The YDisciple Podcast

About This Episode In 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. This 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. Together, they tackle one of the most universal challenges in youth ministry: Finding and inviting faithful adult volunteers to mentor young people. From 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. 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 Dr. Kara Powell's Podcast: https://a.co/d/0hatWJrY Reflection for This Week Take a few moments to reflect: Where have I experienced discouragement or rejection in inviting others into ministry? Do I approach recruitment prayerfully — or primarily strategically? Who might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to notice differently? How comfortable am I being vulnerable when making an invitation? Ask the Lord for renewed courage and trust, remembering that He is the one who calls, equips, and sends.

About This Episode In Episode 12 of The YDisciple Podcast, Pete and Annie explore the role of conferences, camps, pilgrimages, and large-scale events in youth ministry. From 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. But this conversation isn’t about hype. It’s about placement. This 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. 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 events fit in my current ministry strategy? Do I have a clear roadmap for forming disciples — or am I relying on mountaintop moments? Who are the adult mentors I could invite into deeper investment with my young people? Take time this week to evaluate your long-term vision for discipleship — and consider how your next event can serve that vision. Refferences https://www.centerforthenewevangelization.org/process-of-evangelization

About This Episode In 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. Chenele 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. From 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. This conversation explores: Why it’s not “unprofessional” to feel things in ministry The tension between responsibility and surrender The gap in forming adults to accompany teens emotionally How belonging is built through vulnerability and trust Why teens won’t remember everything you said—but they will remember how you made them feel If 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. 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 Take a few moments to reflect: Who were “the ones who stayed” in my life? Do I give myself mercy when ministry doesn’t go perfectly? Am I willing to accompany young people emotionally—not just practically? Where might God be inviting me to take myself a little less seriously? Ask 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.

About This Episode In this special mid-season episode of The YDisciple Podcast, we take a moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you. After 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. This 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. Whether 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.

About This Episode In 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. Drawing 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. The 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. They 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. This 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. 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 tend to lead with answers or with curiosity? Where might I be moving too fast instead of staying with someone’s story? What’s one place this week where I can pause and ask one more question before responding? As you pray this week, ask Jesus to help you see others as He does—and to trust the power of asking, listening, and accompanying.

About This Episode In 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. Elena 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. Together, 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. The 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. This 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? 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 in my ministry or leadership have I been focusing on what isn’t working? What might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to notice or change? What does this situation make possible that I haven’t considered yet? Take time this week to pray with openness and courage, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your next small step forward.

About this Episode In 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. They 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. This 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. Whether 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. 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 might I be measuring success in ministry too narrowly? In what spaces outside the “youth room” might God be inviting me to show up more intentionally? What gifts has God already placed in my “quiver,” and where might He be inviting me to grow? Spend 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.

About this Episode In 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. Together, 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. This 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. 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: Which myths about youth ministry might I be holding—consciously or unconsciously? Where might God be inviting me to shift from performance to presence? How can I approach young people and their parents with greater humility, curiosity, and trust this week? Take time to pray about how God may be expanding your vision for ministry beyond what has “always worked.”

About This Episode In 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. Drawing 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. Together, 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. At 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. 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 Take some time to pray and reflect: When young people interact with me, what questions might they be asking beneath the surface? How do my words, tone, and assumptions communicate belonging—or exclusion? In what ways can I better reflect the truth that every person is a body–soul unity, created with dignity and purpose? Ask God to help you see the young people entrusted to you the way He sees them—and to respond with sensitivity, courage, and love.

About this Episode What if the key to reaching young people today isn’t better programming—but deeper belonging? In 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. Drawing 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. Pete, 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. Whether 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. 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 can I practice deeper hospitality in my ministry spaces? How can I grow in listening without judgment or the need to “fix” someone? What questions can I ask that invite young people to share their story more freely? Pray 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.

About this Episode What if small group discipleship isn’t just one strategy among many—but the central way young people actually grow in faith? In 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. Pete 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. You’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. Whether 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. 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 might I be holding too tightly to control in my ministry? How can I create spaces where young people truly belong before they believe? Who could I invite to mentor a small group—and how can I better form and support them? Pray 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.

About this Episode What does relational ministry really look like—and why does it matter so much? In 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. Together, 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. You’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. 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: Who walked with me in my faith journey—and how did they do it? Who is God inviting me to walk alongside right now? Am I willing to move at the pace of relationship rather than the pace of programs? Take 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.

About this Episode What if youth ministry is far bigger than a Wednesday night in a youth room? In 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. Pete 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. This 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. 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: Who are the young people God has entrusted to me? How am I helping them encounter Jesus through relationship and witness? Who else could be part of the “team” discipling them alongside me? Take 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.

Welcome to the very first episode of The YDisciple Podcast! Join 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?” They 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. Whether 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. 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: Why am I here? Who are the five people God used to bring me to this point in my faith and ministry? Take time to thank God for them—and consider how you can be that presence for the young people entrusted to you.