Impact 360 Institute

Why Do Students Walk Away From Their Faith? | Dr. Jonathan Morrow on Welcome to College In this episode of the Impact 360 Institute podcast, host Dakota Powell sits down with Dr. Jonathan Morrow — Director of Cultural Engagement and Student Discipleship at Impact 360 Institute — to discuss his brand new book, Welcome to College. Together they unpack why so many students quietly drift from their faith during the high school-to-college transition and what families, parents, and church leaders can do about it. College is filled with new experiences, learning, and growth, but navigating this landscape as a Christian student is a challenge of its own. If you're a high school student preparing for the college journey, this practical resource will guide and ground you as you step onto campus. Jonathan Morrow pulls from biblical truth and his own experiences with students as he engages with topics like critical theory and social justice, emotional resilience, moral and spiritual relativism, dating and relations

In this episode of the Impact 360 Institute Podcast, Jonathan Morrow examines new national data suggesting a significant decline in LGBTQ identification among U.S. young adults, reversing a years-long upward trend. He unpacks what’s driving this shift, why it matters, and how Christians should thoughtfully respond in a rapidly changing cultural moment. The conversation begins by framing the importance of understanding culture through a biblical worldview, emphasizing that followers of Jesus are called not only to be grounded in Scripture but also to accurately interpret the times. Morrow highlights recent research, particularly from Jean Twenge and CDC-backed datasets, showing that LGBTQ identification among young adults (ages 18–24) has dropped sharply since its peak in 2022. The episode explores several possible contributing factors behind this trend, including:

In this episode of the Impact 360 Institute Podcast, host Jonathan Morrow sits down with Dr. Kathy Koch, author, speaker, and founder of Celebrate Kids, to explore her well-known teaching on the Five Core Needs, Security, Identity, Belonging, Purpose, and Competence, as outlined in her book Five to Thrive: How to Determine If Your Core Needs Are Being Met (and What to Do When They're Not). Together, they discuss how understanding and meeting these God-given needs can help students and adults alike flourish emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.Resources & LinksDr. Kathy Koch’s Website: Celebrate KidsBook: Five to ThrivePodcast: Celebrate Kids with Dr. Kathy KochImpact 360 Institute: impact360.orgLearn more about Explore Truth and Explore the Resurrection online coursesOn-campus programs in worldview and leadership developmentFollow on social media: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube This episode provides a deeply practical and biblical roadmap for understanding human motivation and flourishing. Dr. Kathy

Join the Impact 360 podcast for an in-depth conversation with Robert Bowman, a leading evangelical scholar on apologetics, theology, and new religious movements. In this episode, we explore the biblical case for the deity of Christ through Bowman's book "The Incarnate Christ and His Critics: A Biblical Defense," co-authored with Ed Komoszewski.The HANDS Acronym FrameworkBowman introduces the memorable "HANDS" framework for understanding Christ's deity:Honors - Divine worship given to JesusAttributes - Divine characteristics (eternality, omnipotence)Names - Divine titles (Lord, God, I AM)Deeds - Divine actions (creation, miracles, judgment)Seat - Sharing God's throneKey Theological ConceptsThe Incarnation: Understanding Jesus as fully God and fully humanThe Paradox of Christ: How Jesus can be both eternal and born, divine and humanEarly Christian Worship: Evidence that first-century Jewish Christians worshiped Jesus as God from the beginningThe "Big Bang" of Christology: How divine Christology emerged immediat

Host Jonathan Morrow shares insights from Impact 360's nine-month Fellows gap year program, featuring student testimonials about their transformative experiences. Topics DiscussedBiblical Apologetics & Worldview TrainingCore Questions Explored:How do we know Jesus is who He claimed to be?Was Jesus God?Can you trust the Bible?Evidence for Jesus's resurrectionHas the Bible been corrupted?Who chose the books of the Bible and why?Curriculum: Students work through Jonathan Morrow's book "Questioning the Bible" and develop their own apologetic casesStudent TransformationFellows (ages 18-20) taking nine months to invest in spiritual and intellectual formationFocus areas: knowing Jesus more deeply, character transformation, kingdom influenceExperiential learning in multiple locations: Georgia, Utah, Brazil, and Washington D.C.1 Chronicles 16: "Oh, give thanks to the Lord. Call upon his name. Make known his deeds among the peoples. Sing to him. Sing praises to him. Speak of all his wonders."Additional Resources &a

