Wes Thompson's Journey: Church Mergers, Pain, and Recovery
Yeah, I volunteer for a lot of pain and a lot of people that are angry at me all the time, all the time. I did not handle it well, sometimes, like a lot of the time, and it was.
What happens when three churches come together to form a single, thriving community? In this episode, Wes Thompson opens up about his experience merging Veritas West and Hilltop Lutheran, and the lessons he learned along the way. He dives into the emotional and logistical challenges of such a significant undertaking, sharing how it taught him the value of 'volunteering for pain' and managing anger constructively.
Wes also discusses his pivotal role at The Refuge, an organization dedicated to helping people recover from addictions through a blend of Christian spirituality and psychology. He offers a candid look at the science behind behavior change and the strategies for building a healthy, mission-focused staff. Balancing personal and professional life isn't easy, especially when facing the birth of a first child and other life transitions.
Wes's story is rich with practical advice for anyone navigating leadership roles or recovery journeys. His emphasis on being mission-first and the importance of having robust systems in place to support staff provides valuable insights. This episode is not just about overcoming pain; it's about finding purpose and strength through faith and community. If you're looking for inspiration and actionable tips for leading with compassion and resilience, this conversation with Wes Thompson is a must-listen.