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What Makes (or Breaks) a Healthy Leadership Transition
Posted on: Tuesday April 15, 2025

📝 Free Church Culture Assessment: How is your church doing in these 6 core areas? https://www.emotionallyhealthy.org/churchhealth

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After decades of leadership, I’ve walked through two major successions—first as Lead Pastor of New Life Fellowship Church, and now, as President of Emotionally Healthy Discipleship. In today’s episode, I pull back the curtain on what I’ve learned about leadership transitions—not from a textbook, but from the trenches.

Healthy transitions are rare. And they don’t happen by accident. They require deep inner work, Spirit-led discernment, and a long view that stretches beyond your lifetime. Whether you’re handing over a pulpit, a nonprofit, or a small group, the principles are the same.

In this conversation, I share seven lessons that make—or break—a leadership transition, why emotional maturity is non-negotiable, and how Jesus models the kind of surrender we’re all invited into. This isn’t just theory. This is about stewarding your life, your leadership, and your legacy—God’s way.

If you care about the future of your ministry, you need this episode.

Dig deeper by going through the book Emotionally Healthy Leader. Get the book and discussion guide here. This book was written to help you lead from a deep, inner life with God.

Archives:
Tuesday March 16, 2021

In today's podcast, Pete goes deeper into this passage and finishes with two poignant questions that are a matter of life and death.

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Last week, Pete introduced a powerful skill called "Explore the Iceberg", which is a tool that helps you explore and process your emotional life.

In today's podcast, Pete introduces you to another skill called "Climbing the Ladder of Integrity." It's easy to feel stuck, not knowing what to pray. This powerful skill will help you clarify complex thoughts, values, and desires and discover what God might be revealing to you. 

Tuesday March 02, 2021

In today's podcast, Pete walks you through a powerful skill, developed over 25 years, called "Explore the Iceberg". It is both practical and profound. This skill has revolutionized the way Pete spends time with Jesus, and we know it will do the same for you!

Tuesday February 23, 2021

In today's podcast, I share several keys that will help us pay attention to the work of God in our lives, even in the fog of life transitions.  

Monday February 15, 2021

In today's podcast, Pete shares with you a message from Ezekiel that Has several timely applications for our present moment. I pray you will listen along and be deeply encouraged!

Tuesday February 09, 2021

In today's podcast, I offer ten practical ways we can practice grief and loss. I believe this will give you simple next steps and a new imagination for what this could like in your life and church.

Tuesday February 02, 2021

In today's podcast, Pete shares part one of a series where he will talk about the urgent need for us to grieve. It's the kind of podcast that most listeners will skip over because it's not a trendy topic. But if you're serious about doing the deep work of discipleship, take a listen.

Tuesday January 26, 2021

In today's podcast, we explore the three things God is wanting to develop in us as we await His rescue in the lion's den.

Tuesday January 19, 2021

In today's podcast, Pete addresses the 3 critical tasks of shepherds and reminds you why your work matters deeply to Jesus.

Tuesday January 12, 2021

Today on the podcast, Pete shares with you a message about the prophet Jeremiah and his hidden life with God.