From a small spark in 1936 to ministry in 56 countries today, BCM International is a testament to how faithfulness multiplies. President Rick Rhoads joins us to share how this global organization is equipping thousands of local leaders to disciple, plant churches, and serve vulnerable children across the world.

In this conversation, Rick reflects on the challenges of stewarding leadership across continents, balancing organizational systems with Spirit-led freedom, and why developing spiritually healthy leaders is essential in every context.

Whether you’re leading a global mission, building a campus culture, or just starting out in ministry, this episode offers hard-won insights on leadership, trust, and legacy.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅How BCM grew from a single curriculum moment to a global movement

✅What it means to lead in a “flat” international organization

✅Why proximity matters more than policy in global leadership

✅Why the safest place you can be is in the center of God’s will

✅The crisis and miracle rhythm of global ministry

✅Opportunities for higher ed to partner with global, grassroots training

🎙️ Inside the Episode

01:55 – The story behind BCM International’s founding and global growth

07:44 – Building global trust through presence and listening

10:26 – Modeling healthy leadership succession across cultures

15:30 – The challenge of balancing freedom and systems in global ministry

18:23 – Faith under fire: leading through war, disaster, and crisis

25:07 – Developing spiritual practices to prevent decision fatigue

31:32 – Bridging the education access gap for pastors and leaders

34:55 – A leadership lesson on humility and valuing unseen voices

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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