What happens when an ordinary family comes face-to-face with an injustice they can no longer ignore? In Episode 3 of Philanthropolis, host Ted Rusinoff sits down with Matt and Laura Parker, co-founders of The Exodus Road, a global nonprofit fighting human trafficking around the world. In 2010, Matt and Laura moved their family to Southeast Asia, where they began directing a children’s home for hill-tribe girls in rural Northern Thailand. It was there that they were exposed to the realities of human trafficking happening around them. As Matt began learning more about the issue, he built relationships with local NGOs and law enforcement and eventually began working alongside police as an undercover investigator — entering bars and brothels, gathering evidence, and helping authorities identify victims and build cases against traffickers. It was dangerous, difficult work that neither Matt nor Laura could have imagined when their family first arrived in Thailand. But it ultimately became the beginning of The Exodus Road. Founded in 2012, The Exodus Road has grown from the work of one couple into a global organization partnering with law enforcement, equipping communities to protect vulnerable people, and supporting survivors on their journey to freedom. In this episode, Ted talks with Matt and Laura about their unexpected journey into the fight against human trafficking, what those early undercover operations were really like, the realities of building an organization around such difficult work, and how two ordinary people found themselves pursuing an extraordinary mission. They also explore the toll this work can take on a family, the lessons Matt and Laura have learned along the way, and why they continue to believe that ordinary people can play a meaningful role in the fight for freedom. Learn more about The Exodus Road at theexodusroad.com About Philanthropolis Philanthropolis is built around a simple idea: When good people get together, doing good things, great things happen. Every two weeks, host Ted Rusinoff sits down with the people behind nonprofits, charities, and organizations making a meaningful difference around the world. Through their stories, we explore the people, passions, and purpose behind the organizations creating positive change
