Podcast appearances and mentions of kirk osamayo

There is no way to separate the plight of families experiencing poverty with the realities of climate change and ecological degradation. But what does it look like to base a Christian international development organization directly at that intersection? In this episode, Brandon Stiver is joined by Milmer Martinez Vergara from Plant with Purpose to explore the interconnections of creation care, poverty alleviation, and community development and what that all has to do with following Christ. They discuss practical approaches, theological perspectives, and instead of doom, they share hope for environmental and social justice. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsors Are you ready to take your impact to the next level? Then join this year's OneAccord conference October 13th-15th in Washington, D.C.! Use Code "Global" for Discount Register for OneAccord 2026 The MA in Global Development and Justice at Multnomah Seminary (part of Jessup University) is a fully online, accredited graduate program designed for practitioners and advocates seeking meaningful, sustainable change in today's world. Learn More About MAGDJ Resources and Links from the Show Plant With Purpose Online Jump into more conversations around creation care, environmental justice and community development on the Earthkeepers Podcast - Link Conversation Notes (AI Generated) The mission and history of Plant with Purpose The theological basis for creation care in Christianity Holistic approach to poverty, environment, and spiritual renewal Practical programs like agroforestry and microfinance Community engagement and local church involvement Timelines for community transformation and impact measurement The role of hope and faith in environmental and social change Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Summer has finally arrived and this isn't just any summer, we have the World Cup! With North America hosting the tournament this year, there are unique opportunities to spread the Gospel and share God's love as nations converge in our own communities. In celebration of sport (and in celebration of ten years of podcasting here), we've got our friend and podcast found Phil Darke back on the show, along with Roman Khripunov of Revival Sport to talk about the value of sports ministry and the unique opportunities that the World Cup presents for evangelism and discipleship. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor Are you ready to take your impact to the next level? Then join this year's OneAccord conference October 13th-15th in Washington, D.C.! Use Code "Global" for Discount Register for OneAccord 2026 Resources and Links from the Show Revival Sport Online Nations United Victory Beyond the Cup How Soccer Explains Leadership Podcast Jump into more conversations around child protection, global health, and ethical mission on the Optimistic Voices Podcast – Link Conversation Notes (AI Generated) 03:13 Roman's Journey: From Uzbekistan Refugee to Houston Resident 06:28 The Impact of Sports on Community and Discipleship 09:21 Challenges Faced by Refugees in Sports 12:20 Building Relationships Through Sports Ministry 15:21 The Role of Sports in Evangelism and Discipleship 18:24 Cultural Dynamics of Faith in Uzbekistan 22:04 Leveraging Sports for Community Connection 25:11 The Power of Sports in Global Unity 28:19 Revival Sport: Integrating Faith and Sports 34:31 World Cup Opportunities for Community Engagement 38:41 Innovative Initiatives for Immigrant Inclusion in Sports Ministry 43:06 Mobilizing Christians for the World Cup 47:07 Predictions and Reflections on the World Cup 53:02 Celebrating a Decade of Podcasting Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Over the last year and a half, immigration in the US has been completely upended. With refugee resettlement effectively closed and mass deportation instituted throughout the country, it's immigrant families that are getting the brunt of these policies. In this episode, Brandon Stiver interviews Matthew Soerens from World Relief about US immigration policies, refugee resettlement, family separation, and biblical perspectives on immigration. They explore the impact of current policies, stories of affected families, and how the church can respond biblically and practically. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor Are you ready to take your impact to the next level? Then join this year's OneAccord conference October 13th-15th in Washington, DC! Use Code "Global" for Discount Register for OneAccord 2026 Resources and Links from the Show World Relief Online Joined Together, Torn Apart : Family Separation Report Seeking Refuge: The Human Face of the Global Refugee Crisis (Amazon) Jump into more conversations around creation care, environmental justice and community development on the Earthkeepers Podcast - Link Conversation Notes (AI Generated) 02:21 Matthew Soerens' Journey with World Relief 04:58 The Global Refugee Crisis and Its Impact 07:41 World Relief's Approach to Refugee Resettlement 09:27 Current U.S. Immigration Policies and Their Effects 10:24 Reflections on Recent Immigration Challenges 12:27 Family Separation and Its Consequences 17:25 Real Stories of Affected Families 21:43 The Broader Implications of Family Separation 24:48 The Scale of Family Separation in Trump's Second Term 26:52 Challenges of Reuniting Families That Have Been Separated 29:48 The Economic Impact of Immigration Policies 31:10 Advocacy and Political Engagement In Modern America 41:11 Biblical Perspectives on Immigration Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Are all global justice issues created equal or are certain causes worth more of our attention and funding? Is it possible to get more bang for our buck by prioritizing certain geographic areas when it comes to missions and economic development? Joining the show today is JD Bauman of Christians for Impact. He is the co-author of the new book "All the Lives You Can Change" which explores how Christian principles intersect with the modern movement of effective altruism and global impact. In this episode, JD shares insights on prioritizing charitable efforts, the importance of data-driven giving, and pursuing a life of maximum global impact. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor Are you ready to take your impact to the next level? Then join this year's OneAccord conference October 13th-15th in Washington, DC! Use Code "Global" for Discount Register for OneAccord 2026 Resources and Links from the Show All the Lives You Can Change by Bauman, Roser and Zhang (Amazon) Christians for Impact Online GiveWell The Life You Can Save by Peter Singer 80,000 Hours ITN Framework Jump into more conversations around child protection, global health, and ethical mission on the Optimistic Voices Podcast – Link Conversation Notes (AI Generated) (01:22) – JD's background and the role of faith in his work (02:38) – Effective altruism and evidence-based good deeds (03:23) – JD's missions family and background (04:36) – Connecting faith, service, and career impact (08:11) – Insights into Christian impact and career advising (11:51) – Funding effective global health interventions (18:03) – Examples of cost-effectiveness in charitable work (23:52) – Reframing local giving and global giving (28:43) – Using the ITN framework for impactful careers (48:07) – Top global causes to prioritize through effective altruism (50:45) – The connection between creation care, a plant-based diet and animal welfare (52:21) – AI risks and opportunities for advocacy (56:29) – The radical opportunity when Christians donate 10% Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

There's something strange in these woods! Fairies and doppelgängers and donkey-heads abound — can Lady Godwin, Winnie-the-Pooh, and Brother Phileaux stop Puck from eating Shakespeare before they fall under the forest's enchantment? Additional Music in this Episode: "Discovery" by Kirk Osamayo: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/kirk-osamayo/; and "Thatched Villagers" and "Clothe the Fields with Plenty" by Axletree: https://youtube.com/c/AxletreeMusic.  Happy MaxFunDrive! Right now is the best time to start a membership to support your favorite shows. Learn more and join at https://maximumfun.org/jointaz

