The ThinkOrphan Podcast

Children are a central focus in international development programming; both from impact in target communities as well as in our fundraising. In this episode, Brandon Stiver talks with Nicole Duciaume who is the Senior Director over Sponsorship Programming at World Vision. Nicole shares about her journey into international nonprofits, the holistic approach of World Vision's child sponsorship programs, and the integration of faith, justice, and community development. She also shares why after years already working in international development, she decided to go back and get her graduate degree. Join us to hear how cross-cultural experiences, program iteration and academic pursuits shape effective strategies for global child well-being. 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 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 Conversation Notes (AI Generated) Nicole's background and cross-cultural experiences The evolution of child sponsorship programs Holistic and multisectoral approaches to child development Faith-based and multi-faith collaboration in aid The DEV framework for understanding child poverty The impact of academic and faith-based education on development work Innovations in donor engagement and digital safety The importance of local context and cultural sensitivity in aid Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

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 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

In this season of Lent, we're on a break from new episodes and are re-running a conversation from 2023 that we had with global child welfare professionals Dr. Greg Burch, Kelly Strong, and Dan Hope. We'll look at cases where westerners were given access to vulnerable children in the Global South and then abused those children. We'll explore the significance of cultivating cultures of awareness around child protection. We'll get into the importance of establishing robust policies and systems designed to mitigate the risks associated with child abuse and exploitation. By fostering environments that prioritize vigilance and the well-being of children, we can better identify and prevent abuses, ultimately ensuring their safety and welfare. Note that all podcasts before 2024 were under our old podcast name, Think Orphan. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Conversation Notes Recurring cases of exploitation in overseas volunteerism (voluntourism) (14:00) The risk in naivety (17:00) Harming, not helping (21:30) The power dynamics that add to vulnerability (24:00) White saviors, colonialism, paternalism (27:00) Establishing policies and systems that mitigate risk (31:00) Creating cultures of awareness and protection (41:00) Developing national safeguarding processes (47:00) Risk involved with child sponsorship (57:00) How do we create reporting mechanisms for children (1:05:00) Resources and Links from the show SFAC Safeguarding Course SFAC Homepage Safe International Online Jessup University Masters in Global Development and Justice The Roys Report : Romanian Lawsuits Multiply Against Harvest Christian Fellowship and Pastor Greg Laurie Research Paper : Child Sexual Exploitation in East African Orphanages

In this season of Lent, we're on a break from new episodes and are re-running a conversation from 2023 that we had the co-author of Freeing Congregational Mission, Dr. Hunter Farrell. He served as a long-term missionary in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Peru and now works as the Director of the World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Dr. Farrell brings a wealth of first hand and research knowledge about Christian Mission. After 35 years in intercultural missions, he is calling for a reframing of missions. What would it look like to approach missions with a learning posture? How can we create spaces of connection for shared learning across cultures? Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Subscribe to Our New YouTube Channel Conversation Notes Hunter brought back to faith in Congo (4:50) Defining missions (10:00) The three stones framework (15:00) Cultural humility and learning posture (20:00) Problematic attitude of giving without receiving (24:00) Creating spaces of connection and horizontal learning (40:00) Unintended consequences of child sponsorship (42:00) Redeeming short-term missions (51:00) Key differences in cultures (57:00) Resources and Links from the show Freeing Congregational Mission Village Reach Quiet The Power of Introverts

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 episode of Think Global, Do Justice, Brandon Stiver and Dr. Laura Horvath critically analyze the Netflix documentary 'Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within.' They discuss the portrayal of orphanages, the commodification of children, and the importance of family and community in child welfare. The conversation highlights the need for systemic change in how society addresses the needs of vulnerable children, emphasizing that the core deprivation of orphans is not just lack of resources, but lack of family connections. After the interview, Brandon shares a few podcast updates as we wrap up 2025. 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 Dr. Laura Horvath on Substack Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within on IMDB YouTube for Canopy International Conversation Notes (AI Generated) The documentary presents a rosy picture of orphanages, ignoring systemic issues. The film commodifies children's talents for fundraising purposes. Family-based care is essential for children's well-being. The documentary fails to interrogate the root causes of family separation. Dancing and performing do not address the emotional and relational needs of children. The focus should be on supporting families rather than institutionalizing children. Critical analysis of media representations is necessary for informed advocacy. Attention to media content can influence funding and support for orphanages.

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

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