ReLeader with Dr. Jon Chasteen

Leadership is usually framed around what we need to learn — new books, new tools, new strategies. But the longer I lead, the more I’m convinced that some of the biggest breakthroughs come from what we’re willing to unlearn.In this first episode of a two-part series, I walk through the first four things leaders must release if they want to grow in a healthy way:Unlearn the Need to Prove YourselfUnlearn the Idea that More is BetterUnlearn the Urge to Keep Everyone HappyUnlearn the Belief that Conflict Means You’re FailingThese are the things that keep leaders stuck, anxious, and exhausted, especially when you step into an environment you didn’t start. I’ll share personal stories, practical examples, and a few lessons I’ve learned the hard way.And this is only part one.Next week we’ll finish it out with Unlearnings 5–7.If this episode resonates, be sure to catch Part 2 in our next episode—it builds directly on this conversation.

In this episode, Jon breaks down what it means to be the “doctor” of the organization you’ve inherited. ReLeading is less like raising a child and more like adopting an adult with pre-existing conditions, and the first step is always a diagnosis. Jon walks through five health metaphors—cardiovascular health, high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, and obesity—to show how hidden issues in culture, pace, conflict, systems, and overload can keep an organization unhealthy. You’ll learn what symptoms to look for, how to treat them, and how to lead your team back to health from the inside out.Don't forget to visit us at releader.co and subscribe for even more content!

In this episode, Jon shares four moments in leadership that almost took him out. He opens up about battling self-doubt, carrying the pressure of expectations, leading without enough resources, and realizing that a mindset of lack had slowly taken over.Now eleven years into his role, Jon reflects on what nearly broke him, how he got through it, and why he’s still leading today. If you’ve ever felt the weight of leading something you didn’t start, this conversation will hit home.Jon would love to hear what challenges you’re facing right now as a leader. Leave a comment wherever you’re listening.

Instinct got you through the wilderness, but it won’t get you into the Promised Land. In this episode, Jon Chasteen unpacks the critical shift every ReLeader must make: from leading by instinct to leading with intention. Jon shares his personal wake-up call, realizing that frustration with systems, staff, or culture often pointed back to his own leadership failures. Drawing from Joshua’s transition moment (“When the manna stopped, Israel didn’t panic; they planted”), he explores what it looks like to stop reacting to yesterday’s problems and start designing tomorrow’s future. Through three practical shifts, Jon shows how ReLeaders can move from survival to strategy:1. Stop Managing Around People — Start Leading Through Culture2. Stop Doing It All — Start Developing Others3. Stop Avoiding Hard Conversations — Start Restoring Healthy AccountabilityWhether you’re inheriting a ministry, rebuilding after a crisis, or simply ready to grow beyond maintenance mode, this episode will help you trade instinctual reactions for intentional rhythms that build a healthy, lasting culture.

Most leaders are wired to start things. But what if the most powerful thing you could do as a leader isn’t to start something new — it’s to stop something old?In this episode, Jon Chasteen unpacks The Power to Stop — a countercultural principle that every ReLeader eventually has to learn. Using Michelangelo’s sculpture of David as a metaphor, Jon explores how greatness is often revealed not by what we add, but by what we remove. Just like a sculptor chips away what doesn’t belong, effective leaders must learn to prune, pause, and say no — not out of weakness, but out of wisdom.Through Scripture and stories, Jon walks through four truths every ReLeader needs to understand:1️⃣ Pruning Isn’t Punishment; It’s Preparation — God cuts back fruitful branches so they can produce even more.2️⃣ Stopping Isn’t Quitting; It’s Trusting — Like Moses learning from Jethro, wise leaders know when to let go and share the load.3️⃣ Saying No Isn’t Weakness; It’s Wisdom — Boundaries create margin, and margin fuels mission.4️⃣ Less Isn’t Loss; It’s Leverage — Jesus wasn’t afraid of smaller crowds because He knew focus multiplies fruit.

