#9 Finding Meaning in Suffering - A Social Worker's Perspective

#10 The Decision Dilemma: Why Too Many Options Leave Us Stuck - Jennifer Collins

Episode Description Have you ever felt paralyzed by too many choices? You’re not alone. For Gen Z, the pressure to make the perfect decision—whether about career, calling, or life direction—can feel overwhelming. With endless possibilities at their fingertips, many young adults find themselves stuck, afraid of choosing the wrong path and closing off other opportunities. In this episode of Innovate for Good, we sit down with Jenny Collins, Associate Professor of Intercultural Studies at Taylor University, to unpack what she calls the “decision dilemma.” She explains why having more options often leads to less clarity and how the fear of missing out can turn into vocational paralysis. Jenny also shares practical wisdom on how young adults can break free from indecision, take meaningful steps forward, and trust that God will guide them along the way. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your career, faith, or future plans, this conversation will help you shift your mindset, release the pressure of perfection, and take your next step with confidence. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why Gen Z struggles with decision-making and how to overcome “vocational paralysis” How biblical fear of the Lord contrasts with today’s culture of anxiety What older generations need to know about mentoring Gen Z effectively Why Gen Z’s global connectedness is both a strength and a challenge How time in nature and spiritual disciplines can help counteract digital overload Practical ways to support young adults in stepping into leadership and calling About the Guest Jenny Collins is an Associate Professor of Intercultural Studies at Taylor University, where she has mentored and equipped students for over two decades. She also serves on the board of MissionWorks and previously directed Taylor University’s Lighthouse International Service Learning Program, sending over a thousand students on cross-cultural mission projects. With a background in both computer science and theology, Jenny brings a unique perspective on vocational calling, spiritual formation, and the challenges facing Gen Z today. She has studied the impact of digital culture on young adults, the importance of biblical fear, and how institutions can better engage with a new generation of learners and leaders. Resources & References Mobilizing Gen Z: Challenges & Opportunities in the Next Generation – Jolene Erlacher Rejoice & Tremble: The Surprising Good News of the Fear of the Lord – Michael Reeves You Are Not Your Own: Belonging to God in an Inhuman World – Alan Noble Faith for Exiles: 5 Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon – David Kinnaman & Mark Matlock Taylor University’s Lighthouse Program – Learn more about short-term international service projects

#9 Finding Meaning in Suffering - A Social Worker's Perspective

Suffering is inevitable, but for social workers, it’s also part of the job. Every day, they step into the hardest moments of people’s lives—offering support, navigating loss, and witnessing transformation. But in walking through suffering with others, they, too, are changed. In this episode of Innovate for Good, Cedarville University professor Melissa Brown shares how facing suffering—both personally and professionally—shapes who we become. From hospice care to the classroom, she reveals how hardship builds resilience, deepens compassion, and strengthens faith. Whether you're exploring social work or seeking purpose in life's challenges, this conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement. In this Episode Why flexibility is essential in your career and faith journey How Gen Z’s strengths in advocacy and technology are reshaping social work What it really means to engage with people who think differently than you How social workers play a vital role in ministry—even in secular settings Why obedience to God doesn’t always mean an easy path How to build the right skills and mindset for a life of service About the Guest: Melissa Brown is a professor of social work at Cedarville University in Ohio, where she also serves as a field coordinator for students pursuing international social work internships in countries like India, Uganda, and Ecuador. Before stepping into academia, Melissa worked extensively in geriatrics, hospice care, and bereavement services, offering support to individuals at some of life’s hardest moments. Her passion lies in equipping the next generation of social workers—not only with the technical skills they need but with a deep understanding of how faith can shape their approach to helping others. Through her own personal journey, including adopting a child from China, Melissa has learned firsthand how flexibility, faith, and compassion are essential tools for both life and career. Links and References Learn more about Melissa [https://www.cedarville.edu/academic-schools-and-departments/social-work/faculty/melissa-brown] The Strengths Perspective in Social Work Practice by Dennis Saleebey [https://www.jstor.org/stable/23718172] Social Work as Ministry: A Guide for Faith-Based Service by John Harris [https://www.nacsw.org/Publications/CSW6DraftOnly.pdf] *National Association of Social Workers [https://www.socialworkers.org/] (NASW)*

