The YDisciple Podcast

YDisciple Podcast
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Welcome to a space where curiosity meets mission. In this podcast, we explore the shifting landscape of youth culture and what it really means to walk with young people in faith today. Whether 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. We 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. This 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. We’re learners and leaders on the same journey — and we’re so glad you’re here.

  1. 1d ago

    EP25: Going Off Script with YD Coaches, Molly & H

    About this Episode What if the most impactful moments in ministry aren’t the ones you plan—but the ones you’re willing to follow? In this episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Annie Grandell are joined by YDisciple coaches Molly Gallagher and H. Dorian for another “Coaches at the Roundtable” conversation. Together, they explore what it really means to “go off script” in ministry—not as a lack of preparation, but as a deeper trust in the Holy Spirit and attentiveness to the young people right in front of you. Through real stories from the field, they unpack the tension between structure and flexibility: knowing when to follow the guide and when to follow the moment. They highlight how powerful it can be to prioritize relationship over content, to pivot when something isn’t landing, and to embrace the unknown with humility and authenticity. You’ll hear why going off script often leads to deeper trust, more meaningful conversations, and real transformation—and how even moments of uncertainty (“I don’t know”) can become the foundation for stronger discipleship. Whether you’re leading a small group, planning a retreat, or navigating real-time conversations with teens, this episode will give you the confidence to trust the process, trust the Spirit, and meet young people where they truly are. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Where am I relying too heavily on a “plan” instead of being present to the people in front of me? How can I grow in trusting the Holy Spirit during conversations or ministry moments? Am I creating space for authentic dialogue—or just trying to “get through” content? This week, practice letting go of control in one small moment—whether in prayer, conversation, or leadership—and ask the Holy Spirit to guide what happens next.

    36 min

  2. May 25

    EP24: The Trinitarian Missionary Dynamic

    About this Episode What if the way we approach ministry isn’t just about strategy—but about reflecting the very nature of God? In this episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell unpack NET Ministries’ guiding philosophy: the “Trinitarian missionary dynamic.” While it might sound like a complex theological phrase, it points to something deeply practical—how our identity, relationships, and mission are all rooted in the life of the Trinity. Drawing from NET’s formation model and the document Birthed by the Holy Spirit, they explore how relating to God as Father, following Jesus as disciple, and living in the Holy Spirit as missionary shapes not only personal faith, but the way we lead others. They also highlight how communion and mission are inseparable—our relationships fuel mission, and mission deepens our relationships. Whether you’re forming a small group, leading a ministry team, or simply seeking to grow in your own faith, this episode offers a compelling vision for living and leading from a place of identity, belonging, and purpose. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Am I leading from what I do—or from who I am as a son or daughter of God? How is my relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit shaping the way I approach ministry? Where is God inviting me to grow in communion—and how might that lead me into mission? Spend time this week in prayer with the Trinity—speaking to the Father, walking with Jesus, and inviting the Holy Spirit to lead you more deeply into both relationship and mission.

    24 min

  3. May 18

    EP23: The Intersection Between Discernment and Discipleship with Fr. Chase Hilgenbrink

    About this Episode What does it really mean to discover your vocation—and how do we help young people get there? In this episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Father Chase Hilgenbrink, a former professional soccer player turned priest and vocations director. Father Chase shares his powerful story of chasing success at the highest levels of athletics, only to find that achievement alone couldn’t satisfy the deeper longing in his heart. Through a profound encounter with Jesus, he began to see that vocation isn’t something we stumble into—it’s an invitation. Together, they explore how discipleship is the foundation for every vocation, why mentorship (especially from parents) is essential, and what youth ministry often gets wrong when it tries to entertain instead of proclaim truth. They also discuss signs of hope among young people today, including a growing hunger for authenticity, stability, and meaning. If you’re leading teens or walking with others in their faith journey, this conversation offers both clarity and encouragement for forming disciples who are ready to give their lives away. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Do I see my vocation as something I control—or something God is inviting me into? Who are the mentors in my life that are helping me grow in discipleship? Where might I be settling for comfort or success instead of responding to God’s deeper call? Take time this week to pray honestly about your future, asking God not just what you want—but what He desires for your life.

    30 min

  4. May 11

    EP22: 7 Things Everyone in Ministry Should Do This Summer

    About this Episode What if summer isn’t just a break from ministry—but one of the most strategic seasons for it? In this episode of the YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell explore seven practical and intentional ways ministry leaders can make the most of the summer months. Whether your schedule slows down or ramps up with camps, trips, and events, they highlight how this unique season creates space for deeper connection, renewal, and forward-thinking leadership. From taking a personal retreat to investing in relational ministry, Pete and Annie unpack how summer rhythms open doors for meaningful discipleship—both with young people and within your parish staff. They also explore the value of pre-evangelization, building relationships outside your usual circles, and learning from other ministry leaders. You’ll also hear why reading and personal formation matter more than ever in leadership, and how thoughtful planning during the summer can set you up for a healthier, more fruitful year ahead. If you’ve ever felt like summer slips by too quickly—or gets filled without intention—this episode will help you approach it with clarity and purpose. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Where do I need renewal or intentional time with the Lord this summer? How can I be more relational—not just program-focused—with young people in this season? What is one step I can take now to better prepare for the upcoming ministry year? Pray for the wisdom to use this season well—not just to rest or stay busy, but to be intentional in ways that bear lasting fruit.

