Think Global, Do Justice

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.

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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.

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Resources and Links from the show

Dr. Laura Horvath on Substack

Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within on IMDB

YouTube for Canopy International

Become a Sponsor of Think Global, Do Justice

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.

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Resources and Links from the show

Anago.ai Online

Praxis : A Redemptive Thesis for Artificial Intelligence

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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 [email protected]

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Resources and Links from the show

Mission Based Management by Peter C. Brinkerhoff

Safe International Online

Email [email protected] 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.

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Resources and Links from the show

Join the Accord Network

Email [email protected] 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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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