Gleaning and Gathering
Vincent Sawyer on Discipleship and Education
Eric speaks with Vincent Sawyer of InteGRITy Academy about a discipleship-based gap year program built around work, vulnerability, and practical formation. Vincent explains how the ministry grew out of a calling to bring dignity through business-as-mission, homestead life, and hands-on vocational training. The conversation also covers the kind of young men Integrity Academy hopes to serve, what they’ll experience, and how the program is designed to supplement, not replace, the local church. Key topics In this episode: Eric introduces Vincent Sawyer from Integrity Academy and frames the conversation around the ministry’s work, mission, and impact. Vincent shares how he first connected with Eric after searching for strategic partners and finding Victory Acres on page twenty of a Google search! Bringing dignity through work: He describes a desire to help people through jobs, business as missions, and a “teach a man how to fish” model. Discipleship through education: Vincent explains that the core mission is making disciples, and that education, agriculture, and homestead life are the tools he believes best support that mission. Life-on-life formation: He emphasizes vulnerability, transparency, and accountability as essential for building trust and shaping young men into faithful husbands, fathers, and church members. A ministry to supplement the church: Vincent says Integrity Academy is not meant to replace the local church, but to function as an intensive add-on experience for spiritual sharpening and practical growth. Why brotherhood matters: He argues that lifelong friendship and community are missing in many lives, including among wealthy and successful people, and that shared hardship can build deep trust. Earn while you learn: The program’s funding model allows students to work for their living expenses while also receiving housing, food, retreats, excursions, and overseas missions exposure. Who the program is for: Eric highlights the need for young men who lack direction, skills, and male influence, and Vincent says the academy is designed for men who want to be held accountable and formed for a fruitful future. Next steps: Vincent says prospective students should start with the application process and an informal introductory call to see if it is a good fit.