There is a bit of dissonance when it comes to the trajectory of Christian support of global orphan care. More Christians are accurately understanding that kids in orphanages have families AND they are increasing the amount of financial support towards that residential care. In this episode Brandon Stiver is joined by Elli Oswald of the Faith to Action Initiative and Julie Walton of the Martin James Foundation. Together, they explores the recent Barna study on U.S. Christians' perceptions and support of orphanages and family-based care, highlighting shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors over the last five years. If you have a heart to see kids in families and Christian orphan care progress beyond putting kids in orphanages, you've gotta listen in on this important conversation. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor Are you ready to take your impact to the next level? Then join this year's OneAccord conference October 13th-15th in Washington, DC! Use Code "Global" for Discount Register for OneAccord 2026 Resources and Links from the show Faith to Action Online Martin James Foundation Online Barna Report on Residential Care: U.S. Christian Giving and Missions (2026) Jump into more conversations around child protection, global health, and ethical mission on the Optimistic Voices Podcast - Link Conversation Notes (AI Generated) 03:19 Understanding the Barna Study and Its Goals 05:24 The Importance of Family-Based Care 09:17 Knowledge Gaps and Misconceptions 14:22 Support and Funding Trends in the U.S. 21:14 Behavior Change and Emotional Connections 26:09 Next Steps for Care Reform and Donor Engagement 34:07 The Role of Faith and Cultural Mindsets 41:44 Impact of Global and Political Changes 51:49 Practical Strategies for Application and Collaboration 01:01:07 Personal Stories and Case Examples 01:05:16 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The podcast is back from a break over Lent and we're diving straight in to the most relevant event happening globally right now. The war between the US/Israel and Iran is over five weeks old now and has had a profound impact regionally and around the world. Is peace possible at this point? What would it look like to negotiate and build towards a sustainable future in the Middle East? Dr. Josh Weiss joins the show to explore the complexities of international negotiation, back channel diplomacy, and the shifting landscape of global diplomacy, especially in relation to this current conflict. Dr. Weiss is a Senior Fellow at the Harvard Negotiation Project, co-founder of the Global Negotiation Initiative at Harvard University and also directs the MS in Leadership and Negotiation program at Bay Path University. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsor Accord is a community of 165+ Christ-centered organizations committed to holistic transformation in global relief and development. Connect With and Learn Alongside Accord Network Resources and Links from the show Joshua Weiss Website Conversation Notes (AI Generated) 05:50 Dr. Josh Weiss' Background in Negotiation 07:49 The Role of Back Channeling in Negotiations 08:54 Fundamental Elements of International Negotiation 12:50 Shifts in International Law and Diplomacy 17:20 The Consequences of Power Dynamics in Diplomacy 18:51 Long-term Effects of Military Actions 21:30 The Importance of Negotiation in Conflict Resolution 24:22 The JCPOA: Pros and Cons 28:33 The Dynamics of Compromise in Negotiation 31:10 Challenges in U.S.-Iran Negotiations 33:11 Challenges of Ceasefires and Regional Dynamics 35:21 The Role of Gulf States and Regional Players 38:00 Israel's Military Calculations and U.S. Support 40:42 Negotiation Challenges Amidst Rhetoric 44:50 Economic Pressures and Their Impact on Negotiations 50:27 Broader Solutions for a Sustainable Peace Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

As we head into the Lent this week, Brandon offers a reflection on the justice work that God calls us into and the opportunity to slow down, reflect and pray as we begin the approach to Easter. If you feel weary, burnt out or frustrated and are looking for a reminder of who God is and how we can connect into the everlasting grace that sustains, please join for a listen. Resources and Links from the Show Brandon's Top Worship Song for Lent : Where Would I Go? by Micah Dalton Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License  

A multitude of orphanages in the Global South continue to be supported by well-meaning Christians throughout the world. Research and scripture both indicate that God's design for children is to grow up in a family, but what do we do when it's the church that needs to be convinced of this? Brandon Stiver is joined today by Tony Lewry who shares his experience in orphan care and cross-cultural ministry over the years as we dive into what it looks like to change mindsets and practices in these global chains of care. Tony leads The Homecoming Project and coordinates across a coalition of organizations tackling the issue of children outside of parental care. In our conversation, Tony and Brandon discuss the evolution of family-based care, the challenges and successes of implementing foster care, and the vital role of the church in advocating for vulnerable children.  Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Resources and Links from the Show The Homecoming Project Online The Homecoming Project Instagram Conversation Notes (AI Generated) 03:00 Introduction to Tony Lewry and His Journey 05:56 The Evolution of Family-Based Care in Brazil 09:13 Challenges and Successes in Implementing Foster Care 11:57 The Role of the Church in Foster Care Advocacy 14:54 Reintegration and Community Support for Children 17:54 Navigating Reentry to the UK 20:52 The Homecoming Project: History and Vision 23:47 Collaborative Efforts in Care Reform 27:03 Addressing the Funding Dilemma in Child Care 30:05 Engaging with Orphanage Supporters 32:59 The Coalition Approach and Its Impact 36:11 Next Steps for the Homecoming Project 39:08 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

This US capture of Nicolás Maduro presents a range of considerations and reflections across international law, humanitarian needs and diplomacy in the Western Hemisphere. This episode delves into the complex political landscape of Venezuela, focusing on the historical context leading to the rise of Nicolás Maduro and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Brandon Stiver is joined by a former Venezuelan Ambassador, Alejandro Martinez Ubieda and Global Studies educator Dr. Greg Burch to discuss the implications of Maduro's capture, the corruption and human rights violations under his regime, and the potential for a democratic transition in Venezuela. They also explore the role of international relations and U.S. involvement in shaping the future of the country, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and humanitarian support for Venezuelans both at home and abroad. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Human Rights Watch : Venezuela UN Human Rights Council : Venezuela NBC Portland : Former Venezuelan ambassador living in Oregon calls Maduro arrest a long-awaited step toward democracy Conversation Notes (AI Generated) 05:00 The Context of Venezuela's Political Landscape 08:05 Chávez's Rise and the Shift to Authoritarianism 10:42 Maduro's Ascendancy and Human Rights Violations 13:48 The Humanitarian Crisis and International Reactions 16:44 Celebration and Concerns Over Maduro's Capture 29:34 The Venezuelan Migration Crisis 35:22 The Future of Venezuela Post-Maduro 40:25 Ethics of U.S. Intervention in Venezuela 47:12 Hope for Democratic Elections in Venezuela 51:19 Final Thoughts on Venezuelan Resilience   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

We live in a world that is in desperate need of peace and wholeness. Communities across the globe are ravaged by violence and instability, but what does it look like to be practitioners that seek to transform conflict into thriving communities. In this conversation, Brandon Stiver is joined by Prashan De Visser, the Founder and CEO of Global Unites. Prashan shares his insights on the impact of colonialism, civil war and poor governance in Sri Lanka and the role of the church can play in conflict transformation. He shares about the work of Global Unites in promoting peace and reconciliation in over 20 countries emphasizing the importance of nonviolence, grassroots movements, and youth leadership in conflict transformation. This conversation dives into the complexities and the unique hope that comes with youth movements for peace. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Global Unites Online Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson Conversation Notes (AI Generated) The importance of creating an inclusive Sri Lankan identity and governance structure. The legacy of colonialism continues to affect Sri Lanka's social fabric. Nonviolence is a crucial principle for sustainable change in conflict situations. Grassroots movements are essential for effective peace building. Youth leadership is vital for the future of conflict transformation. Reconciliation involves healing, repairing, and transforming societal structures. Inherited prejudices can be dismantled through personal connections and experiences. The church has a significant role to play in promoting peace and reconciliation. Copy-paste solutions in conflict resolution often lead to more harm than good. Local expertise is invaluable in creating effective interventions for peace. Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

As we start 2026, we should be asking how to join the things that God is already doing. Where is he moving and how do we join such movements? Our old friend Craig Greenfield returns to the show to discuss the growth and impact of Alongsiders International, a movement focused on discipleship and mentorship for vulnerable children. He emphasizes the importance of contextualizing ministry in diverse cultures and how the challenges of consumerism in Western churches can inhibit true discipleship. Craig discusses the unique role that young people are playing throughout the world including with Gen Z protests that are toppling unjust countries or subverting contexts that are hostile to the Christianity. No better way to start off the new year than to have Craig encourage all of us to engage with God's heart for justice and to seek transformative relationships that reflect the teachings of Jesus. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Alongsiders International Online Craig Greenfield Online Subversive Jesus by Craig Greenfield Subversive Mission by Craig Greenfield Conversation Notes (AI Generated) The Alongsiders movement has seen remarkable growth since COVID, expanding to 30 countries. Perspective is crucial for understanding global needs and God's work. Discipleship should happen in everyday life, not just in church settings. Contextualization is key to make culturally relevant materials. Success in mentorship is seen when young people become mentors themselves. Discipleship can thrive even in hostile environments by going under the radar and sustaining the local church. Affluence in the West hinders true discipleship and community connection. Prayer is foundational in building relationships and supporting one another. Learning from other movements can inspire and inform our own practices. Gen Z political movements for justice are important to consider. True movements are transformational and driven by passion, not hype. Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

