The Launch Mission

In this episode, three college freshmen reconnect after their senior year of high school and reflect on what freshman year has actually been like. They talk honestly about homesickness, building friendships from scratch, learning how to study, managing time, missing assignments, figuring out independence, and growing spiritually without the structure of high school. Each of them shares what surprised them — socially, academically, and spiritually — and how college has been both harder and better than expected. They unpack what independence really feels like (not the fantasy version), how long friendships actually take to form, and why discipline matters more than motivation. The episode closes with practical advice for high school seniors: be bold, build habits now (especially spiritually), thank the people who shaped you, and don’t panic if you don’t feel ready — because you probably are more ready than you think.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

College gives you the chance to decide who you’re going to be — and Sutton’s story shows how meaningful that choice can be. In this episode, Sutton shares her journey from navigating faith and temptation in high school to starting college out of state and rebuilding community from scratch. She talks honestly about loneliness, homesickness, and the pressure to figure everything out quickly — and why trusting God in those early weeks mattered more than having instant friendships.You’ll hear how community didn’t happen overnight, how the local church became a foundation, and how her faith deepened as she learned to place her identity in Christ rather than people or social circles. Sutton also shares why retreats like The Oaks can give incoming students a head start on finding community and seeing what faithful college life can look like. The takeaway is simple but powerful: following Jesus in college is worth it — and preparation before you arrive makes all the difference.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

Starting college means starting over in a lot of ways — new people, new routines, and new decisions about who you want to become. In this episode, Turner shares what his first year at college has really been like, from staying rooted in faith to intentionally building community early. He talks honestly about choosing relationships that don’t just make college feel less lonely, but actually make you better. You’ll hear why knowing your values before you arrive matters, how finding church and Christian community early shaped his experience, and why saying yes to leadership — even when it’s uncomfortable — can change everything.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

Moving across the country for college can feel exciting and terrifying at the same time — especially when you don’t know a single person. In this episode, Aubrey shares what it was really like leaving a small high school, starting over at a massive university, and learning how to find community when everything felt overwhelming and lonely. She talks honestly about saying yes before she felt ready, trusting God in moments of uncertainty, and learning that identity doesn’t come from majors, organizations, or social status. You’ll hear how loneliness didn’t mean something was wrong — it became the space where God built real friendships, deep faith, and a purpose bigger than herself. This episode is a reminder that college doesn’t have to be about drifting or surviving — it can be about intentionally building a life rooted in faith, community, and mission.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

College doesn’t just bring new classes and freedom — it brings the question of who you’re doing life with. In this episode, the conversation centers on why finding the right community early in college matters more than almost anything else. From the shift away from structured youth group to the need for intentional faith and friendships, this episode unpacks why community doesn’t just happen — it has to be pursued. You’ll hear why Christian community should be the foundation of college life, not just another activity, and how surrounding yourself with the right people shapes your faith, choices, and direction long-term.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this solo episode kicking off the second half of the season, Tommy welcomes the Class of 2026 and casts a vision for the year ahead. Rather than treating senior year as something to simply “get through,” he challenges students to see 2026 as a year of intentional preparation. The episode focuses on preparing spiritually, relationally, and practically for life after high school, while previewing what’s coming this spring and summer on the podcast. The central encouragement is clear: don’t drift, don’t wait, and don’t do this transition alone—start preparing now.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this recap episode, we pull together some of the most meaningful moments from students who joined the podcast this semester. Through a collection of short clips, students reflect on faith, calling, gap years, college transitions, community, leadership, and what it looks like to follow Jesus in real, everyday decisions. Their stories offer honest insight into navigating uncertainty, stepping into independence, and learning how God meets them in new environments. Together, these testimonies form a powerful picture of what it looks like to grow, wrestle, and take ownership of faith during seasons of transition.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook 

In this episode, we pull together some of the best clips from every mentor who joined the podcast this fall semester. These highlight moments revisit themes like finishing senior year well, overcoming burnout, strengthening faith, choosing community, discovering calling, and preparing for college. Listeners will hear practical wisdom and honest encouragement on identity, life skills, and trusting God through transition. It’s a powerful, big-picture look at what matters most as you step into what’s next.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this solo episode, Tommy explains why preparing for life after high school matters so deeply—because most students enter their first major life transition without the support systems that shaped them. Using the parable of the prodigal son and his own college story, Tommy highlights the common struggle students face when they lose their familiar influences of family, friends, church, and mentors. He challenges listeners to enter college with four clear goals—lasting memories, deep friendships, clear vision, and a fruitful faith—and to carefully choose which one will become their foundation.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

