanying.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Pete and Annie explore why asking great questions is essential for authentic discipleship, relational ministry, and meaningful conversation with young people—following the example of Jesus, who led with curiosity rather than quick answers.","date_published":"2026-02-16T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/646f56c7-6cbb-4c52-8d6e-cf805de1ebc6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":63411832,"duration_in_seconds":1941}]},{"id":"68697e32-20c8-4ff8-b7b3-1346074c1f8a","title":"EP9: Let's Get Practical with Elena Pope","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/9","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell are joined by Elena Pope, junior high youth minister from the St. Gabriel the Archangel Family of Parishes in Dayton, Ohio.\n\nElena shares her unexpected journey into youth ministry, how the Holy Spirit led her from a career outside the Church into eight years of missionary discipleship, and why junior high ministry holds such a critical—and often overlooked—place in the life of the Church.\n\nTogether, they dive into what effective junior high ministry really looks like: prioritizing relationships, creating spaces for real encounter with Jesus, building strong core teams, and offering meaningful faith experiences that go beyond talk and into lived prayer. Elena unpacks how her parish approaches ministry as a renovation project—honoring what’s already been built while renewing hearts, minds, and faith foundations.\n\nThe conversation also explores the realities of ministry within a family of parishes, including geographic distance, transportation challenges, and diverse parish cultures. Elena shares how listening closely to the Holy Spirit led to creative solutions—from a transportation ministry to restructuring junior high and high school leadership—that are bearing real fruit.\n\nThis episode is filled with encouragement for ministry leaders navigating change, uncertainty, or resistance, and a powerful reminder that Spirit-led ministry begins with attentiveness, courage, and the willingness to ask a new question: What does this make possible?\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere in my ministry or leadership have I been focusing on what isn’t working?\nWhat might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to notice or change?\nWhat does this situation make possible that I haven’t considered yet?\n\n\nTake time this week to pray with openness and courage, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your next small step forward.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell are joined by Elena Pope, junior high youth minister from the St. Gabriel the Archangel Family of Parishes in Dayton, Ohio.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eElena shares her unexpected journey into youth ministry, how the Holy Spirit led her from a career outside the Church into eight years of missionary discipleship, and why junior high ministry holds such a critical—and often overlooked—place in the life of the Church.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they dive into what effective junior high ministry really looks like: prioritizing relationships, creating spaces for real encounter with Jesus, building strong core teams, and offering meaningful faith experiences that go beyond talk and into lived prayer. Elena unpacks how her parish approaches ministry as a renovation project—honoring what’s already been built while renewing hearts, minds, and faith foundations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe conversation also explores the realities of ministry within a family of parishes, including geographic distance, transportation challenges, and diverse parish cultures. Elena shares how listening closely to the Holy Spirit led to creative solutions—from a transportation ministry to restructuring junior high and high school leadership—that are bearing real fruit.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode is filled with encouragement for ministry leaders navigating change, uncertainty, or resistance, and a powerful reminder that Spirit-led ministry begins with attentiveness, courage, and the willingness to ask a new question: What does this make possible?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere in my ministry or leadership have I been focusing on what isn’t working?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to notice or change?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat does this situation make possible that I haven’t considered yet?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake time this week to pray with openness and courage, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your next small step forward.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Youth minister Elena Pope joins Pete and Annie to share how Spirit-led discernment, relational ministry, and creative problem-solving are transforming junior high discipleship within a family of parishes. A practical and hope-filled conversation for anyone navigating change in ministry.","date_published":"2026-02-09T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/68697e32-20c8-4ff8-b7b3-1346074c1f8a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":77218208,"duration_in_seconds":2383}]},{"id":"4d81e74a-c482-4520-b68a-63b2e9c17253","title":"EP8: Myths in Youth Ministry (Part 2)","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/8","content_text":"About this Episode\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell continue their two-part series on Myths in Youth Ministry, turning their attention to four additional assumptions that often shape—and sometimes limit—our approach to ministry.