Next Up with Grant Skeldon

There is a quiet shift happening right now. The next generation isn't looking to just check religious boxes or live out a lifeless, mechanical faith; they're hungry for real authenticity, a true fear of God, and a genuine return to biblical holiness. But with this openness to the Holy Spirit comes an undeniable reality: young leaders are up against a very intense, modern spiritual battle. In this conversation, Grant sits down with Jennifer Barnett, author and ministry leader at Freedom Prayer, to talk about what it actually looks like to navigate spiritual warfare, anxiety, and identity distortion in today's culture. They break down why tightening personal boundaries isn't about rigid legalism, but about protecting our hard-won intimacy with God. From protecting the imagination to tracing negative scripts back to their original entry points, this discussion offers a refreshing, holistic look at finding real freedom and walking firmly in the light. They get into: The Shift in Gen Z: Why younger leaders are moving past a "conveyor belt" church experience and stepping into an authentic hunger for holiness and the unseen realm. Holiness vs. Legalism: Legalism tries to publicly earn standing; true holiness sets strict boundaries behind the scenes simply to protect a close relationship with Jesus. Rooting Out False Identities: How to help young people put their negative scripts into the light, uncover where those lies started, and let God speak the true script over their lives. Mental Health & Spiritual Roots: Navigating the complex intersection of clinical mental health struggles and the spiritual warfare happening simultaneously beneath the surface. Get a free print copy of Jennifer Barnett's book Next Generation Prayer: Helping Youth Overcome Their Struggles — just pay shipping! Just click on https://oakspress.com/nextup/ to check out. If you want to buy in bulk (as few as two copies can be "bulk") to give this book away, click on https://oakspress.com/nextgenbulk to check out. MORE RESOURCES: ➡︎ Watch Grant's THINQ talks here: https://thinqmedia.com/speakers/grant-skeldon ➡︎ Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at: https://thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Take our assessment to see how you apply the THINQ Framework to your everyday life: https://thinqmedia.com/assessment/ ➡︎ Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Lead a THINQ-guided conversation with your family or small group: https://thinqmedia.com/engage/ ================================================================================= ➡︎ Join us at THINQ Summit 2026 in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee: https://events.thinqmedia.com/summit26 ================================================================================= More from the THINQ Podcast Network: ➡︎ Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@rebekah_lyons/ ➡︎ The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://www.youtube.com/@InFormedParent/ ➡︎ UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@gabe_lyons/ ➡︎ NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148/

In this episode of Next Up, Grant sits down with pastor Jonny Ardavanis to break down a massive shift happening in ministry: the next generation isn't looking for entertainment they are hungry for truth. Jonny shares his personal journey from wanting to avoid ministry entirely to embracing a rigorous, 10-chapter-a-day Scripture reading plan that radically transformed his life, his walk, and his preaching. If you are trying to reach, lead, or disciple young adults today, this is a necessary reality check on why topical, seeker-sensitive methods are losing their grip on Gen Z, and why letting the text speak for itself is where the real power lies. They Discuss: The Hunger for Depth: Why young adults are moving away from surface-level topical talks and craving real biblical substance. Scripture Interprets Scripture: How to move past hobby-horse preaching to understand the Bible as one cohesive story pointing directly to Jesus. Ditching the Performance: Dropping the pressure to compete with the world for "cool" and stepping into true, conviction-led biblical authority. The Intelligence Gap: Why modern ministry needs to stop underestimating the intelligence of the next generation. Subscribe to Dial In Ministries: https://www.youtube.com/@dialinministries/ Buy Jonny's new book, Get To Work, here: https://a.co/d/0biyb0jW/ MORE RESOURCES: ➡︎ Watch Grant's THINQ talks here: https://thinqmedia.com/speakers/grant-skeldon ➡︎ Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at: https://thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Take our assessment to see how you apply the THINQ Framework to your everyday life: https://thinqmedia.com/assessment/ ➡︎ Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Lead a THINQ-guided conversation with your family or small group: https://thinqmedia.com/engage/ ================================================================================= ➡︎ Join us at THINQ Summit 2026 in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee: https://events.thinqmedia.com/summit26 ================================================================================= More from the THINQ Podcast Network: ➡︎ Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@rebekah_lyons/ ➡︎ The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://www.youtube.com/@InFormedParent/ ➡︎ UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@gabe_lyons/ ➡︎ NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148/

