Helping Women Thrive in Global Ministry with Abigail Doust EP#211

Helping Women Thrive in Global Ministry with Abigail Doust EP#211

In this episode, learn how Thrive Ministry [https://thriveministry.org/] provides life-transforming spiritual resources, retreats, and authentic community tailored specifically for women in cross-cultural ministry around the world. In cross-cultural ministry, women often serve quietly, tirelessly, and sacrificially, yet they frequently go unnoticed when it comes to receiving the care they need. Who is caring for them? In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] welcomes Abigail Doust, [https://thriveministry.org/about/our-team] Development Director at Thrive Ministry, to share how this remarkable organization is coming alongside women serving around the world. Through life-giving retreats, biblical encouragement, and authentic relationships, Thrive creates safe spaces where women can rest, process life's challenges, deepen their relationship with God, and rediscover joy in their calling. You'll hear inspiring stories of women who arrived at a retreat emotionally and spiritually exhausted, only to leave refreshed, renewed, and ready to continue serving with hope and purpose. Abigail also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the unique challenges women face in cross-cultural ministry, struggles that are often unseen by those back home and explains why intentional soul care isn't a luxury but an essential part of long-term, effective Kingdom service. Whether you're a sent out cross cultural worker, pastor, church leader, missions committee member, or someone who faithfully supports global workers, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for the women serving on the front lines of the Gospel. More importantly, you'll discover practical ways to encourage and strengthen those who spend their lives investing in others. If you've ever wondered how we can better care for the caregivers, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Previous Podcast Episodes with Thrive Ministry Volunteers: * Episode #155 Stories From the Heart of the Volunteer [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/stories-from-the-heart-of-the-volunteer-with-cindy-wiens-s5-ep153/]with Cindy Wiens * Episode #134 Empowering Women in International Ministry [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/empowering-women-in-international-ministry-cj-callahan-s4-ep136/] with CJ Callahan

Why God Uses Unlikely Leaders With Dr. Rex Rogers EP#210

What do Moses, Gideon, Esther, David, and Peter have in common? None of them looked like the obvious choice for leadership. Yet God used each of them to accomplish extraordinary things. Throughout Scripture, God has a remarkable pattern of calling ordinary, imperfect, and often reluctant people to lead His people and advance His Kingdom. In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/]welcomes Dr. Rex Rogers, [https://www.rexmrogers.com/] author of Be One of God's Unlikely Leaders: Live With Focus, Get Things Done. Together they explore why God often chooses unlikely leaders, how biblical leadership differs from the world's definition of success, and what qualities truly matter in God's Kingdom. Dr. Rogers shares practical insights on overcoming self-doubt, staying focused in a distracted world, leading with humility, and accomplishing what God has called you to do without losing sight of your purpose. Whether you're a pastor, missionary, nonprofit leader, business professional, volunteer, or simply someone wondering if God could use you, this conversation will encourage and challenge you. You don't need a perfect resume, a charismatic personality, or a leadership title for God to work through your life. You simply need a willing heart and a commitment to faithfully follow His calling. If you've ever felt overlooked, underqualified, or uncertain about your leadership potential, this episode is for you. Discover why God still delights in using unlikely leaders to accomplish extraordinary things for His Kingdom.

Broadcasting Hope Beyond the Boundaries with Dennis Wiens EP#209

Thirty years ago, many believed Christian ministry in the Middle East and North Africa faced insurmountable barriers. Churches were scarce, believers often isolated, and traditional ministry methods struggled. Yet a bold vision led by Dr. Terence Ascott [https://www.terenceascott.com/] gave birth to SAT-7 [https://www.sat7usa.org/], a pioneering satellite television ministry that would change the landscape of Christian ministry across the region. In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] explores how SAT-7 became one of the most influential Christian media ministries in the Middle East and North Africa. Broadcasting 24/7 in Arabic, Persian, Dari, and Turkish, SAT-7 uses satellite television, digital, and social media platforms to bring biblical teaching, worship, discipleship, prayer support, and hope directly into homes across the region. Discover how culturally relevant programming created by Middle Eastern and North African believers is strengthening faith, connecting viewers to local churches, and providing encouragement amid conflict, persecution, and uncertainty. Learn how innovative media ministry continues to overcome barriers that traditional approaches often cannot. Whether you're a church leader, donor, missions advocate, or simply passionate about global outreach, this episode offers a compelling look at how courage, creativity, and technology are expanding access to the Gospel in some of the world's most challenging places. Previous Episodes to learn more about SAT-7: EP#207 Broadcasting Hope in a Changing Middle East and North Africa [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/broadcasting-hope-in-a-region-of-change-with-rami-al-halaseh-ep207/]with Rami Al-Halaseh EP#194 Music, Marriage, Media, and Ministry: A Story of Faithful Impact [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/music-marriage-media-and-ministry-a-story-of-faithful-impact-with-rawad-and-marianne-daou-s5-ep196/]with Rawad and Marianne Daou

Curative Culture: Stepping Away from a Toxic Workplace with Douglas Shaw EP#208

Are your workplace vibes healthy or toxic? Learn what to look for and how to turn things around. Most of us have experienced toxic environments that drain energy and crush morale. But what if you could build a curative culture – one rooted in trust, respect, and biblical values? In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] welcomes Doug Shaw, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-shaw-016a787/?skipRedirect=true] Founder and CEO of Douglas Shaw and Associates, [https://www.douglasshaw.com] to explore how organizations (churches, ministries, and businesses) can move beyond toxic environments to cultivate curative cultures. Discover practical steps and biblical principles for fostering trust, safety, and purpose at work. In this episode, we discuss: * The origins and meaning of curative culture * Signs that a workplace culture is becoming toxic * Key behaviors leaders should exhibit to promote health and trust * The importance of living out organizational values consistently * How the Imago Dei influences leadership and treatment of others * Practical steps to begin transforming an organization’s culture * The role of mission, vision, and values in shaping a positive environment Stay inspired to lead with integrity, embody biblical values, and create environments where people flourish. Share this episode with your church, workplace, and nonprofit team to foster healthier, more curative cultures.

Broadcasting Hope in a Changing Middle East and North Africa with Rami Al-Halaseh EP#207

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/]sits down with Rami Al-Halaseh, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rami-al-halaseh-620b162b/] Executive Director of SAT-7 Arabic Channels and Digital Media, to discuss the dramatic shifts reshaping the Middle East and North Africa. Political upheaval, economic instability, and shifting alliances have altered the region’s landscape, creating both uncertainty and unprecedented ministry opportunity. Rami shares how SAT-7 has strategically pivoted, expanding digital engagement and strengthening its Arabic programming to accompany viewers through crises. Discover how Christian media is meeting spiritual hunger in turbulent times and why this moment may be one of the most significant opportunities for Gospel impact in decades. Previous episodes from the Middle East: * Music, Marriage, Media, and Ministry: A Story of Faithful Impact [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/music-marriage-media-and-ministry-a-story-of-faithful-impact-with-rawad-and-marianne-daou-s5-ep196/]with Rawad and Marianne Daou S5 EP#194 * Theology, Technology, and SAT-7 [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/theology-technology-and-sat-7-with-ray-heinen-s5-ep176/]with Ray Heinen S5 EP#176