ANN Profiles
ANN Profiles is hosted by Alyssa Truman, an assistant director of the Communication Department of the Adventist World Church. This inspirational series features the life journeys of over 150 members of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ Leadership Council. Guests share their life stories, highlighting milestones and challenges they have experienced. The podcast aims to mentor the church’s future leaders while inspiring listeners.
Episodes
Lisa Beardsley-Hardy: A Life of Learning and Leading
Join ANN Profiles as Lisa Beardsley-Hardy, director of Education for the General Conference, shares her remarkable journey. Born in England due to her parents' unique paths in faith, Lisa traversed a fascinating career from her multicultural heritage to leading educational initiatives worldwide. Discover how her experiences shaped her into a key figure in global Adventist education, from her acade
ANN Profiles: Michael Kruger's Inspiring Journey of Faith and Service
Discover the remarkable journey of Michael Kruger, the President of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), who transitioned from a successful business owner to a pivotal role in a leading humanitarian organization. In this insightful episode, Michael shares his profound experiences of faith, the challenges of adapting to new roles, and how a simple yet powerful prayer radically change
Kleyton Feitosa: From Dream to Reality and Beyond
Join us as host Alyssa Truman delves into the inspiring journey of Kleyton Feitosa, the Global Mission Centers Director. From a childhood dream sparked by mission stories to confronting life's unexpected turns, including battling cancer and adapting to a significant life change, Kleyton's story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of one's calling. Discover how despite c
ANN Profiles: Bridging Faith and the Digital Divide
This episode features Elder Billy Biaggi, who discusses his unique path from Argentina to the global stage and emphasizes the critical role of digital media in spreading the gospel. With a heartfelt dedication to reaching every individual, Elder Biaggi's insights inspire us to look beyond traditional methods and embrace technology in our mission.
ANN Profiles: The Pillar of Faith and Research – Elias Brasil de Souza
Dive into the captivating journey of Elias Brasil de Souza, Director of the Biblical Research Institute, from his early beginnings in a devout family to leading biblical research and education, discover how dedication to scripture and service shapes the identity and mission of the Church. Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of upholding Adventist beliefs in a changing world.
ANN Profiles: From Music to Mission with Williams Costa Jr.
Join us for a profound journey with Williams Costa Jr. as he shares his remarkable story of faith, music, and unwavering dedication to God's mission. From his early days in Brazil to his influential role in the global Seventh-day Adventist Church, discover how God's guiding hand has led him through challenges and victories alike.
ANN Profiles: The Journey to Leadership of Magdiel Pérez Schulz
Join us as we unravel the inspiring story of Magdiel Pérez Schulz, discussing the milestones, challenges, and profound moments of faith that have defined his journey of leadership and service. Tune in to be inspired by a life dedicated to spiritual growth and community.
The Journey of George Egwakhe: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities
Discover the journey of George Egwakhe, Associate Treasurer of the General Conference, from a humble Nigerian village to his trajectory in the Adventist Church in this episode of ANN Profiles with Alyssa Truman.Episode highlights:Nigerian rootsHis parents' beliefsThe encounter with ChristianityThe first time in an Adventist ChurchOpportunities and challenges in pursuing educationExperiences regard
The Spiritual Journey of Merlin Burt: Faith, Doubts, and Rediscovery
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Merlin Burt, director of the Ellen G. White Estate. Merlin shares his journey within the Adventist faith and emphasizes the significance of Ellen White's writings in his experiences.Episodes highlights:Challenges faced and overcome in his spiritual journey.Professional contributions within the Adventist Church.The importance of in-depth Bib
ANN Profiles: The Journey of Service and Mission of Hensley Moorooven
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Hensley Moorooven, the Undersecretary of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, about his life journey and ministry. From his childhood in Mauritius to his current position in the leadership of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Hensley shares how faith, humility, and dedication to mission have shaped his life and career.Episode highlights:The i
ANN Profiles: Gregory Whitsett's Missionary Journey
