Authenticity in Personal Growth

What happens when character formation breaks down in church leadership? Steve Cuss and psychologist-theologian Chuck DeGroat work through the hidden dynamics behind pastoral burnout, narcissism, and the slow erosion of integrity. They explore how unexamined coping mechanisms shape identity, why church boards often miss red flags, and what it really takes to create a culture of safety and true accountability. Steve and Chuck offer tools for healthier leadership—inside and outside the church.

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

• The work of Chuck DeGroat at Western Seminary

• Explore the Soul Care Institute

• The work of Michael Gurian

• Chuck DeGroat’s When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community From Emotional and Spiritual Abuse

• Chuck DeGroat’s Wholeheartedness: Busyness, Exhaustion, and Healing the Divided Self

• Chuck DeGroat’s Healing What’s Within: Coming Home to Yourself--and to God--When You're Wounded, Weary, and Wandering

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