\n\nThey explore the belief that big budgets are required for big impact, the tension around whether “it’s about the numbers,” the idea that youth ministry only happens in the youth room, and the assumption that only “qualified professionals” can truly do youth ministry. Through stories from parish life, personal experience, and the broader Church, Pete and Annie reframe each myth with a more relational, missionary, and hope-filled perspective.\n\nThis conversation challenges listeners to rethink how success is measured, where ministry actually happens, and who is truly called to participate. Ultimately, it reminds us that youth ministry is less about resources, resumes, and rooms—and far more about identity, relationships, and faithful presence.\n\nWhether you’re paid staff, a volunteer, a teacher, a parent, or someone who feels unsure if you’re “qualified,” this episode affirms that God is already at work through you and invites you to step more confidently into the mission entrusted to you.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere might I be measuring success in ministry too narrowly?\nIn what spaces outside the “youth room” might God be inviting me to show up more intentionally?\nWhat gifts has God already placed in my “quiver,” and where might He be inviting me to grow?\n\n\nSpend time thanking God for the people and places where He has already allowed you to be a missionary disciple—and ask for the grace to trust that He equips those He calls.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell continue their two-part series on Myths in Youth Ministry, turning their attention to four additional assumptions that often shape—and sometimes limit—our approach to ministry.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey explore the belief that big budgets are required for big impact, the tension around whether “it’s about the numbers,” the idea that youth ministry only happens in the youth room, and the assumption that only “qualified professionals” can truly do youth ministry. Through stories from parish life, personal experience, and the broader Church, Pete and Annie reframe each myth with a more relational, missionary, and hope-filled perspective.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis conversation challenges listeners to rethink how success is measured, where ministry actually happens, and who is truly called to participate. Ultimately, it reminds us that youth ministry is less about resources, resumes, and rooms—and far more about identity, relationships, and faithful presence.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re paid staff, a volunteer, a teacher, a parent, or someone who feels unsure if you’re “qualified,” this episode affirms that God is already at work through you and invites you to step more confidently into the mission entrusted to you.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere might I be measuring success in ministry too narrowly?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn what spaces outside the “youth room” might God be inviting me to show up more intentionally?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat gifts has God already placed in my “quiver,” and where might He be inviting me to grow?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpend time thanking God for the people and places where He has already allowed you to be a missionary disciple—and ask for the grace to trust that He equips those He calls.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In Part Two of their Myths in Youth Ministry, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell tackle four more common misconceptions—about budgets, numbers, spaces, and qualifications—and replace them with a more relational, missionary vision of youth ministry rooted in identity, presence, and trust in God’s provision.","date_published":"2026-02-02T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/4d81e74a-c482-4520-b68a-63b2e9c17253.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":69325443,"duration_in_seconds":2123}]},{"id":"17ff969e-bbe9-40c1-933f-755ea593e823","title":"EP7: Myths in Youth Ministry (Part 1)","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/7","content_text":"About this Episode\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell kick off a two-part conversation by naming and debunking some of the most common myths in youth ministry—and exploring how these assumptions can quietly limit our vision and fruitfulness.\n\nTogether, they unpack the belief that you have to be young to work with young people, the pressure to always be entertaining, the idea that what worked in the past will automatically work today, and the assumption that parents are the problem. Drawing from real ministry experiences, research, and powerful stories, Pete and Annie show how authenticity, presence, humility, and relationship matter far more than age, flashiness, or formulas.\n\nThis episode offers both freedom and challenge: freedom from unrealistic expectations, and a challenge to adapt our methods while remaining rooted in what is essential. Whether you’re a youth minister, pastor, volunteer, catechist, or parent, this conversation invites you to rethink what effective youth ministry really looks like—and who it’s truly for.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhich myths about youth ministry might I be holding—consciously or unconsciously?\nWhere might God be inviting me to shift from performance to presence?\nHow can I approach young people and their parents with greater humility, curiosity, and trust this week?\n\n\nTake time to pray about how God may be expanding your vision for ministry beyond what has “always worked.”","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell kick off a two-part conversation by naming and debunking some of the most common myths in youth ministry—and exploring how these assumptions can quietly limit our vision and fruitfulness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they unpack the belief that you have to be young to work with young people, the pressure to always be entertaining, the idea that what worked in the past will automatically work today, and the assumption that parents are the problem. Drawing from real ministry experiences, research, and powerful stories, Pete and Annie show how authenticity, presence, humility, and relationship matter far more than age, flashiness, or formulas.