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman and Gregory Whitsett, Adventist Mission planning director, converse about the path of spiritual growth and mission work. Whitsett shares his experiences, from his early years to his missionary work in Laos and Thailand, and his current role in guiding global mission initiatives. This episode offers insight into the challenges and joys of being a missi
ANN Profiles: Legacy and faith in Ted Wilson's journey
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman and Ted Wilson, President of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, discuss the importance of faith, family legacy, and the challenges faced in church leadership. Episode highlights:Ted Wilson's personal story, including his childhood in Cairo, Egypt.The impact of his family's missionary work.His family’s heritage in the Adventist faith.His
ANN Profiles: Alyssa Truman's Path to Ministry
In this episode of ANN Profiles, the original host of this podcast and assistant director of communication for the General Conference (GC) of Seventh-day Adventists, Alyssa Truman, takes on the role of the interviewee and engages in a conversation with Sam Neves about her unique journey from learning and creativity during her childhood to leading major communication initiatives for the Adventist W
Gerson Santos on Disciple-Making, Pastoral Ministry, Mentorship, and Knowing Jesus
ANN Profiles host Alyssa Truman is joined by Gerson Santos, associate secretary of the Adventist Church. Santos shares his life story and spiritual journey growing up in the Church, being baptized at 10, and having a personal encounter with Jesus at 16. Listen to his philosophy of mission-focused pastoral ministry and his passion for disciple-making. Also, in this episode: humor and insight into A
General Conference Associate Secretary Karen Porter: Wife, Church Leader, Missionary
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Karen Porter, associate secretary of the General Conference (GC) of Seventh-day Adventists. Episode highlights:Overcoming Challenges AbroadJourneying from Sri Lanka to RussiaFamily Sacrifices for Missionary LifeBuilding Missionary Support SystemsResponding to God’s CallThis episode is for aspiring missionaries, church leaders, and anyone lo
Visionary Leadership and Mission: An Insightful Conversation with Erton Köhler
Erton Köhler, a prominent leader in the Adventist Church, shares his perspectives on effective leadership, the importance of mission, and the art of disciple-making. Köhler shares his life story with ANN Profiles host Alyssa Truman, recounting his challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons on maintaining church identity while actively participating in the community. His discussion on the church’s
ANN Profiles: Jeffrey Brown’s Path to Global Leadership
On this episode of ANN PROFILES, host Alyssa Truman delves into the captivating life story of Adventist leader, Jeffrey Brown. From his early days in Birmingham, England, to his remarkable journey through various leadership roles within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Episode highlights:Leadership roles in the ChurchBrown’s editorial contributionsCultural reflections and challengesOutreach and g
Geoffrey Mbwana Talks Faith, African Worship, and Spiritual Heritage
ANN Profiles host, Alyssa Truman, interviews Geoffrey Mbwana, a general vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Geoffrey shares his personal journey, including his upbringing in Tanzania and his transition from teaching to church administration. Episode highlights: Mbwana talks about the challenges and joys of various leadership roles.The importance of servant leadershi
Human Resources Director Shares Her Heart for Her Work
Lori Williams joins ANN Profiles host Alyssa Truman to share her life story. Lori is the director of Human Resources for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and was born and raised in and around Hagerstown, Maryland. Episode highlights: Adventist educationThe difference between boarding academies and day academiesThe journey to the workforceDifficult decisions and emotional challenges
Vyacheslav Demyan: Broadcasting Hope and Connecting with Mission
This week’s guest on ANN Profiles with Alyssa Truman is Vyacheslav Demyan, newly-appointed president of Hope Channel International. In this episode, Vyacheslav shares his life story, recounting his experience of growing up as a devout Christian in the Soviet Union, where his first Bible was confiscated by a KGB officer when he was just 8 years old, then losing his faith completely as a teen. Episo
A Life Dedicated to Service: Imad Madanat and ADRA
Alyssa Truman, ANN Profiles host, interviews Imad Madanat, vice-president of programming and associate director for ADRA International. Born in Jordan and the eldest of four children, Madanat was raised Adventist, and eventually relocated with his family to America where he attended college. Listen to this episode to learn about Madanat’s work with ADRA through the years, how the organization serv
Dr. David Trim on ANN Profiles: Adventist Education and the Importance of History
