Unconventional Ministry

The Persian World – Hope Beyond the Headlines with Omeed Jouyandeh EP#212

While many assume the Gospel has little opportunity to spread in Iran and the Persian-speaking world, God is writing a very different story. Across Iran, Afghanistan, and among millions living in the Persian diaspora, people are searching for truth and finding hope through innovative Christian media.

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens welcomes Omeed Jouyandeh from SAT-7 PARS to explore how satellite television, the SAT-7 PLUS streaming platform, and social media are reaching millions of Persian speakers with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. Despite internet shutdowns, censorship, and the challenges of living in one of the world's most restricted regions, SAT-7 PARS is providing biblical teaching, worship, live prayer, and discipleship to believers who often have no local church to call home.

In this episode, you will learn how thoughtful, culturally relevant programs like Is God to Blame? and Sanctuary of the Heart are helping Persian viewers wrestle with life's deepest questions. You'll also discover the remarkable story of the Iranian Church, a movement that has grown from just a few hundred believers in 1979 to well over a million today, demonstrating that God is powerfully at work even where faith is costly.

Learn how your prayers, encouragement, and financial support can help SAT-7 PARS continue broadcasting hope beyond borders and bringing the Gospel to Persian-speaking people who are hungry to know Jesus. Join the Prayer Team!

Previous Podcast Episodes About SAT-7:

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

EP#206 The Cost of Faith in Iran with SAT-7 PARS Behind the headlines of protests, government crackdowns, and deepening economic crisis in Iran, a quieter story is unfolding – one rarely told. It is the story of a resilient and growing community of Jesus followers who live under constant pressure, isolation, and surveillance, yet continue to cling to hope. In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry podcast, we go beyond the news cycle to hear what everyday Iranians are truly facing and how faith endures when public worship is impossible and gathering as the church can be dangerous.

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

In this episode, learn how Thrive Ministry 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 welcomes Abigail Doust, 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 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 with Cindy Wiens
• Episode #134 Empowering Women in International Ministry 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 welcomes Dr. Rex Rogers, 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 gave birth to SAT-7, 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 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 with Rami Al-Halaseh

EP#194 Music, Marriage, Media, and Ministry: A Story of Faithful Impact 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 welcomes Doug Shaw, Founder and CEO of Douglas Shaw and Associates, 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 sits down with Rami Al-Halaseh, 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 with Rawad and Marianne Daou S5 EP#194
• Theology, Technology, and SAT-7 with Ray Heinen S5 EP#176

The Cost of Faith in Iran with SAT-7 PARS EP#206

Behind the headlines of protests, government crackdowns, and deepening economic crisis in Iran, a quieter story is unfolding – one rarely told. It is the story of a resilient and growing community of Jesus followers who live under constant pressure, isolation, and surveillance, yet continue to cling to hope. In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry podcast, we go beyond the news cycle to hear what everyday Iranians are truly facing and how faith endures when public worship is impossible and gathering as the church can be dangerous.

You’ll discover how SAT-7 PARS, a 24/7 Persian-language Christian multimedia ministry, is responding with courage and creativity. Through satellite television and digital platforms that cannot be censored, SAT-7 PARS beams worship, biblical teaching, pastoral counseling, and live prayer directly into homes across Iran and the wider Persian world. For many believers, this is not just encouragement; it is their only “church,” a lifeline of community and spiritual nourishment when meeting openly is not an option.

Host Dennis Wiens is joined by Reza Jafari, SAT-7 PARS Multimedia Senior Manager, and Nazanin Ashari, SAT-7 PARS Programming Manager. Together, they share firsthand insights into the spiritual hunger they are witnessing, the risks Iranian believers face, and how God is powerfully at work through unconventional ministry approaches. This episode will challenge your assumptions, strengthen your faith, and invite you to stand in prayerful solidarity with a Church that shines brightest in the darkest places.

Read more on SAT-7 USA's website: "Satellite Programs Offer Lifeline of Hope to Iranians."

Empowering Ability: Redefining Education for Adults with Disabilities EP#205

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens welcomes Brian Canright, President of Shepherds College Foundation, a pioneering post-secondary institution for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Discover how this pioneering institution is transforming education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a Christ-centered approach.

Discover how their unique programs foster independence and prepare students for meaningful employment. Don't miss Brian's insights on expanding their mission globally and the incredible impact on communities.

A previous Episode You Will Learn From:

While 99% of pastors and 97% of churchgoers say people with special needs are welcome in their churches, only 29% of churches have actual programs to support them. Why the disconnect? Closing the Special Needs Ministry Gap with Russ Ewell EP#184 Uncover the barriers that keep churches from truly including people with disabilities, and how to break them down.

 

Transforming Leadership Transitions with Matt Davis EP#204

What if your next leadership transition could multiply your ministry instead of tearing it apart? Is your church prepared for its next leadership change? What if a resignation, termination, or succession didn’t create chaos, but instead became a catalyst for growth?

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, Dennis Wiens and guest Matt Davis discuss the complexities of leadership transitions in ministry. Ministry Transitions is helping churches and organizations navigate change, not with fear or fallout, but with grace, clarity, and unity.

Learn how to manage these transitions to foster growth rather than chaos, emphasizing the importance of succession planning and community support. Matt shares his personal experiences and insights from his work with Ministry Transitions, highlighting the need for clear communication and resources for both leaders and organizations during these challenging times.

Pixels with Purpose: Animation as a Ministry Tool with Joshua Vennetti EP#203

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens talks with Joshua Vennetti, animator of Saul of Tarsus Film, about how animation can powerfully serve the church and ministry. Joshua shares how his passion for stop-motion videos, sparked by a gift from his parents of LEGO at age 13, evolved into a creative tool for sharing biblical truth in fresh, engaging ways. Discover how animation captures attention, communicates complex ideas, and connects with younger audiences in today’s digital world. This conversation inspires ministry leaders to embrace creativity and see how God can use art, motion, and imagination to reach hearts with the Gospel.

Have you seen animation or visual storytelling used effectively in your church or ministry? How do you think animation could help your church connect better with younger audiences? Why or why not?

If you could animate one Bible story, which would it be and why?

A previous podcast episode you may enjoy:

Music, Marriage, Media, and Ministry: A Story of Faithful Impact with Rawad and Marianne Daou (EP#194). Rawad and Marianne Daou, a dynamic couple serving with SAT-7 ARABIC in Beirut, Lebanon. Marianne, a longtime media presence and the Viewer Support Manager, shares how her early start as a child TV presenter eventually led her to minister to couples and families through media. Rawad, a veteran TV director with 25 years of experience, offers insight into the creative and spiritual impact of SAT-7's broadcasts across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).