The OnePastor Podcast

With our eyes on Jesus, we ignite the tough conversations that lead to true growth. By shifting perspectives, we empower you to lead and live boldly in His strength. Be transformed at this “hangout for the worn-out.” Your mess is welcome here. The Word is alive!

Your Host

Donnie Lafferty

Donnie Lafferty’s story is one of faith, perseverance, and finding purpose in pain. His journey has been marked by both profound loss and an unwavering belief in God’s presence through every trial. Through it all, he has committed his life to helping others grow—spiritually, mentally, and physically—while also championing leadership, excellence in business, and the power of service.

At 19, Donnie experienced a life-changing encounter with God that reshaped his path and deepened his spiritual walk. Though he felt a persistent calling to full-time ministry, he dedicated himself to raising a family in a small North Carolina community while faithfully serving his church and those around him. Over the years, he has been a deacon, a Sunday School teacher, and a leader of men’s and small groups, living out his faith with humility and childlike trust in God’s plan.

Beyond his ministry involvement, Donnie built and led a successful corporation for over a decade, serving clients such as Dr. David Jeremiah and major nonprofits like The March of Dimes and Susan G. Komen. His passion for leadership, customer service, and business excellence has been a driving force in his career, influencing the way he approaches both professional and personal relationships. He believes that integrity, dedication, and service are not just business principles—they are ways of life.

Yet, his greatest challenges were not in business but in the deeply personal trials that tested his faith and resilience. In 2017, Donnie’s world was shaken when his wife, Tamara, began battling severe mental illness and suicide ideation. Despite his family’s relentless efforts to support and help her, the struggle ultimately led to unimaginable loss. After multiple attempts to end her life, Tamara passed away in 2019. The grief was compounded by the loss of their home—burned in one of her suicide attempts—leaving Donnie and his two teenage sons with nothing but the clothes on their backs and a deep sense of devastation.

In the face of such pain, Donnie turned to his faith. He sought solace in a community of fellow grievers, attended support groups, and leaned on the unwavering love of his parents. Through it all, he discovered a profound truth: Nothing is wasted in God’s hands. His suffering, though immense, was not the end of the story. Instead, it became a testimony—a beacon of hope for others navigating their own valleys of despair.

From this journey, the OnePastor Podcast was born. While Donnie is not a pastor by title, he is a shepherd by heart, using his experiences and God’s Word to encourage those facing loss, trauma, and life’s deepest struggles. He speaks openly about the realities of grief, the stigma of suicide, and the redemptive power of faith. But beyond that, Donnie is passionate about holistic well-being—helping others become healthier not just spiritually, but mentally and physically as well. He believes that true healing involves caring for the body, mind, and soul, and that God’s plan includes living with purpose, energy, and strength.

Additionally, Donnie is deeply committed to leadership development, excellence in business, and serving others with integrity. Whether guiding teams, mentoring individuals, or encouraging others to step into their own calling, he believes in leading with wisdom, character, and a heart for service. His podcast and message are about more than overcoming pain—they’re about finding meaning, living with intention, and becoming the best version of ourselves.

If you’ve ever felt broken, lost, or burdened by shame, you are welcome here. OnePastor is a place where faith meets real life, where pain has purpose, and where healing is possible. Let’s talk. Let’s grow. And let’s walk this journey together, keeping our eyes on Jesus, our Ultimate Guide.

Start Listening Today!

Sit back, relax, and let’s have the real talk that is most needed.