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What if the greatest spiritual growth happens when we step off the conventional path? In this enlightening conversation, youth pastor Brant Fountain reconnects with podcast hosts to reflect on their shared 2009 gap year experience in Costa Rica and how it continues to shape ministry approaches sixteen years later.

Against the backdrop of today's youth culture—where students face unprecedented pressure, disconnection, and mental health challenges—Brant passionately advocates for breaking free from "cookie-cutter Christianity." Drawing from his own transformative experience, he explains how taking a year to surrender completely to God provided clarity and direction that four years of college couldn't match.

The conversation delves into the concept of "the soul-sucking voice of reasonableness" that keeps many from taking holy risks. While today's generation appears more cautious than ever, research shows elderly people's greatest regret is not taking more risks. This paradox frames a compelling argument for why gap years might be exactly what our disconnected, anxious youth need.

Beyond theoretical discussion, the episode offers practical wisdom about navigating relationships during mission experiences, recognizing spiritual idols, and approaching major life decisions with complete surrender. Brant's journey—including how he and his now-wife Julie went from best friends to engaged in just eight days after returning from Costa Rica—illustrates how God often works in unexpected ways when we create space for authentic spiritual formation.

Whether you're a student considering your next steps, a parent navigating options with your teen, or a youth pastor guiding young people, this conversation invites you to reconsider conventional wisdom and embrace the transformative power of holy risk-taking. What might God do with your life if you laid everything on the line?

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• Website: https://www.globalyear.org
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• Email: [email protected]

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What if a single conversation could spark a movement that changes thousands of lives across the globe? Join us as we sit down with the founder and president of Global Year, who also happens to be my dad, to trace the incredible journey from an idea born in South Carolina to a global mission. Through a transformative chat with Dr. Johnny Hunt, this vision took root, initially sending nine high school graduates to Argentina and laying the groundwork for what would become an influential initiative. Discover how the seeds of this journey grew over seven to eight years, culminating in a life-altering decision to commit fully to inspiring young people to engage with the world.

Hear tales of unwavering faith and unexpected blessings as we recount stories that defined the early days of Global Year. Picture a roofer named Warren, stepping into our lives through divine guidance to help with crucial home repairs, or the miraculous $25,000 donation that propelled our mission forward. These moments highlight the power of community and belief in a higher purpose, shaping a vision of sending young people to spiritually challenging parts of the world. Through experiences with Score International, the dream of mobilizing 10,000 young individuals remains at the forefront, even as we face trials and triumphs.

As we look ahead, the episode brings into focus Global Year's mission to expand its reach to untouched regions, including new ventures in Canada. We reflect on the profound impact these gap year experiences have on students, their families, and their communities. The challenges of letting go and trusting in a divine plan are met with stories of transformation and growth. Journey with us through lessons in faith and the joy found in supportive relationships, as we continue to trust in a sovereign power guiding our path to global impact.

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Connect with Us:

• Website: https://www.globalyear.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global.year/
• Email: [email protected]

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Ever wondered if taking a gap year could be more than just a break from education? Join us for a compelling conversation with Chloe Earle, who shares her story of choosing a gap year in Italy over the traditional path to college. Chloe, the youngest of five siblings from a Christian family in Georgia, had the rare freedom to explore her personal interests, thanks to her supportive upbringing. Through her journey with Global Year, we uncover the layers of societal expectations versus the liberating power of pursuing one's unique path. 

Our discussion with Chloe shines a light on the often-unseen challenges and growth opportunities that come with embarking on a global mission. From raising the necessary support to managing the expectations that come with being a missionary, Chloe opens up about the realities of such experiences. She candidly discusses the internal and external challenges faced when returning home, emphasizing the importance of grounding one's identity in faith rather than external validation. Chloe's insights serve as a gentle reminder of the profound impact of aligning personal goals with spiritual callings.

For those considering a gap year or similar adventure, Chloe offers invaluable advice on embracing uncertainty and being open to growth. We explore the significance of intentional spiritual practices amidst the demanding pace of American life, and the importance of cultural immersion through language learning. Chloe's journey invites listeners to consider the lasting imprint such experiences can have on one's life, making a case for the eternal impact of stepping off the beaten path. Whether you're on the brink of a major life decision or simply curious about the transformative power of a year abroad, Chloe's story is sure to inspire and enlighten.

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Connect with Us:

• Website: https://www.globalyear.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global.year/
• Email: [email protected]

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What if the journey of a lifetime began with a single, unexpected suggestion at church? In this episode, hosts Leah and Nate sit down with Sydney to explore how a chance conversation led her to join the Global Year program, a path that completely reshaped her faith and understanding of the world.

Listen as Sydney recounts her mission trip revelation in Michigan, the courageous decision to spend nine months in Italy, and the challenges she faced while navigating societal expectations, college paths, and even leaving behind beloved pets. Despite these obstacles, moments of surrender, prophetic conversations, and the support of family guided Sydney into a life-altering spiritual journey.

Leah and Nate also reflect on their own Global Year experiences and the beauty of adapting, engaging, and growing within diverse communities in Italy, Honduras, and Belize. Together, they explore the humorous moments, the emotional highs and lows, and the profound growth that comes from living in the present and embracing the unknown. Join us for a conversation on the transformative power of dedicating a year to spiritual growth and discover how saying "yes" to God's call can change your life.

Resources Mentioned:

• Global Year application link: https://www.globalyear.org/applynow
• Follow us on social media:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global.year/
  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlobalYear/

Key Topics:

• Sydney’s journey from a mission trip in Michigan to nine months in Italy
• Navigating faith, societal pressures, and personal challenges
• Spiritual growth in diverse cultural settings
• Lessons learned from stepping into the unknown

Support the show

Connect with Us:

• Website: https://www.globalyear.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global.year/
• Email: [email protected]