Life After Ministry

PODCAST

Turning transition into transformation.

Reclaim Your Identity

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Redefine
Your Assignment

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Rediscover Your
Calling

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Listen to the Life After Ministry podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Matt Davis Matt Davis

Episode 84 - Lost in Transition (featuring Steve Woodworth)

Succession is one of the most important moments in the life of a ministry.

And one of the most misunderstood.

After decades working with leading Christian organizations, Steve Woodworth has watched leadership transitions unfold from behind the scenes. 

Some created momentum and clarity. Others quietly eroded trust, fractured relationships, and stalled mission.

What makes the difference?

In this episode, Steve shares the patterns he’s seen across hundreds of organizations, why internal succession is often more effective, and how boards and leaders can work together to create a “no drama” transition.

This conversation is both practical and deeply human, addressing not just strategy but identity, trust, and the emotional reality leaders face as they step out of their roles.

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Cover image for the podcast titled 'Life After Ministry' with subtitle 'Turning Transition into Transformation.' The background features a landscape with a grassy field, distant mountains, partly cloudy sky, and a church building with a cross on top on the left side. The lower right corner displays the podcast logo.

Facing Life After Ministry can feel hopeless, but it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you've stepped away from the pulpit by choice, or circumstances have forced a change, it's a monumental shift that leaves many wondering, "What's next?" If you're at this crossroads, you may feel alone, overwhelmed, and unsure about the road ahead.

We want you to know that you're not alone in this transition. There's not just life after ministry - there's a chance to thrive.

Sharing is caring.

Listen to an episode and help us spread the word by leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts.

“Just listened to Matt and Marilee unpacked their own story in episode one. So generous, honest, and invitational. Thanks for meeting a "gap" in the ministry world, and by that I mean the shattered heads and hearts wandering the land like Christendom's own take on the Walking Dead. I pray this resurrects many, opens eyes for their families and communities, causing an increase in empathy among God's people.”
- Scott White

David, Former Pastor

"I felt lost after leaving the ministry. This podcast showed me a way forward."

Sarah, Ex-Missionary

"Life After Ministry Podcast was a lifeline during my transition. Now, I'm thriving in my new chapter!"

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The Struggles of Transitioning

Stepping away from pastoral service can be a lonely journey filled with uncertainties. What will your new identity be? How do you make sense of the changes? The stakes are high - but you don't have to navigate this alone.