The Better Samaritan Podcast

The Better Samaritan is a podcast with Kent Annan & Jamie Aten where we’re learning—along with you—how to more helpfully love our neighbors, from everyday acts of kindness to navigating complex humanitarian challenges facing the church and society. Join us as we interview experts with insight on learning to do good, better.

Latest episodes

May 2, 2025 • 33min

Foreign Aid Cuts, Global Public Health, and the Christian Witness with Allison Ruark

In this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, we’re joined by Allison Ruark, global public health professor and HIV/AIDS researcher, to talk about how global health, gender inequality, and foreign aid cuts all collide in real life. We dig into what’s really going on behind the data, how U.S. policy changes are closing clinics across Africa, and why spiritual resilience matters just as much as medical care. Allison offers both documented areas of concern and areas of hope—thanks to the next generation of passionate students stepping up. Dive deeper into the discussion: (5:04) Clarification - Dr. Ruark post-show clarified that, as of the recording of this episode, 80% of USAID/US grants have been cancelled, and 20% of grants are still operational. See here. (6:12) Groups working with USAID say the government still has not paid what it owes for their work scrippsnews.com/politics/president-trumps-first-100-days/groups-working-with-usaid-say-the-government-still-has-not-paid-what-it-owes-for-their-work (26:08) Dr. Ruark’s research on behavioral interventions to prevent HIV Further Reading from Dr. Allison Ruark Books: AIDS, Behavior, and Culture: Understanding Evidence-Based Prevention Articles: Increasing family planning access in Kenya through engagement of faith-based health facilities, religious leaders, and community health volunteers. Oromia Joint Assessment on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), FoodInsecurity, and Effective GBV Response Monitoring & Evaluation for Multiple and Concurrent Partnerships (MCP) Programmes. About Allison Ruark Dr. Ruark is a social epidemiologist with a Ph.D. from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She has worked at Wheaton College as an Assistant Professor since 2020 and is the theme coordinator for the Wheaton Aequitas Fellows Program in Global Public Health. She has particular expertise in behavioral HIV prevention, gender-based violence, and the impact of couple and family relationships on health. ------------ This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The Brilliance Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSS Follow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannan Follow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi (Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction–especially in our blind spots.) The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers an M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website. Get your application fee to the HDL M.A. program waived with code TBS25. Jamie Aten, Ph.D., and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 25, 2025 • 33min

Driving Innovation and Collaboration: Navigating Change in the Christian Relief Sector

In this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, Kent and Jamie chat with Michael Cerna, CEO of the Accord Network, about the balance between innovation and relationships in the Christian relief sector. Michael shares his journey from Hope International to leading over 100 organizations, offering insights on how to drive progress without losing trust and collaboration.Michael discusses the challenges of moving from a high-pressure consulting role to Christian development work, including burnout, resilience, and the importance of self-care. His candid reflections provide valuable lessons on setting boundaries and building supportive leadership for a sustainable career.We also explore how diversity fuels innovation within the Accord Network's 120 member organizations. Michael explains how embracing different perspectives can lead to transformative change, even when consensus is challenging. This conversation highlights the beauty of collaboration across differences, reflecting the kingdom of God as we all strive to be better Samaritans in our communities.Bio:Michael Cerna is the CEO of Accord Network. He recently left his role as Director of Partnership Strategy with HOPE International. His journey in the Christian Relief & Development sector began with a research position in the West Bank and Palestinian territories before spending time with McKinsey & Company, a global management firm. Those experiences and the previous decade in this sector have helped Michael fulfill his passion for assisting faith-based NGOs to become more collaborative, effective ministries for God's Kingdom.Resources:Accord NetworkSpiritual First AidDownload your free copy of our Called to Serve: Navigating Your Christian Vocation in Humanitarian, Disaster, and Development Work e-book, which includes articles full of practical advice, insight, and encouragement. Each of the three sections concludes with thought-provoking questions and a prayer. We hope this e-book informs and guides you toward reflection, prayer, and next steps. ------------This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The BrillianceSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSSFollow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannanFollow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi(Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction–especially in our blind spots.)The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers an M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website.Jamie Aten, Ph.D., and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 27, 2024 • 45min

Innovation in Action: Jon Hirst on Overcoming Translation and Nonprofit Challenges