This conversation explores the pressure high school seniors feel as they face huge decisions—choosing a college, a major, and the direction of their future—often for the very first time. Eli talks about why this stage can feel so overwhelming, especially when students haven’t had to make major life decisions before. He encourages students to remember God’s past faithfulness, look to Scripture, and bring the deeper fears beneath their anxiety to God in prayer. He unpacks how trusting God grows through experience, hindsight, and honest dependence on Him. The discussion also highlights the importance of mentors who can speak truth, ask hard questions, and help students make wise decisions with clarity rather than fear.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this episode, Tommy and Eli dig into what it really means to stand firm in your faith once you step onto a college campus. Eli breaks down the cultural and intellectual pressures students face—whether at a Christian university or a public school—and why genuine, personal conviction matters more than inherited beliefs. From developing deep habits of Bible engagement (“scuba diving” instead of “snorkeling”) to responding with humility, love, and truth when challenged, this conversation equips seniors to prepare their hearts, minds, and convictions before college.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook 

In this episode, Eli Byrd joins the conversation to talk about what it really means to own your faith as you move from high school to college. He shares his personal journey of learning to take responsibility for his relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of building consistent spiritual habits like prayer and Bible study. Eli also discusses how community, church involvement, and intentional discipleship can help students stay grounded in their faith during one of life’s biggest transitions.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook 

High school senior Rob Ashworth joins the conversation to share how faith grows strongest in life’s in-between moments — between valleys and mountains. He reflects on how pressure and uncertainty can deepen spiritual connection, and why gratitude and trust in the Lord matter in every season, not just the hard ones.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

This week’s episode dives into the real-life skills every high school senior needs before heading to college. From time and money management to self-care and setting healthy boundaries, this conversation breaks down how to handle independence well and avoid common first-year mistakes.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Thomas West to unpack The Gospel Way Catechism and how it shapes faith during the transition to college. They explore what it means to find identity in Christ, live out the kingdom of God, and stay rooted in the church. Thomas challenges students to recognize what’s forming their beliefs, lean into community, and serve others as an expression of God’s love.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this episode, Tommy talks with Scott Carlson and Ned Scott Laff, authors of Hacking College: Why the Major Doesn't Matter―and What Really Does, about rethinking the traditional college experience. They explore the flaws in conventional pathways, the concept of “empty degrees,” and how aligning your field of study with your passions can shape a meaningful career. The conversation dives into the hidden job market, research, internships, and networking, offering students practical advice on how to take ownership of their education and prepare for success beyond graduation.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

In this episode, Will Hardin shares his journey from high school to college, highlighting the gap year that shaped his calling to ministry. Through mission trips to South Africa and Uganda, Will experienced personal growth, deepened his faith, and learned the value of community and accountability. Now navigating college life, he reflects on how God used his gap year to prepare him for new opportunities and offers encouragement to high school seniors considering a similar path.Visit our websiteFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

This episode dives into the Impact 360 Fellows Program—a nine-month gap year designed for students aged 18–20 who want to grow deeper in their faith before college. Built on the pillars of knowing Jesus, being transformed in character, and living with kingdom influence, the program blends academic rigor, discipleship, and real-world experiences. In this conversation, we hear from two former students and and one staff member as they share how community, mentorship, and missions shaped their faith and prepared them for the future.Visit our websiteSign up for The Launch SummitFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

Senior year can feel like a blur of excitement, stress, and exhaustion. In this episode, Tommy and Richard Jones unpack “senioritis” and the burnout that often comes with the high school–to–college transition. They share stories, explore the role of faith in managing anxiety, and offer practical ways for students to stay motivated and finish strong—while highlighting how parents and mentors can support without overwhelming.Visit our websiteSign up for The Launch SummitFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook

Starting college can feel like stepping into a whole new world—and it is! That’s why Tommy sits down with author and professor Alex Chediak to unpack what makes the transition from high school to college such a big leap. From time management and self-discipline to faith, community, and even finances, Alex shares practical wisdom for students (and parents) on how to thrive, not just survive, during these years. With insights on building resilience, making wise choices, and engaging proactively, this conversation is packed with encouragement and real-world advice to help you navigate college life with confidence.Visit our websiteSign up for The Launch SummitFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook