The Launch Mission

Starting college comes with a lot of questions—including where you'll find community. In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by exploring BCM (Baptist Collegiate Ministry/Baptist Student Ministry). We answer questions like: What is BCM? What does it offer college students? And how does it help students grow spiritually while building meaningful relationships? Join us as we share past interview clips about another campus ministry that helps students connect with others, serve their campus, and grow in their faith. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

College is full of new opportunities, but finding a community that helps you stay grounded can make all the difference. In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by exploring RUF (Reformed University Fellowship). We answer questions like: What is RUF? What makes it unique? And how does it help students grow in their faith while navigating college life? Join us as we introduce another campus ministry that encourages authentic relationships, biblical teaching, and a Christ-centered college experience. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

Starting college means stepping into a completely new environment, and finding the right community can make all the difference. In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by sharing highlights from past conversations about InterVarsity. We answer questions like: What is InterVarsity? What makes it unique? And how does it help students grow in their faith while navigating college life? Join us as we explore another ministry that helps students build authentic community, study Scripture, and follow Jesus throughout their college years. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by sharing highlights from past conversations about Chi Alpha, a Christian ministry found on college campuses across the country. We answer questions like: What is Chi Alpha? What makes it unique? And how does it help students build community and grow in their faith during college? Join us as we explore another opportunity for finding connection and purpose during your college years. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

College is about more than earning a degree—it's also a time when many students grow personally, spiritually, and relationally. In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by sharing highlights from past conversations about Campus Outreach. We answer questions like: What is Campus Outreach? What opportunities does it provide students? And how does it help students grow in their faith while navigating college life? Join us as we explore another ministry that helps students find community, purpose, and spiritual growth during their college years. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

Starting college means making a lot of decisions—including how you'll find community and continue growing in your faith. In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by sharing highlights from past conversations about the Navigators. We answer questions like: What are the Navigators? What makes their approach to ministry unique? And how do they help students grow spiritually during college? Join us as we explore one more way students can find support, friendship, and faith-centered community on campus. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

College can feel like a fresh start, but it can also leave you wondering where you'll find your people. In this episode, we're continuing our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by sharing highlights about Young Life College and answering questions like: What is Young Life College? What makes it different from other campus ministries? And what kinds of opportunities does it offer students? Through stories and insights from previous conversations, you'll get a glimpse of how Young Life College helps students build friendships, explore their faith, and find community during the college years. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

Starting college can feel exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes lonely as you try to figure out where you belong. In this episode, we’re kicking off our Campus Ministry Spotlight series by sharing highlights and clips from past conversations about Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ). We answer questions like: What is Cru? What does Cru look like on a college campus? And why do so many students choose to get involved in campus ministries during college? Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

We’re ending the semester with one final recap episode featuring some of the best advice and insights shared by students throughout the season. From friendships and faith to independence and growth, these conversations are full of reminders you may need heading into your next season. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

Join us for a special recap episode featuring some of the most insightful advice from this semester's mentors!  It's the perfect opportunity to revisit key topics + insights you may have missed.  Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

This episode is Part 2 of our College Stories series, where we read real stories from college students so you can learn from their experiences before you ever step on campus. In this episode, we dive into three new situations: settling for easy friendships instead of meaningful ones, falling into credit card debt due to lack of financial discipline, and staying silent in class out of fear. Each story highlights how small decisions—who you surround yourself with, how you handle money, and whether you ask for help—can shape your entire college experience. The goal? Learn from others so you don’t have to learn everything the hard way.

