A multitude of orphanages in the Global South continue to be supported by well-meaning Christians throughout the world. Research and scripture both indicate that God’s design for children is to grow up in a family, but what do we do when it’s the church that needs to be convinced of this? Brandon Stiver is joined today by Tony Lewry who shares his experience in orphan care and cross-cultural ministry over the years as we dive into what it looks like to change mindsets and practices in these global chains of care. Tony leads The Homecoming Project and coordinates across a coalition of organizations tackling the issue of children outside of parental care. In our conversation, Tony and Brandon discuss the evolution of family-based care, the challenges and successes of implementing foster care, and the vital role of the church in advocating for vulnerable children.
Author Archives: Brandon Stiver
The US Intervention in Venezuela with Ambassador Alejandro Martinez Ubieda and Dr. Greg Burch
This US capture of Nicolás Maduro presents a range of considerations and reflections across international law, humanitarian needs and diplomacy in the Western Hemisphere. This episode delves into the complex political landscape of Venezuela, focusing on the historical context leading to the rise of Nicolás Maduro and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Brandon Stiver is joined by a former Venezuelan Ambassador, Alejandro Martinez Ubieda and Global Studies educator Dr. Greg Burch to discuss the implications of Maduro’s capture, the corruption and human rights violations under his regime, and the potential for a democratic transition in Venezuela. They also explore the role of international relations and U.S. involvement in shaping the future of the country, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and humanitarian support for Venezuelans both at home and abroad.
Conflict Transformation in Sri Lanka and Beyond with Prashan De Visser
We live in a world that is in desperate need of peace and wholeness. Communities across the globe are ravaged by violence and instability, but what does it look like to be practitioners that seek to transform conflict into thriving communities. In this conversation, Brandon Stiver is joined by Prashan De Visser, the Founder and CEO of Global Unites. Prashan shares his insights on the impact of colonialism, civil war and poor governance in Sri Lanka and the role of the church can play in conflict transformation. He shares about the work of Global Unites in promoting peace and reconciliation in over 20 countries emphasizing the importance of nonviolence, grassroots movements, and youth leadership in conflict transformation. This conversation dives into the complexities and the unique hope that comes with youth movements for peace.
Starting Subversive Discipleship Movements with Craig Greenfield
As we start 2026, we should be asking how to join the things that God is already doing. Where is he moving and how do we join such movements? Our old friend Craig Greenfield returns to the show to discuss the growth and impact of Alongsiders International, a movement focused on discipleship and mentorship for vulnerable children. He emphasizes the importance of contextualizing ministry in diverse cultures and how the challenges of consumerism in Western churches can inhibit true discipleship. Craig discusses the unique role that young people are playing throughout the world including with Gen Z protests that are toppling unjust countries or subverting contexts that are hostile to the Christianity. No better way to start off the new year than to have Craig encourage all of us to engage with God’s heart for justice and to seek transformative relationships that reflect the teachings of Jesus.
Reviewing Masaka Kids Movie with Dr. Laura Horvath
In this episode of Think Global, Do Justice, Brandon Stiver and Dr. Laura Horvath critically analyze the Netflix documentary ‘Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within.’ They discuss the portrayal of orphanages, the commodification of children, and the importance of family and community in child welfare. The conversation highlights the need for systemic change in how society addresses the needs of vulnerable children, emphasizing that the core deprivation of orphans is not just lack of resources, but lack of family connections. After the interview, Brandon shares a few podcast updates as we wrap up 2025.
AI Theology, Practice and Ethics for Nonprofits with Albert Chen
In this enlightening episode, Brandon Stiver is joined by Albert Chen, who is the cofounder and CEO of Anago. The two discuss the profound impact of AI on Christian nonprofits. Albert shares his journey from community development in Mexico to the tech world and emphasizes the interconnectedness of global issues with the ethical considerations surrounding AI development. Albert demystifies AI, explaining the differences between machine learning and generative AI, and offers practical applications for nonprofits. He introduces the concept of Redemptive AI, advocating for its ethical use to benefit the global majority. The conversation concludes with a call for Christian organizations to engage thoughtfully with AI, ensuring it enhances their mission rather than detracts from it.
Nonprofit Governance 101 with Kelly Strong
Are the internal structures of our organizations fit for the mission that God has called us to? In this episode, Brandon Stiver welcomes Kelly Strong of Safe International for a conversation on organizational identity and healthy global partnerships. They explore why mission must remain central and the role of values in shaping behavior, culture, and daily decision-making, especially within diverse, international teams. They examine common challenges like founder’s syndrome and how it can limit growth if left unaddressed. If you are needing help with your nonprofit, reach out at brandon@canopy.international
Formation, AI and Finding Community in Christian Humanitarian Work
*Brandon’s Note: In step with the topic at hand, I’ve turned over all show notes and interview audio editing to AI for this week’s episode.
In this conversation, Brandon Stiver and Michael Cerna reflect on the challenges and changes faced by non-profit organizations in 2025. They discuss the importance of community, the impact of funding changes, and the role of AI in shaping the future of non-profits. The conversation emphasizes the need for spiritual formation and collaboration among leaders in the sector, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding AI usage. Ultimately, they highlight the significance of building relationships and fostering a supportive community in navigating the complexities of non-profit work.
Discipleship is About Taking Jesus Seriously with Alan Hirsch
What does it mean to be a gospel-centered church and should we be a gospel-centered church? As we think through taking the Gospel into the world and fulfilling the Great Commission, have we short changed discipleship by making Matthew 28 all about evangelism? In this conversation with Brandon Stiver, author and missiologist Alan Hirsch joins the show to discuss the current state of discipleship within the church, emphasizing the disconnect between modern practices and the teachings of Jesus. He argues that without true discipleship, churches risk producing a form of religion that strays from Christ-likeness.
A Movement to End Global Poverty with Carissa Youssef
Global poverty is ubiquitous and seemingly intractable, but what if we had a way to mobilize people and a fundraising mechanism that invites ubiquitous participation? In this episode we’re joined by Carissa Youseff who is the Executive Director at One Day’s Wages. She emphasizes the need for Christians to expand their definition of neighbor to include global awareness and responsibility. Carissa discusses the unique approach of One Day’s Wages, which encourages collective generosity by donating one day’s wage to support local leaders and address complex poverty issues. Her conversation with Brandon Stiver also touches on the importance of mutuality in partnerships, rethinking empowerment, and the future of nonprofit work in a rapidly changing world.
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