Wounded Leadership: Stories from the Wounded

Dr. Matthew Tanner
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health

The Wounded Leadership Podcast, hosted by Dr. Matthew Tanner, aims to provide a platform for pastors and church leaders who have experienced trauma in their ministry. Through storytelling, the podcast seeks to foster healing and community among those who have faced church hurt. Each episode features authentic narratives from various leaders, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences to combat isolation and promote recovery. The podcast promises authenticity and vulnerability, offering listeners a sense of connection and hope as they navigate their own leadership challenges.

  1. 11h ago

    Choosing Gratitude: Dennis Atwood

    "I didn’t lose my calling all at once - I lost it slowly, through a diagnosis I couldn’t outwork." Faith and grief can live in the same room. At 54, Dennis was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s, and for 7 years he tried to keep leading without letting anyone see the tremor. Then the hiding stopped. What he said next hits hard: Not all wounds are self-inflictedSometimes the hardest part is losing your role, not just your healthYou can be content in Christ and still not be okay with what’s happeningThat’s the real tension so many pastors carry - strength on the outside, quiet loss on the inside.Maybe the most healing thing is saying the truth out loud.What part of this hit you most? Find Dennis Atwood's book: Choosing Gratitude. Keywords #wounded leadership, #Parkinson's, #ministry, #suffering, #identity, #purpose, #healing, #community, #gratitude, #resilience Key topics Living with Parkinson's disease while serving as a pastor The impact of physical illness on leadership and identity The role of gratitude and community in healing Navigating grief and loss in ministry The importance of vulnerability and storytelling in healing Takeaways Physical illness profoundly affects a pastor's identity and role. Gratitude and community are vital for healing and purpose. Honest storytelling fosters connection and healing. Acceptance of limitations is crucial for resilience. Living in the present helps navigate suffering. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dennis Atwood's Story 00:30 Dennis shares his background and diagnosis 02:07 Living with Parkinson's while serving in ministry 04:04 The emotional and spiritual impact of illness 06:00 Church's response and navigating relationships 08:01 Loss of identity and role as a pastor 10:00 Finding purpose amid suffering 12:04 The importance of vulnerability and storytelling 13:58 Living in the present and acceptance 16:08 The role of gratitude and community 18:02 God's presence in suffering 20:10 Advice for wounded pastors and leaders 21:59 Redefining purpose and living intentionally 23:54 The concept of wounded healer 26:05 Final thoughts and encouragement 28:00 How to connect with Dennis's book, Choosing Gratitude

  2. Sep 21

    The Hidden Cost of Growing up Unseen - Steve Cummings

    Steve Cummings shares his profound journey of healing from childhood wounds, father wounds, and personal struggles with addiction and shame. This episode explores the transformative power of vulnerability, identity, and God's love in overcoming woundedness and living as beloved sons. Find more about Steve Cummings at: Bringing Kingdom Find Steve's book The Father Eclipse keywords #woundedness, #healing, #father wounds, #identity, #vulnerability, #faith, #addiction, #shame, #transformation, #beloved son, #wounded leadership, #mental health, #pastor key topics Childhood wounds and their impact on adult lifeThe role of father wounds and spiritual abuse in shaping identityThe journey of facing shame and vulnerabilityThe importance of community and safe spaces for healingThe transformative power of understanding God's love and identity in ChristThe role of therapy, prayer, and spiritual practices in recoveryThe significance of authentic relationships and accountabilityHow woundedness affects ministry and leadershipPractical steps for beginning the healing journeyThe importance of living from our true identity as beloved sons Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Steve Cummings and his story 00:26 Steve's background and family life 00:57 Steve's ministry and focus on identity 01:23 Starting the journey of healing from childhood wounds 02:22 Understanding the impact of childhood experiences 555:32:59 The story of the car accident and early wounds 788:52:59 Early experiences of neglect and emotional disconnection 1036:06:19 Fear of abandonment and family instability 1269:26:19 Family dynamics and spiritual background 1577:46:19 Growing up in a religious environment and performing faith 1847:13:01 Early exposure to sexuality and attachment issues 2091:39:41 Academic achievement as a source of validation 2199:59:41 The pursuit of success and identity 2366:39:41 The turning point: hitting rock bottom and seeking help 2666:39:41 The escalation of addiction and hidden struggles 3069:26:21 Marriage, failure, and the journey to reconciliation 3738:53:02 The impact of spiritual and emotional wounds 4705:33:02 The online relationship and medicating pain 4861:06:24 The process of recovery and healing 5444:26:24 Uncovering the wounds with therapy and spiritual insight 5669:26:25 The voice of the father and identity in Christ 6316:39:45 The moment of emotional breakthrough 67111:06:28 Reconciliation with his father and healing relationships 74138:53:10 Living from true identity as beloved sons 82805:33:15 Next steps in the healing journey 84611:06:35 Staying vulnerable and authentic in recovery 88999:59:57 The importance of community and accountability 97638:53:20 Steve's ministry and resources for healing 100583:20:00 Closing thoughts and encouragement for listeners