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis episode offers both freedom and challenge: freedom from unrealistic expectations, and a challenge to adapt our methods while remaining rooted in what is essential. Whether you’re a youth minister, pastor, volunteer, catechist, or parent, this conversation invites you to rethink what effective youth ministry really looks like—and who it’s truly for.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhich myths about youth ministry might I be holding—consciously or unconsciously?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere might God be inviting me to shift from performance to presence?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow can I approach young people and their parents with greater humility, curiosity, and trust this week?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake time to pray about how God may be expanding your vision for ministry beyond what has “always worked.”\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Do you really have to be young, entertaining, or innovative to be effective in youth ministry? In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell begin a two-part series by debunking common myths that limit ministry and replace them with a more relational, authentic, and hope-filled vision for walking with young people and their families.","date_published":"2026-01-26T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/17ff969e-bbe9-40c1-933f-755ea593e823.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":59529722,"duration_in_seconds":1820}]},{"id":"1ec54db3-a127-43fd-ab6f-decf64e897bc","title":" EP6: Sexual Identity with Dr Julia Sadusky","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/6","content_text":"About This Episode\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell welcome psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. Julia Sadusky for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation about sexuality, gender, embodiment, and belonging.\n\nDrawing from her clinical experience and Catholic faith, Dr. Sadusky reflects on what she wishes young people were hearing from the Church—especially around sexuality and chastity. She invites ministry leaders to consider not only what we say, but how we say it, and what it communicates to teens who already feel on the margins.\n\nTogether, they explore the strengths and challenges of same-sex small groups, the unintended harm of rigid gender stereotypes, and how well-meaning ministry messaging can sometimes miss the hearts of young people who don’t fit the mold. Dr. Sadusky also speaks candidly about eating disorders, body image, and the ways our culture—and our ministries—talk about bodies in ways that shape a young person’s sense of worth.\n\nAt the heart of the conversation is a powerful insight: many teens aren’t asking theological questions first—they’re asking relational ones. Does God like me? Do I belong here? This episode invites anyone working with young people to reflect on how their presence, language, and posture can become a living answer to those questions.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nTake some time to pray and reflect:\n\n\nWhen young people interact with me, what questions might they be asking beneath the surface?\nHow do my words, tone, and assumptions communicate belonging—or exclusion?\nIn what ways can I better reflect the truth that every person is a body–soul unity, created with dignity and purpose?\n\n\nAsk God to help you see the young people entrusted to you the way He sees them—and to respond with sensitivity, courage, and love.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout This Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell welcome psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. Julia Sadusky for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation about sexuality, gender, embodiment, and belonging.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing from her clinical experience and Catholic faith, Dr. Sadusky reflects on what she wishes young people were hearing from the Church—especially around sexuality and chastity. She invites ministry leaders to consider not only what we say, but how we say it, and what it communicates to teens who already feel on the margins.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they explore the strengths and challenges of same-sex small groups, the unintended harm of rigid gender stereotypes, and how well-meaning ministry messaging can sometimes miss the hearts of young people who don’t fit the mold. Dr. Sadusky also speaks candidly about eating disorders, body image, and the ways our culture—and our ministries—talk about bodies in ways that shape a young person’s sense of worth.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the conversation is a powerful insight: many teens aren’t asking theological questions first—they’re asking relational ones. Does God like me? Do I belong here? This episode invites anyone working with young people to reflect on how their presence, language, and posture can become a living answer to those questions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake some time to pray and reflect:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen young people interact with me, what questions might they be asking beneath the surface?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow do my words, tone, and assumptions communicate belonging—or exclusion?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn what ways can I better reflect the truth that every person is a body–soul unity, created with dignity and purpose?