What do you do when work isn’t just difficult—it’s downright painful? In this episode of the Faith and Work Podcast, Jeff Hoffmeyer sits down with author Meryl Herr to tackle the raw realities of workplace hurt. From crushing disappointment to full-blown devastation, Meryl unpacks why work wounds us so deeply—and how we can find a way forward.

With wisdom from scripture, real-life stories, and her groundbreaking book When Work Hurts, Meryl discusses the realities of enduring hardship, reclaiming purpose, and even healing from the pain we’ve caused others. Whether you're burned out, beaten down, or just searching for meaning in the chaos, this episode is packed with hope, practical guidance, and a call to be a light in the darkness.

HIGHLIGHTS

On a Work Hurt:

"When we are overwhelmed by work hurt or frustration when it's building up, our light starts to diminish, right? We can't be a bright light for Jesus when we are overwhelmed, I mean, even burnt out, which is even a different metaphor to bring in that kind of work stress metaphor, but to think about how having to contend with all of this brokenness in our work that may be causing."

On Discipleship:

"You know, we have a job to do as Jesus' followers, and that is to bear witness to God's goodness, to the values of the kingdom, wherever we are, whatever we're doing."

RESOURCES

• Download the episode transcript
• When Work Hurts: Building Resilience When You're Beat Up or Burnt Out
• Meryl Herr's Website
• Meryl Herr's Substack

KEEP READING & LISTENING

• Angry At the Office: How Paying Attention to Our Emotions Can Help Us Understand Our Work Hurt
• Teach Us To Pray Podcast - Beauty & Brokenness Series 
  1. Questions and Charcoal
  2.  Because the Night 
  3. Sing a New Song