Growing up in Appalachia, Oliver Asher experienced extreme poverty. He lived in a shed, lost his sister in a car accident, and watched the shattering of his dreams. By trusting Jesus to bring good out of his hardships, he discovered great gratitude and invincible joy. Today he is president of Advancing Native Missions and has helped spread the Gospel in over 100 countries. In this episode, Oliver shares his story, discusses his new book, "Invincible Joy," and talks about how you can leave the world a better place regardless of where you are now.

Jesus came to proclaim good news to the poor and freedom to the imprisoned and oppressed (Luke 4:18–19). Today, in East Africa, remarkable native missionaries are following His lead — serving orphans, women trapped in prostitution, and others in need of true hope and practical help. God is transforming lives among the most vulnerable people. Lou Mancari talks about his recent trip to Uganda and Rwanda. You will definitely be encouraged and challenged by what you hear.

The COVID-19 pandemic hit some regions harder than others. Many countries in Latin America were devastated by its effects. But was missions work hindered by these challenges? Actually, in the midst of great adversity, many ministries experienced incredible growth. In this episode, Joel interviews Renee Lily, the regional director for Latin America at Advancing Native Missions. Renee shares how God has been saving souls, transforming lives, and building His church in amazing ways during the pandemic.

Late last year, Joel interviewed Jaap and Aziza DeCook, ANM’s field directors for Europe. They described the struggles of many church leaders in Eastern Europe, reeling from economic collapse, loss of church members, and stagnant growth. Jaap and Aziza shared testimonies of God’s saving power in spiritually dry places and how they encouraged these faithful servants to hold on to their hope in the Lord of the harvest.

Alexei and Lena Simonov are leaders of Open Doors Ministries in Ukraine. What began as a Christian camp for Ukrainian orphans has blossomed into a multifaceted ministry. During the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Open Doors turned the camp and multiple church basements into refuges for those fleeing the chaos and destruction. Alexei and Lena were able to flee to the United States, and the camp grounds have since been destroyed by the Russian army. They share what it was like when the invasion began and their hope for the orphans and co-workers they have loved and discipled.

Joy Tica is a Doctor and a medical missionary to her native country, the Philippines. Joy shares with us her story of becoming a Doctor, what inspires her to serve the poor and share the gospel, and her vision for sustainably supporting missions work in her region.

Do you ever wonder what it’s like to be a Christ-follower in a place where believers are persecuted for their faith? In this first episode of the Native Missions Podcast, Eric Vess shares the story of Miriam, a Muslim woman from Central Asia who chose Jesus at the risk of losing her life. Years later, Miriam and her husband are using sustainable business opportunities to share the Gospel with their neighbors and meet the needs of Afghan refugees.

What is a “native missionary"? On the Native Missions Podcast, we share the stories of indigenous gospel workers around the world who are reaching the lost with help and hope in the name of Jesus. Join us to hear powerful testimonies and missions insights that inform your global perspective and inspire your Christian faith.