Who we are

International students move across the globe to pursue higher degrees in countries and communities not their own. They are the best and brightest from across the globe, and they are among us. The nations are now at our doorstep. So, pull up a chair and come join the table as we discover how God is changing the world through international students, and explore how we may share the love of Christ with the nations in our midst. This is The Global Table: Conversations in International Student Ministry.

The Global Table: Conversations in International Student Ministry is a podcast dedicated to spotlighting the transformative work of God among international students and those who serve them. Every year, hundreds of thousands of students cross borders in search of education—bringing with them their cultures, questions, and potential to impact the world.

At The Global Table, we believe these students are not here by accident. They are the future leaders of nations, and many are open to the Gospel in ways they never were before. This podcast exists to encourage and equip those involved in international student ministry, to raise awareness in the broader Church, and to inspire new laborers to join in God’s mission to the nations—right in our own communities.

Through engaging conversations, practical insights, and powerful stories of God’s work, we invite you to pull up a chair and join us in discovering how the love of Christ is reaching the world—one international student at a time.

Meet the Team

  • Valerie Althouse, Creator


    Valerie serves as the Director of Training for International Students (ISI).   She spent 19 years in on-the-ground ministry with international students in New York City, most recently as the NYC Area Director where she supervised staff and church involvement.  She now focuses her time on the equipping of all ISI staff for the work of the harvest among international students. 

    Valerie’s hobbies include vocal performance with her choir, time with family and friends, DIY home decor projects, time with Patches and Pumpkin (her cats!) and travelling pretty much anywhere in the world she hasn't yet visited! 

  • Deej, Creator

    Deej is originally from Asia and has served among international students for about 30 years. A Third Culture Kid with a science and technology background, he brings a mix of cross-cultural experience, curiosity, and a love of systems and stories to the conversation.

    Comfortable in his nerdom, Deej enjoys exploring global cultures, history, technology, sci-fi and fantasy, and cultural myths and legends, and seeing where all the rabbit trails lead. He values stories for their power to connect people and communities, and as windows into the deeper beliefs, assumptions, hopes, fears, and histories of different cultures. He also likes international cuisine, as food is one of the best ways to learn about a culture—and is always up for trying something new.

  • Jeff N, Producer

  • Ryan Aguas, Editor

  • Joel Carlson, Editor

  • Nate Leathers, Editor