Lasting Change

What does real anti-trafficking work look like? In this episode of the Lasting Change podcast, we sit down with Andrew Larson—One Collective's catalyst in Athens, Greece—to explore the realities of sexual exploitation, the complexity of trafficking, and what it takes to make a meaningful difference. This episode isn't a tidy story of rescue. Instead it's a look at what it means to break isolation, build trust over time, and embody hope in some of the darkest places. Whether you're new to this topic or passionate about justice, Andrew's experience will help you understand how long-term, relational work can transform lives—both overseas and in your own neighborhood. In this Episode, you will learn: A clear definition of human trafficking—and what makes it so complexWhy Greece is a critical hotspot in the global trafficking networkThe unique challenges of anti-trafficking work in brothel districtsHow outreach teams safely engage with women in crisisWhy rescue isn't always the goal—and what true success looks likePractical ways you can respond locally or globallyWhat it means to find God among the oppressedOne Collective - Athens Alephtheria CommunityPolaris ProjectA21European Freedom NetworkOne Collective - Serve Abroad Opportunities

DescriptionWhat if the true measure of success in missions wasn't how much you built—but what continued after you left?In this episode of The Lasting Change Podcast, hosts Michael Proctor and Danielle Kelly sit down with Brandon Weidman, Director of Development at One Collective and the founding catalyst of the organization's work in Nicaragua. Brandon shares how a short-term mission trip turned into a long-term commitment—and how that commitment sparked a sustainable model of ministry that continues to grow today.From launching a chicken farm and a coffee company to empowering local leaders and navigating political unrest, Brandon walks us through the challenges and lessons of building something that lasts. Now, as the Nicaragua team prepares to expand into a neighboring city, they're looking for the next catalyst—a leader ready to live in the community, build relationships, and help shape the next chapter of holistic, sustainable transformation.Whether you're in ministry, missions, or just passionate about doing good in a healthy, sustainable way, this episode offers real-world insight into how lasting change actually happens—and how you might be part of it.In this EpisodeHow short-term mission trips led to long-term community transformationThe story behind the founding of One Collective NicaraguaWhat it looks like to empower local leaders and avoid dependencyHow a chicken farm, coffee company, and a pineapple farm became tools for changeWhat “kingdom calculus” is—and why 1 + 1 can equal 3How the catalytic model works, and what it means to be a catalystWhy Papagayo, a remote pineapple farm at the edge of a jungle, might be the perfect launching pad for the next wave of changeHow YOU (or someone you know) might fit into this story of growth and lasting impactAbout the GuestBrandon Weidman is the Director of Development at One Collective, where he leads global fundraising efforts and champions sustainable, community-driven change. Before taking on this role, Brandon and his wife spent nearly seven years in Nicaragua as catalysts—helping to launch locally run initiatives like small businesses, farms, and nutrition programs. His passion is to empower leaders on the ground and ensure resources are directed where they'll make the biggest long-term impact.

Do you desire to be generous but don't know where to give or which organizations to trust? With so many nonprofits vying for attention, it can be overwhelming to know which ones are truly effective and aligned with your values. If you've ever wondered how to ensure your contributions are making a real impact, this episode is for you.In this episode, you'll learn how to evaluate a nonprofit's trustworthiness and financial accountability. Discover the key indicators of organizational integrity, how to spot red flags, and why having a robust financial strategy is critical for long-term impact. You'll also gain practical tools to help you confidently choose organizations that align with your values and make a lasting difference. Whether you're giving to the organization for years or just starting to look for someone to be generous, this episode will empower you to live with greater clarity and purpose.

Do you see big problems in the world and feel overwhelmed by the thought of making a difference? Maybe you're passionate about helping others but unsure where to start or how to turn that passion into action. The idea of stepping into a role that could create real change can be daunting, especially when the path forward isn't clear. If you're wrestling with these feelings, this episode offers valuable guidance to help you navigate these uncertainties.In this episode, Carley Fortosis, a leader in mobilization at One Collective, joins host Scott Olson to share her journey from corporate life to vocational ministry. Carley discusses the key questions you should ask before making the leap, the questions you should ask an organization before joining, and how One Collective supports its team members every step of the way. Whether you're exploring a new career or looking to make a greater impact, Carley's experience and advice will provide the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.

Everyone knows the struggle of finding a job that feels impactful, especially those planning to transition from school to the workforce. What could it look like to choose a job that is full of purpose and connects with the work Jesus is doing around the world?Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we are talking with Michael Proctor, One Collective's Marketing Manager and Podcast producer. Together we talk about Michael's journey of discovering One Collective and how he has participated in lasting change.

