What happens when humanitarian work collides with political upheaval and shifting policies? In this episode, Rebekah Teuscher and Michaela Dowen, graduates of the Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership program, share what it’s like to navigate being young humanitarian professionals in this time of uncertainty. They offer honest insight into the challenges and realities humanitarian workers face, and share what’s kept them going. We talk about the importance of clear communication, collaboration ac...
Jun 27, 2025•38 min
How do federal and foreign aid cuts impact anti-trafficking work, both directly and indirectly? In this episode, we talk with Rev. Dr. Sandra Morgan from Vanguard University about how global aid and domestic budget cuts are affecting efforts to fight human trafficking around the world, both individually and systemically. Dr. Morgan shares how collaboration, trust, and elevating smaller organizations are key to a sustained fight against trafficking, and how to foster these practices. We also disc...
Jun 20, 2025•34 min
What happens when churches, governments, and communities work together across differences in opinion for the common good? In this episode, Dr. Walter Kim, President of the National Association of Evangelicals, joins us to talk about how different parts of the evangelical church are responding to shifts in humanitarian aid and funding, and why these varied responses matter. We dig into the Biblical precedent for and history of public-private partnerships, the importance of government support, and...
Jun 13, 2025•31 min
How do advocacy and policy help combat child hunger and malnutrition, both in the U.S. and around the world? In this episode, Rev. Eugene Cho, president and CEO of Bread for the World, joins us to talk about what’s needed to tackle food insecurity around the world, what’s working, what’s not, and why surface-level solutions won’t cut it. We talk about how recent federal and foreign aid cuts are contributing to hunger and food insecurity for millions of children in food-insecure regions like Sout...
Jun 06, 2025•41 min
What happens when humanitarian aid gets pulled, but the needs don’t stop? In this episode, we talk with Dr. Beth Stuebing, a missionary surgeon in Malawi with the Christian Health Service Corps. She shares what it’s like on the front lines of healthcare when funding disappears—and why faith-based organizations working on the ground can’t do it alone. You’ll hear stories of courage and sacrifice, including one from a local surgeon, Dr. Mumba, who literally gave his own blood to save a patient. We...
May 30, 2025•28 min
What happens when college students decide to take action on global issues? In this episode, we sit down with three undergraduate students from Wheaton College - Alexis, Jonathan, and Milan - who have each been involved in a larger student-led movement advocating for Christ-like compassion and global justice. Over 150 students from Wheaton’s campus have gotten involved, driven by their faith and a shared belief that Christians are called to care for our neighbors both next door and halfway across...
May 22, 2025•29 min
This episode, we talk with Jenny Dyer, founder of the 2030 Collaborative, about her involvement raising awareness for HIV/AIDS - from working with Bono and the ONE Campaign to championing global health in Washington and beyond. Jenny breaks down how U.S. programs like PEPFAR have saved millions of lives—and why hardly anyone talks about it anymore. We dig into what’s at risk as funding dries up and how churches can step in to advocate. If you’re curious about how faith communities can make a rea...
May 16, 2025•30 min
In this episode, we sit down with Michael Cerna from the Accord Network and Elli Oswald from the Faith to Action Initiative to talk about what happens when faith-based nonprofits face major funding cuts. Spoiler: it’s tough. From staff layoffs to shifting American opinions on international engagement, Michael and Elli share the hard realities—and the hope. We get real about working with the government, why accountability matters, and how churches can step up. Plus, Michael and Elli share their p...
May 09, 2025•41 min
In this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, we’re joined by Allison Ruark, global public health professor and HIV/AIDS researcher, to talk about how global health, gender inequality, and foreign aid cuts all collide in real life. We dig into what’s really going on behind the data, how U.S. policy changes are closing clinics across Africa, and why spiritual resilience matters just as much as medical care. Allison offers both documented areas of concern and areas of hope—thanks to the next ge...
May 02, 2025•33 min
What happens when the very systems meant to help refugees end up hurting them instead? And what can the Church do to help? In today’s episode, Kent Annan and Dr. Jamie Aten talk with Matthew Soerens from World Relief about the real impact of U.S. refugee policies—especially the dramatic changes under the Trump administration. Matt pulls back the curtain on what’s happening behind the scenes: families stuck in limbo, staff furloughs at resettlement agencies, and churches stepping in to help. We a...
