In this powerful episode of the Thrive Today podcast, host Natalie Born sits down with Jordan Loftis, founder and CEO of Story Chorus and author of "Unleash Your Authentic Voice." They explore the painful reality of betrayal in leadership and how to navigate it without becoming cynical or closed off. Through personal stories and biblical wisdom, they reveal how betrayal can become a catalyst for growth rather than a reason to build walls. This conversation offers practical insights for leaders who have experienced betrayal and are seeking to move forward with wisdom and an open heart.

[00:01 - 05:17] The Universal Experience of Betrayal

- Betrayal appears to be an unavoidable aspect of leadership across business and ministry

- Leaders who integrate faith and business often experience similarly deep pain when betrayed

- The depth of pain often correlates with the depth of investment in the relationship

[05:18 - 10:37] Stories from the Trenches: Overcoming Betrayal

- Investing in an employee's dreams only to be repaid with lies and exploitation

- Despite the betrayal, they maintained integrity by refusing to launch a counter-offensive

- The community supports and prays for their betrayers' blessing

[10:38 - 15:06] The Danger of Self-Protection

- Unaddressed betrayal can lead to building walls that not only keep others out but God as well

- The stories we tell ourselves about betrayal often cause more harm than the event itself

- Leaders often blame themselves with thoughts like "If I was better, this wouldn't have happened"

[15:07 - 22:00] Guarding Your Heart Without Closing It

- Betrayal hurts most when it comes from people you've invested in deeply

- The goal shouldn't be to never feel pain again, but to continue fulfilling your purpose despite pain

- Surrounding yourself with the right people during betrayal is crucial for healthy processing

[22:01 - 27:53] Finding Redemption in Betrayal

- God can use betrayal situations for spiritual formation when we surrender control

- Betrayal often reveals what's truly in our hearts, like sediment in a cup when it's bumped

- The experience can lead to wisdom without cynicism

Key Quotes:

"If our God could take the worst thing that has ever happened in human history, which is the murder of Jesus, his son... and win the greatest victory in the history of the universe, then what can he do with our situation?" - Jordan Loftis

"You can't poison the well without poisoning all the water." - Jordan Loftis

Connect with Jordan:

Website: https://swift.storychorus.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanloftis

Follow Thrive Today on Instagram (@thrivetodaywomen) and visit our website at Thrive Today.

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