Often, marketing gets a bad rap - coming across as unethical, manipulative, and leading us to spend money on things we don't really need. But what if marketing could be a force for good? A tool to unify organizations around a shared vision and purpose that truly betters the world?Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we talk with Evan Wise, Sr. Director of Advancement at One Collective. Together, we explore the power of ethical, values-driven marketing. Evan shares how marketing can be leveraged to drive sustainable, long-term change - when it's focused on deeply understanding your audience's needs and providing genuine value rather than just chasing short-term conversions.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

We live in a fast-paced world, and most of us are always trying to do more in less time. It is often immensely difficult for leaders to slow down amidst the pressures and demands of work and life and this can often lead to burn out and leaders not finishing well. How can we as leaders find the value of slowing down, and how can leaders practically implement rest into their lives? Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we talk with Robert L. Gallagher, a professor of mission and intercultural studies. Together we talk about the difficulty people, particularly leaders, face in slowing down amidst the pressures and demands of modern life. We explore the need for time for solitude, prayer and silence, following the example of Jesus.

In our culture, leadership is something we all want. We want to be given authority so we can have a sense of control and purpose. But often, we don't think about the hardship, the extreme ownership we must take, or the time it takes to learn the skills required to be a successful leader. How can we as individuals work to develop the skills of a leader? How can we become more aware of our motives for leadership? Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we are talking with Danielle Kelly, One Collective Area director of Europe and Catalyst of Athens, Greece. Together, we talk about Danielle's journey into leadership, the hardships and the lessons she has learned to become a leader, and the necessity for failure and taking initiative.

We all are victims of our childhood. Everyone has had good and bad experiences that have made us who we are today. Regardless of our past, we want to grow and become well-adjusted individuals, but doing this alone feels impossible. How can we heal, and how can we play a part in the healing process of those around us? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we talk with Debbie Douce, One Collective strategies for working with at-risk kids. Together, we talk about Debbie's own journey of healing from trauma in he life and how she has learned how to play a part in others' healing journeys.

We all share the desire to treat everyone as Jesus did. Sadly, there are many marginalized people who are often dehumanized and never experience the way Jesus treated people. How can we as individuals meet the marginalized where they are show them the love of Jesus, and treat them as he did? Join us today on the lasting Change Podcast, where we talk with Eric Costanzo, executive director of RisingVillage, Author, and teacher of biblical, cultural, and global issues affecting the church around the world. Together, we talk about the issue of dehumanization of marginalized people and the importance of treating every person with dignity and respect, reinforcing their biblical humanity.

When leading teams, we want to enable individuals to flourish, and we want collaboration to be the norm, not the exception. But building effective teams that work together is hard, especially if it is cross-cultural. Communicating and being aware of cultural context is extremely challenging, let alone the normal challenges of team building. How can we build effective teams that come together to collaborate effectively? How can we, as leaders, enable our teams to flourish and serve others well? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Mike and Michelle, owner of a social enterprise that runs a vocational training program for neurodivergent individuals. Together, we discuss the effectiveness of a coffee shop as a social enterprise, team building, and including neurodivergent individuals.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Creating lasting change around the world cannot be done alone - it takes a team of supporters. But communicating with supporters around the world can be challenging. How can we communicate effectively about the work we are passionate about and enable our supporters to feel like they are a part of the work we do? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we are talking with Lisa Wolf, SVP of Client Experience for Westfall Gold. Together, we talk about the importance of clarifying your messaging so you can build and maintain a strong relationship with your supporters.

Today, there are places in the world that need support more than ever. Countries are in crisis, and as leaders, we want to help. We want to play our part in alleviating the pain and needs across the world. But helping is much more imbiguous than it should. Knowing how to help those in crisis should not be a challenge. How can we, as leaders, provide support to those in Crisis? How can we be confident that we have played our part in providing support to those who need it? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we are talking with John, a global relief and development visionary and law practitioner. Together, we talk about how individuals can participate in alleviating crisis-stricken communities around the world. Enabling communities to flourish again.

Leading cross-culturally is challenging. It is nearly impossible to be aware of all the different ways people live and work. How can we, despite the inability to be aware of so many differences, lead successfully across multiple cultures?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we are talking with Simon Majumdar, world-renowned broadcaster, chef, and author. Together, we talk about the challenges of leading cross-culturally and how humility is the key to leading in spaces where we cannot be aware of all the nuances.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Today, trauma is happening at a larger scale than most of us have ever seen. Real wars are being fought, and individuals are hurting. As leaders, we want to do everything we can to create peace and stability in our communities and lives. But few things are more daunting than this task. In a world full of hurt, what can we do as leaders to create peace and stability?Join us on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Melissa Sinclair, Ph.D. and professor of Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University. Together, we talk about how she has learned to be a peace leader and how it all starts with focusing on the self before leading others to do the same.