  3. Sep 7

    Success Hid the Warning Signs: Doug Meye

    Church wounds can make you question your calling, your leadership, and even your faith. Doug Meye opens up about the unraveling of a once-thriving church, the painful decisions that followed, and his long journey from shame and burnout to healing, clarity, and renewed purpose.Doug and Dr. Matthew Tanner trace his story from planting a growing congregation in Las Vegas to facing stalled momentum, fractured relationships, family strain, and overwhelming leadership pressure. You’ll discover: Why rapid church growth can hide deeper warning signsHow staffing challenges and internal division can grow into crisisWhat it feels like to resign from a church you helped buildWhy Doug saw himself as “the problem”How an interim pastorate and leadership study helped rebuild his confidence For pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone navigating a painful transition, this conversation offers hope that healing is possible and that God can still bring good from what felt irreparable. If you find yourself trying to navigate wounds from Ministry please visit Wounded Leadership for resources and a path toward healing! Key topics Doug Meye's early life and call to ministry Challenges faced during church planting in Las Vegas The impact of leadership decisions and church conflicts The process of healing from ministry wounds The role of external support and education in recovery The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership Takeaways Healing from ministry wounds is possible through God's grace. External support and education can facilitate recovery. Authenticity and vulnerability strengthen leadership. Leadership mistakes can be turned into growth opportunities. God uses pain to develop deeper character and purpose. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Doug Mai's ministry journey 02:03 Early life and call to ministry 05:00 Church planting in Las Vegas 1505:32:23 Growth and success in ministry 1833:19:03 Signs of burnout and warning signs 23666:39:12 The crisis point and decision to step down 31749:59:16 The process of healing and recovery 36861:05:59 Lessons learned and spiritual growth 49888:52:47 Supporting others through wounds 66777:46:18 Reflections on God's grace and future hope Keywords ministry, leadership, healing, church planting, spiritual growth, wounded leaders, recovery, grace, resilience, pastoral leadership

  4. Aug 24

    Wilderness: Where Healing Happens - Dustin Kleinschmidt

    Dustin Kleinschmitt shares his journey from childhood struggles to leadership in church planting, highlighting the wounds and healing in ministry. This episode explores the challenges of leadership, the impact of past hurts, and the importance of resilience and faith. Dustin shares his personal journey through ministry burnout, mental health struggles, and the process of healing and rediscovery. This episode offers deep insights into navigating wilderness seasons with faith, vulnerability, and resilience. Check out Dustin Kleinschmidt at: Website: https://www.dustinkleinschmidt.com/ Substack: https://dustinkleinschmidt.substack.com/ Book: https://a.co/d/0e4cfFe9 Album: https://www.dustinkleinschmidt.com/inwilddays Takeaways Past wounds from childhood and ministry can shape leadership challenges Authentic community and mentorship are vital for healing and growth Leadership requires resilience and faith through difficult transitions Healthy boundaries and self-awareness are crucial in ministry leadership God's guidance can be seen through the missteps and successes Healing requires vulnerability and honesty about one's feelings. The wilderness is a place of both pain and beauty, where growth happens. Boundaries are essential for emotional health and recovery. God's presence is constant, even in the wilderness of life. Healing is a process, not an event, and requires time and patience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Dustin’s background 677:46:20 Dustin’s faith journey and youth ministry 1316:39:40 Musical career and transition into ministry 2169:26:20 Church planting and leadership challenges 3297:13:02 Dealing with ministry wounds and healing 4344:26:26 The impact of church conflicts and transitions 5483:19:46 Lessons learned and advice for leaders 6280:33:06 The Challenges of Ministry Leadership 6905:33:06 The Breakdown and Panic Attacks 72694:26:28 Understanding the Wilderness Experience 74194:26:31 Learning to Listen to Yourself 75472:13:12 Exploring Attachment and Childhood Wounds 77055:33:12 The Complexity of Human Identity 79638:53:12 The Shadow Side of Leadership Powers 81222:13:12 The Illusion of Quick Fixes 82888:53:12 The Darker Places of Depression 84749:59:52 The Role of Counseling and Medication 87166:39:52 The Psalms and Emotional Honesty 90361:06:34 The Wilderness as a Formation Space 94277:46:34 Living in the Already but Not Yet 97638:53:14 God in the Wilderness 100333:19:56 Embracing the Wilderness as Home 103361:06:36 Beauty and Brokenness in the Wilderness 105972:13:18 Finding God’s Presence in Pain 109249:59:58 The Power of Vulnerability and Community 112333:19:58 Setting Boundaries for Healing 115638:53:18 Trusting God in the Wilderness 118944:26:38 Seeing with Eyes of Faith 122138:53:18 Resources and Next Steps Keywords #church leadership, #ministry wounds, #healing, #church planting, #leadership development, #pastoral challenges, #faith journey, #church transition, #emotional resilience, #ministry burnout, #mental health

