In this powerful and practical conversation, David Cooke shares his story—from his salvation experience to his call into ministry—and the five essential relationships every pastor needs for long-term health, growth, and sustainability.

Leadership can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be isolating. In this episode, we unpack the kinds of people who help leaders stay spiritually grounded, emotionally healthy, and relationally connected.

The Five People Every Pastor Needs

• A Soul Friend
  The person who knows your truest self—and helps you live from that place. This friendship is marked by spiritual honesty, commitment, care, and accountability.
• A Friend
  A person who walks beside you in shared experience. You know their story, and they know yours.
• A Coach
  Someone who listens deeply, asks powerful questions, believes in you, and partners with you to move forward. Coaching brings focus, clarity, and breakthroughs in leadership and life.
• A Therapist
  The person who knows your secrets—the things too painful or vulnerable to share with anyone else. With skill, compassion, and care, a good therapist helps untie the knots that bind your soul.
• A Mentor
  A trusted guide who has gone before you and offers wisdom, perspective, and encouragement for the road ahead.

Final Reflections

• One person can fill more than one role—but no one can fill all five.
• Your spouse was never meant to meet all your relational needs.
• You were made for community.
• No one succeeds alone. No one walks alone. You are not the exception.

Healthy leaders don’t lead alone—they live and lead connected