About Michael Ryer:

Michael E. Ryer serves as President and CEO of Amigos Internacionales, bringing nearly five decades of ministry and nonprofit leadership to the organization. His calling began in Bonham, Texas, where he first served as a Music and Youth Minister at Boyd Baptist Church before leading in various youth, education, and administrative roles across North and East Texas.

An educator and mentor at heart, Michael has taught at Navarro College and Grand Canyon University, sharing practical lessons on leadership, faith, and the history of Christianity. His teaching and ministry are known for being authentic, compassionate, and grounded in real-world experience.

Michael’s global service includes time in Israel, Guam, Ukraine, and Belize, where he has led mission efforts and launched sustainable community projects like a mobile kitchen to address food insecurity. As founder of Missionpoint Initiatives, he continues to expand solutions in education and healthcare for underserved regions, always tying practical help to hope in Christ.

At Amigos Internacionales, Michael directs programs addressing clean water, education, health, and faith, and has led major disaster relief operations, including for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. In 2024, The Top 100 Magazine recognized him as one of America’s top innovators and entrepreneurs for his work connecting faith, leadership, and action.

A pastor at heart, Michael leads with humility, sincerity, and purpose. His life verse, Deuteronomy 30:19, reflects his lifelong mission: to help others “choose life” and live with intention, faith, and compassion.

In this episode, Kevin and Michael Ryer discuss:

• What it means to live and lead through faith-driven purpose
• The lessons learned from decades of ministry and humanitarian work
• How leadership transforms when rooted in compassion and humility
• Building partnerships that empower communities rather than create dependency
• The joy and challenge of leading with authenticity in times of uncertainty

Key Takeaways:

• Faith-driven leadership begins with service, not status. True influence comes from helping others rise, not from controlling outcomes, and that shift from authority to humility changes everything.
• Leadership is never about perfection; it’s about presence. Mistakes, vulnerability, and transparency don’t weaken a leader — they make their humanity relatable and their example worth following.
• Legacy isn’t built overnight. The seeds planted today may take decades to grow, but investing in people, relationships, and purpose leaves a lasting impact that far outlives the leader.
• The greatest success stories start with compassion. When leaders see others as partners, not projects, they help communities unlock their own strength and sustainability.

"Success is understanding that you're planting trees that you will never sit under the shade." – Michael Ryer

Support Amigos Internacionales’ Current Missions

Amigos Internacionales is currently raising support for two urgent surgeries that will change young lives forever:

• Help Alfred Heal – Alfred is a 12-year-old boy from South Sudan who was severely burned by rebels after his father was killed. You can help fund his lifesaving burn surgeries here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-alfred-heal-lifesaving-burn-surgeries-for-a-12yr-old
• Restoring Smiles, Restoring Hope – A double cleft palate surgery for Ojok, part of Amigos’ ongoing mission to bring healing and hope through medical care: https://www.amigosii.org/restoring-smiles-restoring-hope-the-story-of-ojok-and-bethel-smile

Connect with Michael Ryer:

Website: https://www.amigosii.org/michael-e-ryer & www.sponsorachild.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missionpointafrica

Connect with Kevin Neal:

Website: https://drkdneal.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS

https://www.amazon.com/Guided-Greatness-Mentorship-Developing-professionals-ebook/dp/B0FGBH1VNS

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/i