In this episode, Grant sits down with pastor and author Matt Chandler to unpack a massive shift happening in youth culture and what it really looks like to lead with prophetic clarity today. Fresh off an incredible move of God at his church, Matt shares why Gen Z and Gen Alpha are craving raw confession and holy transcendence over more comfortable, "cool" churches. They dive into the reality of modern paganism rising in the suburbs, how to navigate the noise of online critics without losing your pastoral edge, and why true spiritual formation looks more like a slow-growing tree than a quick light switch. If you're a young leader trying to figure out how to serve the church faithfully without burning out or compromising, this conversation is a must-watch. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Expectation vs. Agenda: Why 5,000 hours of unbroken prayer set the stage for an authentic move of God led by the youngest generations. ✅ The Death of Secularism: How the failure of secular worldviews is driving people toward spiritual power—and why old-school paganism is growing right next door. ✅ Guarding Your Prophetic Edge: Why Matt refuses to let online labels like "woke" or "Christian nationalist" steal his focus from local pastoral ministry. ✅ The Tree and the Light Switch: A refreshing take on sanctification, the pitfalls of modern church metrics, and why we need to return to the wisdom of the church fathers. 👉 Get Matt's Book, Awake and Alive: https://a.co/d/0j3RPSwU/ 👉 Matt's Website: https://www.pastormattchandler.com/ 👉 Matt's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattchandler74/ 👉 Subscribe to Matt on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PastorMattChandler/ MORE RESOURCES: ➡︎ Watch Grant's THINQ talks here: https://thinqmedia.com/speakers/grant-skeldon ➡︎ Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at: https://thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Take our assessment to see how you apply the THINQ Framework to your everyday life: https://thinqmedia.com/assessment/ ➡︎ Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Lead a THINQ-guided conversation with your family or small group: https://thinqmedia.com/engage/ ================================================================================= ➡︎ Join us at THINQ Summit 2026 in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee: https://events.thinqmedia.com/summit26 ================================================================================= More from the THINQ Podcast Network: ➡︎ Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@rebekah_lyons/ ➡︎ The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://www.youtube.com/@InFormedParent/ ➡︎ UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@gabe_lyons/ ➡︎ NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148/

We've all heard the lie that leadership is lonely, but does it have to be? In this episode, Grant sits down with author and visionary Jennie Allen to dismantle the myth that ministry requires isolation. As a generation of leaders often thrust into influence early, many of us have traded deep personal connection for artificial digital content. Jennie shares why the Western experiment of independence is failing and offers a practical framework to fight back—starting with her five miles, five friends rule. From navigating the complexity of couple-friendships to the one question that makes anyone feel truly known, this conversation is a roadmap for any young leader ready to move past small talk and start building a ride or die community. It's time to stop looking for a platform and start looking for your people. In this conversation, they explore: Why proximity is the greatest catalyst for deep relationship. The 911 approach to friendship and why initiation is king. How to lead out of a place of emotional health and vulnerability. 👉 Jennie's Website: https://www.jennieallen.com/ 👉 Jennie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennieallen/ 👉 Jennie's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenniesallen/ MORE RESOURCES: ➡︎ Watch Grant's THINQ talks here: https://thinqmedia.com/speakers/grant-skeldon ➡︎ Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at: https://thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Take our assessment to see how you apply the THINQ Framework to your everyday life: https://thinqmedia.com/assessment/ ➡︎ Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ ➡︎ Lead a THINQ-guided conversation with your family or small group: https://thinqmedia.com/engage/ ================================================================================= ➡︎ Join us at THINQ Summit 2026 in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee: https://events.thinqmedia.com/summit26 ================================================================================= More from the THINQ Podcast Network: ➡︎ Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@rebekah_lyons/ ➡︎ The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://www.youtube.com/@InFormedParent/ ➡︎ UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://www.youtube.com/@gabe_lyons/ ➡︎ NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148/

Many leaders want to read the Bible more, but often don't know where to start. It can feel intimidating, confusing, or just dry, causing a relationship with Scripture to feel more like a task than a transformation. In this interview, Grant sits down with Zach Windahl, the creator of The Bible Study, to talk about his story of going from a faith crisis to helping hundreds of thousands of people fall in love with the Bible. Zach had a relationship with God and the church, but not with the Bible itself—a story many can relate to. Zach shares the simple, powerful insight that led him to create a tool that became one of the fastest-growing consumer products in America. Grant and Zach discuss what to do when your faith feels conflicted, how to build consistency when you feel unmotivated, and why understanding the big picture of Scripture changes everything. Get "The Bible Study" here: https://a.co/d/69Fc1Mv/ Subscribe to Zach on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/zachwindahl/ Zach's Website: https://zachwindahl.com/ Zach's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachwindahl/ Follow Grant on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantskeldon Visit Grant's website: https://www.grantskeldon.com/ MORE RESOURCES: Lead "Let's Talk Tech Detox" conversations with your family or small group: https://events.thinqmedia.com/techdetox Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at https://thinqmedia.com Apply the THINQ Framework as you think through cultural topics: https://thinqmedia.com/videos/thinq-framework Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ Get more from the THINQ Podcast Network: Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rhythms-for-life/id1477541494 The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-informed-parent-with-suzanne-phillips/id1708269607 UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/undercurrent-with-gabe-lyons/id1683005631 NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148

