About Justin Tilghman, PhD

I’m a coach, pastor, and lifelong learner who’s always been drawn to people—not just what they do, but who they are, what shaped them, and what helps them truly flourish. That deep curiosity has guided much of my life and work, from years in leadership development and higher education to the soul work I do now through Balanced Coaching.

But the shift didn’t happen in a classroom or a strategy session. It came during a personal unraveling—an unexpected season of anxiety, loss, and confusion that cracked the life I thought I was building. I found myself doing all the “right” things—praying, reading Scripture, clinging to truth—but still feeling stuck and disconnected. I knew a lot about God, but I didn’t feel close to Him. And I didn’t feel at peace within myself.

That hard season became a turning point. It led me to explore a more integrated path—one that brought together emotional maturity, relational wisdom, and spiritual formation. As I learned about attachment, the brain, identity, and presence, things began to shift. I stopped trying to fix myself and started experiencing healing. My relationship with God felt personal again. My mind got quieter. My heart felt safer.

Out of that healing came a calling. I founded Balanced Coaching as a Christ-centered space where people could do this deeper work too. I now walk alongside individuals, leaders, and teams who want to live with clarity, integrity, and joy—people ready to move beyond survival and into a life of meaningful connection with God and others. My coaching blends neuroscience, faith, and practical tools to help people grow with courage and self-awareness.

Alongside coaching, I serve as Pastor of Development at my church, where I equip small group leaders and help foster a culture of authentic community. I also co-host the Encounter Grace Podcast, where we talk about real life and faith in thoughtful, practical ways. And when I’m not doing any of that, I’m probably at home enjoying quiet evenings with my wife and boys—or diving into a book on theology, psychology, or spiritual formation. At the core, I want to help people live whole, grounded lives—lives where they’re not just getting by, but truly flourishing.