How does a minister with a secret addiction find his way to authentic leadership?
This episode delves into topics surrounding religion and sexual addiction, which may be sensitive or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
In this powerful episode of Life in Transition, Nate Larkin shares his transformative journey from living a double life as a minister struggling with addiction to founding the Samson Society, a global community for Christian men seeking authentic connection. Nate's story reveals the exhausting nature of maintaining a perfect image while battling internal demons, and how hitting bottom led to a revolutionary change in his life, marriage, and relationship with God. His candid discussion of shame, recovery, and redemption offers hope to anyone struggling with hidden battles.
The conversation delves deep into the power of vulnerability and authentic community in healing. Nate discusses how his recovery journey not only transformed his personal life but led to the creation of a worldwide movement helping thousands of men find freedom from addiction and performance-based living. His insights on immediate action, the importance of genuine connection, and the possibility of redemption provide practical wisdom for anyone seeking transformation in their own life.
About Our Guest:
Nate Larkin is the founder of the Samson Society, a global community helping Christian men find authentic connection and recovery. After serving as a minister for five years, Nate's journey through addiction and recovery led him to establish this transformative organization in 2004. A gifted communicator and technical writing company owner, Nate has helped build a network of over 10,000 members across multiple countries, facilitating recovery meetings in eight languages. His story of transformation from living a double life to embracing authentic leadership has inspired thousands, proving that vulnerability can become our greatest strength.
Connect with Nate:
About The Show:
The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online.
In This Episode:
(00:00) Opening and Introduction to Nate Larkin
(01:48) Early Ministry Career and Hidden Struggles
(02:54) Understanding Addiction and Shame
(05:37) Living a Double Life in Ministry
(11:16) Hitting Rock Bottom
(16:02) Midlife Transition Mastery Ad
(17:00) Societal Views on Different Addictions
(26:01) Finding Freedom Through Vulnerability
(30:19) Birth of the Samson Society
(40:25) Transition Mastery Coaching Ad
(42:12) Recovery and Relationships
(49:00) Taking Action for Change
(52:24) Closing Thoughts and Connection
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Resources:
Join Our Community: art-blanchford.mykajabi.com/mid-life-transition-mastery-community
My new book "PURPOSEFUL LIVING" is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6
Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.
The views and opinions expressed on the “Life In Transition” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.
