The Better Samaritan Podcast Wheaton HDI

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 International
https://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
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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.
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

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 website
Spiritual First Aid

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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.
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

On this episode of The Better Samaritan, Leah Kral, Senior Director of Strategy and Innovation at the Mercatus Center, joins us to discuss her transition from the profit-driven marketplace to a life enriched by service and social progress. 

Our conversation with Leah explores effective leadership and the role of innovation within the nonprofit realm. Leah shares six principles from her book that—when followed—allow organizations to dream big, start small, and foster a culture where collaboration and empowerment thrive. Her stories, filled with successes and challenges, reveal the complex yet rewarding nature of sparking actual societal change.

As we discover, the journey to progress through innovation isn't without its stumbles; failure and faith often walk hand in hand. Through this candid conversation about the necessity of risk-taking and the nuanced role of faith in leadership, we're reminded that the road most worth taking is one paved with humility and curiosity.

Bio:
Leah Kral is an expert facilitator and author who helps nonprofits innovate and further social change. As senior director of strategy and innovation at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, Leah Kral provides tailored workshops and consulting to internal teams and a network of nonprofit partners nationwide. For decades, she has been helping teams to break out of the busy daily routine and draw out their best creative thinking. She is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Jamaica ‘02-’04) and continues to serve as an active volunteer in her community. 

Resources:

Leah’s website

Leah’s book, Innovation for Social Change: How Wildly Successful Non-Profits Inspire and Deliver Results
HDI’s MA in Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership degree
Spiritual First Aid Certification Course
------------
This episode was produced by WildfireCreative 
Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The Brilliance
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn 
Follow us on LinkedIn: /jamieaten | /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 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

(Note: this episode is part of both our Innovation and Vocation series.)

Unlock the transformative power of weaving faith and creativity with business as we feature a fellow member of the Wheaton family, Tommy Lee. Tommy combines a heart of service with a love for equipping leaders and fostering collaboration. The episode is filled with actionable insights and practical wisdom for anyone wanting to grow professionally.

As we trace his career evolution, our discussion sheds light on the importance of discipline, passion, and the pursuit of joy. Tommy shares the story of one woman's ingenious use of her family's ships to aid Indonesian islands—a testament to the boundless potential of innovation for the greater good. 

He also urges listeners to learn from each person they meet, remain open to new ideas (and God’s surprising detours), and be unfailingly generous with their contacts and expertise. 

Listen now to be encouraged in your vocational journey.

Bio:

Tommy Lee has extensive experience in faith and work integration, organizational development, and building networks. Currently, he leads Resource Global, the Center for Faith and Innovation (CFI) at Wheaton College, and TogetherLA. As the Executive Director of CFI, he develops initiatives that engage marketplace leaders and provide training on integrating faith and work for students. As the Founder and President of Resource Global, Tommy has successfully launched cohorts of young Christian marketplace leaders in 13 cities around the world.  He is also the President of CreatePossible, where he has developed and managed corporate visions and strategic plans for client organizations, created new companies, and implemented funding strategies. Tommy brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to empower leaders to align their faith with their work, create positive change, and make a lasting impact.
 

Resources:

Wheaton College’s Center for Faith & Innovation
HDI’s MA in Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership degree
Apply now to join our MA program
Spiritual First Aid Certification Course
------------
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.
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

About the episode:

(Note: this episode is the second in our "Vocation" series.)

Have you ever wondered how your job could not just pay the bills but also feed your soul? Today’s conversation is for anyone who longs to make a tangible difference in the lives of others but wonders how to get started–or continue.

Kent once again welcomes Peter Greer of Hope International, and they discuss the joys and challenges of embracing a vocation with purpose. They also talk about ways to prepare for a job interview, how to find the right people to partner with, and how to stay focused when the needs in communities around the globe are overwhelming. 

Managing a large and diverse team can sometimes feel like steering a ship through a storm, but in this episode, Peter gives a masterclass in leadership and innovation. He touches on management issues and problem-solving within a large non-profit organization, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal strengths with professional roles and fostering a culture of curiosity. 

Thanks for joining us as we reflect on gratitude for our work and the community it creates. Together, let’s keep learning to “do good, better”--faithfully.

Bio:

Peter Greer is the president and CEO of HOPE International, a global Christ-centered economic development organization serving throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Under Peter’s leadership, HOPE has expanded from working in two to over twenty countries and served over 2.5 million families. Before joining HOPE, Peter worked in Cambodia, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda. He has co-authored 15 books, including Mission Drift, Rooting for Rivals, The Gift of Disillusionment, and The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good. His new book, Lead with Prayer, will be available nationwide on January 16, 2024.
 

Resources:

The first episode in the “Vocation” series: Navigating a Fulfilling Career in Humanitarian Spaces

Another conversation with Peter: How to Sustain Hope and Resist Disillusionment when Doing Good
HDI’s MA in Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership degree
Spiritual First Aid Certification Course
------------
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 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

In this episode, the first in our “Vocation” series, we unlock valuable insights on navigating a fulfilling career in the humanitarian and justice sectors with friends and special guests, Jonathan Dahlager and Joy Lee. Jonathan and Joy share from their personal experiences about the pivotal role of internships, mentorship, and the right team support in shaping vocations that make a difference globally. 

Education, skills, and experience have taken center stage in the ever-evolving humanitarian sector. We discuss the significance of exploring diverse roles to identify your strengths and interests. In addition, Joy and Jonathan encourage those interested in humanitarian and justice work to cultivate an attitude of humility, a passion for learning, and the willingness to accept guidance from those who've traveled these rewarding—and challenging—paths before. 

Listen now for insights that will equip you to take steps toward a successful, impactful career. 

Bios:

Jonathan Dahlager joined the HDI family as an accelerated student with the very first cohort of the MA in Humanitarian Disaster Leadership program and graduated in the third cohort in 2021. In 2023, he took on a Project Manager position focused on World Vision’s WASH work in challenging and fragile contexts. His experience working in challenging environments includes traveling for World Vision, living in Colombia for six months with a grassroots peace and reconciliation organization, and volunteering, interpreting, and leading programs in low-income communities near where he grew up in Costa Rica.

Joy Lee oversees the education programs of the Humanitarian Disaster Institute and supports a growing alumni community. She also maintains partnerships with NGOs for collaborative opportunities. Joy’s previous work involved coordinating and developing projects related to anti-oppressive education, the arts, gender-based violence, and advocacy. She has worked on projects in different mediums, such as Torn Memories of Nanking by Tamaki Matsuoka (ALPHA Education); In Sundry Languages by Toronto Lab Theatre (play); Make Food, Not War by Siobhan Productions Inc. (short documentary); Everything will Live Where the River Goes by Blades Art Project (Mural). 

Resources:
HDI’s MA in Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership degree
World Vision’s WASH program
The Christian Alliance for Inclusive Development (a community that focuses on gender justice and gathers people to recognize, equip, and advance women in “key decision-making positions globally” in the relief and development sectors)
------------
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 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 a 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 also the Co-Founders of Spiritual First Aid.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices