In this heartfelt season finale of Doing Good Is Simple, host Chris Marlow sits down with his long-time friend Jenny Marrs, designer, author, HGTV personality, and co-founder of The Berry Farm, for a deeply moving conversation about what it truly means to live a life of purpose and generosity.

Marking 10 years since the release of Chris’s book Doing Good Is Simple, they revisit the central question: Is doing good still simple in today’s complex world? Together, they explore how faithful, small acts done in love can lead to transformational impact.

Jenny shares how a reluctant "yes" to a TV show opened the door to a platform that now supports farm training programs in Zimbabwe. She opens up about her family’s adoption journey, raising five kids to serve others, and what it means to live in community, even in the midst of chaos.

This episode is a beautiful reminder that generosity starts at home, in the ordinary rhythms of life, and that we all have a role to play in making the world a little better.

As Help One Now celebrates 16 years, join us for this inspiring finale filled with wisdom, laughter, and hope.

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In this episode, Chris Marlow sits down with longtime friend and spiritual director John Chandler to explore what it means to end strong, stay spiritually healthy, and live out our calling in community. 

As someone who’s transitioned from decades in pastoral ministry to guiding others through spiritual formation, John brings wisdom forged from experience and a passion for helping people grow in authentic, sustainable ways.

Together, they dig into the heart of what sustains long-term impact in a world that often rewards burnout, performance, and superficial connections.

1. The Critical Role of Spiritual Direction

John shares his journey from megachurch ministry to spiritual direction, noting that despite the training in leadership and church growth, what was often missing was personal formation. 

Spiritual direction offers a space for people—especially leaders—to slow down, reflect, and truly connect with the presence of God.

2. Spiritual Health is Found in Being Known

Chris and John discuss how spiritual health isn’t about performing faith but being deeply known by God and others. 

In a world where even pastors feel pressure to project strength, spiritual direction provides a rare space to be vulnerable and honest.

3. Collaboration as an Antidote to Burnout

Drawing from Chapter 8 of Chris’ book, Doing Good is Simple, they highlight how mission without community often leads to burnout. 

True collaboration means showing up as your full self and joining others in shared purpose.

4. Moving from Knowledge to Wisdom

John introduces a powerful concept: that while our culture prizes information, what we need more is wisdom. 

Spiritual direction helps us translate what we know into how we live, offering clarity and purpose.

5. Healthy Leaders Need Four Things

As John develops his coaching framework, he names four essential needs for every leader: Value, Vision, Vulnerability, and Validation. 

These aren’t just leadership buzzwords, they’re the bedrock of long-term health.

This episode reminds us that doing good is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. And we can’t run it well without support. Spiritual direction may just be the missing piece for many who are passionate about justice, community, and faith. 

As John so powerfully puts it, the goal is not just to do more, but to become more, more present, more whole, more like Christ.

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In this week’s episode of Doing Good Is Simple, Chris Marlow is joined by two long-time friends and integral members of Help One Now, Brennan and Lamar. 

Together, they reflect on their journeys with the organization, discuss the deep, transformational work being done across communities, and explore how the simplest acts of kindness can lead to profound change. 

As they delve into the heart of the Help One Now mission, they highlight the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and the belief that small steps lead to big transformations.

• The Beginnings of Help One Now:

Brennan and Lamar’s journey with Help One Now began in the early 2010s, starting with volunteer trips to Haiti. 

Their first trips were full of humble lessons, discovering that empowering local leaders to create lasting change was the key to transforming communities.

• The "Thin Space" Concept:

Lamar and Brennan share their reflections on what they call “thin spaces”—moments when the gap between the human experience and the divine feels especially close. These moments happen during deep relationships and shared struggles, like those witnessed on the ground in Haiti and other countries where Help One Now works.

• Building Ferry Village in Haiti:

One of the most touching stories shared was the creation of Ferry Village in Haiti, a project focused on providing safe homes for children rescued from trafficking. Brennan and Lamar discuss the challenges of the early days, when the land was barren and the community was in its infancy. 

Today, the village is thriving, offering not only a safe space for children but also education and opportunities for growth.

• The Importance of Longevity in Nonprofit Work:

As the Help One Now team celebrates over 15 years of impact, Brennan reflects on the importance of long-term commitment. 