Apr 25, 2025•33 min
What if grief could actually help us do better humanitarian work? In this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, Dr. Jamie Aten and Kent Annan explore the idea of lament—or as Jamie calls it, “faithful grief”—and how it can reshape how we approach global challenges and humanitarian aid. Drawing from Kent’s book Slow Kingdom Coming, personal stories, and research with Biola and the University of Connecticut, they break down how lament isn’t just about sadness—it’s about being honest with God th...
Apr 17, 2025•28 min
Tune in to the latest episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast as Neil Hart shares his inspiring story. Hear how he pivoted from a life in farming to becoming the Executive Head of the Mergon Foundation. We dive into his faith-driven path, showcasing the power of long-term relationships and innovative philanthropy. We also explore the global impact of the FiftyFour Collective, a collaborative platform developing organizational health worldwide. With a focus on creativity, adaptability, and divine...
Dec 12, 2024•40 min
In this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, Kent and Jamie chat with Michael Cerna, CEO of the Accord Network, about the balance between innovation and relationships in the Christian relief sector. Michael shares his journey from Hope International to leading over 100 organizations, offering insights on how to drive progress without losing trust and collaboration. Michael discusses the challenges of moving from a high-pressure consulting role to Christian development work, including burnout...
Oct 15, 2024•32 min
*Since the time of the recording, Jon has left SIL and begun his search for his next innovation role. Please feel free to connect with Jon here: Connect with Jon Hirst In this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, we sit down with Jon Hirst, SIL International's Chief Innovation Officer, to dive into the fascinating world of language preservation and innovation. Jon shares how SIL is tackling the rapid loss of languages and why maintaining linguistic diversity is so important for cultural rich...
Sep 27, 2024•45 min
Have you ever thought that entrepreneurship could be more than just starting businesses? Our special guest, Denise Daniels, the Hudson T. Harrison Professor of Entrepreneurship at Wheaton College, does. In this episode, she talks about how innovation and design thinking can change the game in business and why an entrepreneurial mindset thrives on curiosity and practice. Christians in the marketplace often wonder how faith fits into work. Denise challenges the old-school idea of putting sharehold...
May 20, 2024•34 min
Looking to harmonize your career aspirations with a soul-fulfilling mission? If so, you’ll want to listen to this latest episode featuring Neal Joseph of Mission: Leadership. As part of our ongoing “Vocation” series, Neal joins us to talk about the art of faith-based executive recruiting, where aligning spiritual values with the heart of an organization isn't just ideal—it's imperative. Neal, who shifted from the music industry to Christian ministry, shares valuable insights from his journey. We...
May 07, 2024•32 min
About the episode: As part of our Innovation series, Ryan Russell, Vice President of Innovation and New Products at Compassion International, joins us in unraveling the intricacies of service-oriented innovation. Together, we discuss how innovation doesn’t have to be huge to make an impact. Each step forward is rich with opportunities to learn. Ryan talks about the passion and humility we need towards our customers, employees, and/or clients. We also explore the intersection of creativity and co...
Apr 16, 2024•29 min
For this episode, Carol Bremer-Bennett, the executive director of World Renew, shares her story of navigating the confluence of vocation, heritage, and service. From the greenhouses of her youth to the global stage of community development, Carol's path offers a unique perspective on embracing life's vocational shifts. With a spirit deeply rooted in her Navajo heritage and a heart committed to prayerful guidance, she unveils the connections between her work with the Navajo people and the broader...
Mar 29, 2024•38 min
On this episode of The Better Samaritan, Leah Kral, Senior Director of Strategy and Innovation at the Mercatus Center, joins us to discuss her transition from the profit-driven marketplace to a life enriched by service and social progress. Our conversation with Leah explores effective leadership and the role of innovation within the nonprofit realm. Leah shares six principles from her book that—when followed—allow organizations to dream big, start small, and foster a culture where collaboration ...
Mar 01, 2024•37 min
(Note: this episode is part of both our Innovation and Vocation series.) Unlock the transformative power of weaving faith and creativity with business as we feature a fellow member of the Wheaton family, Tommy Lee. Tommy combines a heart of service with a love for equipping leaders and fostering collaboration. The episode is filled with actionable insights and practical wisdom for anyone wanting to grow professionally. As we trace his career evolution, our discussion sheds light on the importanc...
