John Eldredge is a multifaceted individual – an acclaimed author, a seasoned counselor, and an engaging teacher. He is best known as the guiding force behind Wild at Heart, a ministry dedicated to helping individuals connect with the essence of God, heal their own hearts through divine love, and live purposefully within God’s Kingdom.
Eldredge’s roots trace back to the suburbs of Los Angeles, a place he found stifling, but his childhood summers spent on his grandfather’s cattle ranch in eastern Oregon ignited a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He and his wife, Stasi, were high school sweethearts from drama class, though their relationship blossomed later when they both found faith in Christ. John pursued his passion for theater with an undergraduate degree from Cal Poly and led a theater company in Los Angeles. His journey then led him to Colorado and Focus on the Family, where he contributed to the Focus on the Family Institute as an instructor.
John Eldredge Portrait at Wild at Heart
Deepening his commitment to helping others, John obtained a master’s degree in Counseling from Colorado Christian University, studying under the mentorship of Larry Crabb and Dan Allender. He practiced as a counselor before establishing Wild at Heart in 2000. Today, John and Stasi reside in Colorado Springs, sharing their lives with their three sons – Samuel, Blaine, and Luke – their golden retriever, Oban, and horses, Whistle and Kokolo.
Beyond these biographical facts, John Eldredge is a man deeply connected to beauty and adventure. His passions include everything from Shakespeare and bow hunting to the simple pleasure of a good cigar. He finds inspiration in poetry, the excitement of March Madness, the satisfaction of working with his hands, the tranquility of fly fishing, and the energy of classic rock. The majestic Tetons hold a special place in his heart, along with the flavors of fish tacos and buffalo steaks, the wisdom of George MacDonald, and the richness of dark chocolate. He is drawn to wild, open spaces and the sight of horses running free. These loves paint a picture of a man who embraces life in its fullness and seeks the extraordinary within the ordinary.
Stasi Eldredge Smiling Portrait
Stasi Eldredge, John’s wife and partner in ministry, shares his passion for connecting people with God. She is a writer and speaker dedicated to revealing the goodness of God to women. Stasi’s childhood in Prairie Village, Kansas, provided a strong foundation before her family moved to Southern California. Her early love for theatre connected her with John in high school. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from San Diego State University and embraced Christianity during her junior year, becoming involved with Campus Crusade for Christ. Her ministry work continued with Youth for Christ, where she focused on supporting pregnant teenagers and young mothers. Stasi’s commitment to ministry has been constant, encompassing theatre, crisis pregnancy centers, women’s groups, and children’s programs.
Stasi finds immense joy in the transformative love of Jesus Christ and desires to help others experience this love more profoundly. She appreciates worship music, the creativity of baking, the joy of celebrating life, and the escape of a good book. Simple pleasures like baths, walks in nature, her sons’ laughter, and the rustling of wind in trees fill her with gratitude. She finds delight in a good cup of coffee, the scent of rain-soaked earth, powerful writing, and the beauty of animals and gardens. Family traditions, cherished friendships, and the grandeur of the Tetons also hold special meaning for her, alongside her deep affection for horses, her dog, and above all, her family and her faith. Together, John and Stasi Eldredge are dedicated to guiding others towards a deeper understanding of God’s love and a more vibrant, authentic life.