Dr. David Trim joins ANN Profiles host, Alyssa Truman, to share his life story. From India, Australia, and Britain, Dr. Trim has traveled the world working for the Lord. Learn about Dr. Trim’s faith journey, his entrance into Adventist Education as a career field, and how he eventually joined the Office of Archives, Statistics, and Research where he currently serves as director. Listen to the full
Dr. Peter Landless of Adventist Health Ministries Shares His Life Story
Dr. Peter Landless, director of Adventist Health Ministries, shares his life story in this week’s episode of ANN Profiles with Alyssa Truman.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Growing up Adventist in South Africa, discerning God’s “calling” and choosing a career field, combat zone injury, serving in missions, balancing academics and family, balancing work and ministry, and more. Learn how Dr. Peter Landless comp
A Continent on Fire for Christ: Gideon Mutero’s Story Growing Up in Kenya with a Love for God
ANN Profiles host Alyssa Truman interviews Gideon Mutero, vice president of Hope Channel International. Together, they discuss his childhood growing up in the Church with Adventist parents in Kenya. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Church growth in Africa, division realignment in Africa, moving to America, and more. Learn how Gideon embraced his calling to serve his own country of Kenya, where he lived in Nair
Ronny Nalin’s Life Story: A Continuous Process of Being Shaped by God
In this episode of ANN Profiles with Alyssa Truman, Ronny Nalin shares his life story growing up in a small village in Italy as a young Adventist boy, interested in soccer and building strong relationships with people of other faiths. Listen for details about Nalin’s journey from rural Italy to the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists as the director of the Geoscience Research Institute (G
Orathai Chureson Shares Her Experience Converting from Buddhism to Adventism as a Young Adult
Orathai Chureson joins Alyssa Truman for a special episode of ANN Profiles to discuss her experience growing up in a Buddhist home and joining Adventism as a young woman.LEARN how missionary evangelists came into a Buddhist school and led one young girl to Christ. How did Orathai come to terms with salvation by faith versus her works-based childhood? Find out in this episode.
God’s Word Planted in a Child’s Life: Doug Venn Shares His Life Story
IN THIS EPISODE: children’s ministries, bicultural family, public education, bullying, favorite foods, Adventist education, community service, miraculous protection, discipleship, business, campus ministries, and Adventist heritage.Doug Venn serves as assistant to the president for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and works directly with Adventist Possibility Ministries. Listen to
Aniel Barbe Discusses What It Means to Have Faithful Partnership With God
IN THIS EPISODE: Aniel Barbe shares his life story growing up in Mauritius, attending public and private schools, being called to ministry and seminary, and finally, the road to the General Conference.Aniel Barbe, associate director of the Stewardship department for the Adventist Church, sits down with host Alyssa Truman to discuss his path to the General Conference.Learn how Aniel attributes his
Ronald Kuhn Discusses the Importance of Social and Cultural Values on ANN Profiles
IN THIS EPISODE: Ronald Kuhn shares his life story growing up in an Adventist family, attending Adventist education, and serving in missions all around the world.Ronald Kuhn, associate director of the Institute of World Missions for the Adventist Church, sits down with host Alyssa Truman to discuss his path to the General Conference.Learn how Ronald Kuhn views the importance of mission, multicultu
Richard Stephenson: On Jesus, Education, Technology, and More
IN THIS EPISODE: Richard Stephenson shares his life story growing up in the church with his eye on pastoral ministry. Richard Stephenson, associate treasurer of the Adventist Church, sits down with host Alyssa Truman to discuss Adventist education, mentorship, potluck dishes, student missions, and more. Learn how Richard Stephenson’s experience in education and technology allows him to serve the T
Scot Coppock: One Adventist Leader’s Road to Adventism
IN THIS EPISODE: Scot Coppock shares his life story about growing up in a Christian home with youth group, Sunday services, Boy Scouts, and student exchange, only to fall away from God in his late teens and throughout college. What brought him back?Scot Coppock, associate director of Planned Giving and Trust Services, sits down with host Alyssa Truman to discuss God’s faithfulness throughout his l
Gary Krause Says Parents and Family Life Impacted His Spiritual Walk: “The Church Was Our Life”
IN THIS EPISODE: Gary Krause shares growing up Adventist, a child of mission educators, childhood illness, student-athlete, world traveler, walking with God, and joining the General Conference and Adventist Mission.Gary Krause, associate secretary of the Adventist Church, sits down with Alyssa Truman and ANN Profiles.Learn how Gary Krause grew up to love God and love the Church as a young person i
Meet the Editor: Faith-Ann McGarrell Shares Her Life Story and Experience at the Journal of Adventist Education