While Western culture often craves instant gratification, the true work of transforming communities is a marathon, not a sprint. The ongoing success of the organization is a testament to the dedication of its partners, donors, and leaders.

• The Role of Small Acts in Creating Big Change:

One of the guiding principles of Help One Now is the idea that change doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. 

Small actions like raising funds through garage sales, investing in local businesses, and offering time and resources are what have built the foundation for large-scale transformation.

At the heart of this episode is a powerful reminder that doing good doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the small, seemingly insignificant steps that create the greatest impact. 

Whether it’s supporting local leaders, investing in children’s futures, or simply saying “yes” to an idea that feels uncertain, every contribution matters. The story of Help One Now proves that with commitment and perseverance, we can build lasting change one person, one family, and one community at a time.

As Brennan, Lamar, and Chris highlight, we are all part of something bigger than ourselves. And if we remain dedicated, even the smallest efforts can spark a movement of transformation. 

It’s time to take that first step, no matter how small, and join a movement that is changing the world.

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This episode of Doing Good is Simple brings us into the deeply moving, honest, and faith-filled journey of Amanda and Stephen Miller a couple who have walked through two decades of marriage, seven kids (four through adoption), and countless acts of intentional love rooted in the call to be good neighbors. 

Host Chris Marlow invites us to ask: Is doing good still simple even when it’s incredibly hard?

From their early days as high school sweethearts to building a big, purpose-driven family, the Millers show what it means to choose the harder path not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it. 

Through their story, we see how adoption, family, faith, and vulnerability can shape a life of impact.

1. Adoption as a Calling, Not a Trend

 The Millers share their journey of adopting four children including two with special needs from Ethiopia and China. 

Their passion was never about creating a picture-perfect story but stepping into brokenness with compassion. “Adoption starts with loss,” Amanda says. “We chose to enter their suffering with them.”

2. Honoring Dignity in Storytelling

 As public figures on YouTube and social media, the Millers aim to tell the truth with integrity protecting their children’s privacy while sharing stories that inspire action. 

They avoid sensationalism, instead choosing to honor the dignity of birth cultures, families, and every person involved.

3. The Power of Intentional Community and Perspective

 In a culture often marked by outrage and division, Amanda and Stephen intentionally foster kindness, gratitude, and compassion online. 

“Most people who lash out are dealing with something,” Stephen says. Choosing to respond with grace often diffuses tension and reveals the humanity behind the anger.

4. Building a Life on Courage and Faith

 Whether it's marriage, parenting, or adoption, the Millers embrace the cost of doing hard things. 

Amanda says it best: “When you say yes to adoption, you're saying yes to entering into their suffering.” Their testimony is clear purpose is rarely found on the easy road, but always worth the journey.

5. Joy in the Midst of Struggle

 Despite the heaviness of life’s challenges, the Millers radiate joy. Their secret? Staying rooted in God. 

Stephen shares, “There is satisfaction in the secret place. You become like what you behold.” Intimacy with God fuels joy, even in the most trying seasons.

This conversation isn’t about glorifying struggle it’s about seeing the deeper purpose within it. Amanda and Stephen remind us that doing good isn’t about perfection, but participation. 

It's about choosing to step into hard things with courage, knowing that beauty often grows from brokenness.

We all have the agency to make a difference. The invitation is simple, even if the journey isn’t.

Take a step. Choose the beautiful hard. Be a good neighbor.

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In this episode of Doing Good Is Simple, host Chris Marlow welcomes Anthony Myers, a pastor and executive coach in St. Louis, whose life is devoted to bridging deep divides in community, faith, and leadership.

 Their conversation dives into the real challenges of living out faith with humility, grace, and action in a complex world. Anthony’s approach to faith is anything but performative. 

It’s daily, relational, and driven by love and this episode is a compelling reminder that every ordinary person can make an extraordinary impact when they live with intentionality.

1. You Don’t Go To the Mission Field—You Live In It

 Anthony reminds us that we are not spectators of the mission we’re participants. 

Whether you’re a teacher, entrepreneur, or stay-at-home parent, your mission field is right in front of you. Every conversation, every relationship, every moment matters.

2. The Posture of Peacemaking Matters More Than the Win

 Being right is not the goal. Anthony shares that maturity in faith means engaging in difficult conversations with grace. 

The objective isn’t domination it’s understanding. “If I win and you lose, the kingdom loses,” he says. His advice: show up with open hands, not clenched fists.