Leaders around the world often have a plan, a direction they are taking their team and ministry - but often that plan gets disrupted. Fear and doubt about direction is often the result. How can leaders stay calm and flexible when God asks them to change course?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Kristen Choitz, leader in Zambia. Together, we discuss the importance of flexibility and openness in leadership. We'll talk about letting go of expectations and allowing God to direct our path.

Finding sustainable ways to fund work around the world is a big challenge. Sometimes good projects can fail because they aren't setup from the start with sustainability in mind. How can leaders find sustainable ways to fund work in ways that really last?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Robert Swarthout, a three-business-time founder with experience in software and investing. Together, we're talking about the challenges non-profit leaders face regarding funding, and how connecting entrepreneurship to work can help setup projects to succeed long-term.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Every leader knows that leading people requires embracing vulnerability and learning from failures. But as leaders, we often cling to the desire to project confidence and intelligence all the time. What if leadership was less about having expert intelligence and more about cultivating humility, curiosity, and openness?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Ian Simkins, Teaching Pastor at Bridge Church about the importance of adopting a posture of humility and curiosity when leading others- and how embracing this posture leads to a transformative shift - from performance-driven mindsets to humble service, genuine connection, and meaningful impact.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Every leader who is trying to make change happen knows that it takes innovation and risk. Leading people to move away from what is traditional and comfortable, into a space of innovation comes with a myriad of challenges - but change and new ideas can lead to incredible opportunity.Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Brandon Weidman, Sr. Director of Development at One Collective. Together we're talking about how to integrate sustainable ministry around the world with social entrepreneurship and how doing this successfully requires leaders to break the mold of traditional ministry approaches.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Hard emotional conversations are inevitable in the professional and personal world. Often, we fear and avoid having crucial conversations that would lead to a new relationship, healthier marriage, or promotion. Managing these heightened emotional conversations should not be something we fear but rather an opportunity to grow and heal. Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we talk with Bill Benjamin, Partner and keynote speaker of the Institute for Health and Human Potential. Together, we're talking about how to manage the heightened emotional moments in life and work well so that you can lead and deepen relationships professionally and personally.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Anyone looking to create impact with their team knows that there are a lot of obstacles to manage. Often as problems mount - leaders can feel like all their time is focused on putting out fires- instead of moving their team forward. How can leaders create a culture that empowers their team and focuses on solving problems together?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Bobby Jackson, LCSW - Senior Area Director with One Collective and Clinical Director at Rally Point Counseling. Together we're talking about good leaders can empower their teams to collaborate and find greater health together.

Anyone looking to cultivate impact through generosity knows the challenges of finding trustworthy partners and passing on values to the next generation. There are a lot of “causes” in the world - and learning values related to generosity and healthy ways to engage in giving can feel like a long journey.Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Joe Pringle from the National Christian Foundation. Together we're talking about the importance of managing finances well, ways to help the next generation learn values related to giving, and how generosity is often centered around things that are bigger than finances.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Comparing the way Jesus lived with the Church today can be pretty confusing. It can be hard to find your place among so many differing ideologies and competing viewpoints. In this episode, we are breaking down what it looks like to be a follower of Jesus in a divided world.Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Aaron Niequist, a liturgist, writer, and pastor who recently graduated from General Theological Seminary in NYC. Together we're talking about practice-based faith, de-construction, re-construction of faith, and the importance of staying open-minded when searching for the “right way” to follow Jesus.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Short Term Trips in the non-profit industry often get a bad rap. Many resources are used to send people abroad to do work that frequently does not result in long-term impact, and a common opinion is that better results would be achieved by sending those resources abroad instead of sending people. But what about the life-changing experience the people on the trip have? What is the value of becoming culturally aware - and how does that impact work long-term?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Andrew Code, Co-Founder of Chicago Fellowship and Private Equity firm manager. Together we talk about the need for humility and how traveling abroad to some of the toughest places in the world is a great way to develop as a leader.