Every ReLeader faces the same internal questions: Who am I to lead this? Do I have what it takes? What if I’m not enough? In this episode, Jon Chasteen unpacks the calling of Moses in Exodus 3 and shows how God answers those very questions—not by listing tasks, but by affirming identity, revealing capacity, and supplying sufficiency. If you’re leading something you didn’t start, this episode will remind you: God chose you, equipped you, and will fill in every gap if you're willing to go. Whether you’re leading a church, a team, or a turnaround, this is the reminder you didn’t know you needed.

Ever felt overwhelmed stepping into a new leadership role? You're not alone! Join Jon Chasteen as he talks with Ben Kendrew, Lead Pastor at Arise Church in New Zealand, about finding confidence amidst uncertainty. Ben shares practical insights on navigating leadership challenges, overcoming imposter syndrome, and remaining authentic even in tough times. Discover how difficult seasons are often God’s preparation for something greater. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! 🌊💡 #Leadership #Confidence #Authenticity

In this episode, Jon Chasteen unpacks the often misunderstood concept of meekness in leadership. 🤔 Drawing from the words of Jesus about John the Baptist and the disciples, he explores how true strength is found in restraint and service—not in overpowering others. 💪 With insights for business leaders, pastors, and even dads, Jon challenges us to rethink what it means to lead with authority and kindness. Is it possible to be both strong and meek? 🤯 Tune in to find out how embracing a quiet strength could transform your leadership!#LeadershipHacks #ServantLeadership #QuietStrength #MeekNotWeak #FaithAndLeadership #ReLeader #PowerUnderControlWhat do you think? 🎧🔥

Nobody likes to wait—but what if your waiting season is actually preparing you for something greater? In this message, Jon Chasteen unpacks the hidden power of patience, revealing how it’s not just a virtue, but a Godly gain. Discover why the biggest callings often require the longest waits, and how God uses patience to build your strength, increase your capacity, and prepare you for takeoff. If you’ve ever felt stuck, this message is for you! Watch now and learn why it’s better to be patient than powerful. 🚀🔥 #Patience #GodsTiming #SpiritualGrowth

In this episode, I open up about a recent, deep stirring I’ve felt to ReLead in a place where I’ve already been leading for 10 years. It’s a vulnerable moment for me because, after so much time in the same role, you get comfortable with the way things are. But sometimes, God begins to nudge us, pushing us to shake things up and disrupt the norms we've grown used to. What does it really feel like when that urge comes? When we sense it's time to step out of our routine and re-lead from within? We’ll dive into the emotions, the discomfort, and the excitement that come when you realize it’s time to chart a new course, even in familiar territory.

In this episode, Jon introduces his fresh, unfiltered podcast format—ditching the polished production for a raw, personal approach. Dive in as he explores a crucial question: Who is really king in your organization? Plus, discover the three pitfalls that every leader crowned as "king" is bound to stumble over. Don’t miss this candid conversation that’s as real as it gets!

