

The Emotionally Healthy Leader Podcast
Pete Scazzero
Many pastors and church leaders today feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and frustrated that their churches don’t seem to be making mature disciples. The Emotionally Healthy Leader Podcast explores the paradigms and practices leaders need to transform their church culture and multiply deeply changed disciples.
Episodes
Mentioned books

10 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 32min
Slowing Down to Catch Up with God: How to Escape the Ministry Hamster Wheel
Christian leaders often find themselves on a relentless cycle of busyness. The call to action here is to slow down, embracing a rhythm of life centered on Jesus. By reflecting on early church leadership, the importance of spiritual depth through silence, and community practices, the discussion emphasizes transformational leadership. Prioritizing stillness and intentionality can help break free from anxiety and create a culture of peace in ministry. It’s not just self-care; it’s a radical act of spiritual resistance.

9 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 28min
5 Ways Your Family of Origin Is Undermining Your Leadership (Part 2)
Explore how your family background can unconsciously affect your leadership style. Discover the emotional patterns and unspoken scripts that influence your priorities. A diagnostic checklist will guide you in reflecting on your leadership journey. Learn why setting boundaries and fostering a healthy community starts with understanding your upbringing. This insightful discussion encourages a transformative path towards emotional and spiritual maturity.

Jul 8, 2025 • 30min
5 Ways Your Family of Origin Is Undermining Your Leadership (Part 1)
Explore how your family of origin might be shaping your leadership style in unexpected ways. Discover the generational patterns that influence your emotional maturity and capacity to lead authentically. The journey includes personal stories and biblical examples, underscoring the need to differentiate your identity from family expectations. Navigate the emotional hurdles tied to your background while fostering spiritual growth. This thought-provoking discussion reveals the power of transformation that begins within.

15 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 31min
Good Limits vs. Bad Limits: How Wise Leaders Know the Difference
Discover the powerful difference between good and bad limits in leadership. Learn how bad limits stem from fear while good limits are gifts that foster growth. Delve into the balance of activity and contemplation for a meaningful spiritual life, and recognize divine presence in everyday interactions. Explore how embracing limits can clarify your leadership and guide personal growth, offering practical tips for nurturing your spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Rediscover the beauty of limits that lead to deeper faith and better leadership!

13 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 32min
The Power of Leading From Your Marriage or Singleness as a Sign and Wonder: Pt.2
This podcast challenges traditional views of leadership by highlighting the power of leading from singleness. It emphasizes that singles are not to be seen as incomplete, but rather as vital witnesses to God's kingdom. The discussion includes theological insights that affirm the significance of both marriage and singleness. The importance of nurturing healthy relationships through understanding attachment styles is also explored, encouraging emotional well-being and deeper connections. Listeners are empowered to recognize their inherent worth and lead authentically from their current life seasons.

13 snips
May 27, 2025 • 32min
The Power of Leading From Your Marriage or Singleness as a Sign and Wonder: Pt.1
Explore how marriage and singleness shape effective leadership in ministry. Discover the powerful message that relationships can reveal God’s love beyond the pulpit. Delve into the divine purpose of Christian marriage as a reflection of commitment and nurture. Uncover the sacredness of sexuality and the church’s role in supporting healthy understandings. This engaging discussion challenges leaders to prioritize their personal relationships for true transformation and impact.

19 snips
May 13, 2025 • 32min
Why True Leaders Confront the Elephants in the Room (Part 2)
Leaders are often faced with the daunting task of confronting difficult truths. Ignoring the 'elephants in the room' can drain energy and compromise integrity. A powerful parable illustrates the burden of responsibilities we shouldn't carry. This discussion emphasizes the link between unresolved conflicts and spiritual growth. True leadership requires courage, maturity, and a commitment to fostering a healthy culture. It’s an invitation to embrace the uncomfortable for the sake of mission and authenticity.

40 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 32min
Why True Leaders Confront the Elephants in the Room (Part 1)
Leadership is tough, especially when it comes to addressing the elephants in the room—those uncomfortable truths we prefer to overlook. Discover why true leaders must confront these challenges for genuine discipleship and healthy development. The discussion is rich with personal stories and biblical insights, revealing that facing difficult issues, while messy, is essential for a thriving community. By engaging in open communication and conflict resolution, leaders can create a more spiritually vibrant environment.

8 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 40min
What Makes (or Breaks) a Healthy Leadership Transition
Explore the secrets of effective leadership transitions through real-life lessons learned from past successes. Discover the importance of emotional maturity and long-term vision for generational continuity. Learn how to build trust in new leaders while navigating the challenges of change. The discussion emphasizes the need for prayerful discernment and solid planning to foster future leaders. This episode highlights stewardship of legacy and a commitment to healthy ministry practices essential for thriving organizations.

21 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 32min
Why Low Differentiation Kills Teams
Explore the hidden dangers of low differentiation in leadership. Discover how emotional health and self-awareness impact team dynamics. Leaders often struggle with overfunctioning and seeking approval, which can destabilize their teams. Drawing from biblical examples, the discussion emphasizes leading from a strong sense of self rooted in faith. Learn how fostering authentic dialogue can improve team cohesion and effectiveness. This insight might just transform your leadership approach!