IN THIS EPISODE: Faith-Ann McGarrell shares growing up in ministry, relocating from tropical Guyana to Berrien Springs, Michigan, transitions, maintaining friendships, and continuing a family legacy of Adventist Education ministry. Faith-Ann McGarrell, editor of the Journal of Adventist Education, sits down with Alyssa Truman and ANN Profiles.Learn the importance of Adventist Education in her fait
Frank Hasel: A Young Man’s Journey from Small Village to Servant Leader
IN THIS EPISODE: From a small German village to Newbold College–Frank Hasel shares his struggle as a non-English speaker studying theology on the road to ministry. Hasel, associate director of the Biblical Research Institute (BRI), was the only Adventist in his village where he lived as a youth in Germany. Learn how he honored the Sabbath as a young student and eventually attended Newbold College
Derek Morris: The Power of Media and His Life Story
IN THIS EPISODE: Born to teen parents in post-war Europe, Christian upbringing and demonic interaction, Derek Morris strayed from God in adulthood. What brought him back?Alyssa Truman sits with Derek Morris, president of Hope Channel International, as he shares his life story, raised in the church and swaying from God early in adulthood.Learn how God answered his prayers, provided financial aid fo
From Dublin to Maryland: The Journey of General Vice President Audrey Andersson
In this episode of ANN Profiles with Alyssa Truman, Audrey Andersson shares her story of growing up as a pastor’s daughter and moving frequently as a child. She shares the difficulties her family faced when converting to Adventism.Hear Andersson’s experience joining the Christian Union at school and how it transformed her life. Listen to the full episode about Andersson’s rich church experience af
Featuring Alberto Timm: Associate Director of the Biblical Research Institute of the Adventist Church.
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alberto Timm shares his life story with host Alyssa Truman. What led him to be associate director of the Biblical Research Institute (BRI)? Find out how a young man from Brazil, through hard work, grew in his relationship with God through literature evangelism and scripture memorization, attended Adventist education, and now serves the worldwide Seventh-day Adventi
Busi Khumalo: Dedicated to Ministry, Guided by God
In this ANN Profiles interview, Busi Khumalo, Youth Ministries director of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, shares his experience growing up in an Adventist home. Khumalo reflects on how family worship and his experience as a young literature evangelist shaped him into the pastor and leader he is today. Join us as we hear inspiring stories Khumalo highlights exclusively on this episode.
Sam Neves: From a Troubled Child to a Leader in Ministry
In this ANN Profiles interview, Sam Neves, associate director of the Communication department of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, shares his inspiring story of transformation from a troubled child to a leader in ministry. Neves reflects on his upbringing and the challenges he faced that shaped his journey to becoming a leader and minister. Join us as we learn more about Neves’ inspiring story and
A Conversation with Sikhu Daco: Adventism in Zimbabwe
Join us for an insightful conversation with Sikhu Daco, associate editor of Adventist Review, as she shares memories of growing up in a small village in Zimbabwe. In this episode, with host Alyssa Truman, Daco discusses the challenges she faced as a young person and how they shaped her into the journalist she is today. Discover the impact of upbringing on the career and personal life. Don't miss t
Rediscovering Faith: Marcos Bomfim’s Adventist Journey
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Marcos Bomfim, the director of the Stewardship Department for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Bomfim shares his personal and inspiring Adventist journey, from struggling with low self-esteem to rediscovering his faith through family worship. Bomfim’s story emphasizes the importance of church attendance in increasing the likelihood of chil
Joe Reeves: The Road to the General Conference and Church Unity
In the latest episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Joe Reeves, the assistant director of the Sabbath School Personal Ministries Department at the General Conference. They discuss the Inverse Sabbath School Lesson, Joe's rural childhood, and his family's involvement in the independent Adventist church movement. Key takeaways include the importance of humility, openness to learning, and
Anthony Kent: The Adventist Legacy and the Power of Literature Evangelism
In this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Anthony Kent, associate Ministerial Secretary. Kent’s story begins with his paternal great, great grandfather receiving the book The Great Controversy from legendary literature evangelist Philip Reekie and also his maternal grandfather was introduced to The Great Controversy by another dedicated literature evangelist.