Why is it so hard to get people in a community to work together? So often, organizations, churches, schools, and individuals are all involved in work to address issues facing a community, but they rarely communicate well or share resources. What are the barriers that result in ineffective work and how can good leaders help their communities work together?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Doug Landro, Area Director for Ukraine at One Collective. Together we're talking about the challenges individuals and organizations face in networking and local development - and how good leaders can bring people together around a shared vision. Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Are you someone that is tired of the traditional way non-profit organizations are run? Many non-profit organizations are stuck thinking in the traditional categories - unwilling to take the risks to innovate. This has led to the downfall of so many organizations, but it doesn't have to be this way. How can you innovate in any position - even if you are not in a position of authority?Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we're talking with Ted Esler, the president of Missio Nexus and author of the book “The Innovation Crisis: Creating Disruptive Influence in the Ministry You Lead.” Together we're talking about how many non-profits do not value innovation or create the space for partners and employees to truly innovate.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Non-profits talk about change a lot - but in change focused work around the world, two main elements that are often missing are holistic care and leaders working together. What what exactly is holistic change, and how can we do it in a sustainable way? Why is relationship building and bringing stakeholders together so important to community work? How can leaders play the role of a catalyst; uniting organizations and mobilizing communities for lasting change? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with KC Crino, a catalyst working to transform systems in Joliet, Illinois. Together we're discussing what holistic transformation looks like, why sustainability matters, and how to bring people together for lasting change.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

It may seem counterproductive, but working yourself out of a job as a leader can be one of the most effective strategies for growth and value. Why should leaders, seek to make their positions obsolete? How can you create a business, nonprofit, or good work that outlives you?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Manuel Perez De La Mesa, former CEO of Pool Corporation, a publicly traded, multi-billion dollar business. Together, we're talking about how individuals in any position can learn how to work with more clarity and solve problems for the people they serve.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Being content in different seasons of leadership or life can be challenging. Often we can find ourselves looking to the future - dreaming about that next job, new team, or location. How can we make the most of current situations and find contentment where we are?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Lori Blong, Mayor of Midland, Texas. Together Lori shares her leadership journey, how she has arrived at her position, and the challenges she's faced in finding fulfillment across seasons and leadership positions.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

We all have weaknesses and insecurities that hold us back from success as leaders - but we have to learn how to accept our weaknesses and come up with creative solutions to lead despite them. How can you come to terms with your weaknesses and lead with excellence? Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we're continuing our conversation with Dr. Neil Ostrander, the President & CEO of International Teams Canada. Together we're talking about our own weaknesses and how gathering the right team members can help them become strengths.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

There is a traditional way to do non-profit work that most of us are familiar with - but many of us don't know what a modernized non-profit organization looks like. Growing and utilizing creative solutions can be a big challenge in this kind of work - so how can we create modern non-profits that really make a difference?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Neil Ostrander, President & CEO of International Teams Canada. Together we talk about the journey that Neil has been on to modernize his non-profit - seeking to make lasting and sustainable change possible.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Trust is a challenge across the landscape of ministry today. There are a lot of people and organizations who haven't been best example when it comes to stewarding money or influence. So what does laying a healthy foundation when leading a movement or organization look like? What are the key ideas that leaders need to be aware of so that they can build trust and steward resources effectively?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Michael Martin, President of the ECFA (Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability). Together we're talking all about leading with humility, integrity, and transparency - especially when it comes to your finances.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Managing the weight of leadership is hard in any industry. As leaders, we all want to create stability, great products or services, and environments that enable others to thrive. How do we do this in the workplace without neglecting our own needs and family? And how do we do this when things are at their worst?Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we talk with Jared Blong, founder of Octane Energy in Midland, Texas. Together we're talking about how to drive results without burning out employees - and how to navigate through difficult changes effectively. Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Around the world, there are many communities where women are invisible and marginalized. We frequently talk about equality, but in many communities, no one is actually advocating for women. Why is it important for leaders to consider how they are empowering women? How can you be prepared to work with vulnerable women and empower them to live fuller lives? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast, where we're talking with Lindsay - Senior Area Director with One Collective. Together we talk about the journey Lindsay has made from feeling invisible, to becoming a leader and influencing others. Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

Running a non-profit that actually makes a change happen is really hard. The nature of a non-profit is focused on helping others - but doing this well requires resources and money - and that creates tension. How can you run a successful non-profit that helps people when you do not have resources available? Join us today on the Lasting Change Podcast where we're talking with Dr.Scott Worley, a Biochemistry and Sociomedical doctor turned non-profit leader. Together we talk about how he has built a non-profit that is self-sustainable and scalable in East London, South Africa and how you can apply the same principles to your community today.Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

If you're looking around at all of the problems in our world today and asking “is real change actually possible?” - this podcast is for you.Creating lasting change is hard. Often problems are complex, and solutions can feel short-sighted or unsustainable. Leaders with good intentions can hurt instead of helping - and communities can stay trapped in cycles that have lasted for generations. But using holistic and sustainable strategy, innovative ideas, and a lot of humility - there are leaders around the world making a difference today.Change is possible - and on this podcast, you're going to learn how you can be part of creating it. Each episode, we'll talk with some of these experienced, innovative leaders - and you'll learn strategies you can use around the world or in your neighborhood to create lasting change.