Think Global, Do Justice

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. Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Anago.ai Online Praxis : A Redemptive Thesis for Artificial Intelligence Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Conversation Notes Introduction to AI and Its Impact on Nonprofits (2:30) Albert's Journey through ministry and tech (5:22) Understanding Global Interconnectedness (8:21) The Role of Technology in Community Development (11:23) Demystifying AI: Machine Learning vs. Generative AI (14:27) Ethical Considerations in AI Development (17:20) Navigating AI as a Christian Nonprofit Leader (20:39) The Role of AI in Nonprofit Organizations (32:54) Augmentation vs. Automation in Nonprofits (38:20) Christian Hope and Responsibility in the Age of AI (43:24)   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

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 Support the Show Through Venmo – @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Mission Based Management by Peter C. Brinkerhoff Safe International Online Email brandon@canopy.international if you're interested in a community of practice or one-on-one or team support. Conversation Notes Understanding the centrality of an organizations mission The collaboration that develops around Vision statements Values : Behaviors, culture and decision making Interacting and collaborating with partners across global teams The pitfalls of founder's syndrome The differences between covenant and contract in international partnerships   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

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. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Join the Accord Network Email brandon@canopy.international if you're interested in a community of practice or one-on-one or team support. Takeaways 2025 has been a year of significant change and uncertainty for non-profits. The need for physical presence and community is more important than ever. Funding changes have left many organizations in a precarious position. Leaders must navigate conflicting narratives about growth and success. AI is a major disruptor that organizations must learn to leverage. Community groups are vital for support and collaboration among non-profit leaders. Ethical considerations around AI usage are crucial for organizations. Spiritual formation should be integrated into non-profit work. The delineation between home and office has become blurred in remote work. Building relationships is essential for effective non-profit work.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

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. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Disciplism : Reimagining Evangelism Through the Lens of Discipleship (Amazon) Reframation : Seeing God, People, and Mission Through Reenchanted Frames (Amazon) Alan's Substack Conversation Notes What we're experiencing now in America is a trend in the church. Alan's experience growing up as a Jewish person in apartheid South Africa If the churches that we lead do not disciple, we will produce bad religion. We are not producing Christ-likeness in our churches. The image of God is reflected in Jesus' way of being human. Modern churches need to align more closely with Jesus' teachings. The consequences of poor discipleship can be detrimental to faith communities. Examples of modern Christians that are getting discipleship right. Churches must focus on producing genuine followers of Christ.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

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 Youssef 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. Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Podcast Sponsors Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Give Your One Day's Wage! Conversation Notes Carissa's early experiences with vulnerability shaped her calling to serve others. Community support is crucial during times of personal and family crises. Expanding the definition of neighbor includes global awareness and responsibility. One Day's Wages promotes collective generosity through donating one day's wage. Supporting local leaders is essential for effective global nonprofit work. Understanding the complexities of poverty requires a multi-dimensional approach. Building relationships with local organizations fosters trust and collaboration. Rethinking empowerment to focus on strengthening local communities is vital. Generosity should be rooted in faith and a commitment to serve others. The future of nonprofit work requires adaptability and a focus on local needs.   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License