In a culture that often equates achievement with fulfillment, many people find themselves asking, "Why does something still feel off?" despite having successful careers, growing families, and achieved goals. Josh Wintermute, a pastor, life builder, and author, tackles this question in his new book, Winning the Wrong Game, released this month. Drawing from over two decades of pastoral ministry and personal trials, Wintermute argues that the root of discontent lies not in circumstances but in the foundation on which life is built.
Wintermute's journey through physical, mental, financial, and spiritual challenges led him to a crucial realization: "The problem wasn't simply my circumstances; the problem was the foundation I was building on." His book guides readers through three foundational areas: the heart, the home, and the culture. Rather than offering quick fixes, he challenges readers to identify what is broken, do the difficult work of restoration, and build something stronger and more lasting.
The book's relevance is underscored by its timing, as society often celebrates achievement while neglecting the health of the person behind the success. Wintermute believes many are silently carrying burdens that success alone cannot solve. His message is one of hope: "You are not as stuck as you think. You are not as alone as you feel. And you are going to make it."
Wintermute, founder of Quiet Winters, has dedicated his work to helping leaders, families, and organizations establish healthy foundations. Ironically, becoming an author was never part of his plan. "Honestly, I never wanted to write a book," he admitted. "For years people encouraged me to do it, and for years I pushed the idea away. Eventually I became open to the possibility, started writing down some thoughts, and God began opening doors."
The writing process was challenging, requiring him to narrow thousands of thoughts into a clear, useful message. He credits outside perspective, coaching, and editing for shaping the final product. Influenced by authors such as Simon Sinek, Seth Godin, and N.T. Wright, Wintermute's work combines practical wisdom, spiritual insight, and personal vulnerability. "What sets this book apart is the honesty," he says. "I talk openly about my failures, shortcomings, and struggles because that's where God did some of His greatest work in my life."
When not writing or speaking, Wintermute enjoys time with his wife of more than twenty-five years and their three sons, fishing, golfing, and coaching clients. For aspiring authors, his advice is simple: "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. Because sometimes the breakthrough isn't found in doing more; it's found in building differently.