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk God to help you see the young people entrusted to you the way He sees them—and to respond with sensitivity, courage, and love.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"How we talk about sexuality, gender, and the body matters. In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with psychologist Dr. Julia Sadusky to explore how ministry leaders can speak truth with compassion, avoid harmful stereotypes, and create spaces of real belonging. A must-listen for anyone walking with young people through complex questions of identity, embodiment, and faith.","date_published":"2026-01-19T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/1ec54db3-a127-43fd-ab6f-decf64e897bc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":74438786,"duration_in_seconds":2277}]},{"id":"8f480107-3cf4-418c-961f-e5b02a003504","title":"EP5: Pre-Evangelization and Hospitality with Jason Kidd","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/5","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat if the key to reaching young people today isn’t better programming—but deeper belonging?\n\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell are joined by Jason Kidd, National Director of Alpha in a Catholic Context, for a powerful conversation on pre-evangelization and radical hospitality. Together, they explore why young people need to belong before they believe and how intentional care creates fertile soil for the Gospel to take root.\n\nDrawing from Scripture, sociology, and years of ministry experience, Jason unpacks what radical hospitality really means—and why it’s far more than a buzzword. From learning names and asking good questions to creating environments that feel safe, beautiful, and welcoming, this conversation highlights how small, thoughtful choices communicate dignity, worth, and love to young people who may be disconnected, skeptical, or hurting.\n\nPete, Annie, and Jason also reflect on the power of listening without judgment, resisting the urge to force conclusions, and trusting the Holy Spirit to work over time. You’ll hear why questions matter, how Jesus modeled a culture of curiosity, and what it looks like to truly accompany young people—especially those who are far from faith or just beginning to ask deeper questions.\n\nWhether you’re working with teens, young adults, or families, this episode will challenge you to rethink how hospitality, listening, and patience can become the front door to discipleship—and a tangible expression of Christ’s love.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere can I practice deeper hospitality in my ministry spaces?\nHow can I grow in listening without judgment or the need to “fix” someone?\nWhat questions can I ask that invite young people to share their story more freely?\n\n\nPray for the grace to see Christ in each person you encounter—and the patience to walk with them at the pace of the Holy Spirit.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat if the key to reaching young people today isn’t better programming—but deeper belonging?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell are joined by Jason Kidd, National Director of Alpha in a Catholic Context, for a powerful conversation on pre-evangelization and radical hospitality. Together, they explore why young people need to belong before they believe and how intentional care creates fertile soil for the Gospel to take root.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing from Scripture, sociology, and years of ministry experience, Jason unpacks what radical hospitality really means—and why it’s far more than a buzzword. From learning names and asking good questions to creating environments that feel safe, beautiful, and welcoming, this conversation highlights how small, thoughtful choices communicate dignity, worth, and love to young people who may be disconnected, skeptical, or hurting.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePete, Annie, and Jason also reflect on the power of listening without judgment, resisting the urge to force conclusions, and trusting the Holy Spirit to work over time. You’ll hear why questions matter, how Jesus modeled a culture of curiosity, and what it looks like to truly accompany young people—especially those who are far from faith or just beginning to ask deeper questions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re working with teens, young adults, or families, this episode will challenge you to rethink how hospitality, listening, and patience can become the front door to discipleship—and a tangible expression of Christ’s love.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere can I practice deeper hospitality in my ministry spaces?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow can I grow in listening without judgment or the need to “fix” someone?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat questions can I ask that invite young people to share their story more freely?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePray for the grace to see Christ in each person you encounter—and the patience to walk with them at the pace of the Holy Spirit.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Jason Kidd from Alpha to explore pre-evangelization and radical hospitality. This episode unpacks why belonging comes before belief, how listening and curiosity open hearts, and how intentional environments and relationships prepare young people to encounter Christ.","date_published":"2026-01-15T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/8f480107-3cf4-418c-961f-e5b02a003504.