*Since the time of the recording, Jon has left SIL and begun his search for his next innovation role. Please feel free to connect with Jon here: Connect with Jon HirstIn this episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast, we sit down with Jon Hirst, SIL International's Chief Innovation Officer, to dive into the fascinating world of language preservation and innovation. Jon shares how SIL is tackling the rapid loss of languages and why maintaining linguistic diversity is so important for cultural richness.Jon breaks down how SIL's work—developing orthographies, fonts, literacy programs, and Bible translations—impacts over 1,100 language communities in 90 countries. He also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his role in turning big ideas into practical solutions, walking us through the innovation processes and challenges nonprofits face, like limited resources and reputation concerns.This episode is packed with inspiring insights, from anti-human trafficking projects to cutting-edge AI and virtual reality applications in language preservation. Jon talks about the balance between technology and human connection and how curiosity and gratitude drive meaningful innovation. Don't miss this powerful conversation on how nonprofits can overcome barriers and make lasting change.Bio:Jon Hirst is the co-founder of Generous Mind, a think tank that helps thought leaders be generous with what they know. He has spent his life serving in nonprofit leadership and innovation. He supports a community of innovators via Innovation in Mission. Jon lives in Wisconsin, USA, with his wife Mindy and their three children. Response to AI: Our AI Moment Article on AI & cultural adaptation: Gemini vs ChatGPT Resources:REGISTER NOW for the virtual Church Mental Health Summit taking place on October 10th. Join us, and thousands of others globally, as we work toward the common goal of equipping the church to support mental health. Engage with content from over 50 different speakers in various mental health fields. Registration is free!Spiritual First AidDownload your free copy of our Called to Serve: Navigating Your Christian Vocation in Humanitarian, Disaster, and Development Work e-book, which includes articles full of practical advice, insight, and encouragement. Each of the three sections concludes with thought-provoking questions and a prayer. We hope this e-book informs and also guides you toward reflection, prayer, and next steps. ------------This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The BrillianceSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSSFollow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannanFollow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi(Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction–especially in our blind spots.)The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers an M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website.Jamie Aten, Ph.D., and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 20, 2024 • 34min

Embracing an Entrepreneurial Mindset: Innovation, Faith, and Social Impact with Denise Daniels

Have you ever thought that entrepreneurship could be more than just starting businesses? Our special guest, Denise Daniels, the Hudson T. Harrison Professor of Entrepreneurship at Wheaton College, does. In this episode, she talks about how innovation and design thinking can change the game in business and why an entrepreneurial mindset thrives on curiosity and practice.Christians in the marketplace often wonder how faith fits into work. Denise challenges the old-school idea of putting shareholder value above all else; instead, she suggests aiming for social good and human flourishing. We also dive into the concept of sphere sovereignty, debunking the myth that Christian service is just for ministry or non-profits.Finally, Denise shares insights from her study with Elaine Howard Eklund, breaking down how we can see our jobs as vocations filled with purpose. Whether through intrinsic satisfaction, societal impact, or workplace relationships, Denise shows us how faith and work can beautifully intertwine.Bio:Denise is the inaugural Hudson T. Harrison Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship at Wheaton College (IL). Previously, she was a Professor of Management at Seattle Pacific University. She earned a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior from the University of Washington. Her scholarly interests include meaningful work, Sabbath, leadership, gender, and motivation.Denise is also the co-principal Investigator on a $1.8M research project funded by the Lilly Endowment, which examines how people in the United States understand and engage their faith at work. She serves on the corporate board of a FinTech company and the board of two non-profit organizations. —--The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College. The institute offers an M.A. in Humanitarian and disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. Visit our website to learn more and apply.Jamie Aten, Ph.D., and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid.This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The BrillianceSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSSFollow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannanFollow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi(Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction–especially in our blind spots.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 7, 2024 • 32min

Mission and Leadership: The Art of Faith-Based Executive Recruiting With Special Guest Neal Joseph

Looking to harmonize your career aspirations with a soul-fulfilling mission? If so, you’ll want to listen to this latest episode featuring Neal Joseph of Mission: Leadership. As part of our ongoing “Vocation” series, Neal joins us to talk about the art of faith-based executive recruiting, where aligning spiritual values with the heart of an organization isn't just ideal—it's imperative. Neal, who shifted from the music industry to Christian ministry, shares valuable insights from his journey. We discuss his varied experiences—from working with famous musicians to leadership in global ministries—as well as how to align your career with your true calling.Neal notes the importance of grabbing opportunities and mastering communication within nonprofit leadership. He also gives practical tips on thriving in your current role and preparing for future advancement, making this episode particularly helpful for anyone looking to change paths or reach their vocational goals.Bio:Neal Joseph brings more than 35 years of senior-level leadership experience in the corporate, church, and nonprofit worlds to his role as Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Mission: Leadership, a faith-based executive recruiting firm. Before this, he served as Vice President of Nonprofit Recruiting at Slingshot Group, Senior Vice President of International Partnerships at Compassion International, megachurch Executive Pastor, Chief Operating Officer at Generous Giving, Label President at Warner Bros. Records, and Vice President of A&R and Marketing at Word Records. In addition to A.C.T. International, Neal also serves on the boards of American Leprosy Missions, the Accord Network, and Free Guitars 4 Kids.Resources:Mission: LeadershipSpiritual First AidDownload your free copy of our Called to Serve: Navigating Your Christian Vocation in Humanitarian, Disaster, and Development Work e-book, which includes articles full of practical advice, insight, and encouragement. Each of the three sections concludes with thought-provoking questions and a prayer. We hope this e-book informs and also guides you toward reflection, prayer, and next steps. ------------This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The BrillianceSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSSFollow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannanFollow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi(Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction–especially in our blind spots.)The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers an M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website.Jamie Aten, Ph.D., and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 16, 2024 • 29min

