In this episode of the GO Year of Discipleship Podcast, Ryan explains what apologetics really is. It doesn’t mean apologizing, and it isn’t about winning fights in the comment section. He shares how to stay calm and kind when someone thinks you’re wrong, and why the goal of a hard conversation isn’t to win the debate but to find the truth. He also tells the story of how he sought out the smartest people who disagreed with him and ended up changing his own view of the book of Revelation.

We also dig into why so many young Christians walk away from their faith. Ryan explains how treating every issue as a gospel issue turns faith into a house of cards, and what it means to be “captivated by the things that don’t matter and bored by the things that do.” Plus, a line from “Amazing Grace” you’ve probably sung a hundred times and never noticed.

Whether you’re a student heading into a gap year, a parent, or someone who has ever been stumped by a hard question about your faith, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of the GO Year of Discipleship Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. David Horner, Professor of Theology and Philosophy at Biola University. Together, we explore the growing role of technology in the classroom and how it is shaping the way students learn, think, and engage with the world around them.

How can we approach technology with wisdom while preserving the importance of critical thinking, meaningful learning, and human connection? Join us as we consider the importance of thinking carefully about the tools we use and the role our faith plays in navigating an ever-changing world.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Horner as we explore the intersection of education, technology, and a biblical worldview. Whether you’re a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

What Is Christian Camping? | Keith Oglesby

What makes Christian camping so much more than just a summer camp? In this episode of the GO Year of Discipleship Podcast, we sit down with Keith Oglesby to explore the heart and purpose of Christian camping and its lasting impact on people's lives.

From creating space for people to encounter Jesus to building meaningful relationships and growing in faith, we discuss how God uses camp ministry to bring transformation and help people grow in their walk with Him. Whether you're a longtime camper, a summer staff member, or simply curious about Christian camping, this conversation offers a deeper look at the ministry and mission behind it.

Join us as we explore what Christian camping is, why it matters, and how God continues to use it to transform lives.

What is the GO Year of Discipleship? How did it begin, and why might taking a gap year be one of the most impactful decisions you make?

Welcome to the very first episode of the GO Year of Discipleship Podcast! In this episode, host Andrew Newberry, Director of the GO Year, sits down with Evan Liewer, Senior Director of Programs at Forest Home, to share the story behind the GO Year, the vision that brought it to life, and the heart behind creating a year dedicated to following Jesus.

Every program has a story, and the GO Year is no exception. Andrew and Evan take listeners behind the scenes to explore how the idea began, why Forest Home saw a need for this kind of experience, and the desire to help young adults build a strong foundation of faith before stepping into their next season of life.

But this conversation goes beyond the program's history. Together, they explore a bigger question: Why take a gap year?

In a world that often encourages students to move straight from high school into college or a career, taking a different path can feel unfamiliar. But what if a year dedicated to Jesus isn't a pause in life, but preparation for it?

The GO Year of Discipleship is a 12-month, immersive experience designed to help young adults become deeply rooted in their faith and confident in their calling. Through biblical education, vocational training, hands-on experience, intentional community, and real-world challenges, students are equipped to grow into the men and women God created them to be.

This isn't just about learning more about the Bible or taking time to figure out what's next. It's about putting faith into practice. It's about asking real questions, growing alongside a Christ-centered community, serving others, discovering your gifts, and learning to follow Jesus in every area of life.

Andrew and Evan discuss why investing in spiritual growth in young adulthood matters and how an intentional year of discipleship can shape students' approach to college, careers, relationships, ministry, and their future. They share the heart behind creating a space where students can explore their faith, develop their character, and learn what it means to live out their calling with purpose.

Whether you're a high school student wondering what comes next, a parent helping your student navigate the future, or someone passionate about discipleship and the next generation, this episode will give you a closer look at why the GO Year exists and the vision behind it.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The story behind how the GO Year of Discipleship came to be.
• The vision and heart behind Forest Home's investment in young adult discipleship.
• Why a gap year can be a season of intentional growth and preparation.
• How biblical education, vocational training, and hands-on experience work together to shape your future.
• Why faith is meant to be lived out, not just learned about.
• How a year of discipleship can help you grow in your relationship with Jesus and become more confident in your calling.

Your future doesn't have to be figured out today. But you can take intentional steps toward becoming who God created you to be.

This is not a pause in life. It's preparation for it.

Ready to learn more about the GO Year of Discipleship? Visit thegoyear.com to discover what a year of growing in faith, building community, serving others, and following Jesus could look like for you.

Welcome to the GO Year of Discipleship Podcast!