In today’s fast-paced world, Christian leaders are often caught on the “ministry hamster wheel”—spinning endlessly with meetings, sermons, crises, and expectations. But what if the most radical, missional act we could take isn't to do more, but to slow down?

In this episode, Pete Scazzero calls us to break free from the cycle of overload and distraction by embracing a countercultural rhythm of life rooted in Jesus. Drawing from personal experience and church history, Pete shows how slowing down is not self-care—it’s spiritual resistance. It’s leadership. It’s mission.

This is the first episode in a new series on the 8 Marks of an Emotionally Healthy Culture, beginning with the most foundational mark: Slowing down to be with God before doing for Him.

If you’re longing for a church culture marked by peace instead of anxiety, depth instead of shallowness, and prayerful leadership instead of constant reaction—this episode is for you.

What if your family of origin is still running your leadership — and you don’t even know it?

In Part 2 of this vital conversation, Pete Scazzero continues unpacking how the emotional and relational patterns we inherited growing up deeply shape how we lead today — often more than we realize. If you missed Part 1, go back and listen first.

In this episode, Pete explores:

• Why so many leaders struggle to build healthy, emotionally mature community

• How unspoken family scripts muddle our priorities and calendars

• A powerful diagnostic checklist to help you reflect on your leadership

You’ll discover why your ability to lead from your true self, set wise boundaries, and create healthy spiritual culture is often determined by the invisible hand of your upbringing — unless Jesus breaks in.

This episode is both a mirror and a map — calling us to deeper freedom and alignment with the new family of Jesus.

📍 Start your journey toward emotional and spiritual maturity today at emotionallyhealthy.org/course

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in patterns you can’t explain or hitting a wall in your leadership that won’t budge—there’s a reason. In this episode of the Emotionally Healthy Leader Podcast, I explore one of the most overlooked but powerful forces shaping your life and leadership: your family of origin.

The truth is, we all carry a family story. And unless we allow Jesus to meet us there—deep in those places—our leadership, relationships, and even our ability to hear God will be compromised.

I’ll walk you through how your family of origin influences your emotional maturity, your capacity to lead from your true self, and your ability to discern God’s voice. I’ll also share stories from my own journey and those of other leaders to help you recognize where you might be stuck—and how to move forward.

This is part one of a two-part series you don’t want to miss. The work of transformation begins with you.