
S7E28 - The Dark Side of Leadership, Part 1: Narcissism, Power & Self-Awareness. With Ken Fish Kady Taylor & Dr. Richard J. Roberts
God Is Not A TheoryShow Notes
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In this episode of God Is Not a Theory, Ken Fish is joined by Dr. Richard J. Roberts and Kady Taylor for an honest conversation about one of the greatest challenges every leader faces—not external pressures, but the hidden issues within. Drawing on decades of experience in medicine, psychotherapy, theological education, and church leadership, Dr. Roberts explores why self-awareness is one of the most important qualities of healthy leadership. Together, they examine how seemingly small character traits can quietly grow into destructive patterns that affect leaders, churches, and entire ministries. Rather than focusing on labels, the conversation unpacks the leadership tendencies that can emerge in anyone—from narcissistic traits and codependency to insecurity, the pursuit of status, and the temptation to believe our own success. Ken, Richard, and Kady discuss why humility, accountability, and honest relationships are essential for long-term ministry health. Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, business leader, or simply desire to grow in character, this episode offers practical wisdom for leading with integrity, emotional health, and Christlike humility. Topics Include: Why self-awareness is essential for healthy leadership
Narcissistic traits versus narcissistic personality disorder
The dangers of believing your own success
Codependency and unhealthy ministry dynamics
Why titles and status can become traps
Emotional health in Christian leadership
Building cultures of humility and accountability
Recognizing blind spots before they become failures
Healthy relationships in ministry
Developing Christlike leadership Key Takeaways:
Self-awareness is foundational to lasting leadership.
Healthy leaders invite honest feedback and accountability.
Character matters more than charisma or gifting.
Leadership failures often begin with small, unnoticed patterns.
Humility protects leaders from believing their own success.
Healthy churches are built by healthy leaders.
Spiritual maturity requires continual growth and self-examination.
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