Feb 16, 2024•35 min
About the episode: (Note: this episode is the second in our "Vocation" series.) Have you ever wondered how your job could not just pay the bills but also feed your soul? Today’s conversation is for anyone who longs to make a tangible difference in the lives of others but wonders how to get started–or continue. Kent once again welcomes Peter Greer of Hope International, and they discuss the joys and challenges of embracing a vocation with purpose. They also talk about ways to prepare for a job in...
Jan 16, 2024•41 min
In this episode, the first in our “Vocation” series, we unlock valuable insights on navigating a fulfilling career in the humanitarian and justice sectors with friends and special guests, Jonathan Dahlager and Joy Lee. Jonathan and Joy share from their personal experiences about the pivotal role of internships, mentorship, and the right team support in shaping vocations that make a difference globally. Education, skills, and experience have taken center stage in the ever-evolving humanitarian se...
Nov 29, 2023•36 min
Do you want to foster real change and innovation in your organization, but feel unsure where to start? When you’re leading a group of people waiting for your direction, how do you move them toward a new vision? In this episode, Jamie and Kent sit down with Dr. Margaret Diddams, a well-respected Principal Consultant at the Diddams Group, to discuss the art of innovation in leadership. Dr. Diddams, a former Provost at Wheaton College, shares her reflections on “holy discontent” and its role as a c...
Nov 06, 2023•42 min
In this episode, we talk with Preston Hill, assistant professor of integrative theology at Richmont Graduate University, about theology and trauma. Preston's insights challenge us to rethink our understanding of trauma, moving away from viewing it simply as suffering. This important, timely conversation includes a discussion of spiritual hurt and the often painful reality of trauma within church communities. As we delve into the characteristics of trauma-informed churches, Preston emphasizes pri...
Sep 29, 2023•33 min
Join us on today’s episode for a deeply enriching conversation with Laura Howe of Hope Made Strong on the crucial role of the church in addressing mental health issues, particularly in the wake of the pandemic's collective trauma. We leave no stone unturned, covering topics such as practical ways to empower your congregation to provide solace, support, and strength to those grappling with mental health issues. We also discuss the multitude of ways the Church Mental Health Summit can serve as a c...
Sep 14, 2023•28 min
Join us for a conversation about the much-needed, challenging world of disaster relief with Brent Davis, Director of Canadian Ministry Projects for Samaritan's Purse. Brent’s mantra “anytime we're not responding, we're preparing” reinforces the commitment and readiness Samaritan's Purse brings to communities ravaged by wildfires and other disasters. We'll uncover the critical role of trust-building, the logistics of post-disaster deployment, and the swift establishment of Samaritan’s Purse opera...
Sep 08, 2023•29 min
In this week’s conversation, we navigate the complex terrain of foster care and adoption with our esteemed guests, Jenn Ranter Hook, founder and executive director of Replanted, and her husband, Josh Hook, a psychology professor. Jenn opens up about her personal experiences working with children in the foster care system and her realization about the Church's lack of support for families on that journey. Josh shares his research interests and how they intersect with adoption and foster care, hig...
Aug 25, 2023•33 min
About the episode: Have you ever felt that Christian practices and mindfulness are worlds apart? Joshua Knabb, a board-certified clinical psychologist and professor of psychology, joins us to bridge that gap. We unearth the deeply meditative heritage of Christianity and explore how secularized “mindfulness” can be adapted to resonate with Christian values. We also discuss Lectio Divina, a reading practice rooted in the Christian monastic tradition. The findings from Joshua's research on Lectio D...
Aug 11, 2023•28 min
About the episode: Step into the trenches with us as we unpack the raw truth of providing humanitarian aid in war zones. We are privileged to have as our guests Anne Reitsema, CEO of Medair, and Meghan North, former country director for Medair in Ukraine and Poland. They share insights about the initial response to the crisis in Ukraine and details about the daily reality of living and serving in areas of conflict. During our conversation, Anne and Meghan shared the unique challenges posed by th...
Jul 28, 2023•40 min
Imagine walking into a room and feeling an inexplicable sense of attachment. Have you wondered why? In this episode, we explore that very question with our guest, Dr. Victor Counted, a renowned researcher and associate professor at Regent University. Our discussion pivots around the psychology of religion and environmental psychology, unearthing how our attachment to places and God shapes our identities and spirituality. Also, Dr. Counted brings an eye-opening perspective on the interplay betwee...
Jul 07, 2023•29 min