  5. Aug 3

    Overcoming Ministry Pain: Jonathan Hayashi

    In this episode, Jonathan Hayashi shares his profound journey through ministry wounding, healing, and the importance of community and faith in overcoming adversity. His story offers hope and practical insights for pastors and ministry leaders facing similar struggles. Dr. Jonathan Hayashi Bio: Dr. Jonathan Hayashi came to faith in Christ at age 16 after a troubled youth, and his life has since been marked by a deep commitment to gospel transformation and discipleship. He holds a Bachelor in Pastoral Ministry from Moody Bible Institute, a Masters in Congregational Leadership from Moody Theological Seminary, and finally a Doctorate in Biblical Counseling from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. With more than sixteen years of gospel-centered ministry experience, Jonathan brings a wide-ranging and deeply impactful background shaped by pastoral leadership, biblical counseling, denominational service, and global teaching influence. His work spans local churches, academic institutions, and international platforms. Jonathan is a published author and contributor to Lifeway, The Gospel Coalition, Moody, and other major Christian outlets. His most recent book, Why Church Matters: Recovering the Glory, Purpose, and Power of the Local Church, explores the beauty and necessity of the church—imperfect, fragile, and often misunderstood, yet chosen by God as the primary witness to the reconciling work of Christ in the world. Passionate about equipping the church, Jonathan now lives in Colorado with his wife, Kennedi, and their four children. keywords #ministry healing, #pastoral wounds, #faith journey, #leadership, #mental health, #church conflict, #spiritual growth, #resilience, #pastoral care, #healing stories Key topics Ministry wounding and healing The importance of community and support Biblical perspectives on suffering and trust Practical steps for mental health and resilience The role of faith in overcoming adversity Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:17 Jonathan's Call to Ministry and Early Years 04:15 Growth and Challenges in Pastoral Leadership 06:38 The Crisis: Conflict with an Associate 08:34 The Depth of Wounding: Accusations and Doubts 09:29 The Season of Despair and Resignation 11:28 God's Faithfulness and Supportive Friends 12:00 The Journey Back into Ministry 16:16 Encouragement During Dark Seasons 17:27 The Role of Scripture and God's Promises 23:31 The Path to Healing and Forgiveness 27:24 Learning to Trust God and Overcome Fear 33:57 Navigating PTSD and Triggers in Ministry 42:36 The Sovereignty of God in Suffering 45:30 The Purpose of Pain and Growth 50:41 Remaining Faithful and Enduring Challenges 54:35 Advice for Wounded Pastors and Leaders 55:05 The Importance of Vulnerability and Seeking Help 57:41 Closing Remarks and Resources Resources Email Jonathon Hayashi at: jonathanh@rgcconline.org Wounded Leadership Podcast - https://woundedleadership.com/

  6. Jun 29

    Hope Made Strong: Laura Howe

    "Trauma changes you from the inside out without you realizing it." - Laura Howe from Hope Made Strong Find out more about Laura Howe and Hope Made Strong at: Hope Made Strong - https://hopemadestrong.org In this episode, Laura Howe shares her personal journey through trauma, burnout, and healing, and how her experiences led to the creation of Hope Made Strong, an organization dedicated to supporting churches and caregivers. Discover practical insights on self-care, the importance of story, and how faith can guide us through woundedness to renewal. keywords #trauma, #burnout, #self-care, #faith, #healing, #church support, #mental health, #caregiving, #story, #hope, #podcast, #leadership key topics Personal journey through trauma and burnout The importance of self-care and boundaries The role of story and testimony in healing How faith and community support recovery The creation and mission of Hope Made Strong Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wounded Leadership 01:05 Laura's Journey into Caregiving 02:08 The Impact of Trauma on Caregivers 08:30 Recognizing Burnout and Compassion Fatigue 14:01 The Turning Point: Seeking Help 19:21 Navigating the Path to Redemption 27:16 The Journey of Redemption 29:47 Shifting Identity and Priorities 31:12 Hope Made Strong: Birth and Purpose 34:29 Transforming Community Care 37:51 The Power of Belonging and Purpose 40:34 Healing Through Storytelling 42:14 Continual Healing and Growth 48:35 Encouragement for the Journey

