What does real anti-trafficking work look like? In this episode of the Lasting Change podcast, we sit down with Andrew Larson—One Collective’s catalyst in Athens, Greece—to explore the realities of sexual exploitation, the complexity of trafficking, and what it takes to make a meaningful difference.

This episode isn’t a tidy story of rescue. Instead it’s a look at what it means to break isolation, build trust over time, and embody hope in some of the darkest places. Whether you’re new to this topic or passionate about justice, Andrew’s experience will help you understand how long-term, relational work can transform lives—both overseas and in your own neighborhood.

In this Episode, you will learn:

A clear definition of human trafficking—and what makes it so complex

Why Greece is a critical hotspot in the global trafficking network

The unique challenges of anti-trafficking work in brothel districts

How outreach teams safely engage with women in crisis

Why rescue isn’t always the goal—and what true success looks like

Practical ways you can respond locally or globally

What it means to find God among the oppressed

One Collective - Athens Alephtheria Community

Polaris Project

A21

European Freedom Network

One Collective - Serve Abroad Opportunities

Description

What if the true measure of success in missions wasn’t how much you built—but what continued after you left?

In this episode of The Lasting Change Podcast, hosts Michael Proctor and Danielle Kelly sit down with Brandon Weidman, Director of Development at One Collective and the founding catalyst of the organization’s work in Nicaragua. Brandon shares how a short-term mission trip turned into a long-term commitment—and how that commitment sparked a sustainable model of ministry that continues to grow today.

From launching a chicken farm and a coffee company to empowering local leaders and navigating political unrest, Brandon walks us through the challenges and lessons of building something that lasts. Now, as the Nicaragua team prepares to expand into a neighboring city, they’re looking for the next catalyst—a leader ready to live in the community, build relationships, and help shape the next chapter of holistic, sustainable transformation.

Whether you’re in ministry, missions, or just passionate about doing good in a healthy, sustainable way, this episode offers real-world insight into how lasting change actually happens—and how you might be part of it.

In this Episode

How short-term mission trips led to long-term community transformation

The story behind the founding of One Collective Nicaragua

What it looks like to empower local leaders and avoid dependency

How a chicken farm, coffee company, and a pineapple farm became tools for change

What “kingdom calculus” is—and why 1 + 1 can equal 3

How the catalytic model works, and what it means to be a catalyst

Why Papagayo, a remote pineapple farm at the edge of a jungle, might be the perfect launching pad for the next wave of change

How YOU (or someone you know) might fit into this story of growth and lasting impact

About the Guest

Brandon Weidman is the Director of Development at One Collective, where he leads global fundraising efforts and champions sustainable, community-driven change. Before taking on this role, Brandon and his wife spent nearly seven years in Nicaragua as catalysts—helping to launch locally run initiatives like small businesses, farms, and nutrition programs. His passion is to empower leaders on the ground and ensure resources are directed where they’ll make the biggest long-term impact.

Do you desire to be generous but don’t know where to give or which organizations to trust? With so many nonprofits vying for attention, it can be overwhelming to know which ones are truly effective and aligned with your values. If you’ve ever wondered how to ensure your contributions are making a real impact, this episode is for you.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to evaluate a nonprofit’s trustworthiness and financial accountability. Discover the key indicators of organizational integrity, how to spot red flags, and why having a robust financial strategy is critical for long-term impact. You’ll also gain practical tools to help you confidently choose organizations that align with your values and make a lasting difference. Whether you’re giving to the organization for years or just starting to look for someone to be generous, this episode will empower you to live with greater clarity and purpose.

Do you see big problems in the world and feel overwhelmed by the thought of making a difference? Maybe you’re passionate about helping others but unsure where to start or how to turn that passion into action. The idea of stepping into a role that could create real change can be daunting, especially when the path forward isn’t clear. If you’re wrestling with these feelings, this episode offers valuable guidance to help you navigate these uncertainties.

In this episode, Carley Fortosis, a leader in mobilization at One Collective, joins host Scott Olson to share her journey from corporate life to vocational ministry. Carley discusses the key questions you should ask before making the leap, the questions you should ask an organization before joining, and how One Collective supports its team members every step of the way. Whether you're exploring a new career or looking to make a greater impact, Carley’s experience and advice will provide the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.

Everyone knows the struggle of finding a job that feels impactful, especially those planning to transition from school to the workforce. What could it look like to choose a job that is full of purpose and connects with the work Jesus is doing around the world?

Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we are talking with Michael Proctor, One Collective’s Marketing Manager and Podcast producer. Together we talk about Michael’s journey of discovering One Collective and how he has participated in lasting change.

Often, marketing gets a bad rap - coming across as unethical, manipulative, and leading us to spend money on things we don't really need. But what if marketing could be a force for good? A tool to unify organizations around a shared vision and purpose that truly betters the world?

Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we talk with Evan Wise, Sr. Director of Advancement at One Collective. Together, we explore the power of ethical, values-driven marketing. Evan shares how marketing can be leveraged to drive sustainable, long-term change - when it's focused on deeply understanding your audience's needs and providing genuine value rather than just chasing short-term conversions.

Learn more about how you can get involved today at onecollective.org/podcasts

We live in a fast-paced world, and most of us are always trying to do more in less time. It is often immensely difficult for leaders to slow down amidst the pressures and demands of work and life and this can often lead to burn out and leaders not finishing well. How can we as leaders find the value of slowing down, and how can leaders practically implement rest into their lives?

Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we talk with Robert L. Gallagher, a professor of mission and intercultural studies. Together we talk about the difficulty people, particularly leaders, face in slowing down amidst the pressures and demands of modern life. We explore the need for time for solitude, prayer and silence, following the example of Jesus.

Anyone exploring leadership can tell you that hard decisions come frequently. Newer leaders are often put into situations where they have to take risks to move forward. Learning to grow as a leader usually requires making mistakes and choosing direction when you don't have all the information or experience that helps you understand the right way forward. What does taking a healthy risk as a new leader look like, and what decisions contribute to outstanding leadership as you grow?
Join us today on the Lasting Change podcast, where we are talking with Danielle Kelly, One Collective Area director of Europe and Catalyst of Athens, Greece. Together, we talk about Danielle's journey into leadership, the hardships she has learned from, and lessons that can help any new leader develop.

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

We all share the desire to treat everyone as Jesus did. Sadly, there are many marginalized people who are often dehumanized and never experience the way Jesus treated people. How can we as individuals meet the marginalized where they are show them the love of Jesus, and treat them as he did?

Join us today on the lasting Change Podcast, where we talk with Eric Costanzo, executive director of RisingVillage, Author, and teacher of biblical, cultural, and global issues affecting the church around the world. Together, we talk about the issue of dehumanization of marginalized people and the importance of treating every person with dignity and respect, reinforcing their biblical humanity.