Wounded Leadership: Stories from the Wounded

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.

Wounded Leadership: Stories from the Wounded is a health podcast hosted by Dr. Matthew Tanner, with 26 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Dr. Matthew Tanner hosts Wounded Leadership: Stories from the Wounded, a health show with 26 episodes published.

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  Episode #25

  The Hidden Cost of Growing up Unseen - Steve Cummings

  Sep 21, 20261h 2mS1

  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 life The role of father wounds and spiritual abuse in shaping identity The journey of facing shame and vulnerability The importance of community and safe spaces for healing The transformative power of understanding God's love and identity in Christ The role of therapy, prayer, and spiritual practices in recovery The significance of authentic relationships and accountability How woundedness affects ministry and leadership Practical steps for beginning the healing journey The 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

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  Episode #24

  Success Hid the Warning Signs: Doug Meye

  Sep 7, 202646 minS1

  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 signs How staffing challenges and internal division can grow into crisis What it feels like to resign from a church you helped build Why 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

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  Episode #22

  Overcoming Ministry Pain: Jonathon Hayashi

  Aug 3, 202647 minS1

  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/

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  Episode #21

  Hope Made Strong: Laura Howe

  Jun 29, 202654 minS1

  "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

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  Episode #20

  Overcoming Church Conflict: Michael Brown

  Jun 15, 20261h 4mS1

  <p>Thank you for listening to this important story! Find more stories like this one at www.woundedleadership.com</p><p></p><p>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.</p><p></p><p> keywords</p><p>#church leadership, #woundedness, #healing...

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