In this enlightening episode, Brandon Stiver is joined by Albert Chen, who is the cofounder and CEO of Anago. The two discuss the profound impact of AI on Christian nonprofits. Albert shares his journey from community development in Mexico to the tech world and emphasizes the interconnectedness of global issues with the ethical considerations surrounding AI development. Albert demystifies AI, explaining the differences between machine learning and generative AI, and offers practical applications for nonprofits. He introduces the concept of Redemptive AI, advocating for its ethical use to benefit the global majority. The conversation concludes with a call for Christian organizations to engage thoughtfully with AI, ensuring it enhances their mission rather than detracts from it. Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Anago.ai Online Praxis : A Redemptive Thesis for Artificial Intelligence Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Conversation Notes Introduction to AI and Its Impact on Nonprofits (2:30) Albert's Journey through ministry and tech (5:22) Understanding Global Interconnectedness (8:21) The Role of Technology in Community Development (11:23) Demystifying AI: Machine Learning vs. Generative AI (14:27) Ethical Considerations in AI Development (17:20) Navigating AI as a Christian Nonprofit Leader (20:39) The Role of AI in Nonprofit Organizations (32:54) Augmentation vs. Automation in Nonprofits (38:20) Christian Hope and Responsibility in the Age of AI (43:24)   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Are the internal structures of our organizations fit for the mission that God has called us to? In this episode, Brandon Stiver welcomes Kelly Strong of Safe International for a conversation on organizational identity and healthy global partnerships. They explore why mission must remain central and the role of values in shaping behavior, culture, and daily decision-making, especially within diverse, international teams. They examine common challenges like founder's syndrome and how it can limit growth if left unaddressed. If you are needing help with your nonprofit, reach out at brandon@canopy.international Support the Show Through Venmo – @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Mission Based Management by Peter C. Brinkerhoff Safe International Online Email brandon@canopy.international if you're interested in a community of practice or one-on-one or team support. Conversation Notes Understanding the centrality of an organizations mission The collaboration that develops around Vision statements Values : Behaviors, culture and decision making Interacting and collaborating with partners across global teams The pitfalls of founder's syndrome The differences between covenant and contract in international partnerships   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

*Brandon's Note: In step with the topic at hand, I've turned over all show notes and interview audio editing to AI for this week's episode. In this conversation, Brandon Stiver and Michael Cerna reflect on the challenges and changes faced by non-profit organizations in 2025. They discuss the importance of community, the impact of funding changes, and the role of AI in shaping the future of non-profits. The conversation emphasizes the need for spiritual formation and collaboration among leaders in the sector, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding AI usage. Ultimately, they highlight the significance of building relationships and fostering a supportive community in navigating the complexities of non-profit work. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Join the Accord Network Email brandon@canopy.international if you're interested in a community of practice or one-on-one or team support. Takeaways 2025 has been a year of significant change and uncertainty for non-profits. The need for physical presence and community is more important than ever. Funding changes have left many organizations in a precarious position. Leaders must navigate conflicting narratives about growth and success. AI is a major disruptor that organizations must learn to leverage. Community groups are vital for support and collaboration among non-profit leaders. Ethical considerations around AI usage are crucial for organizations. Spiritual formation should be integrated into non-profit work. The delineation between home and office has become blurred in remote work. Building relationships is essential for effective non-profit work.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

What does it mean to be a gospel-centered church and should we be a gospel-centered church? As we think through taking the Gospel into the world and fulfilling the Great Commission, have we short changed discipleship by making Matthew 28 all about evangelism? In this conversation with Brandon Stiver, author and missiologist Alan Hirsch joins the show to discuss the current state of discipleship within the church, emphasizing the disconnect between modern practices and the teachings of Jesus. He argues that without true discipleship, churches risk producing a form of religion that strays from Christ-likeness. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Disciplism : Reimagining Evangelism Through the Lens of Discipleship (Amazon) Reframation : Seeing God, People, and Mission Through Reenchanted Frames (Amazon) Alan's Substack Conversation Notes What we're experiencing now in America is a trend in the church. Alan's experience growing up as a Jewish person in apartheid South Africa If the churches that we lead do not disciple, we will produce bad religion. We are not producing Christ-likeness in our churches. The image of God is reflected in Jesus' way of being human. Modern churches need to align more closely with Jesus' teachings. The consequences of poor discipleship can be detrimental to faith communities. Examples of modern Christians that are getting discipleship right. Churches must focus on producing genuine followers of Christ.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Having barely survived the last trial, Rictus, Hellgrammite, and Lorovith assess the competition and take some time for revenge . . . or pranks.Royale Theme: “Wizard Disco” by Louie Zong: https://louiezong.bandcamp.com/album/wizard-discoOriginal Music by Griffin McElroyAdditional Music in this Episode: "When the Wick is Gone" by The Pangolins: https://thepangolins.yolasite.com/; "ATH" by Lex Villena: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2iwj2SqGnplhDIadeJ5bmy?si=9db2f1db3f7649c9&nd=1&dlsi=7a09f77fc450459a; "Death" by Holizna: https://holiznaroyaltyfree.bandcamp.com/; "Jingle Bells Calm" by Kevin MacLeod:  https://incompetech.com/; "Simple Song" by Jar of Flies: https://jaroffliesofficial.bandcamp.com/; "Foresight" by Serat: https://blear-moon.com; "tribute to eddy" by Jean Toba: https://jeantoba.blogspot.com/; “If You Can't Be the Sun, Be the Sun” by Schemawound http://schemawound.com/; "Moulds Sun" by 10 Echo: https://10echo.bandcamp.com/; "Sound the Alarms" by Kirk Osamayo: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/kirk-osamayo/; and "Languid Dawn" by Blear Moon: https://blearmoon.bandcamp.com/.Native American Aid: https://nativepartnership.org/naa/

Global poverty is ubiquitous and seemingly intractable, but what if we had a way to mobilize people and a fundraising mechanism that invites ubiquitous participation? In this episode we're joined by Carissa Youssef who is the Executive Director at One Day's Wages. She emphasizes the need for Christians to expand their definition of neighbor to include global awareness and responsibility. Carissa discusses the unique approach of One Day's Wages, which encourages collective generosity by donating one day's wage to support local leaders and address complex poverty issues. Her conversation with Brandon Stiver also touches on the importance of mutuality in partnerships, rethinking empowerment, and the future of nonprofit work in a rapidly changing world. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Give Your One Day's Wage! Conversation Notes Carissa's early experiences with vulnerability shaped her calling to serve others. Community support is crucial during times of personal and family crises. Expanding the definition of neighbor includes global awareness and responsibility. One Day's Wages promotes collective generosity through donating one day's wage. Supporting local leaders is essential for effective global nonprofit work. Understanding the complexities of poverty requires a multi-dimensional approach. Building relationships with local organizations fosters trust and collaboration. Rethinking empowerment to focus on strengthening local communities is vital. Generosity should be rooted in faith and a commitment to serve others. The future of nonprofit work requires adaptability and a focus on local needs.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