As you get closer to graduation, it’s easy to assume you’ll just “figure it out” when you get to college—but these stories show how quickly things can feel overwhelming without a plan. In Part 1 of this 2-part series, we’re reading real college stories from students so you can learn from what they experienced before you step on campus. Saying yes to everything can stretch you too thin, avoiding honest conversations (like with a roommate) can build frustration, and staying too tied to high school friends can keep you from building new community. One of the biggest takeaways: your faith won’t grow on autopilot—you have to be intentional about it. Learn from these stories now so you can walk into college prepared. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

You’re about to step into a new level of independence, and this episode walks you through how to stay safe while doing it. Scott Thurmond explains that campus police aren’t there to “catch” you—they’re there to help you succeed and make it to graduation. Most safety issues on campus come down to simple things like being aware of your surroundings, locking your doors, and making wise decisions, especially when it comes to alcohol and who you spend time with. You’ll also hear practical ways to stay safe, like traveling with others, keeping your phone charged, and using campus resources when needed. At the end of the day, freedom in college is real—but learning how to handle it wisely is what keeps you safe and on track. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

You’re about to step into a completely new environment, and this episode helps you know what actually matters from the start. Orientation isn’t just something to get through—it’s your first chance to meet people, ask questions, and set yourself up well. Getting involved early and finding the right community can shape your entire college experience, while learning how to communicate and live with a roommate will save you from a lot of unnecessary stress. You’ll probably face moments of loneliness, but you don’t have to stay there—being intentional and asking for help makes a huge difference. The students who thrive are the ones who show up, stay engaged, and take ownership of their college experience from day one. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

Tommy sits down with John Decker to talk about the heart behind Every Student Sent and why so many students lose their faith in the transition to college. They unpack how early connection, intentional community, and a clear sense of purpose can completely change a student’s college experience—and why preparing before you arrive on campus matters more than you think. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

This Career Highlight episode breaks down the journey into nursing, from college to advanced roles like anesthesia. We discuss the different entry points into the field and how career paths can evolve over time. You'll get a realistic look at daily responsibilities, both as a bedside nurse and in a specialized role. The conversation also highlights key traits like assertiveness and empathy, which are essential for patient care. We also share why students are encouraged to explore the field through job shadowing before committing to the path. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

In this Career Highlight episode, Tommy sits down with a military colonel who built a 30+ year career in the service to explore what that path can look like after high school. You’ll hear how joining the military can help pay for college, provide structure, and open doors to long-term opportunities. This conversation highlights the wide range of roles available and how your responsibilities grow over time. We also talk about the personal side—leadership, friendships, and becoming part of something bigger than yourself. If you’re considering the military or just exploring your options, this episode gives you a real look at what that journey can offer. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

In this episode, Tommy sits down with a Certified Public Accountant and managing partner of an accounting firm to learn what a career in accounting really looks like. He explains the difference between basic accounting and becoming a CPA, what college preparation involves, and what entry-level work in the field is like. They also talk about the skills that make someone successful in this profession, including communication, trustworthiness, and problem-solving. Along the way, he shares why accounting can be one of the most valuable and flexible business degrees. If you're interested in business but not sure which direction to go, this conversation offers a helpful inside look.

In this Career Highlight episode, we sit down with a coffee company founder and entrepreneur to explore what building a business can actually look like. He shares how an unexpected path after college eventually led him to launch a coffee company focused on community, relationships, and purpose. Instead of chasing success through money alone, he explains how a bigger life mission shaped the way he approached business. The conversation challenges students to think about their future not just as a career path, but as a calling. Along the way, he shares practical wisdom about curiosity, resilience, and choosing purpose over pressure. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

In this Career Series episode, we sit down with a physical therapist to help you understand what this career actually looks like. If you’re interested in the medical field but not sure what direction to take, this conversation breaks down what physical therapy involves, how it’s different from other healthcare paths, and what kind of person tends to thrive in it. He explains the education process from college to doctorate and shares practical advice for students considering this route. It’s an honest look at what it takes — and how to pursue it with purpose. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

In this episode, Elean shares his journey from building his identity around soccer to discovering that only Christ could truly fill the void he was carrying. After multiple serious injuries, broken expectations, and seasons of anxiety and loneliness, he began pursuing a real relationship with the Lord instead of waiting until “later” to take faith seriously. Through prayer, community, mentorship, and intentional steps toward growth, his faith became personal. What started in pain turned into calling, eventually leading him into ministry. His story is a reminder that identity, purpose, and peace aren’t found in performance — and that waiting to follow Christ only makes the road harder. Visit our website Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

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

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