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":62057385,"duration_in_seconds":1901}]},{"id":"624664a2-c388-4f6a-9a01-671316bb9bb4","title":"EP4: Vision for Small Group Discipleship","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/4","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat if small group discipleship isn’t just one strategy among many—but the central way young people actually grow in faith?\n\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell cast a clear and compelling vision for small group discipleship—why it matters, why it works, and why it’s so essential for forming young disciples today. Drawing from Scripture, ministry experience, and years of walking with young people, they unpack how Jesus Himself modeled discipleship through intimate, relational small groups.\n\nPete and Annie explore what small group discipleship really is (and what it’s not), offering a practical definition rooted in mentorship, apprenticeship, and relationship. They walk through the five guiding principles that shape the YDisciple approach—from belonging before believing to letting go of control so young people can take real ownership of their faith.\n\nYou’ll hear why programs alone don’t make disciples, how authenticity builds trust, why honoring family reality matters more than ever, and how customizable discipleship allows the Holy Spirit to meet young people exactly where they are. They also speak directly to the fears ministry leaders often feel—especially the vulnerability of releasing control—and share the unexpected fruit that comes when young people are trusted, known, and invited into deeper responsibility.\n\nWhether you’re just starting out in ministry or reimagining a long-standing program, this episode will challenge you to rethink how disciples are formed—and invite you to embrace a model that is scalable, relational, and deeply human.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhere might I be holding too tightly to control in my ministry?\nHow can I create spaces where young people truly belong before they believe?\nWho could I invite to mentor a small group—and how can I better form and support them?\n\n\nPray for the courage to trust the process of discipleship—and to make room for the Holy Spirit to move in ways you may not be able to plan.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat if small group discipleship isn’t just one strategy among many—but the central way young people actually grow in faith?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell cast a clear and compelling vision for small group discipleship—why it matters, why it works, and why it’s so essential for forming young disciples today. Drawing from Scripture, ministry experience, and years of walking with young people, they unpack how Jesus Himself modeled discipleship through intimate, relational small groups.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePete and Annie explore what small group discipleship really is (and what it’s not), offering a practical definition rooted in mentorship, apprenticeship, and relationship. They walk through the five guiding principles that shape the YDisciple approach—from belonging before believing to letting go of control so young people can take real ownership of their faith.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll hear why programs alone don’t make disciples, how authenticity builds trust, why honoring family reality matters more than ever, and how customizable discipleship allows the Holy Spirit to meet young people exactly where they are. They also speak directly to the fears ministry leaders often feel—especially the vulnerability of releasing control—and share the unexpected fruit that comes when young people are trusted, known, and invited into deeper responsibility.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re just starting out in ministry or reimagining a long-standing program, this episode will challenge you to rethink how disciples are formed—and invite you to embrace a model that is scalable, relational, and deeply human.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere might I be holding too tightly to control in my ministry?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow can I create spaces where young people truly belong before they believe?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho could I invite to mentor a small group—and how can I better form and support them?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePray for the courage to trust the process of discipleship—and to make room for the Holy Spirit to move in ways you may not be able to plan.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell unpack the vision and foundations of small group discipleship. They explore how Jesus modeled discipleship, why relationships—not programs—form faith, and how customizable, mentor-led small groups create belonging, ownership, and real spiritual growth in young people.","date_published":"2026-01-14T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/624664a2-c388-4f6a-9a01-671316bb9bb4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":67452921,"duration_in_seconds":2060}]},{"id":"ad7787b3-ccbe-42e6-bc46-f6287cb3ca9a","title":"EP3: Relational Ministry with Mark Berchem","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/3","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat does relational ministry really look like—and why does it matter so much?\n\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Mark Berchem, founder of NET Ministries, to dive deep into the heart of relational ministry. Mark shares the story of how NET began, how God unexpectedly drew him into decades of youth ministry, and why relationships—not programs—are what truly change lives.\n\nTogether, they explore what it means to introduce young people not just to information about Jesus, but to a real, living relationship with Him. Mark reflects on the Church’s long history of relational faith, the dangers of relying solely on programs, and why walking slowly with young people—at the pace of relationship—is essential for lasting discipleship.