In this interview from last year’s CLA Outcomes Conference, we speak with National Commander – Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder, who has been with The Salvation Army for 33 years. Ken believes that one of the organization’s strengths is that they don’t have a narrow focus. This allows The Salvation Army to help people wherever they are – however, it can also lead to burn out. Throughout the pandemic, The Salvation Army has been working to meet the needs of the many Americans who have fallen under the poverty line. They went from serving 52 million meals per year to over 225 million in 2020! However, God is faithful, and Ken says that giving went up by 27% this year, which allowed the Army to do what it does best – love on people! Ken also shares with us how he keeps himself from burnout with a routine and schedule that keep his faith centered on Christ.

Commissioner Hodder is 6th generation Salvationist, 4th generation commissioner, and 2nd generation National Commander.  What a legacy he has followed and will leave for future generations. His final words to leaders were to not try to change the people but use their strengths to serve.

Guests: Kenneth Hodder

Ministry/ Workplace: The Salvation Army

YouTube Video

In this interview from the most recent Outcome’s Conference, we talk with Rich Stearns, the President Emeritus of World Vision, about keeping your marriage and your faith strong, leading with values, and what a thriving ministry looks like. As to this last bit, Rich relates thriving in faith and ministry to the core mission of World Vision: to restore the dignity of the poor and bring hope to the hopeless. Isn’t this what we should all be doing? When we work to bring dignity and hope to everyone in our sphere of influence, our teams, organizations, and clients thrive.

Plus, Rich discusses his new book Lead Like It Matters to God: Values-Driven Leadership in a Success-Driven World, which was selected as the Christian Leadership Alliance book of the year. Surrender and sacrifice are just two of the 17 values that he outlines in this new book. Rich’s writing style is easy and the lessons are long lasting – be sure to pick up a copy today!

Guests: Rich Stearns

Ministry/ Workplace: World Vision

YouTube Video

In this show from the most recent CLA Outcomes Conference, we talk with Brenda Long, Sr. Director of Infrastructure Operations at Food for the Hungry. Brenda has been with Food for the Hungry, an organization that takes a holistic approach to ending poverty through purposeful relief, for over 26 years. Tune in as we discuss getting still before God, leadership development, personality tests, and the mission to end hunger. 

When we asked Brenda about the daunting task of ending hunger, she said that Food for the Hungry is simply called to be a part of the solution, not the whole thing. They believe that it is through partnership and cooperation that the Kingdom of God comes to fruition. Accordingly, Brenda says we are all leaders, even if it's not in your title. Studying the enneagram is one tool that has helped her to lead better and understand those she leads. As a 7, she has a deep need to be around others, and this past year has challenged that need, first in losing her mom and then during the pandemic. For more information on Food for the Hungry's mission, check out their FREE eBook download, God's Story!

Guests: Brenda Long

Ministry/ Workplace: Food for the Hungry

YouTube Video

Transcript

Business and poverty may seem like opposites, but is there a deeper connection between the two? Find out in part two of this PowerPod with Dr. E. Calvin Beisner and Ephie Johnson from “Neighborhood Christian Centers.” All throughout Scripture we see Jesus’ care for the poor and impoverished, a compassionate calling that is still on us as Christ-followers today. And we aren’t just talking about donating money to charity – we are talking about personal engagement and long-term societal solutions to poverty. Join us as we discuss holistic care, networking and collaboration, generosity and charitable donations.

Featured Guest: Calvin Beisner & Ephie Johnson 
Ministry/Workplace: Neighborhood Christian Centers

Business and poverty may seem like opposites, but is there a deeper connection between the two? Find out in part one of this PowerPod with Dr. E. Calvin Beisner and Ephie Johnson from “Neighborhood Christian Centers.” Throughout Scripture, we see Jesus’ care for the poor and impoverished, a compassionate calling still on us as Christ-followers today. And we aren’t just talking about donating money to charity – we are talking about personal engagement and long-term societal solutions to poverty. Join us as we discuss collaboration, generational care and support, and other real solutions for a tough subject.

Featured Guest: Calvin Beisner & Ephie Johnson 
Ministry/Workplace: Neighborhood Christian Centers