In this episode of the Impact 360 Institute Podcast, host Jonathan Morrow analyzes dramatic new findings from Gen Z Volume 3 research (with Barna Group) about faith dynamics among young men and women. The conversation centers on the surprising trend: young men ages 18–24 are returning to church and recommitting to biblical faith while young women in the same age group are disengaging from organized religion at increasing rates.Topics Discussed:Introduction to biblical worldview and servant leadership  Review of Gen Z Volume 3 statistics: church attendance, faith identification, gender divide  Biblical foundation for male and female (Matthew 19:4–6); God’s design for gender Why young men are experiencing renewed agency, hope, and church engagement  Factors behind female Gen Z’s rise in “nones” (no faith affiliation) and moral relativism Cultural and educational shifts: college degree gaps, mental health, deaths of despair  Zero-sum game trap in faith conversations, why both young men and women matter “Men have

What can we learn from the legacy of Charlie Kirk? How should Christians think about his public assassination, the gospel opportunities that have followed, and the challenges and opportunities facing the next generation? In this episode, Jonathan Morrow reflects on Charlie Kirk’s impact, the power of forgiveness, the three biblical spheres of family, church, and government, key biblical principles to anchor to in moments like these, and how Gen Z can step forward with clarity, courage, and conviction in this historic moment.Watch the eyewitness account of our friend Frank Turek as he reflects on being next to Charlie Kirk when he was shot. (YouTube) - https://youtu.be/rVaxvKtw5NQ?si=-2JpqW31aouRB-Lb Watch the 7 min presentation of the Gospel Frank Turek made at the memorial of Charlie Kirk - https://youtu.be/tDCUOtGJNtM?si=COspBzszwZxZAdfo Watch Erika Kirk 30 min talk where she forgives her husband's murderer - https://www.youtube.com/live/jAWG_LCRIWc?si=J1TZahOjgAmUwhnO&t=24765 Watch the entire memorial

Jonathan Morrow sits down with Colson Center president John Stonestreet to unpack the new documentary Truth Rising, a timely look at our current “civilizational moment” and a practical call to cultural courage rooted in four anchors: hope, truth, identity, and calling. They preview the film’s free digital premiere, the companion 4-part study (with leader/participant guides), and how churches and families can host watch parties.Resources & LinksWatch the free premiere (Sept 5) + study guides & watch-party kit: TruthRising.comImpact 360 programs, courses, and Multiply Fund: Impact360.org 

What does it take to disciple Gen Z in a culture of screens, anxiety, and spiritual hunger? In this episode of the Impact 360 Podcast, Jonathan Morrow and Dakota Powell unpack the heart behind the upcoming Leading Gen Z Conference, explore themes from Impact 360’s latest research on Gen Z, and share practical tools to help students develop resilient faith.Whether you're a parent, pastor, educator, or student, you’ll walk away with encouragement, insight, and action steps for shaping the next generation. Plus—don’t miss a special discount code for the September 11 event at the end of the episode!