\n\nYou’ll also hear Mark name the deepest questions young people are asking today—Am I loved? Do I belong? Do I have what it takes?—and how mentors, accompaniment, and safe spaces for wrestling are key to helping young people encounter Christ in a meaningful way.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWho walked with me in my faith journey—and how did they do it?\nWho is God inviting me to walk alongside right now?\nAm I willing to move at the pace of relationship rather than the pace of programs?\n\n\nTake time to thank God for the people who introduced you to Jesus—and ask for the grace to be that steady, faithful presence for someone else.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat does relational ministry really look like—and why does it matter so much?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Mark Berchem, founder of NET Ministries, to dive deep into the heart of relational ministry. Mark shares the story of how NET began, how God unexpectedly drew him into decades of youth ministry, and why relationships—not programs—are what truly change lives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they explore what it means to introduce young people not just to information about Jesus, but to a real, living relationship with Him. Mark reflects on the Church’s long history of relational faith, the dangers of relying solely on programs, and why walking slowly with young people—at the pace of relationship—is essential for lasting discipleship.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll also hear Mark name the deepest questions young people are asking today—Am I loved? Do I belong? Do I have what it takes?—and how mentors, accompaniment, and safe spaces for wrestling are key to helping young people encounter Christ in a meaningful way.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho walked with me in my faith journey—and how did they do it?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho is God inviting me to walk alongside right now?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAm I willing to move at the pace of relationship rather than the pace of programs?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake time to thank God for the people who introduced you to Jesus—and ask for the grace to be that steady, faithful presence for someone else.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell welcome Mark Berchem, founder of NET Ministries, for a deep dive into relational ministry. Mark shares the origins of NET, why relationships—not programs—form disciples, and how walking patiently with young people creates space for real encounter, belonging, and lasting faith.","date_published":"2026-01-13T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/ad7787b3-ccbe-42e6-bc46-f6287cb3ca9a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":59509823,"duration_in_seconds":1826}]},{"id":"0067ee07-a693-4abb-b671-770de8e0cbcf","title":"EP2: Defining Our Terms","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/2","content_text":"About this Episode\nWhat if youth ministry is far bigger than a Wednesday night in a youth room?\n\nIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell widen the lens on what youth ministry really is—and who it’s really for. Together, they challenge the idea that youth ministry belongs to one role or one program and invite listeners to see anyone walking with young people in faith as a youth minister.\n\nPete and Annie unpack NET’s vision for youth ministry and introduce the seven pillars that guide their approach—from being rooted in Christ and the Church, to relational ministry, to the belief that renewal is truly possible. Along the way, they explore why programs don’t make disciples (people do), why discipleship always takes a team, and why personal witness is essential for authentic ministry.\n\nThis conversation is full of hope for the Church and practical wisdom for anyone serving young people today. Whether you’re a youth minister, pastor, DRE, teacher, volunteer, parent, or mentor, this episode will encourage you to move beyond programs and into Christ-centered discipleship that transforms entire communities.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWho are the young people God has entrusted to me?\nHow am I helping them encounter Jesus through relationship and witness?\nWho else could be part of the “team” discipling them alongside me?\n\n\nTake time this week to pray for the next generation—and ask God how He’s inviting you to be part of His work of renewal in their lives.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Episode\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhat if youth ministry is far bigger than a Wednesday night in a youth room?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell widen the lens on what youth ministry really is—and who it’s really for. Together, they challenge the idea that youth ministry belongs to one role or one program and invite listeners to see anyone walking with young people in faith as a youth minister.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePete and Annie unpack NET’s vision for youth ministry and introduce the seven pillars that guide their approach—from being rooted in Christ and the Church, to relational ministry, to the belief that renewal is truly possible. Along the way, they explore why programs don’t make disciples (people do), why discipleship always takes a team, and why personal witness is essential for authentic ministry.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis conversation is full of hope for the Church and practical wisdom for anyone serving young people today. Whether you’re a youth minister, pastor, DRE, teacher, volunteer, parent, or mentor, this episode will encourage you to move beyond programs and into Christ-centered discipleship that transforms entire communities.