In a world where external success often masks internal emptiness, pastor and life builder Josh Wintermute's new book, 'Winning the Wrong Game,' challenges readers to look beyond their achievements and examine the foundation of their lives. Drawing from over two decades of pastoral ministry and personal hardships, Wintermute presents an honest and practical guide for those who feel that something is still off despite outward success.
The book, released by Lucid Books, addresses the unsettling question many successful individuals face: "Why does something still feel off?" Wintermute argues that the problem often lies not in circumstances but in the foundation upon which life is built. Through vulnerability and personal stories, he guides readers through three foundational areas: the heart, the home, and the culture. Rather than offering quick fixes, the book encourages readers to identify what is broken and do the difficult work of restoration.
Wintermute's message is particularly relevant in a culture that often prioritizes achievement over the well-being of the person behind the success. He believes many people are silently carrying burdens that success alone cannot resolve. "You are not as stuck as you think," Wintermute writes. "You are not as alone as you feel. And you are going to make it."
The author's journey to writing was not without resistance. "Honestly, I never wanted to write a book," Wintermute admitted. "For years people encouraged me to do it, and for years I pushed the idea away." However, after becoming open to the possibility, he began writing and saw God's hand guiding the process. He describes his writing journey in three words: obedience, surrender, and faith. The biggest challenge was narrowing thousands of thoughts into something clear and useful, requiring outside perspective and coaching.
Wintermute's work is influenced by authors such as Simon Sinek, Seth Godin, and N. T. Wright. His book combines practical wisdom, spiritual insight, and personal vulnerability, distinguishing it from other personal growth and faith books. "What sets this book apart is the honesty," Wintermute said. "I talk openly about my failures, shortcomings, and struggles because that's where God did some of His greatest work in my life."
As the founder of Quiet Winters, Wintermute has dedicated his work to helping leaders, families, and organizations establish healthy foundations. He has walked alongside hundreds of individuals through seasons of grief, transition, disappointment, and renewal. When not writing or speaking, he enjoys time with his wife of over twenty-five years and their three sons, fishing, golfing, and investing in coaching clients.
For aspiring authors, Wintermute offers simple advice: "You can do this. Start dreaming, surround yourself with people who know more than you do, learn from them, and begin writing." At its core, 'Winning the Wrong Game' is an invitation to stop patching cracks at the surface and instead rebuild from the ground up. Sometimes the breakthrough people are searching for isn't found in doing more; it's found in building differently.
