The Better Samaritan Podcast

• From Farming to Philanthropy: Neil Hart's Mission-Driven Journey

  Tune in to the latest episode of The Better Samaritan Podcast as Neil Hart shares his inspiring story. Hear how he pivoted from a life in farming to becoming the Executive Head of the Mergon Foundation. We dive into his faith-driven path, showcasing the power of long-term relationships and innovative philanthropy. We also explore the global impact of the FiftyFour Collective, a collaborative platform developing organizational health worldwide. With a focus on creativity, adaptability, and divine guidance, Neil’s inspiring story offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in mission-driven work and impactful partnerships. Listen in to learn more :  ​​(01:47) Partnering With Ministries Across the Region  (11:21) Journey of Faith and Creativity  (13:53) The Power of Humility and Partnership  (17:45) Global Collaboration for Free Educational Courses  (23:06) Ministry Learning Journeys Organization and Structure  Bio: Neil Hart is the Executive Head of the Mergon Foundation. Before joining in 2018, he founded and led a creative brand marketing agency, led global missions and church planting organizations, and was involved in several church planting movements. Neil holds a BA in graphic design from Nelson Mandela University. Resources: Mergon Foundation FiftyFour Collective  Spiritual First Aid Download 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 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

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• 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 Network Spiritual First Aid Download 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 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

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• 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 Hirst  In 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 Aid Download 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 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

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• 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 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.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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  33:59
• 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: Leadership Spiritual First Aid Download 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 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

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