The Launch Mission

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

Mark Hall—member of Casting Crowns and longtime youth pastor—offers heartfelt encouragement to high school seniors as they prepare for life’s next chapter. He highlights the importance of building a personal relationship with Jesus, leaning on prayer for guidance, and surrounding yourself with a strong community of faith. Mark also speaks directly to parents and youth pastors, urging them to invest in the spiritual growth of students during this pivotal season. With honesty about the messiness of ministry and a reminder to trust God in uncertain times, Mark shares wisdom and hope meant to inspire seniors to step forward in faith.Visit our websiteSign up for The Launch SummitFollow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook 

In this Summer Rewind episode, we revisit a helpful conversation with Dr. Guy Chmieleski, author and Vice President of Student Affairs at Friends University, all about adjusting to campus life.Starting college can be both exciting and overwhelming. Dr. Chmieleski offers insight into what students can expect as they move onto campus for the first time—how to find key resources, who to talk to when challenges arise, and how to make the most of life in a new environment. It’s a great episode for anyone preparing to take their first steps into college life.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

In this Summer Rewind episode, we revisit a timely and honest conversation with Joel and Kitty Hurdle of Cru at Ole Miss about Greek life and faith.Many Christian students wrestle with whether joining a sorority or fraternity aligns with their beliefs. Joel and Kitty offer insight into how students can stay rooted in their faith while being part of Greek life, and how these communities can even become places of influence and ministry when approached with intention and integrity.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

In this Summer Rewind episode, we revisit a leadership-focused conversation with William Vanderbloemen, author of Be The Unicorn.William shares six key habits that set exceptional leaders apart—qualities that make people not just successful, but truly influential in their communities and relationships. He encourages high school seniors to begin developing these traits now so they can grow into leaders who make a lasting impact in college, church, and beyond.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.orgFollow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmissionFollow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmissionCheck out William's book, Be The Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest

In this Summer Rewind episode, we revisit a conversation with Trace Hamiter, founder and director of All Things Ministries.Trace shares why building Christian community in college is so important—and how campus ministries can help students grow spiritually, build meaningful friendships, and find support during a major life transition. He also talks about the impact of the freshman retreats led by All Things Ministries and how those experiences help students start college with clarity, connection, and purpose.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

In this Summer Rewind episode, we revisit a conversation with author and speaker Mark Matlock about one of the most important qualities a student can develop before college: wisdom.Mark unpacks what wisdom really looks like in everyday life and why it’s so crucial during the transition from high school to adulthood. As students begin making more independent and life-shaping decisions, learning to seek wisdom—rather than just knowledge—can lead to better choices, stronger faith, and lasting purpose.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

In this Summer Rewind episode, we revisit a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Jonathan Morrow, Director of Cultural Engagement and Student Discipleship at Impact 360 Institute and adjunct professor of apologetics at Biola University.As an expert in Christian worldview and Gen Z culture, Dr. Morrow shares why it’s essential for students to understand what they believe and why—especially as they step into the college environment. Drawing from his books Welcome to College and Questioning the Bible, he offers practical advice to help students stay rooted in their faith and engage confidently with the questions and challenges they’ll face.For more on Jonathan Morrow and Impact 360 Institute, go to www.impact360institute.org and https://www.jonathanmorrow.org.For more on The Launch Mission Ministry & this podcast, go to www.thelaunchmission.org

This episode from our Summer Rewind series features Pete Hardesty and Josh Burnette, co-authors of Adulting 101: #Wisdom4Life.As students prepare for life after high school, Pete and Josh offer practical advice on what it really means to step into adulthood. From managing responsibilities and setting goals to making wise decisions, this conversation is full of helpful insights for anyone navigating the transition to college or the workforce. Whether you're just starting out or need a refresher, this episode will equip you with tools to launch into adulthood with confidence.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

We’re continuing our Summer Rewind series with part two of our conversation with Dennis Stemmle, bestselling author and Lecturer at Coastal Carolina University.In this episode, Dennis takes a closer look at procrastination—what it really is, why it happens, and how students can overcome it. He also unpacks how setting intentional goals can help college students move from simply surviving to living with purpose. Full of practical strategies and encouragement, this episode is a great listen for any student who wants to stay motivated and make the most of their college years.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

We’re continuing our Summer Rewind series by revisiting another practical and encouraging conversation for incoming college students.In this episode, we talk with Dennis Stemmle, bestselling author and Lecturer at Coastal Carolina University. As a nationally recognized college success expert, Dennis shares real-world advice on how to thrive in college—starting with something every student needs: time management. From setting priorities to avoiding procrastination, Dennis offers tools to help students make the most of their time and reduce stress.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

We’re bringing back some of our favorite conversations from past seasons in our Summer Rewind series! This episode originally aired in a previous season, but the insights are just as relevant today.In this conversation, we revisit our interview with Dr. Alex Chediak, author and professor of engineering and physics at California Baptist University in Riverside, CA. Dr. Chediak is the author of Beating the College Debt Trap (Zondervan, 2016), Preparing Your Teens for College (Tyndale House, 2014), and Thriving at College (Tyndale House, 2011). He shares valuable wisdom on the transition from high school to college and the mindset students need to succeed academically and personally in this new season.The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

Join us for another recap episode—featuring highlights from the college students who shared their stories and advice this season. It’s the perfect chance to reflect on their wisdom, hear their advice again, and catch any key insights you might have missed!The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

Join us for a special recap episode featuring some of the most insightful advice from our season 3 mentors!  It's the perfect opportunity to revisit key topics + insights you may have missed. The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission

In this episode, three high school seniors join to share their hopes, fears, and expectations as they prepare for college. They open up about what excites them—like independence and new opportunities—and what makes them nervous, including making friends, managing responsibility, and staying connected to their faith. The conversation touches on everything from choosing the right college to building healthy habits, emphasizing that personal growth, community, and trust in God are key to navigating this big transition well.Next year, we’ll reconnect with these students in a follow-up episode to hear how their expectations of college actually played out!The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.orgFollow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmissionFollow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission  

In this episode, Sadie Hickman joins the podcast to share her story and experience transitioning from high school to college. Sadie offers honest reflections on the challenges and surprises she faced during her first year, along with practical advice for high school seniors preparing for this big change. Through her insights, she encourages students to approach college with an open mind, a willingness to grow, and a focus on building strong community and faith. Sadie’s story is full of encouragement and helpful reminders that you're not alone in the transition ahead!The Launch Mission can be found online at www.thelaunchmission.org Follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/thelaunchmission Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thelaunchmission