Innovating for Impact : A Conversation with Ryan Russell

About the episode:As part of our Innovation series, Ryan Russell, Vice President of Innovation and New Products at Compassion International, joins us in unraveling the intricacies of service-oriented innovation. Together, we discuss how innovation doesn’t have to be huge to make an impact. Each step forward is rich with opportunities to learn.Ryan talks about the passion and humility we need towards our customers, employees, and/or clients. We also explore the intersection of creativity and connection in non-profit innovation, delving into Compassion International's multifaceted crusade against child poverty and how innovation forges new (and unconventional) pathways for connection and support. Ryan's wealth of diverse career experiences underscores the transformative influence of a dedicated innovation team. This episode is an invitation to embrace the spirit of innovation in our everyday actions and in companies and organizations.Bio:Ryan Russell is Vice President of Innovation at Compassion International. He joined Compassion in July 2023 to lead the Compassion of Tomorrow team and grow Compassion’s innovation function. Before Compassion, Ryan served as the Senior Vice President of Design and User Experience (UX) at Hinge Health and spent nine years at Amazon as the Director of Design & UX for Amazon Glow. Under his leadership, the team grew from two people to over 135 across five studios in the U.S. Before Amazon, he led McAfee’s Design Studio, launched Cohdoo Highlight, an award-winning audio recording app, and designed novel consumer computing experiences at Intel.Resources:Compassion Internationalhttps://www.designkit.org/index.html - This is a site full of content to help anyone innovate and work backwards from the neighbors they are serving. The Field Guide to Human-Centered Design (https://www.designkit.org/resources/1.html) available on the site offers is a great step-by-step resource to design thinking and innovation.Get our new FREE 56-page e-book, Called to Serve: How to Navigate a Christian Vocation in Humanitarian, Disaster, and Development Work.Spiritual First Aid------------This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The BrillianceSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSSFollow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannanFollow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi(Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction–especially in our blind spots.)The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers an M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website.Jamie Aten, Ph.D., and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 29, 2024 • 38min

Embracing Roots and Leadership in Community Revitalization

For this episode, Carol Bremer-Bennett, the executive director of World Renew, shares her story of navigating the confluence of vocation, heritage, and service. From the greenhouses of her youth to the global stage of community development, Carol's path offers a unique perspective on embracing life's vocational shifts. With a spirit deeply rooted in her Navajo heritage and a heart committed to prayerful guidance, she unveils the connections between her work with the Navajo people and the broader challenges communities worldwide face. In education and community resilience, Carol imparts her wisdom on the critical role of holistic approaches in healing and strengthening societies. The episode focuses on the virtues of communal partnerships, the teachings of mutual support found in indigenous and biblical contexts, and the rich tapestry of lessons drawn from a lifetime of empathetic service. Listeners are invited to look at success through the lens of community fortification and interconnectedness, echoed by the harmonious blend of corn, beans, and squash in traditional planting. Carol’s journey underscores the significance of mentorship on our personal and professional growth and reminds us that our work can be a profound act of worship.Bio: Carol Bremer-Bennett is World Renew’s U.S. Executive Director. As director, she oversees their work in 30 countries around the globe in poverty & hunger alleviation as well as disaster response. She is born to the To’aheedliinii (Waters Flow Together) Clan and to the Todich’iinii (Bitter Water) Clan of the Navajo Nation. Bremer-Bennett is an educator by training, with a B.A. from Calvin College and an M.A. from Western New Mexico University. Her extensive experience in Christian ministry spans more than 30 years of organizational leadership, leadership development, and administration.Resources:World Renew’s websiteSpiritual First Aid------------This episode was produced by WildfireCreative Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The BrillianceSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSSFollow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannanFollow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco @wheaton_hdi(Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll host Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to “do good, better” involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes, we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction– especially in our blind spots.)The Better Samaritan podcast is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers an M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website.Jamie Aten, Ph.D, and Kent Annan, M.Div., co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College and are the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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