#8 What Students Need to Know About Serving the Vulnerable - Carol Sisson

Description: How can you align your career with your calling to serve the vulnerable? Many of us feel drawn to helping others but struggle to find ways to integrate that into our lives and work. In this episode of Innovate for Good, Dr. Carol Sisson, director of the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children Program at Taylor University, shares practical advice on connecting your education, faith, and skills to meaningful work. This conversation will help you think practically about your next steps and how to approach your career with clarity, purpose, and a mindset of service. In This Episode: How Dr. Carol Sisson's upbringing and faith shaped her passion for serving vulnerable populations The unique blend of education and discipleship at Taylor University Practical ways to bring God’s heart for the vulnerable into your everyday life Why mentorship and modeling can spark lifelong change in others The importance of seeing missions and social justice as interconnected How the next generation is being prepared to lead with compassion and humility Dr. Sisson’s advice for students stepping into their careers About the Guest: Dr. Carol Sisson is a professor and director of the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Program at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, where she has been teaching for over 15 years. With a background in educational psychology and special education, Dr. Sisson combines academic rigor with a deep commitment to discipleship. Her passion is equipping students to live out God’s call to serve vulnerable populations with humility and compassion. Outside of the classroom, Dr. Sisson draws inspiration from her upbringing, where her parents modeled a life of service through fostering, volunteering, and dignifying all people. Taylor University Orphaned and Vulnerable Children Program [https://www.taylor.edu/academics/degrees/orphaned-vulnerable-children] An Unhurried Life: Following Jesus’ Rhythms of Work and Rest by Alan Fadling [https://www.amazon.com/Unhurried-Life-Following-Jesus-Rhythms/dp/0830835733] One Collective: serving opportunities [https://content.onecollective.org/serving]

#7 Teaching with Compassion - Becky Doane

Episode Description Ever been in a situation where you felt like the odds were stacked against you? Whether you’re figuring out your future, facing personal struggles, or navigating complicated relationships, it can be hard to see a way through. In this episode, Becky Doane, social work professor and program director at Cornerstone University, shares how the strengths perspective—a mindset shift that focuses on what’s already working—can help you find a way forward. Becky offers practical advice for applying this perspective to real-life situations, from tough family dynamics to choosing a career path. Whether you’re a student or young professional, you’ll walk away with fresh tools and renewed hope for tackling life’s challenges. In this Episode, You’ll learn: Becky’s journey from fieldwork to teaching social work How the strengths perspective empowers individuals and communities Practical steps to identify and apply personal strengths The importance of empathy and understanding in conflict resolution Navigating challenging family dynamics with healthy boundaries Preparing social work students for real-world situations Why this generation gives Becky hope for the future About the Guest: Becky Doane is a professor and the social work program director at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With years of experience in foster care, child welfare, and clinical mental health practice as a DBT clinician, Becky transitioned into teaching during the pandemic. Passionate about preparing future social workers, Becky is known for her compassionate teaching style and her commitment to equipping students with the tools to serve their communities effectively. She holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Grace College and an MSW from Grand Valley State University.

#6 Creating Inclusive Communities: Disability, Foster Care, and the Church - Dr. Mike Severe

Description: Are you wondering how to create a welcoming and inclusive environment in your workplace or community? The challenge of loving and serving people from all walks of life—especially those often overlooked—can feel overwhelming, whether you’re just starting out in your career or stepping into a new leadership role. In this episode of the Innovate for Good Podcast, Dr. Mike Severe shares his powerful story of ministering to people on the margins, including youth in foster care and those with disabilities. He unpacks practical ways to foster inclusion, compassion, and love, even when resources feel limited or you’re unsure where to start. If you’re ready to lead with a mindset of transformation and hospitality, this episode will inspire and equip you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How to build inclusive environments in your workplace or ministry. Practical ways to love and serve people with disabilities. Why small acts of kindness can have a big impact on marginalized communities. How trauma awareness can help you connect with those in need. The importance of seeing the Imago Dei (Image of God) in everyone you meet. Lessons on creating spaces of belonging for foster children and their families. How biblical hospitality can shape your approach to leadership. About the Guest: Dr. Mike Severe is a professor of Christian Ministries at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, where he directs both the Christian Ministries program and the Master of Arts in Ministry. A former pastor and lifelong advocate, Mike is committed to equipping the next generation of leaders to embrace inclusive and compassionate practices in their careers. His work focuses on supporting youth in foster care, people with disabilities, and others on the margins, challenging leaders to reflect God’s heart in every environment.