    33 min

  5. May 4

    EP21: You Can’t Give What You Don’t Have with Ali Hoffman

    About this Episode What does it actually look like to put prayer first—not just in theory, but in the real, busy life of ministry? In this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell sit down with Catholic speaker and evangelist Ali Hoffman to explore why personal prayer and the kerygma are not optional foundations, but essential starting points for anyone walking with young people in faith. Ali shares powerful insights from her own journey in ministry, reflecting on the hidden years of relationship with God that bear fruit in visible moments of impact. Together, they unpack the tension many ministry leaders feel between productivity and intimacy—and why our identity as beloved sons and daughters must come before anything we do for God. From practical rhythms of prayer to the importance of community and starting fresh (no matter how long you’ve been in ministry), this conversation offers both encouragement and challenge. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin, distracted by the demands of ministry, or unsure how to prioritize your relationship with God, this episode invites you back to what matters most. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Am I prioritizing time with God, or just doing things for God? Where might productivity be shaping my identity more than my relationship with Him? What would it look like to create intentional space for personal prayer—just me and the Lord? Take time this week to sit with God without an agenda. Ask Him for a deeper desire to be with Him—and the courage to make that time a non-negotiable.

    33 min

  6. Apr 27

    EP20: Unique and Unrepeatable Teens

    About this Episode What changes in ministry when we stop treating people like problems to solve and start seeing them as persons to reverence? In this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell continue their conversation following last week’s episode with Anna Carter, reflecting more deeply on what it means to honor the dignity and unique story of every person we encounter in ministry. Together, they unpack the temptation to reduce young people to categories, issues, or ministry outcomes—and why real discipleship begins by receiving each person as unique, unrepeatable, and deeply loved by God. Pete and Annie explore how easy it can be to minister from a distance through programs, strategies, and generalizations, rather than drawing near to the actual person in front of us. They discuss the importance of curiosity, the danger of seeing people as projects, and the need to remember that every young person is already in conversation with the Holy Spirit long before we enter the picture. Along the way, they reflect on how this vision of reverence applies not only to teens, but also to coworkers, pastors, staff members, and anyone we serve alongside in ministry. This conversation is a powerful reminder that discipleship is never a conveyor belt, and people are never a means to an end. Whether you’re a youth minister, volunteer, parent, or parish leader, this episode will challenge you to slow down, listen more deeply, and approach each person with greater wonder, humility, and love. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Where am I tempted to approach people as issues, outcomes, or projects instead of persons? How can I grow in curiosity toward the young people and coworkers in front of me? What would it look like to reverence someone’s dignity more intentionally this week? Pray for the grace to see others as God sees them—unique, beloved, and worthy of reverence—and to accompany them with humility, patience, and love.

    28 min

  7. Apr 20

    EP19: Receiving the Whole Person with Anna Carter

    About this Episode What does it look like to truly receive someone’s story with reverence, curiosity, and care? In 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. Together, 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. Pete, 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. Whether 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. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Where am I tempted to make assumptions instead of asking another question? How do I typically respond when someone shares something vulnerable with me? What would it look like for me to receive another person’s story as holy ground this week? Pray 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.

    29 min

  8. Apr 13

    EP18: The Life-Changing Power of NET Training

    About this Episode What happens when a young person is given the space to encounter God, grow in community, and be challenged to live on mission? In this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete Burds and Annie Grandell pull back the curtain on one of NET Ministries’ most formative experiences: missionary training. What begins as preparation for ministry quickly reveals itself to be something much deeper—a powerful season of human, spiritual, and relational formation that has shaped generations of young adults. Pete and Annie reflect on what makes NET training so transformative, from the deep identity work of learning to pray and receive God’s love, to the small group discipleship that helps missionaries open up, heal, and grow in authentic community. They share why this kind of formation matters not only for missionaries, but for anyone walking with young people in faith. The conversation also explores why a season of mission can be such a pivotal next step for young adults—especially those who are hungry for more, discerning their future, or ready to move from receiving the faith to sharing it. Pete and Annie talk about the long-term fruit of this kind of experience: greater maturity, stronger relational skills, deeper faith, and a clearer sense of identity and vocation. Whether you’re mentoring teens, leading a parish, or walking with young adults who are asking what comes next, this episode offers a compelling vision for why intentional formation and missionary challenge can be life-changing. Connect with Us Have questions? Email us at ydpodcast@netusa.org Book your free call with a YDisciple Coach at ydisciple.com/coaching Please take a moment to rate & review on Apple Podcasts Visit https://theydisciplepodcast.fireside.fm/ to learn more about the podcast Reflection for This Week Ask yourself: Where do I see a young person who may be ready for a deeper challenge or missionary step? How can I offer encouragement that calls out their gifts and potential? Am I creating spaces in my ministry that form young people spiritually, relationally, and humanly—not just practically? Pray for the young people in your life to hear God’s voice clearly, respond with courage, and trust that He is leading them into something beautiful.

    30 min
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About

Welcome to a space where curiosity meets mission. In this podcast, we explore the shifting landscape of youth culture and what it really means to walk with young people in faith today. Whether 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. We 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. This 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. We’re learners and leaders on the same journey — and we’re so glad you’re here.

Information

  • Creator
    YDisciple Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 NET Ministries
  • Show Website
    The YDisciple Podcast

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