Back at the Ranch

Young Life
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CHRISTIANITY

Stories and memories from Young Life’s Frontier Ranch. Since 1951, over 1,000,000 teenagers have visited Young Life’s Frontier Ranch, nestled high in the Colorado Rockies. In this series, you will hear stories from campers, staff, work crew, and summer staff who have had their life impacted at this place they call ‘Holy Ground.’ You will also learn about the campaign being launched to restore Frontier for the next generation.

Episodes

  1. Episode 6 - Speaking at Frontier: Joining the Chorus of Creation (pt. 2)

    12/10/2025

    Episode 6 - Speaking at Frontier: Joining the Chorus of Creation (pt. 2)

    In part two of our conversation with Young Life legends, John Vicary and Steve Chesney, we explore why Frontier Ranch is more than a camp — it’s holy ground. From Say-So moments to personal stories of transformation, they reflect on the legacy of this sacred place and why restoring it matters now more than ever.

    20 min
  2. Episode 5 - Speaking at Frontier: Joining the Chorus of Creation (pt. 1)

    12/10/2025

    Episode 5 - Speaking at Frontier: Joining the Chorus of Creation (pt. 1)

    In part one of this special conversation, Brian Summerall sits down with longtime Young Life staff and frequent camp speakers, John Vicary and Steve Chesney. Together, they unpack what makes Frontier Ranch uniquely powerful for proclaiming the gospel — from the rugged setting and Rayburn legacy to High Country Day and the sense of God’s nearness in creation. Dive in to revisit the history, heart, and holy ground of Frontier Ranch!

    25 min
  3. Three Chords and the Truth | A Look at the Role of Music in the Life of Frontier Ranch (part 2)

    09/16/2025

    Three Chords and the Truth | A Look at the Role of Music in the Life of Frontier Ranch (part 2)

    We’re diving even deeper into the role of music, exploring how it speaks loudly, builds bridges, and connects kids’ stories to the greatest story of all. Join us as we continue the conversation with former Frontier Ranch special musicians: Mitch Dane, Drew & Ellie Holcomb, Jonah Warner and Billy Cerveny.

    24 min
  4. Three Chords and the Truth: | A Look at the Role of Music in the Life of Frontier Ranch

    08/15/2025

    Three Chords and the Truth: | A Look at the Role of Music in the Life of Frontier Ranch

    Music has been woven into the story of the Gospel and Frontier Ranch for generations. In part one of this episode, Drew & Ellie Holcomb, Mitch Dane, Jonah Werner, and Billy Cerveny share how God uses music to help kids meet Jesus. Through family legacies, unlikely encounters, and countless nights under the Colorado stars, we trace how God used music to stir hearts, spark conversations, and leave ripple effects still felt today.

    23 min
  5. Episode 2 - Four Leaders, One Camp: Glenn Austell, Steve Millett, Steve Thompson & Tom Wilson

    07/14/2025

    Episode 2 - Four Leaders, One Camp: Glenn Austell, Steve Millett, Steve Thompson & Tom Wilson

    Join host Brian Summerall for a powerful conversation with Glenn Austell, Steve Millett, Steve Thompson, and Tom Wilson—four leaders with deep roots in Young Life and Frontier Ranch. Tom Wilson brings decades of experience, having served as an area director, regional director, and Senior Vice President of the Southern Division. Steve Thompson served in key roles, including Frontier Camp manager, Divisional Camping Coordinator, SVP of Camping, and Chief Operating Officer. Today, Steve Millett (San Antonio, Texas) and Glenn Austell (Lubbock, TX) continue to lead as senior area directors. Both have played vital roles at Frontier Ranch—as leaders, speakers, and Program Directors. In this episode, they share powerful stories and timeless reflections on Frontier Ranch’s incredible 70-year legacy—celebrating how God has used this sacred place to transform hearts and ignite faith across generations.

    35 min
  6. Episode 1 — Raised on Holy Ground: Jim Rayburn Jr. & Jerry Howington

    07/14/2025

    Episode 1 — Raised on Holy Ground: Jim Rayburn Jr. & Jerry Howington

    Host Brian Summerall interviews Jim Rayburn Jr., who grew up at Frontier Ranch as the son of Young Life’s founder, Jim Rayburn Sr. He also interviews Dr. Jerry Howington, who began his journey with the Lord as a camper at Frontier in 1956. Jerry and his late wife, Jane, were longtime Young Life volunteers, committee members, and donors. Our host, Brian Summerall, served on the Young Life staff in Dallas, Texas, for 35 years. He is currently the director of the Tod Bush Leadership Center (thetblc.com) in Addison, Texas.

    32 min
  • 6 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Stories and memories from Young Life’s Frontier Ranch. Since 1951, over 1,000,000 teenagers have visited Young Life’s Frontier Ranch, nestled high in the Colorado Rockies. In this series, you will hear stories from campers, staff, work crew, and summer staff who have had their life impacted at this place they call ‘Holy Ground.’ You will also learn about the campaign being launched to restore Frontier for the next generation.

Information