The Discerning Leader Podcast Jimmy Mellado | Discerning God's Invitations, Episode 4
Sep 25, 2025
In this discussion, Jimmy Mellado, President and CEO of Compassion International and former Olympic decathlete, shares insights on spiritual leadership honed through years in ministry. He recounts a life-changing moment at the 1988 Olympics that spurred his mission to serve. Mellado emphasizes the critical role of local churches in fighting poverty and shares strategies aimed at holistic discipleship. He stresses that character shapes sustainable leadership and encourages listeners to discern their calls to action for global needs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Olympics Sparked A Calling
- Jimmy felt his Olympic experience in Seoul call him to serve the church after attending a prayer meeting and visiting a revival church.
- That moment crystallized his desire to join God's movement and later shaped his path toward ministry leadership.
A Hurtful Moment Redirected His Path
- Jimmy recounted being told at Willow Creek that he 'didn't count' as diversity, which pierced him despite outward laughter.
- That painful moment redirected him toward bridging well-resourced and under-resourced churches and ultimately to Compassion.
Compassion Is Church-Driven Child Discipleship
- Compassion is a church-equipping, child-discipleship organization focused on removing obstacles or providing opportunities for children.
- Their work centers on partnering with local churches to pursue holistic discipleship and child development in Jesus' name.