One out of three leaders don't finish well in the work that they undertake. Striking, isn't it? As our podcast celebrates 300 episodes of engaging global nonprofit leaders, we strive to be that minority that stay the course God gave us and there's no one better to talk to than today's guest. Making his record sixth interview on the show, we're joined by Hope International CEO Peter Greer who sits down with Brandon Stiver and Phil Darke to discuss his new book, How Leaders Lose Their Way. For whatever area that God has called you to lead in ministry, humanitarian work or even within your own family, this is a conversation for you! Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Hope International Online How Leaders Lose Their Way by Peter Greer and Jill Heisey (Amazon) Conversation Notes Phil and Brandon share their respective top 5 episodes since the podcast started in 2016 Start of interview (16:00) How Hope International has been able to stay the course of global economic development over the years The significant shifts in global development over the last year We should all add "interim" to the start of our title and the importance of succession planning Solomon's leadership and other examples and lessons learned from scripture We all need mentors in this work! Approaching leadership with a long-term view Phil's Top 5 Episodes Curt Thompson - Anatomy of the Soul Michael Miller - Curing Poverty Rebecca Nhep and Todd Guckenberger - Orphanages, Short Term Missions and Deinstitutionalization Andy Crouch - Strong and Weak Peter Greer and Ryan Skoog - Leading from Your Knees Brandon's Top 5 Episodes Delia Pop - How We Can Discover and Develop Each Child's Uniqueness in Cross-Cultural Situations Michael Pucci - Owning Poverty Ruth Padilla DeBorst - Integral Mission and Decolonizing Theology Kelly Strong, Greg Burch and Dan Hope - The Westerner Abuse and Child Protection Conversation Sinet Chan and Grace Njeri - Creating a Lasting Impact for Care Leavers Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

If our commitment is that every child grow up in a safe and loving family, how do we address that so many children are living in orphanages that are unregistered and operating outside of the public eye? It's challenging work to map, find and even collaborate with such institutions, but we've got the right guides to learn from. Brandon is joined today by Obed Masese and Meredith Caleb of Victory Child Empowerment to learn what is causing children in Kenya to go into orphanages of all types and what their team is doing to map unregistered orphanages with a broader care reform approach. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Victory Child Empowerment Online Conversation Notes How Obed's family and village raised him and recognizing this used to be the norm Has the Kenyan Child Act of 2022 successfully been implemented? The differences between national policies and county implementation Paper orphans and paper orphanages The challenges of working with and among unregistered orphanages Care reform that promotes the development and mapping of new community services Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Did you know that 90% of the persecution that Christians face throughout the world comes from one region? Nigeria has seen a trajectory of violence aimed at Christians in recent years and in today's episode we're unpacking all the layers behind targeted massacres in the area. Joining the show are Clint Lyons and Paul U. who are with iReach Global, a Christian nonprofit that is serving the church and creating bridges of peace in the country. Support the Show Through Venmo – @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show iReach Global Online AP Article from 2023 AP Article from 2025 NPR News Coverage from 2025 Conversation Notes An introductory word from Brandon about the violence that we see in the world and if it's okay to treat certain violence as justified by Christians Paul describes a recent massacre that took place in a Nigerian village Understanding the targeted violence by Muslim Fulani herdsmen pointed towards Nigerian Christians The intersections of religion and vocation and the multilayered nature of conflict Understanding the gradients between African folk religion and Islam Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License  

This year has seen a tremendous amount of change for Christian NGOs doing transformational development throughout the world. In many ways, we are entering a new era of global mission and international development. To talk about some of those changes and to help us keep a pulse on what God is up to, we're joined by Michael Cerna who serves as the CEO at the Accord Network. Building on topics from Accord's Thursday Three weekly newsletter, Michael talks with Brandon Stiver about recent reports, articles and resources that are charting a path forward for us. Support the Show Through Venmo – @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code ‘TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Accord Network Online Subscribe to The Thursday Three Interesting Times by Ross Douthat : Under Trump, Is Foreign Aid ‘Our Problem?'  “The End of the Age of NGOs?” by Sarah Bush and Jennifer Hadden The Nonprofit Times : Next Generations Christians Will Give Differently Conversation Notes Updates from the Accord Network and the upcoming One Accord Conference in Washington DC Reflections from prayer and advocacy with Bread for the World Ross Douthat's eye-opening conversation with Jeremy Lewin from the Department of Government Efficiency and State Department's shuttering of USAID Reflections on the recent article in International Affairs “The End of the Age of NGOs?” In what ways are Christian Millenials giving differently as they inherit the wealth of older generations Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The Trial of Evocation, Part IITheir elemental motes collected, the wizards must match and combine elements to create the strongest elemental champion and knock out the other three teams. But if the other teams have more a powerful evocation, elimination is guaranteed.Royale Theme: “Wizard Disco” by Louie Zong: https://louiezong.bandcamp.com/album/wizard-discoOriginal Music by Griffin McElroyAdditional Music in this Episode: "Haze" by Scott Holmes Music: https://scottholmesmusic.com/; "tribute to eddy" by Jean Toba: https://jeantoba.blogspot.com/; "Over Soul" by Evan Schaffer: https://www.evanschaeffermusic.com/; "Sound the Alarms" by Kirk Osamayo: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/kirk-osamayo/; "PULL" by Nctrnm: https://soundcloud.com/nctrnm; and "The Unknown" by Jar of Flies: https://jaroffliesofficial.bandcamp.com/.Equality Florida: https://www.eqfl.org/ 

There is no place on Earth that God is not working. Even in authoritarian regimes that make following Christ illegal, He still moves. Iran is one of those countries. While we hear about Iran pretty regularly in the news, we don't typically hear about what God is doing through His Spirit and in His Church there. Today we're joined by the CEO of Transform Iran, Lana Silk. She talks with Brandon Stiver about the geopolitics of the country, what it was like for her growing up in Iran and most importantly, how the gospel is spreading among communities there. Podcast Sponsors Join more than 2,000 ministry leaders at CAFO2025 in Houston, Texas from October 1-3, hosted by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. Register for CAFO2025 in Houston Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Transform Iran Online Kairos AI Chatbot Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Conversation Notes The brainwashing of students in Iran The theology component of Jesus in Islam - differences and shared reverence Where the Koran came from in the views of a Muslim Understanding the various viewpoints that different Muslims might hold Modern history of Iran and the geopolitical reality we live in Is Iran exporting Shiite Islam throughout the world? The Christian experience in Iran (including its illegality) Lana's own family background and how the Gospel came to her family The spreading of the underground church in Iran The hybrid model of Transform Iran's ministry Stories of how people have found Jesus in Iran A new AI tool that can counsel and pray for Iranian Christians Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Families are the center piece of how God created societies to flourish, yet there are so many things that can tear down this fundamental part of God's design. We know that orphanages are spread out throughout the world and we know that those children should be allowed to grow up in families. In today's episode, we have Chantry Mweemba of Alliance for Children Everywhere joining to dive deeper into the effects of urbanization, education access and other factors that are leading children in Zambia to separate from their families. We also get into how the recent USAID closure is negatively affecting the protection of children in Zambia and how organizations like ACE are continuing to step up for children even in the midst of uncertain times. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Join more than 2,000 ministry leaders at CAFO2025 in Houston, Texas from October 1-3, hosted by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. Register for CAFO2025 in Houston Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Conversation Notes Chantry's background in child rights and care reform God's idea of a global family that transcends the nuclear family The resulting isolation of developing urban areas in the Global South The paradox of advocacy that led to development that led to growing inequality The work that ACE is doing to contribute to the broader picture of promoting family in Africa The connection between orphanages and education How the closing of USAID affected child protection efforts in Zambia An estimated 14 million people will die in the next five years as a result of the USAID closure Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