Zeno Charles-Marcel: On Childhood Dreams and First Impressions
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Zeno Charles-Marcel, associate director of Health Ministries. Listen to Zeno’s story of his childhood dreams of becoming a mad scientist, which led him to the medical field. Learn how Zeno overcame a frightful first impression of Adventism to later work for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Listen to the episode for more det
Jim Howard: The Journey of a Bi-Vocational Pastor
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Jim Howard, assistant to the president and director of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries.Listen to Jim’s story of finding his way back to Adventism after being raised as a Christian who knew nothing of the Bible or the God it described.How did Howard go from opening his Bible for the first time as an adult man to leading out in the glo
James Winegardner: Will You Go? When God Calls
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews James Winegardner, president of Adventist Risk Management.Listen to James’ story growing up in San Antonio, Texas, choosing between a career in orchestra or ministry, only to leave pastoral ministry to practice law for the next 25 years. How did Winegardner end up working for the Adventist Church? Listen to this episode to learn how God’s c
Dennis Carlson: Leaving Plans in God’s Hands
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Dennis Carlson, as he shares his life story from Adventist elementary to a business intern at Adventist Book Centers. Listen to Carlson’s story, managing Adventist Book Centers for 25 years, working with Adventists in the professional space, and continuing working for the church for twenty more years until the present.
Pavel Goia: Spiritual Growth and Faithfulness
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Pavel Goia, who shares his experience living in communist Romania as a child. Listen to Goia’s story of a father persecuted for spreading the Gospel, a mother who taught him to cherish and memorize the Bible, and his personal spiritual journey with Christ. Listen as Goia shares encouragement for anyone who longs to grow spiritually.
Fylvia Kline: Saying “No” to God
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Fylvia Kline, manager of VividFaith. Together they discuss Kline’s experience as a young Adventist, growing up disconnected from Indian culture and how God transformed her into a compassionate, mission-minded leader. Listen as Fylvia shares wisdom for Christians of all ages who are willing say “I will go.”
Justin Kim: Adventist Review Executive Editor Talks About His Path to Ministry
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Justin Kim, executive editor of the flagship journal of the Church, Adventist Review. Together they discuss Kim’s unique experience as a second-generation immigrant and reflect on his upbringing in a Korean Adventist community. Listen as Kim shares his story of moving from an academic path to a ministry tract and how God showed him his plac
Nilde Itin–Called to Serve (As a Family)
Alyssa Truman interviews Nilde Itin, associate director of Adventist Women’s Ministries. Together, they discuss the importance of faith during the important years of adolescence. They also discuss the significant effect ministry has on families, regardless if it’s a pastoral family or not. Also in this episode, introverted vs. extroverted personalities, second language learners, and parenthood.
Ivan Omana–A Legacy of Ministry
On this episode of ANN Profiles, Alyssa Truman interviews Ivan Omana, director of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries. Together, they discuss the effects of pastoral ministry on the family, the importance of Adventist education for young people, and the spiritual legacy parents and grandparents have on those to come. Listen as Omana shares his life story on this episode of ANN Profiles.
Korey Dowling—Being the Hands and Feet of Jesus
Listen as Korey Dowling reveals what it’s like to be on the frontlines working to help minister to the needs of the poor, sick, and hungry.
Amy Whitsett—Overcoming Challenges In the Mission Field
Listen as Amy Whitsett discusses the challenges she faced in the mission field as a stay-at-home-mom and homeschooler.
Dwain Esmond—Nurtured Into His Calling
Listen as Dwain Esmond shares his life story.