Welcome back, ReLeaders! In this episode, Jon Chastain dives into the unique challenges of stepping into leadership roles where the groundwork has already been laid—but often with cracks that need mending. From navigating the complexities of inheriting a church after a moral failure to rebuilding trust and creating a new culture, Jon shares invaluable insights alongside Carey Nieuwhof. Tune in as they explore the delicate balance of honoring the past while confidently leading into the future, with practical strategies for overcoming fear-based leadership and fostering a supportive community of fellow ReLeaders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome Back ReLeaders Life Languages is a communication assessment tool that helps individuals understand their own communication style and how to effectively connect with others. It identifies seven different communication languages, each with its own filter question, driving passion, need from others, and key character strength. The four keys to success in communication are answering the filter question, meeting the need of the other person, understanding their driving passion, and validating their key character strength. By learning these keys for each of the seven languages, individuals can connect with anyone in the world. Understanding and applying Life Languages is crucial for leaders, salespeople, and anyone who wants to improve their communication skills. Life Languages is a communication tool that helps individuals and teams understand their unique communication styles and preferences. It consists of seven different languages: Shaper, Mover, Doer, Producer, Contemplator, Influencer, and Responder. Each language has its own characteristics and strengths. The tool provides insights into how individuals can communicate more effectively with others based on their language preferences. Life Languages can be used in various settings, including parenting, marriage, and the workplace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation explores the role of second chair leaders in organizations and the challenges they face. The guests, Wade Smith and Dr. Rhonda Davis, share their experiences working as second chair leaders and offer insights into building trust, managing tensions, and navigating change. They discuss the importance of knowing the heart of the leader, understanding their rhythms, and effectively communicating with them. The conversation also highlights the significance of empowering middle leaders and creating spaces for them to lead. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the critical role of second chair leaders in the success and growth of an organization. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome Back ReLeaders In this episode, Jon Chasteen discusses how to lead through challenging times when everything is not okay and everyone knows it. He shares five keys to leading through the 'suck': be real, show hope, create structure, deal with dissent, and inspire commitment. He uses examples from the story of Nehemiah to illustrate these principles. Burnom emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the challenges, providing a vision for the future, establishing systems and processes, addressing dissenting opinions, and inspiring commitment to the mission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the ReLeader, Jon Chasteen is joined by his partners in leading Victory Church, Pastor Oscar Ortiz and Pastor Wade. They discuss their journey as Releaders and reminisce about the challenges they faced when they first took on their roles. They talk about the importance of building a strong team and supporting each other through the ups and downs. They also reflect on the pressure to have a big church and the need to redefine success as a pastor. Overall, the conversation highlights the faithfulness of God and the importance of running toward challenges with a supportive team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr.Jon Chasteen discusses the importance of scoreboards in organizations and the need to define what a win looks like. He emphasizes the need to communicate wins and celebrate them with the team and stakeholders. He also encourages leaders to focus on shooting layups or achieving small wins, rather than always aiming for big goals. He highlights the impact of small wins in building momentum and creating a culture of success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Pastor Mel Masengale and Dr. Jon Chasteen discuss their transitions into leadership roles, focusing on overcoming negativity and rejection by fostering a positive mindset, humility, and servant leadership. They emphasize the importance of nurturing team relationships, soliciting trusted feedback, and embracing imperfections to build genuine connections. The dialogue also covers effective change management, the impact of external perceptions, and prioritizing faithfulness over validation. Insights from past board meetings suggest shifting the church's decision-making from micro to macro levels to support rural churches and pastors through the Back 40 network, which aims to enhance ministry longevity and community connection. The episode ends by underscoring the value of leading humbly in obscurity and expressing appreciation for the audience's commitment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest episode of the Reeleader podcast, Jon Chasteen underscores the transformative power of becoming a "noticer" in leadership. He shares personal anecdotes and biblical examples to illustrate how noticing things others overlook can separate good leaders from great ones. He emphasizes the importance of being present and reducing distractions to enhance awareness and focus. The episode is rich with practical tips for leaders, encouraging them to cultivate a deep awareness of their environment, the people within it, and the subtle dynamics at play, which can significantly influence their effectiveness and the success of their organizations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr.Jon Chasteen discusses the importance of shifting focus from those who have left to those who are still present. He shares his personal experience of losing congregants after a moral failure of someone else and how he initially focused on who had left, causing pain and leading to manipulative behavior. However, he eventually learned to focus on the remnant, the people who stayed and discovered their power and resilience. Dr.Chasteen emphasizes the receptiveness, reliability, resourcefulness, resilience, and resoluteness of the remnant, urging leaders to appreciate and value them. ---------------------------- Join The ReLeader Community: ReLeader.co Grab a copy of my new book ReLeader: https://www.amazon.com/ReLeader-How-What-Didnt-Break/dp/1960870106 ---------------------------- Takeaways Shift your focus from those who have left to those who are still present. The remnant, the people who stay, possess power and resilience. The remnant is receptive, reliable, resourceful, resilient, and resolute. Appreciate and value the remnant in your organization or community. ---------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Focusing on Who Has Left 04:04 Shifting Focus to Who Is Left 09:21 The Power of the Remnant 13:12 Characteristics of the Remnant Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices