From Sermons to Startups: The Hidden Skills Pastors Bring to Business: Jon Sanders. Episode 26

Episode Takeaways

Overeating and Emotional Coping - Both you and Jon opened up about food as a coping mechanism for leadership stress and emotional exhaustion. Overeating has become an “acceptable vice” in ministry culture, one that masks deeper wounds like fear of rejection or unmet emotional needs.

Physical Health and Leadership Credibility - Physical discipline impacts credibility and self-perception. Caring for your body is not cosmetic; it’s a reflection of stewardship.

Identity Beyond the Job Title - Jon admitted that leaving pastoral ministry after 17 years triggered a crisis: “Who am I without the title?” His recovery involved rediscovering identity in lasting roles, husband, father, and child of God, rather than transient ones like “Pastor John” or “Firefighter John.”

Faith Renewal After Ministry - How can faith deepen after leaving professional ministry? Without the pressure to “perform spirituality,” he began relating to God personally rather than transactionally.

Action Over Indecision - For leaders stuck in “waiting on God’s will,” Jon reframed the question: stop worrying about walking in the will of God, start walking in the ways of God. When your actions align with His character, the path unfolds naturally.

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