In this episode of the Impact 360 Institute Podcast, Director of Cultural Engagement Jonathan Morrow sits down with Dr. Paul Gould to tackle one of the most common modern myths: that faith and science are in conflict. Together, they unpack why Christianity and scientific inquiry are not only compatible, but how Christianity offers a more compelling explanation for the rationality, order, and wonder we find in the universe.Resources Mentioned:A Good and True Story by Dr. Paul GouldCultural Apologetics Follow Impact 360:Instagram: @impact360instituteFacebook: Impact 360 InstituteYouTube: Impact 360Contact Us:Have questions or want to learn more? Email us at info@impact360.org or visit Impact360.org

In this powerful episode of the Impact 360 Institute Podcast, host Jonathan Morrow sits down with Miles McPherson. Miles shares his raw and redemptive story: from chasing football dreams and finding Christ through the bold witness of teammates.They unpack what true discipleship looks like, the role of the local church in a divided culture, and why every believer must boldly share the gospel, starting with "just one." Miles also shares wisdom from his book The Third Option, challenging us to honor others by focusing on our similarities rather than our differences. This conversation is filled with encouragement, clarity, and a call to courageous living.Resources Mentioned:The Third Option by Miles McPhersonRock Church San DiegoImpact 360 Institute Online CoursesConnect with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @impact360instituteSubscribe on YouTube: Impact 360 InstituteLearn more about our programs: www.impact360.orgContact: info@impact360.org

In a culture marked by polarization and curiosity, how do we speak clearly and compassionately about life, truth, and God?In this episode of the Impact 360 Institute Podcast, Jonathan Morrow welcomes Megan Almon, speaker, pro-life apologist, and faculty member at Stand to Reason, for a powerful conversation on how to make the case for life in a post-Roe world. Together, they unpack the importance of asking better questions, how Gen Z is responding to cultural confusion, and why scientific clarity and theological grounding are essential for meaningful dialogue.Topics Covered:How Gen Z is engaging with the abortion conversationThe impact of Roe v. Wade’s reversal on state-level discourseThe role of visual media in shaping pro-life perspectivesBuilding a rational and biblical case for the unbornEncouraging courage, clarity, and compassion in hard conversationsWhether you're a student, parent, educator, or leader, this episode will help you better understand how to think and talk well in today’s divided but spiri

Should Christians Deconstruct Their Faith?  Do you have a loved one who is deconstructing their faith, and are you struggling to know how to respond? Are you trying to understand the radical spiritual makeover your friend or family member is going through? Maybe your relationship with a loved one has been strained or even cut off because of your “toxic” Christian beliefs and you don’t know what to do. Maybe you’re experiencing doubt yourself and facing hard questions about truth, God, the Bible, theology and the gospel. In this timely interview Jonathan Morrow talks with popular author and speaker Alisa Childers about these and other important questions.A movement called ‘deconstruction’ is sweeping through our churches and it is affecting our loved ones. It has disrupted, dismantled, and destroyed the faith of so many, and this book can help you not only understand what’s happening but also stand your ground and respond with clarity and confidence.Some who leave the faith feel wounded by the church. Others f

How do you develop a more meaningful connection with God? What can we learn from the prayer habits from Christians around the world? Are there patterns that we can learn from to grow in prayer? How can prayer influence our leadership. In this podcast, Jonathan Morrow has a conversation with Ryan Skoog about these and other questions surrounding his new book Lead with Prayer.In this episode of "Lead with Prayer," we dive into the profound concept of “wasting time with Jesus” and its transformative impact on leadership. Drawing from over 100 interviews with global leaders, we uncover surprising common themes in their prayer habits that can inspire anyone, regardless of their leadership role. At Impact 360, we emphasize that everyone is a leader because everyone has influence, making this discussion relevant to all. We explore the integration of both fast and slow prayers into daily routines, offering practical advice for leaders to maintain a deep, personal prayer life amidst their demanding schedules. Through

What does it look like to be biblical and counter-cultural when it comes to walking in unity today? Conversations around race, tolerance, social justice, racial reconciliation, and critical theory can be challenging and confusing, but what does a biblical approach look like? In this podcast, Jonathan Morrow had a conversation with Monique Duson and Krista Bontrager, about their new book Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism.Get a copy of Walking in Unity: Biblical Answers to Questions on Race and Racism Monique Duson is the President at the Center for Biblical Unity. She has a background in social service and children’s ministry. She has worked with a diverse array of under-served communities. She worked as a Missionary to South Africa for over four years, serving children and teachers impacted by drugs, violence, and trauma. She spent two decades advocating for Critical Race Theory (CRT), but through a series of events, she began to clearly see the contradictions of CRT with the