One of our great passions behind the show is equipping practitioners globally to serve the poor and develop communities. Today's episode is all about that. We've invited our friend Jeremy Macias back onto the show to share with us about the "messy middle" of monitoring and evaluation and the critical role that it plays in community interventions. Jeremy works with World Relief and shares some of his experiences developing monitoring and evaluation frameworks with different organizations over the years. Then, Brandon dives into the Apostle Paul's words from Romans 12 as an ethical framework for understanding Romans 13, but really all of Christian life. Lastly, we've got some gifts that we want to share with you! You've heard Brandon's book recommendation for years, now it's time to give some away. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Join more than 2,000 ministry leaders at CAFO2025 in Houston, Texas from October 1-3, hosted by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. Register for CAFO2025 in Houston Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Get Support in Monitoring and Evaluation Through CAFO Get a Consultation with Canopy International for Monitoring and Evaluation Support Conversation Notes Going from telling individual stories to community wide data Being apprehensive to look under the hood with the projects that we're doing Connecting the work on the ground with the loftier vision of the organization Explaining theory of change and how you develop one Engaging the community you're walking alongside in doing M&E Working a logframe horizontally and vertically while asking 'why?' A short devotion on Romans 12: 9-21 Equipping TGDJ listeners through leading books in Christian development, orphan care, missions and theology Enter to Win One of Brandon's Top Christian Development and Justice Books Leave a Review of the Show on Apple Podcasts Email brandon@canopy.international to say hi and enter for a chance to win one of the books of your choice. The Locust Effect by Gary Haugen and Victor Boutros Orphan Justice by Johnny Carr Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger by Ronald Sider Generous Justice by Tim Keller When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The surviving wizards inventory the dead and settle into the island encampment, seeking new spells and new allies before the next trial.Royale Theme: “Wizard Disco” by Louie Zong: https://louiezong.bandcamp.com/album/wizard-discoOriginal Music by Griffin McElroyAdditional Music in this Episode: "PULL" by Nctrnm: https://soundcloud.com/nctrnm; "Moulds Sun" by 10 Echo: https://10echo.bandcamp.com/; "A Chilling Tale" and "Welcome Home" by Kirk Osamayo: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/kirk-osamayo/; "Unforseen Consequences (Remastered)" by Techthiest: https://techtheist.ru; and "Languid Dawn" by Blear Moon: https://blearmoon.bandcamp.com/.World Central Kitchen: https://wck.org/

There is no more salient, no more pressing global event right now for the Church to engage than what is happening currently in Gaza. Gaza presents not just a lightning rod for conversation (or controversy), but also serves as a moral compass for all humankind. The global Church is wrestling with questions like, "is Israel justified in their offensive?" "how do we understand the theology and politics in play?" and "are we watching a genocide unfold before our eyes?" To help us understand the broader history and context around Gaza, we've invited Dr. Ben Norquist from Churches for Middle East Peace to the show. He sits down with Brandon Stiver to discuss all things surrounding the conflict and most importantly the decades leading up to what we see in 2025. Join us in this conversation and join us in praying and acting for peace. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Join more than 2,000 ministry leaders at CAFO2025 in Houston, Texas from October 1-3, hosted by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. Register for CAFO2025 in Houston Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Churches for Middle East Peace Online Church at the Crossroads Conference Information Christ in the Rubble by Munther Isaac UN Definitions of Genocide and Related Crimes Conversation Notes The difference between a 'thin' Gospel and a 'thick' Gospel Growing up in evangelicalism and what that means for supporting modern day Israel Understanding the historical context of Gaza What is the Nakba?  What were the Intafadas? How the Balfour Declaration laid a framework for the land that continues to reverberate over a hundred years later Comparing the current conflict and humanitarian crisis to the UN definition of genocide   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The podcast is back from our summer break, but we're still in vacation travel mode! We're joined by author and photographer Ashley Campbell who is on the show to share about her new book "I've Never Been Here Before" and what it looks like to lead a big family on a big adventure around the world. From Morocco and Albania to the Philippines and Colombia, Ashley shares insight that isn't just about being a travel guide, but what it looks like to raise children that are truly global citizens. She sits down to talk with Brandon Stiver about the trip, the book and why basketball turned out to be the MVP of the trip. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Join more than 2,000 ministry leaders at CAFO2025 in Houston, Texas from October 1-3, hosted by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. Register for CAFO2025 in Houston Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show "I've Never Been Here Before" by Ashley Campbell (Amazon) Conversation Notes The connection of volunteering to care for wild animals and canned hunting The importance of bringing and teaching skills when volunteering abroad The country conflict that led to the proliferation of orphanages in Nepal The relationship between corruption, poverty and caste in certain Asian countries The experience of kids that grow up in care in Nepal Misinformation told to volunteers that leads to exploitation Spending money in a way that reflects your values   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

On JET, teaching can really immerse you in the local community - and many have also found their future career in education as a result. For my guest, it has lead to many opportunities- travel around the world and a way to do positive impacts on people's lives. - Quebec City Reading Council has a website at http://www.qcrc.org/ - they also accept volunteer tutors. - Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/quebeccityreadingcouncil Music for this episode is 'Pursuit of Life' by Kirk Osamayo, sourced from Free Music Archive under license type (CC BY).

There's no denying that western money in Global South countries has a profound impact, for better or worse. We might assume that spending money on volunteering and caring for orphans would be a net positive in the majority world. That however is not the case. As we dive back into the conversation around orphan care and volunteering, we're joined by filmmaker Barak Laub whose new documentary Volunteers Needed delves into this very dynamic in Nepal. He talks with Brandon Stiver about the film, his travels and the effort to advocate for government policies in the US that would mitigate harm in global orphan care. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Volunteers Needed Film Online The Westerner Abuse and Child Protection Conversation (Think Orphan Podcast) Conversation Notes The connection of volunteering to care for wild animals and canned hunting The importance of bringing and teaching skills when volunteering abroad The country conflict that led to the proliferation of orphanages in Nepal The relationship between corruption, poverty and caste in certain Asian countries The experience of kids that grow up in care in Nepal Misinformation told to volunteers that leads to exploitation Spending money in a way that reflects your values   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Hope is a bit of a buzzword, but at the same time it is a lifeline for those that are experiencing humanitarian crises. What does it look like to experience hope in the midst of forcible displacement or losing your home in a natural disaster? Is it possible to have hope that is disconnected from the truth of Christ? Heath Adamson joins the show to help us think through these big questions. He talks with Brandon Stiver about his new book Hope Breaks Through and the work that Convoy of Hope is doing throughout the globe. Heath brings a wealth of biblical knowledge and on the ground experience that points to the God of hope and how we can partner with Him in bringing His promises to bear on the earth. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Join Camino Quest for a spiritual pilgrimage with other pilgrims on the ancient and amazing Camino de Santiago in Spain. Visit Camino Quest Online Resources and Links from the show Hope Breaks Through by Heath Adamson (Amazon) Convoy of Hope Online To Transform a City by Eric Swanson and Sam Williams Conversation Notes The work of Convoy of Hope and their four pillars of development Having hope in the midst of dire situations throughout the world What is hope and how it relates to the story of Rahab in Joshua 2 The centrality of Christ in having true hope Understanding spiritual poverty and the difference between poverty in the Sermon on the Mount and the letter to the church in Laodicea in Revelation Having hope in the midst of current humanitarian crises right now through tornadoes in Missouri, flooding in Africa and typhoons in Asia The opportunity that we have to "turn aside" and join God's redemptive work     Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

It's impossible to ignore the interconnectedness of global justice issues and the complexity of systems that affect societies. Sometimes a system enables people to thrive and other times the system puts people at risk. A clear example of this is looking at food systems and malnutrition in Central America. To help us dive deeper, we have Curt Bowen of Semilla Nueva on the show today. With work that addresses malnutrition through economic development and government partnerships, Curt and his team have turned the region's stable of corn into a driver for social change. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Join Camino Quest for a spiritual pilgrimage with other pilgrims on the ancient and amazing Camino de Santiago in Spain. Visit Camino Quest Online Resources and Links from the show Semilla Nueva Online Conversation Notes Understanding malnutrition and food insecurity in Central America The importance of taking a systems approach when addressing malnutrition Navigating public policy and legislation in a libertarian environment The intersections of economic development, climate change, forced displacement and malnutrition The difference between biofortified crops and GMOs Are GMOs always bad or do they just get a bad rap? Earned income is not always possible and doesn't fit every nonprofit operation   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

