Embracing Wholehearted Leadership—A Journey of Faith, Marriage, and Growth with Jonathan Duarte
In a recent episode of Whole Hearted Leadership with Lantz Howard, Jonathan Duarte shared a deeply personal journey of faith, leadership, and transformation.
The Dance of Leadership and Marriage
For Jonathan, leadership lessons began on the dance floor. While learning to dance with his wife, Isela, he realized that leading well is not about control, but about showcasing your partner. This metaphor shaped his understanding of biblical marriage and servant leadership.
Breaking Free from a Works-Based Mindset
Raised in a high-control religious environment, Jonathan struggled with a performance-driven faith. His breakthrough came when he fully embraced that salvation—and life itself—is rooted in grace, not achievement. This shift impacted his faith, business, and marriage, leading to a more authentic and relational approach to leadership.
Radical Confession and Freedom
Jonathan’s experience with a church program called Re-Engage taught him the power of radical honesty. He bravely shared struggles with his wife, learning that freedom comes from being fully known and fully loved. No longer hiding, he discovered a better way to live—with integrity, openness, and vulnerability.
Bringing Faith into the Workplace
Jonathan doesn’t compartmentalize his faith—he lives it out in business. Whether through prayer in team meetings or transparent conversations with employees, he leads with spiritual authenticity. His message is clear: “We’re Christian, you’re going to hear about Jesus.”
Leading with Courage and Grace
As an Enneagram Nine, Jonathan historically avoided conflict, often prioritizing external harmony over personal peace. His leadership growth required facing difficult decisions—such as letting an employee go—with clarity, grace, and courage.
Financial Stewardship and Trusting God
Recently, Jonathan has been learning to release control of his finances, recognizing that he is a steward, not the owner. This has been a journey of trusting God in deeper ways, surrendering fears, and embracing faith in provision.
Lessons for Wholehearted Leaders
- Lead with vulnerability—confession brings freedom.
- Faith should be fully integrated into life and work.
- Leadership is about highlighting others, not oneself.
- Trust in God’s grace over performance-based striving.
- Personal and professional growth happens best in community.
Jonathan leaves us with this challenge: “Do the work, and don’t do it alone. Get a coach, get a mentor, and walk with others on this journey.”
This episode is a powerful call to lead wholeheartedly—through grace, growth, and genuine connection.