3. We Must Move From Church-Centric to Kingdom-Focused Living

 Church is a vital gathering point, but the real work happens in the world. 

Anthony challenges believers to move beyond Sunday routines and embrace a kingdom mindset one rooted in service, justice, and deep love for others, especially those who don’t look, think, or believe like we do.

4. Small Acts of Kindness Can Carry Eternal Weight

 From handwritten notes to intentional conversations, Anthony emphasizes that bearing fruit doesn’t always mean grand gestures. 

Often, it’s the quiet, unseen, faithful steps that build trust and change lives.

5. We Must Lead With Values, Not Just Vision

 Anthony speaks directly to high-capacity leaders: you might be successful, but are you satisfied? 

He encourages businesspeople and entrepreneurs to define their values and ask how their daily work aligns with them. Building a legacy doesn’t start with plaques it starts with people.

 This episode isn’t about lofty theology or unreachable ideals. It’s about presence. About showing up. About living out your faith where you are, with what you have. 

Whether you’re writing thank-you notes, leading a business, or making dinner for your neighbors these are the acts that build the kingdom. 

Anthony’s wisdom is a timely reminder: we don’t need to do everything, but we can all do something. And that something, done in love, changes the world.

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In this episode of Doing Good is Simple, Chris Marlow sits down with his longtime friend and collaborator, Charles Lee, to dive deep into the realities of taking risks, navigating challenges, and fostering meaningful connections through mentorship in the world of doing good. 

Their conversation provides powerful insights on staying true to one's mission, making an impact, and maintaining a sense of purpose in a world filled with distractions and noise.

• Calculated Risk-Taking: 

Charles emphasizes the importance of taking risks when chasing your dreams but stresses that those risks should be calculated. 

Knowing what’s at stake, doing the necessary homework, and planning ahead allows you to take informed actions. 

He compares risk to a well-thought-out journey, where one has to prioritize and measure progress along the way.

• Overcoming Information Overload: 

In an age of endless information and distractions, Charles talks about the power of clarity. 

While we don't need to have all the answers upfront, having a general direction helps focus our energy on the right areas.

 It's not about absorbing everything out there but about finding voices that will guide us towards our true purpose.

• Choosing Love Over Self: 

One of the core themes in the conversation is the shift from self-centeredness to others-centeredness. 

Charles shares his belief that by removing ourselves as the center of our story, we can approach generosity and love with greater empathy. 

This mindset helps individuals make a real difference in the world, shifting the focus from personal gain to creating lasting change.

• The Power of Mentorship: 

The discussion also touches on the importance of mentorship—not just in giving but also in receiving. 

Charles reflects on how mentors accelerate growth by providing insights and advice from a place of lived experience. 

Mentorship, he says, is crucial at any stage in life, and it's a practice that doesn't stop once you've "arrived." It's a tool for continuous personal and professional development.

• The Future of Doing Good: 

Looking toward the future, Charles shares his optimism about the continued potential for doing good. 

Despite the world’s polarization and uncertainty, he believes in the enduring power of human generosity and the ability to make a meaningful impact on a local and global scale. 

Intentionality in giving whether through time, resources, or energy is key to sustaining and growing that impact.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that doing good isn't always easy, but it's always worth the effort. The conversation with Charles Lee highlights the importance of living intentionally, taking risks, and seeking mentorship, all while maintaining a clear focus on others. 

Whether you're in a leadership position or simply trying to make a difference, this episode encourages you to stay the course, seek guidance, and prioritize love and generosity.

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In this episode of Doing Good is Simple, host Chris Marlow welcomes longtime friend and Help One Now partner Michael Eady. 

They reflect on over a decade of doing good together and explore how ordinary people can make a meaningful impact. 

Michael shares his journey of action-driven faith, community-building, and the balance between ambition and service.

• The Power of Small Acts of Kindness

 Michael and Chris discuss a quote from The Lord of the Rings emphasizing that small, everyday deeds keep darkness at bay. 

Michael embodies this by taking intentional action in his community and business, demonstrating that kindness isn’t just a feeling but a practice.

• Why Community Matters

 Michael highlights how vital relationships are in every aspect of his life—family, business, church, and nonprofit work. 

He stresses that true impact happens in community, and isolation only leads to loneliness. 

His life is a testament to the power of building deep, meaningful connections.