James 1:27 has long been a central biblical text from which our podcast community has drawn from. But to what extent have we delved into the depths of the Jewish context in which James wrote? To help us go deeper on this text and the social implications of true religion, we've invited Dr. Andrea Siegel to the show. Dr. Siegel has years of experience in humanitarian work, Hebrew studies and counseling and brings that to the text as the curriculum writer on Helping Children Worldwide's most recent orphan care resource. If you want to hear some things about James 1:27 that you've never heard before, this is a podcast to check out. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show One Twenty-Seven by Dr. Andrea Siegel and Helping Children Worldwide Conversation Notes The Old Testament backdrop of caring for orphans and widows The collective nature of James 1:27 and what it means to be guarantors of one another in caring for the vulnerable in society The connection with Exodus 22:21-23 and parsing out singular and plural pronouns for collective responsibility Not forgetting what we look like in the mirror and how that keeps us aware of our Genesis-selves A number of different Hebrew words and applications that enrich the understanding of the passage   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

War. Famine. Poverty. Violence. Natural Disasters. Working in humanitarian spaces puts us up close and personal with some of the worst kinds of evil and suffering. In the face of it all, we follow a God who is both all good and all powerful. How do those two realities compute? It's a quandary that has been around a long time and we've invited Southeastern University's Dr. Chris Palmer onto the show to help us think biblically and theologically when we're faced with the problem of evil. From the killing fields in Polpot's Cambodia to earthquakes in the Middle East, we wrestle the reality of pain while clinging to God's goodness and embracing the mystery. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Join Camino Quest for a spiritual pilgrimage with other pilgrims on the ancient and amazing Camino de Santiago in Spain. Visit Camino Quest Online Resources and Links from the show Dr. Palmer's Bio at Southeastern University Online Conversation Notes Chris being confronted with the evil of the killing fields in Cambodia How do we describe and define what evil is substantively Juxtaposing suffering that takes place in the natural world with the suffering caused by human agency The differing theodicies in seeking to understand God's justice The imperative of prayer to have our hearts conformed to God's heart Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The most effective approaches to doing justice will acknowledge nuance and there is wisdom in maintaining tensions in the work God has called us to. Central to the work of global development is how we work among at risk children and youth and there are a lot of principles to balance in that space. In this solo episode of the podcast, Brandon Stiver breaks down a number of paradigms that children's rights advocates and practitioners operate within as we hope to find the right balance that will allow children to flourish and be fully who God created them to be. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Childhood in a Global Perspective by Karen Wells Freeing Congregational Mission by B. Hunter Farrell and S. Balajiedlang Khyllep Conversation Notes Understanding the paradigms of child saving and child's rights Child sponsorship as a child saving approach to raising funds The irony of supporting child rights while also promoting war that takes life Maintaining the balance between child protection and family preservation The role of child participation in decision making and advocacy   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

There is no doubt that the international development sector has changed drastically and permanently over the last couple of months. Starting with the closure of the vast majority of USAID programming, other donor countries have also withdrawn support from the global poor. Joining the show to guide us through what it looks like for Christians to stay engaged and advocate in this spaces is the Managing Director at Bread for the World, Heather Taylor. She walks us through specific policies that are being advocated for and how Christian practitioners and organizations are collaborating and linking arms during these unprecedented times. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Join Camino Quest for a spiritual pilgrimage with other pilgrims on the ancient and amazing Camino de Santiago in Spain. Visit Camino Quest Online Resources and Links from the show Link to Bread for the World's Website Advocate on Behalf of the Global Poor and Urge Congress to Restore Life-Saving Aid Conversation Notes The effectiveness of SNAP and Medicaid in the United States The human fallout from the closure of the majority of USAID programming What wrapping remaining USAID functions into the State Department would look like How changes are affecting Christians called into the global development field to serve the global poor and those hurting The importance of persistence in advocacy when it appears that government isn't listening   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License  

Developing local solutions to complex issues is foundational to global change. When it comes to food insecurity and health services, we recognize the need for local solutions at scale. Joining the show today from Rwanda is Isabelle Kamariza who is the Founder and President at Solid'Africa. She comes on the show to share with us who Solid'Africa works alongside the Rwandan government to improve nutritional outcomes for hospital patients, students and others in the community. We cover a lot of ground in this episode and learn what it looks like actually achieve sustainability when doing work in challenging contexts. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Join Camino Quest for a spiritual pilgrimage with other pilgrims on the ancient and amazing Camino de Santiago in Spain. Visit Camino Quest Online Resources and Links from the show Solid'Africa Online Rwanda Inc. by Patricia Crisafulli and Andrea Redmond Conversation Notes Isabelle's journey from feeding the homeless in Belgium to feeding the masses in Rwanda The influence of Matthew 25 and how it compels us into action The power of prayer in starting a ministry to the sick The intersection of healthcare and nutrition insecurity in Rwanda Going from farm to fork (and eventually on to fertilizer!) in making sustainable change The role of social enterprise in building sustainability The value of government regulation and partnership in establishing a nonprofit in Rwanda (it's harder than starting a business!) Social change through community education The Rwandan trajectory from tragedy to case study in development Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

It's March and the madness extends far beyond college basketball. In this episode, we look at the ramifications of losing Ukrainian child data through recent federal budget cuts and why upholding these children's humans right should matter to American Christians. Then we look at a new city development in Kenya that has some unique aspects that give both promise and pause. Lastly, Brandon Stiver shares a book recommendation on cross-cultural leadership that can help equip us for the ministries that God has led us into. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Join Camino Quest for a spiritual pilgrimage with other pilgrims on the ancient and amazing Camino de Santiago in Spain. Visit Camino Quest Online Resources and Links from the show NPR : Trump Administration Cuts Funding for Program that Tracked Ukrainian Children Abducted by Russia Associated Press : A startup city in Kenya tries to tackle Africa's problem of urbanizing while poor Amazon : Leading Across Cultures - Effective Ministry and Mission in the Global Church by James E. Plueddamann Conversation Notes 1:36 - The loss of data on Ukrainian children that have been forcibly removed from their country and taken to Russia. What human rights are being violated and what role do recent changes by the US put these children at greater risk. 14:50 - Steve Kariithi joins the show from Nairobi to discuss Tatu City - a privately funded city with thousands of people and a lot of appeal. We discuss the pro's and con's of this approach to urban development 29:50 - Brandon shares a recommendation for those that are working and leading in cross-cultural environments. Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