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho are the young people God has entrusted to me?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow am I helping them encounter Jesus through relationship and witness?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho else could be part of the “team” discipling them alongside me?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTake time this week to pray for the next generation—and ask God how He’s inviting you to be part of His work of renewal in their lives.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"What if youth ministry is more than a program—and everyone walking with young people is a youth minister? In this episode, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell explore NET’s vision for youth ministry and share the seven pillars that help communities move beyond programs into relational, Christ-centered discipleship. This conversation offers hope, clarity, and practical wisdom for anyone serving the next generation in the Church.","date_published":"2026-01-12T00:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/0067ee07-a693-4abb-b671-770de8e0cbcf.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":63862913,"duration_in_seconds":1951}]},{"id":"c784768c-9910-43eb-878e-31df98a6e972","title":"EP1: What is Your Why","url":"https://ydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/1","content_text":"Welcome to the very first episode of The YDisciple Podcast! \nJoin hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell as they kick off this new journey of curiosity, honesty, and hope for the future of the Church. In this conversation, Pete and Annie explore the foundational question at the heart of ministry: “Why are you here?”\n\nThey share personal stories of conversion, the people who shaped them, and the moments that led them into lifelong missionary discipleship. You’ll hear how Jesus disrupted each of their lives in beautiful ways, how mentors drew them into mission, and why they’re still saying “yes” to ministry decades later.\n\nWhether you’re a seasoned youth minister, a DRE, a volunteer, a teacher, or simply someone trying to walk faithfully with young people, this episode invites you to reflect on your own call and the people who helped you get here.\n\nConnect with Us\n\n\nHave questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org\nBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching.\nPlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\nVisit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast\n\n\nReflection for This Week\n\nAsk yourself:\n\n\nWhy am I here?\nWho are the five people God used to bring me to this point in my faith and ministry?\nTake time to thank God for them—and consider how you can be that presence for the young people entrusted to you.\n","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWelcome to the very first episode of The YDisciple Podcast!\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\nJoin hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell as they kick off this new journey of curiosity, honesty, and hope for the future of the Church. In this conversation, Pete and Annie explore the foundational question at the heart of ministry: “Why are you here?”\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey share personal stories of conversion, the people who shaped them, and the moments that led them into lifelong missionary discipleship. You’ll hear how Jesus disrupted each of their lives in beautiful ways, how mentors drew them into mission, and why they’re still saying “yes” to ministry decades later.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re a seasoned youth minister, a DRE, a volunteer, a teacher, or simply someone trying to walk faithfully with young people, this episode invites you to reflect on your own call and the people who helped you get here.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eConnect with Us\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave questions? Email us at \u003ca href=\"mailto:ydpodcast@netusa.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydpodcast@netusa.org\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBook your free call with a YDisciple Coach at \u003ca href=\"https://ydisciple.com/coaching/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003eydisciple.com/coaching\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease take a moment to rate \u0026amp; review on Apple Podcasts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisit \u003ca href=\"https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about the podcast\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReflection for This Week\u003c/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsk yourself:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhy am I here?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWho are the five people God used to bring me to this point in my faith and ministry?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake time to thank God for them—and consider how you can be that presence for the young people entrusted to you.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e","summary":"The current landscape of ministry isn’t easy— so what keeps us coming back, week after week?\r\nIn this first episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Annie Grandell and Pete Burds open up about their own encounters with Jesus, the mentors who shaped them, their ministry journeys, and why they’re still saying “yes” to walking with young people today. This conversation invites you to rediscover your own “why” for ministry and the people who helped you get here.","date_published":"2025-11-24T07:30:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/8ef7bfd7-eea0-46e2-bd4c-518c83e5d7ce/c784768c-9910-43eb-878e-31df98a6e972.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":50383904,"duration_in_seconds":1541}]}]}