• Balancing Success & Service

 As a business owner, Michael strives for excellence but remains focused on a bigger purpose. 

He shares how true fulfillment comes not from personal achievements but from using success as a tool to serve others. 

Whether in sports marketing or nonprofit work, he seeks to make a difference in people’s lives.

• Loving Your Neighbor Requires Proximity

 Michael challenges listeners with a simple but profound truth: “You cannot love your neighbor if you do not know your neighbor.” 

He encourages stepping out of comfort zones, engaging with different communities, and being present in people's lives rather than just appearing connected through social media.

• Gospel Justice is a Call to Action

 Discussing James 1:22—“Do not merely listen to the word... Do what it says”—Michael and Chris unpack the idea that faith isn’t passive. 

The gospel calls for justice, action, and serving those in need. Michael warns that ignoring this can lead to spiritual emptiness, even for those who are active in church but not in true service.

Ordinary People, Extraordinary Impact

Chris closes with a powerful reminder: the world isn’t changed by celebrities or influencers, but by everyday people who show up, love their neighbors, and take action. 

Whether it’s supporting a friend, mentoring a child, or serving the poor, small acts of love can create ripples of change.

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In this episode of Doing Good is Simple, host Chris Marlow sits down with Kaitlin Pierce, the Chief Marketing Officer at Help One Now. 

Kaitlin shares her transformative journey from corporate America to nonprofit work, discussing the challenges of balancing ambition, family, and purpose. 

Her story is a powerful testament to trusting in faith, stepping out of comfort zones, and making an impact both locally and globally.

• From Corporate Success to Meaningful Work

 Kaitlin spent years excelling in a high-powered corporate role, but the pressure and workaholic culture left her feeling unfulfilled. 

A lower-than-expected performance review and her daughter's middle school orientation became wake-up calls that led her to resign and seek a new path.

• A Life-Changing Trip to Peru

 Initially planning to visit Machu Picchu with friends, Kaitlin's perspective shifted dramatically when she encountered extreme poverty in Beilín, Peru. 

She saw beauty in resilience and was moved by the hope education provided to local children. This experience ignited her passion for nonprofit work.

• Trusting God Over Comfort

 When the opportunity arose to join Help One Now, Kaitlin faced financial and emotional uncertainty. 

With her husband's initial hesitation and a significant salary shift, the decision required deep faith. 

Ultimately, she trusted that following God's call would lead to the right path.

• The Power of Community and Expanding Circles

 Kaitlin’s move to Birmingham left her without a strong community at first. Through intentional effort—attending church gatherings, joining small groups, and taking risks—she built a supportive network. 

She now emphasizes the importance of expanding circles and inviting others into meaningful relationships.

• Making an Impact in Simple Ways

 Kaitlin encourages people to start small when making a difference. 

Whether it’s sponsoring a child, hosting “rice nights” to build awareness with family, or volunteering unique skills, every effort creates a ripple effect. 

She reminds us that true impact isn’t about fame—it’s about changing someone’s world, one act at a time.

Kaitlin’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder—it’s about finding purpose and making a difference. Whether through a career shift or small intentional acts of kindness, we all have the ability to impact lives.

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What if the interruptions in life aren’t distractions, but divine redirections? Too often, we chase success, security, and comfort—only to find ourselves wondering if we’re truly living with purpose. 

In this episode of Doing Good Is Simple, we’ll explore what it means to embrace life’s interruptions as opportunities for inspiration and impact. 

How can we shift our mindset to ensure we live in a way we won’t regret? 

Tune in as we uncover how faith, intentionality, and an others-focused approach can lead to a life that truly matters.

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In this very first episode of Doing Good Is Simple, host Chris Marlow, Founder and CEO of Help One Now, shares the heart and vision behind the podcast. 

Why is doing good often seen as complicated, overwhelming, or even out of reach? The truth is, making a difference doesn’t require grand gestures—it starts with small, consistent acts of kindness rooted in love and faith.

Chris unpacks his journey of discovering the power of simple, intentional generosity and how it can create a ripple effect of transformation. 

He explores the challenges that often hold people back from making an impact and offers practical ways to overcome them.

This episode will inspire you to shift your mindset, take action, and realize that doing good is within your reach—no matter who you are or where you are in life. Because when we choose to serve others, we not only change their lives—we change our own.

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