103.3 All the DevilsStranded with her father on a mysterious island, a young woman struggles to tell fiction from reality as strange memories resurface and a monster stalks her dreams.Written by Michael Teasdale (https://www.x.com/MTeasdalewriter)Narrated by Erika Ventura (https://instagram.com/efventu)Produced by Georgia Triantafyllopoulou (https://www.instagram.com/audiogeekgr )With music by Kirk Osamayo (http://www.kirkosamayo.com/)And Thom Robson (https://www.thomrobsonmusic.com/)And sound effects provided by Soundly.comThe episode illustration was provided by Luke Spooner of Carrion House (https://carrionhouse.com/)Joshua Boucher is our story programmer, and along with Jasmine Arch and the eyeless ones, Mary Pastrano and Cody Czarzasty, he helps manage our community.And to Ben Errington the ongoing explosion of content being fired out of his Social Media canon.Michael Teasdale is a writer of strange fiction, living in Bihor County, Romania. His stories have appeared for Luna Press Publishing, Air & Nothingness Press, Tyche books, World Weaver Press and Shoreline of Infinity, among others. He can be followed on social media @MTeasdalewriterErika Ventura is an artist, mother, bilingual narrator, and a husbandry technician. How does she manage it all? No idea, but her artwork can be seen on Instagram (@efventu) or you can visit her artist page www.facebook.com/BioArtsyJoin TOS+ to access over 90 exclusive episodes, get regular stories in higher quality audio, a week early, and ad-free, at https://theotherstories.net/plus/Support the show, get audiobooks, and more at https://www.patreon.com/hawkandcleaverJoin our communities for book clubs, movie clubs, writing exercises, and more at https://theotherstories.net/community/Leave a voicemail or get in touch at https://theotherstories.net/submissionsCheck out our writing courses at https://theotherstories.net/courses/Grab some merch at https://gumroad.com/hawkandcleaverThe Other Stories is a production of the story studio, Hawk & Cleaver, and is brought to you with a Creative Commons – Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives license. Don't change it. Don't sell it. But by all means… share the hell out of it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk a lot about global action on behalf of the vulnerable, but what about global engagement that looks like deepening our discipleship and spiritual formation? We've welcomed Randy Gonzales from Camino Quest on the show today to share with us how pilgrims travel (or even travail) the Camino de Santiago in Spain and what it looks like to connect with God through Christian pilgrimage. In a world that seems a bit wild, this is a reminder of the opportunities that God provides for us to slow down, connect and get in touch with what He's doing in our lives. Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Camino Quest Online Conversation Notes Randy's journey from MK to not wanting to be a missionary, to becoming a missionary! Defining pilgrimage to a Christian population that hasn't historically been involved in pilgrimages The value of leaving your context and traveling to another part of the globe to carry to take a pilgrimage The three traditional Christian pilgrimages The story of St. James and his legacy on the Iberian peninsula What happens on a pilgrimage and the spiritual value of the journey Balancing lives of action with slowing down and going deep internally The logistics of going on pilgrimage and how to prepare for such a journey   Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

In 2025, there are still people in the world, even entire people groups, that have never heard the Good News. What's more is that access to distant places and global migration has never been higher. Is it possible to finish the Great Commission in our life time? We've got questions on how to reach more with the Gospel in word and deed and joining us for the conversation is Lisa Pak who is a leader with Finishing the Task that is focused on mobilizing the whole church to fulfill all of Christ's commands. Lisa shares with us what it's like to grow up and worship in a diaspora church, how global coordination and new technologies can help us reach more people and what it means to be a church that is not easily shaken. Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Finishing the Task Online Conversation Notes 6:30 - Lisa shares all the influences that led her into global missions 10:10 - Caring for all people everywhere ties all the way back creation covenant and stewardship entrusted to all people 13:00 - Who is really Western? Lisa speaks to the reality of second and third generation immigrants 19:30 - The link between countries that are economically developed and the spreading of the gospel. 31:25 - Taking a pulse and understanding the stats around who is unreached 34:00 - Opportunities that show up on our doorstep and seeking the unreached in our own neighborhoods 41:25 - “Prayer is the most underutilized tool in the Kingdom of God” 47:20 - Understanding diasporas and what it's like worshiping and growing up in a diaspora community 53:25 - Following God's heart and being a church that will not be a shaken   Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

It's been a whirlwind of a month for global development practitioners. We've heard a lot of the 30,000 foot view of what the shuttering of USAID means and today we're talking with a practitioner from our community that was working on a USAID-funded project in El Salvador and what it was like to receive the stop order. After that, we'll be looking at a recent Christianity Today article that discusses the rise of cyberscam trafficking. Lastly, Brandon Stiver will be sharing a word of encouragement for all those that find themselves disheartened after recent blows to the work that so many in this podcast community are called into. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors The M.A. in Global Development and Justice program at Jessup University prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, community development, and peacebuilding. Learn More About The MAGDJ Online Program Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Christianity Today: Crypto Cons, Beatings and Prayers for Deliverance by Erin Foley Center for Global Development: Which Countries Are Most Exposed to US Aid Cuts; And What Other Providers Can Do AP News: A comprehensive look at DOGE's firings and layoffs so far Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Conversation Notes 0:55 - Losing USAID support on the ground and organizations in this podcast community that have been effected 3:35 - Katy Luehm joins the show to share how the USAID funded project that she was a part of in El Salvador was shutdown and what effect that is having on both contractors and families alike 21:00 - Erin Foley is back to talk with us about the rapid expansion of cyberscam trafficking in Southeast Asia 41:15 - Brandon shares an encouragement for those global practitioners that are effected and discouraged after the recent closing of USAID as we point towards what the opportunity to pursue God's Kingdom in the world   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Being an active follower of Christ will always lead us to find things that are incongruent with God's Kingdom and we'll want to do something about it. To do justice, we have to address injustice and that might require us to start something (and our community is full of people that start things). Starting something is hard though so we've invited author and pastor Bryan Halferty to walk us through the spirit and the tenacity it takes to undertake a new Kingdom venture. Bryan also shares about his upcoming book "Terrible Beauty" which is a memoir of his own journey towards starting a church in the most unchurched metropolitan area of the country. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsor Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Link to Bryan's Substack "Table" Conversation Notes Engaging other cultures as a means of learning more about God. Discerning God's direction to start something new and how that led to a church plant. Balancing the realities of injustice with the maintaining spiritual and relational health. The role of risk when starting a ministry. Embracing the risk, the vulnerability and the potential of failure. The reality of facing rejection and apathy when you've created and brought something into the world Christ's example of compassion and suffering that guides towards ministry The messianic ache and the cry of Maranatha as we long to be with Christ and for His Kingdom to come in full   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

In our end of January episode, Brandon Stiver is walking through a few current issues as well as a Bible word study that offers a more robust understanding of what it means to do justice and how looking at the word in the Septuagint underscores the inextricable connection to to righteousness. Brandon welcomes Spencer Reeves to the show to share what the team at Child Hope International is seeing in the midst of the conflict within Haiti which has displaced more people than at any other point in the country's history. Lastly, we revisit a conversation we had with Medard Ngueita earlier this month and how to understand the sweeping executive actions by President Trump that has suspended refugee resettlement, canceled legal asylum seeking and pausing USAID support globally. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsor Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show The Guardian : More than a million Haitians forced from their homes amid gang violence Advocate Alongside World Relief for Compassionate Policies Conversation Notes 1:45 - We talk about justice all the time, but what does it mean? Jump into this Bible study on the Greek word dikaiosunne and how it offers a more robust understanding of justice. 21:20 - Spencer Reeves joins the show to help us understand the ongoing conflict and large scale displacement of children and families in Haiti. He helps us make sense of a current news report that Brandon pulls from The Guardian (linked below). 37:05 - Reviewing the executive actions from President Trump that are impacting how the US engages the global poor and those that are fleeing violence.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License  