In this episode, Grant sits down with counselor and author Debra Fileta to dive into something that hits close to home for many—how to spot your limits before burnout sneaks up and derails everything. They talk about shifting old belief systems, drawing from Jesus' own rhythms for soul care, and practical steps to stay rooted without just grinding through. If you're a young leader feeling the pull to do more while keeping your faith at the center, this one's for you. Grab Soul Care here: https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Care-Life-Giving-Discover-Unspeakable-ebook/dp/B0CTDS4XC2 Check out Debra's website: https://debrafileta.com/ Follow Grant on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantskeldon Visit Grant's website: https://www.grantskeldon.com/ MORE RESOURCES: Lead "Let's Talk Tech Detox" conversations with your family or small group: https://events.thinqmedia.com/techdetox Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at https://thinqmedia.com Apply the THINQ Framework as you think through cultural topics: https://thinqmedia.com/videos/thinq-framework Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ Sign up for THINQ Summit 2025 October 2-4 in Nashville, TN: https://events.thinqmedia.com/2025summit Get more from the THINQ Podcast Network: Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rhythms-for-life/id1477541494 The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-informed-parent-with-suzanne-phillips/id1708269607 UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/undercurrent-with-gabe-lyons/id1683005631 NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148

In this episode, Grant sits down with pastor Reward Sibanda, who brought a powerful and challenging perspective that every Western leader needs to hear. He talks about why we've redefined one of the most foundational disciplines of our faith and what we've lost in the process. Reward cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what fasting is really about: consecration. It's not about earning God's favor or finding a new self-help trick; it's about humbling ourselves to hear His voice more clearly. If you're feeling spiritually dry or you think your ministry lacks power, this conversation will show you the simple, ancient path to a deeper walk with God. Follow Grant on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantskeldon Visit Grant's website: https://www.grantskeldon.com/ MORE RESOURCES:Lead "Let's Talk Mental Health" conversations with your family or small group: https://events.thinqmedia.com/mentalhealth Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at https://thinqmedia.com Apply the THINQ Framework as you think through cultural topics: https://thinqmedia.com/videos/thinq-framework Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ Sign up for THINQ Summit 2025 October 2-4 in Nashville, TN: https://events.thinqmedia.com/2025summit Get more from the THINQ Podcast Network: Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rhythms-for-life/id1477541494 The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-informed-parent-with-suzanne-phillips/id1708269607 UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/undercurrent-with-gabe-lyons/id1683005631 NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148

In this powerful episode, Grant sits down with author and spiritual strategist Tailah Scroggins to unpack the subtle ways New Age spirituality is seeping into the church today—and how Christian leaders can respond with wisdom and discernment. From understanding the dangers behind the Enneagram, yoga, and manifestation to the importance of deepening intimacy with Jesus, Grant and Tailah dive into practical insights for navigating these cultural currents without losing focus on what truly matters: a vibrant, Spirit-led life. If you're serious about leading well through the gray areas of belief and practice, this conversation will give you clarity, truth, and encouragement to stay grounded. Get Breaking Demonic Chains: https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Demonic-Chains-Deliverance-Witchcraft/dp/0800773128/ Check out Tailah's website: https://www.tailah.com/ Subscribe to her on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TailahOfficial/ Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailahofficial/ and on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tailahofficial/ Follow Grant on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantskeldon Visit Grant's website: https://www.grantskeldon.com/ MORE RESOURCES: Lead "Let's Talk Mental Health" conversations with your family or small group: https://events.thinqmedia.com/mentalhealth Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at https://thinqmedia.com Apply the THINQ Framework as you think through cultural topics: https://thinqmedia.com/videos/thinq-framework Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: https://events.thinqmedia.com/ Sign up for THINQ Summit 2025 October 2-4 in Nashville, TN: https://events.thinqmedia.com/2025summit Get more from the THINQ Podcast Network: Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rhythms-for-life/id1477541494 The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-informed-parent-with-suzanne-phillips/id1708269607 UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/undercurrent-with-gabe-lyons/id1683005631 NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/neurofaith-with-curt-thompson-md/id1613240148