  7. Jun 15

    Overcoming Church Conflict: Michael Brown

    Thank you for listening to this important story! Find more stories like this one at www.woundedleadership.com Michael Brown shares his journey through woundedness and healing within church leadership, highlighting the challenges of cultural differences, church conflicts, and the importance of forgiveness. This episode offers authentic insights into overcoming adversity and trusting God's guidance. In this heartfelt interview, Pastor Michael Brown shares his journey through church hurt, healing, and calling. Discover how embracing vulnerability, forgiveness, and God's sovereignty transformed his ministry and life. keywords #church leadership, #woundedness, #healing, #forgiveness, #church conflict, #cultural differences, #pastoral journey #church hurt, #healing, #forgiveness, #pastoral journey, #leadership, #ministry, #wounded leaders, #spiritual growth, #community, #resilience key topics Church conflict and transparency issuesCultural and demographic challenges in ministryThe importance of forgiveness and healing Church hurt and healingThe importance of forgivenessGod's sovereignty in suffering Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wounded Leadership 02:54 Michael Brown's Journey to Ministry 06:11 Transitioning to a New Church 08:54 Cultural Adjustments and Challenges 11:49 Early Successes in Ministry 14:54 Family Dynamics and Church Culture 17:52 Navigating Church Politics 20:40 Concerns About Transparency and Control 23:32 Escalating Tensions and Rumors 26:32 Ethical Concerns in Church Leadership 27:53 Impact of Leadership Decisions on Congregation 29:55 Conflict and Departure from the Church 30:35 Processing Hurt and Seeking Forgiveness 37:05 The Journey of Healing and Support 42:50 Rediscovering Purpose in Ministry 52:34 Building Trust and Overcoming Doubt 54:29 Reactivating Ministries and Church Growth 55:55 Healing Through Hurt and Compassion 58:15 Recognizing God's Plan in Woundedness 01:04:18 Sharing Your Story and Motivations 01:08:45 The Importance of Healing Before Leadership resources Wounded Leadership Resources - https://woundedleadership.com

  8. Jun 1

    The Power of the Story: Chris Harper

    For more information about Chris Harper and Betterman Ministry click here: Better Man Ministry- https://betterman.com In this candid interview, Chris Harper shares his journey through ministry, woundedness, healing, and the importance of authentic leadership. Discover insights on navigating church conflicts, understanding true pastoral calling, and the power of humility and forgiveness in leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wounded Leadership 01:50 Chris Harper's Journey in Ministry 05:20 Navigating Hurt and Woundedness 10:19 Understanding the Role of a Pastor 12:31 The Impact of Wounded Leadership 13:48 The Cycle of Disappointment in Ministry 23:29 Non-Negotiables in Serving the Church 26:47 Navigating Relationships in Ministry 27:36 The Call to Ministry: Understanding True Calling 30:23 The Importance of Long-Suffering in Leadership 32:01 Healing Wounded Leaders: A Path Back to Ministry 33:46 Woundedness as a Strength: Biblical Leaders' Stories 35:20 Identity Beyond Wounds: Embracing Imperfection 38:00 The Shepherd's Role: Being Present with the Flock 38:50 Redefining Success in Ministry 41:40 Navigating Relationships: The Four Types of People 45:46 Encouragement for the Wounded: Forgiveness and Humility 47:15 Empowering Men in Ministry: The Better Man Initiative Key topics Ministry wounds and healing Discerning true pastoral calling Church conflict and leadership pitfalls keywords #ministry, #wounded leaders, #healing, 3pastoral leadership, #church conflict, #humility, #forgiveness, #calling, #church growth, #leadership lessons

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About

The Wounded Leadership Podcast, hosted by Dr. Matthew Tanner, aims to provide a platform for pastors and church leaders who have experienced trauma in their ministry. Through storytelling, the podcast seeks to foster healing and community among those who have faced church hurt. Each episode features authentic narratives from various leaders, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences to combat isolation and promote recovery. The podcast promises authenticity and vulnerability, offering listeners a sense of connection and hope as they navigate their own leadership challenges.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Matthew Tanner
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Matthew Tanner

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