What does it look like to have courage to stand through suffering? What biblical principles can we apply to our lives? How do we order our lives to cultivate a life of courage that will stand in the day of suffering? In this powerful story from former fire chief Kelvin Cochran who was fired for his biblical convictions, you will be inspired and encouraged to stand strong no matter what is going on in your life. In this practical interview, Jonathan Morrow and Kelvin Cochran discuss 5 lessons that help you in times of suffering.About Kelvin Cochran Kelvin J. Cochran serves as senior fellow and vice president for Alliance Defending Freedom. In this role, he reports directly to ADF President and CEO Michael Farris. Cochran is responsible for overseeing ADF’s Leadership Development Program, leadingprograms that will assist, encourage, and support Christians who are victims of cancel culture attacks; overseeing ADF’s Prayer Initiative Team; and speaking at ADF events to engage and promote ADF’s mission to defend r

In this fascinating podcast, we delve deep into the centuries-old mystery surrounding the Shroud of Turin and explore the compelling evidence supporting its authenticity. The Shroud, believed by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ, has intrigued researchers, historians, and believers for generations. Join us as we interview Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, a renowned New Testament scholar, to examine the scientific investigations, forensic analyses, and historical context that shed light on the remarkable features of the Shroud. We also tackle the important question: Is the Shroud of Turin a genuine historical artifact or an elaborate hoax?Learn more about Dr. Jeremiah Johnston at Christian Thinkers Society 

Why didn't Jesus write anything down himself? How many languages did Jesus speak? Jesus was a master storyteller, what can we learn from how Jesus taught and connected with different audiences? In this fascinating interview, Jonathan Morrow interviews Cambridge scholar Dr. Peter Williams on the profound creativity and wisdom of Jesus including how the story of the prodigal son illuminates Jesus’s genius.In The Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. Williams examines the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 to show the genius, creativity, and wisdom of Jesus’s teachings. He used simple but powerful stories to confront the Pharisees and scribes of the day, drawing on his knowledge of the Jewish Scriptures to teach his audience through complex layers and themes. Williams challenges those who question whether Jesus really was the source of the parables recorded in the Gospels, pointing readers to the truth of who Jesus is and why that matters for them today. About Peter WilliamsPeter J. Williams (PhD, University of

You are meant for more. God has called you to live a radical life for Him―one that makes a lasting impact on this world. Like Jesus did. But how is this possible? In this Interview Jonathan Morrow talks with Greg Stier about how to practically do this.There’s never been anyone in history as radical as Jesus. From the way that He prayed, to how He interacted with sinners, to His sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus was a revolutionary. It’s just who He was. As His followers we are called to be like him. It’s not just something we should aspire to, it’s a reality that we must strive for every day. We can live as Jesus did – be radical like He was – because as Christians, Jesus lives in us and wants to live through us. When Jesus lives his life through us, we begin to do the things that He did. And that’s what Radical Like Jesus is all about – putting into practice the rhythms, activities and actions that Jesus modeled throughout His life.Invest in the Next Generation of DisciplesGet the book - Radical Like Jes

What does Christian faithfulness look like in the public square? Should Christians be involved in politics, and how should that affect our voting decisions? How should a biblical worldview influence how we vote? With election season upon us, we've all seen the ads and messages. It's crucial for disciples of Jesus to think Christianly about this (as with every other area of life). In this episode we will explore some biblical principles to keep in mind as you engage and navigate a divided public square as a follower of Christ.For More...Think Christianly: Looking at the Intersection of Faith and Culture by Jonathan MorrowOs Guinness on Navigating Our Divided CultureLearn more about Investing in the Next Generation of Disciples  Life-Changing Experiences that Help the Next Generation Live Out Their Faith With Confidence (Learn More)