What does it really mean to live well in a world that feels broken? In this episode, host Tim Winders sits down with writer Daryl Potter to explore how ancient biblical wisdom from Job and Ecclesiastes intersects with the raw realities of grief, faith, and finding purpose amid hardship. From the resilience required to care for a special-needs child to unmasking the illusions of prosperity and meaning, their conversation weaves together story, theology, and personal journey. If you’re searching for honest answers about suffering, fulfillment, and hope, this episode is for you.
"You won’t get a big enough paycheck. You won’t get a good enough spouse. That’s how the world is made—on purpose." - Daryl Potter
Access all show and episode resources HERE
About Our Guest:
Daryl Potter is a writer with over three decades of experience in corporate banking, having held diverse roles at one of Canada’s largest banks. He is known for bringing biblical truth to life through engaging stories, seamlessly blending history, theology, and personal memoir. Daryl is the author of both fiction—centered on the ancient Middle East—and nonfiction, including deeply personal explorations of Job and Ecclesiastes. His work is distinguished by its raw honesty, intellectual rigor, and ability to connect ancient wisdom to modern challenges. Daryl’s unique perspective is shaped by his own journey through profound personal trials, making his insights on living well in a broken world both authentic and deeply relatable.
Reasons to Listen:
- Discover how ancient wisdom from Job and Ecclesiastes offers practical insight for living well in a modern, broken world—through both personal memoir and biblical story.
- Hear Daryl Potter’s raw and honest journey from rural California to Bay Street banker, including his powerful reflections on family hardship, faith, and meaning.
- Learn why storytelling (even in banking!) is a crucial leadership skill, and how creating narrative can move people and get results in ways statistics never will.
Episode Resources & Action Steps:
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
- Darrell Potter’s Website - darrellpotter.com - Find links to all of Darrell’s books—fiction and nonfiction—including “Something More: Living Well in a Broken World,” and details about his writing and background.
- Books by Darrell Potter
- Something More: Living Well in a Broken World – A journey through Ecclesiastes, blending memoir and commentary.
- Even the Monsters – A memoir-commentary hybrid exploring the book of Job through personal experience.
Action Steps for Listeners
- Reflect on Your Storytelling Approach: Try applying narrative techniques in your business presentations, emails, or personal communications. As Darrell and Tim discussed, storytelling isn’t just for writers—it’s a powerful tool for leaders and professionals in any field.
- Engage with Difficult Biblical Texts or Philosophical Writings: Choose a challenging work, such as Job or Ecclesiastes, and read it alongside a commentary or memoir (like Darrell’s books) to deepen your understanding and relate ancient wisdom to your own experience.
- Reevaluate Expectations for Fulfillment and Happiness: Spend time journaling or discussing with a friend or mentor where you may have placed unrealistic expectations—whether in career, relationships, or faith. Ask yourself: “Where do I seek ultimate fulfillment, and how would my outlook change if I embraced the lessons of Ecclesiastes or