There are so many needs within the work of anti-trafficking and orphan care, but what happens when people that are engaging as helpers are actually doing harm. Ego, poor practice and a desire for appearances can corrupt organizations that purport to be doing good. As a practitioner and journalist working in Southeast Asia, Erin Foley has been around the block working in organizations and comes onto the show today to share some of what she's seen and learned doing missions and nonprofit work over the years. She also shares about some of the great organizations she's worked with and about her most recent project, the recently published book "Where They Belong" which chronicles the movement of family care in Cambodia. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsor Alliance for Children Everywhere is on mission to bring vulnerable children into secure families, schools, and communities. Visit Alliance for Children Everywhere Online Resources and Links from the show Book : Where They Belong by Erin Foley Website : Children in Families Online Website : Global Child Advocates Online Podcast : Episode 214 "Storytelling to Empower with Jeff Rogers" Conversation Notes 6:30 - Connecting from anti-trafficking into orphan care and prevention 10:30 - Fulfilling the Great Commission by loving our global neighbor and also the opportunities for those that live abroad 17:00 Lessons learned in anti-trafficking, the sexiness of it and comparing countries that experience enslavement 22:30 - The shadow side of anti-trafficking organizations and unethical practices of nonprofits 25:15 - The issues with founder-run organizations 32:45 “ I was horrified because we were supposed to be helping these women and I felt like we just enslaved them in a different way.” 38:35 - Transitioning to family based care and Children in Families 43:30 - Juxtaposing growing up exposed to cross-cultural orphanages with learning the importance of family based care 47:45 - Understanding orphan care in Southeast Asia and what is driving family separation 51:00 - Documenting the story of family care in Cambodia and more broadly through Erin's book Where They Belong 55:30 - “If your heart leads you, bring your brain along with you” Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Happy New Year's Eve! We have so much to be thankful for as we reflect on the last year of nonprofit ministry, podcasting, family and everything else! In this end of 2024 episode, Brandon and Phil will catch up our listeners on what is happening in their personal lives and ministry. Most importantly to you, dear listener, we share about the state of the podcast, how it's been since we did some rebrand/rescope and what the future of the podcast is. This is an episode for those listeners that want a peek behind the curtain and are looking for more ways to go deeper with Think Global, Do Justice. Conversation Notes Phil and Brandon share about how God has been moving in their respective organizations in 2024 (Providence World and CarePortal) (0:30) The hosts share their top books and movies from the year (13:00) They share their favorite episodes from Think Global, Do Justice(22:20) Brandon shares the state of the podcast, where we're going (if we're going), how we're doing internally and what traction we have with a competitive podcast market (30:30) Think Global, Do Justice ranks in the top 2% of podcasts globally with over 1,800 downloads each month (but that's a challenging place to be!) The challenge of keeping podcasts viable in 2024 Shout out to our 2024 Sponsors - Zoe Empowers, Child Hope International, Accord Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans and Resilient Communities Center The 2025 outlook for the podcast and keeping current on the show (40:40) Podcast Sponsor (You!) If you have been blessed, encouraged or equipped over the last 8 years of podcasting, we invite you to support the show through Venmo! Support the Show Through Venmo - Link If you want to share about your work or services to a hundreds (or even thousands) of global nonprofit practitioners and supporters. Click below. Rundown on Becoming a Sponsor - Link Get help for your organization by contracting an affordable Canopy International associate working in various global nonprofit fields. Link to Covered Services Resources and Links from the show Rescuing the Gospel from the Cowboys by Richard Twiss (book) Rooting for Rivals by Peter Greer and Chris Horst (book) Strong and Weak by Andy Crouch (book) Lead with Prayer by Peter Greer, Ryan Skoog and Cameron Doolittle (book) Overcoming by Dr. Nicole Wilke and Dr. Amanda Howard (book) Leading from Your Knees with Peter Greer and Ryan Skoog (podcast) What Scripture and Science Say about Resilience with Dr. Nicole Wilke (podcast) Owning Poverty with Dr. Michael Pucci (podcast) Decolonizing Theology and Integral Mission with Dr. Ruth Padilla DeBorst (podcast)   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The gospel is to be proclaimed and word and deed. Sometimes global practitioners easily step into the demonstration of justice and development work, but how do we make meaningful strides towards sharing the gospel's message with those we reach with critical life-saving services. Christopher Beth from The Bucket Ministry joins the show today to share with Brandon Stiver and Phil Darke about the simple work that their ministry undertakes in fifteen countries to both provide water access and share the good news. Podcast Sponsor The Resilient Communities Center helps you become all God intended for you to be through training and coaching within a community. Check Out All The Offerings from the Resilient Communities Center Resources and Links from the show The Bucket Ministry Online Conversation Notes Christopher's path from a car accident to the Amazon rainforest to reaching over a million people with a clean water solution The different responses that follow interacting with global poverty for the first time The World Health Organization estimates that 785 million lack access to clean drinking water Scriptures that support reaching the nations and caring for the vulnerable Water as something that everyone recognizes they need and everyone can agree on making accessible The difference between having an ultimate motive and an ulterior motive Using the water filter as an object lesson to explain salvation to new hearers Intentionally spreading the gospel while guarding against spiritual abuse or coercion The critical work of local missionaries and pastors to follow up and serve the families that are reached with clean water   Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Mercy comes in all shapes and sizes and in order to reach the 5 billion people without access to safe surgery, we need a litany of different models. Since 1978, Mercy Ships has been working to increase access to life changing surgeries in underserved areas of the world and Raeanne Newquist from their team joins the show to share about what it looks like to live and serve on a floating city. Raeanne talks with Brandon Stiver about what it's like to serve alongside your kids, collaborating with nationals and stepping out of our comfort zones to see God move in the lives of others. Podcast Sponsor The Resilient Communities Center helps you become all God intended for you to be through training and coaching within a community. Check Out All The Offerings from the Resilient Communities Center Resources and Links from the show Mercy Ships Online Conversation Notes 5:51 - Serving alongside your children in cross-cultural ministry 9:35 - “If we are followers of Jesus we are to live into the model that he showed for us” 11:00 - The specific approach of Mercy Ships and collaborating with large governments 15:43 - Working to address the 5 billion people that lack access to safe surgery 21:00 - The effects on children and adults when they have medical needs that go unaddressed 28:30 - The variety of people that can volunteer and serve on a Mercy Ship 31:00 - Safeguarding and risk management with a high volume of volunteers 35:19 - Collaboration with the local community to enhance cultural sensitivity and long term support 43:27 - Workforce development of Global South practitioners 50:27 - Focusing on all that God can do rather than just being overwhelmed by the size of the problems that we face.    Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

98.5 - Basement ShapesWhen Herb investigates a local infestation, he is surprised – and horrified – to find more than he bargained for in the cellar.Written by Derek Heath (www.derekheathhorror.com)Narrated by Justin Fife (https://www.x.com/justinbfife)Produced by Georgia Triantafyllopoulou (https://www.instagram.com/audiogeekgr)With music by Kirk Osamayo (http://www.kirkosamayo.com/)And UNIVERSFIELD (https://linktr.ee/universfield)And Thom Robson (https://www.thomrobsonmusic.com/)And sound effects provided from https://getsoundly.com/The episode illustration was provided by Luke Spooner of Carrion House (https://carrionhouse.com/)A quick thanks to our community managers, Jasmine Arch, Joshua Boucher, and his eyeless ones Mary Pastrano and Cody CzarzastyAnd Joshua Boucher for helping with our submission reading.And to Ben Errington the ongoing explosion of content being fired out of his Social Media canon.Check out Derek Heath's latest extreme horror novella, “Endless Living Organ Massacre” – more details at derekheathhorror.com.Voice actor and podcaster follow Justin Fife on X at www.x.com/justinbfifeJoin TOS+ to access over 90 exclusive episodes, get regular stories in higher quality audio, a week early, and ad-free, at https://theotherstories.net/plus/Support the show, get audiobooks, and more at https://www.patreon.com/hawkandcleaverJoin our communities for book clubs, movie clubs, writing exercises, and more at https://theotherstories.net/community/Leave a voicemail or get in touch at https://theotherstories.net/submissionsCheck out our writing courses at https://theotherstories.net/courses/Grab some merch at https://gumroad.com/hawkandcleaverThe Other Stories is a production of the story studio, Hawk & Cleaver, and is brought to you with a Creative Commons – Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives license. Don't change it. Don't sell it. But by all means… share the hell out of it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.