No Regrets Leadership Podcast

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve is joined by author and pastor John Ortberg for a powerful conversation about transformation—what it means to move beyond trying harder toward training our lives around the practices that truly change us into a more godly person. John unpacks the difference between behavior modification and genuine spiritual transformation, sharing how Jesus invites us not just to follow Him but to become like Him. They discuss what it means to be a godly person first, and then a godly man—loving God with everything we’ve got, loving others well, and building character that lasts. Drawing from his new book Steps, John highlights how the church can learn again from the wisdom of the 12 Steps: that real change begins with surrender—“I can’t. He can. I think I’ll let Him.” Transformation, he explains, always requires both a way of life and a community of people who walk alongside us. John and Steve also talk about the role of real accountability—how openness, honesty, and voluntary transparency create the soil where lasting change can take root. This conversation will challenge and inspire you to live transparently, pursue Christlikeness, and embrace a path of discipleship that leads to joy and wholeness. Resources Mentioned: Steps by John Ortberg More about John Ortberg Become New Teachings

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, we’re joined by Josh Howard, a missionary who spent 16 years in India catalyzing disciple-making and church-planting movements in some of the most unreached regions of the world. Josh shares how God gave him a passion to see disciples multiply, leaders raise up leaders, and churches start new churches. In 2015, Josh helped launch Ignite, a movement that has been part of starting more than 40,000 churches across India. He reflects on the radical but simple disciple-making method of Jesus—and how every church and believer can begin taking small, practical steps to spark movements for Christ. Josh offers encouragement and insight on praying and fasting, regularly sharing the gospel, and equipping every believer to live out Scripture and disciple others. Josh also opens up about his family’s recent transition back to the U.S. after years of ministry abroad, sharing both the challenges of leaving India and what God has been teaching him in this new season. His story is a powerful reminder of what it means to risk everything for the sake of the gospel and to trust God to multiply His kingdom. Resources Mentioned: e3partners.org Christian Extremism  – Amazon link Books by Steve Addison – Amazon link

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve is joined by Albo Esilaba, who will step into the role of Executive Director of No Regrets this September. Albo shares his powerful journey of faith—from growing up in a Christian home in Nairobi, Kenya, where his parents served in the church, to following God’s call into ministry. As a child, he witnessed the power of prayer and the presence of Jesus as his family opened their home to others in need. Though he began his studies in engineering, Albo soon felt a tug toward ministry that led him to seminary, then to Nairobi Chapel, and eventually to Milwaukee, where he served at Elmbrook Church. In this conversation, Steve and Albo talk about what it means to live in such a way that Jesus is clearly on display, how God redirects our lives from personal plans to His calling, and the vital role of prayer, discipleship, and community in shaping faith. With more than 20 years of experience in church ministry and global discipleship, Albo brings a heart for Jesus, a vision for the nations, and a deep commitment to raising up disciples. His story will inspire you and give you a glimpse of why he is such a natural fit for the No Regrets family. Listen in—and don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who will be encouraged by Albo’s story.

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Vince Miller joins us to share practical guidance for men’s small group leaders. As an author, speaker, and daily devotional writer, Vince brings decades of experience and insight on how to lead groups that are meaningful, relational, and spiritually effective. Vince dives into four of the most common challenges small group leaders face: handling the talkative guy, encouraging men to open up, supporting someone in crisis, and modeling the Body of Christ within the group. He offers actionable advice to help leaders create safe, authentic spaces where men can grow in their faith and care for one another. The episode also explores current trends in men’s small groups. Men today are seeking meaningful community, opportunities to explore God’s Word, and relational environments where they can be challenged and supported. Vince emphasizes that leadership often begins with vulnerability and giving others permission to seek help—for themselves, their families, and the group. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode will equip you to lead a small group that truly impacts lives. Resources Mentioned: Vince Miller – Resolute Men’s Ministry – daily and weekly studies, books, and study guides for small groups

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Bill Search, pastor at Crossings Community Church and author of several books on small group ministry, shares practical, hands-on ideas to help take your small group to the next level. Whether you’ve been in a group for decades or are just getting started, this episode offers valuable tools and fresh insights. Bill reflects on his own story—how early in marriage, his wife encouraged him to join a small group, even though he didn’t think he needed one. But that group changed his life. It was there he discovered the power of being known, challenged, and encouraged—and the importance of doing the same for others. Throughout the episode, Bill emphasizes the need for intentionality in small groups. He shares ways to breathe new life into your group: switch locations, rotate leaders, try a new study format, or invite a few new people in. Taking risks and making small changes can help create space for deeper connection and lasting growth. Whether you’re leading a group or simply part of one, this conversation will challenge and equip you to be more intentional. Listen in—and don’t forget to share this episode with someone who’s passionate about building stronger small groups. 📚 Resources Mentioned: Crossings Community Church Books by Bill Search on Amazon

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman is joined by pastor, author, and speaker Bobby Harrington for a practical and insightful conversation all about discipleship. Together, they unpack what true discipleship looks like, explore current trends shaping disciple-making today, and discuss the biggest challenges churches face in building a disciple-making culture. One key insight: men need other men—intentional, relational environments where they’re challenged, encouraged, and rooted in Scripture to grow more like Christ. Bobby shares wisdom gained from discipling others and learning from churches across the country. He offers clear, actionable guidance for pastors and leaders who want to make disciple-making the priority it was meant to be. Whether you're just getting started or looking to go deeper, this episode provides a roadmap and tools to make discipleship simple, sustainable, and effective. Resources Mentioned: renew.org discipleship.org 10 Principles of Disciple Making

In Part Two of this encouraging conversation, Steve Sonderman continues his talk with John Groth from Priority One Ministry—diving deeper into the heart of men’s discipleship and authentic relationships. John shares more of his story, including a season of deep loneliness that led him to discover the power of friendship and community with other men. He reflects on how those relationships didn’t just support him—they transformed him, making him a better husband, leader, and disciple-maker. This episode explores what men are truly longing for today: genuine connection, trusted brotherhood, and spiritual growth through honest community. John unpacks key lessons from life and ministry, including how to disciple another man, guard meaningful relationships, and remain a lifelong learner as a leader. If you're longing to build deeper connections and grow in your walk with Christ, this conversation is for you. Learn more about John and Priority One: priorityone.org priorityone.org/john-groth LinkedIn - John Groth

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman is joined by John Groth, Area Director for the Mid-Atlantic with Priority One. In Part One of this powerful conversation, John shares his remarkable journey from growing up as an atheist to finding Christ—and the moment his father challenged him to live out what he claimed to believe. That turning point led John into ministry, serving as a chaplain in the Air Force Reserves, teaching as an adjunct professor, and now leading men through his work with Priority One. John opens up about leading while struggling, the toll of ministering to others without taking care of yourself, and the impact of PTSD. He reflects on hard-won lessons from his time in the classroom and emphasizes why honesty, humility, and authenticity matter—especially to the next generation. As we kick off a month focused on discipleship, John’s story is a timely reminder: God doesn’t need us to have it all together to use us in powerful ways. Learn more about John’s work with Priority One: priorityone.org

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman sits down with Craig Holmquist from Fort Wilderness to dive into what makes a great men’s retreat—and why gathering men together in intentional spaces matters more than ever. They explore how retreats help men relax, reconnect, and wrestle with real-life issues like relationships, fatherhood, work, and faith. Fort’s Men’s Retreats are designed with men in mind—offering activities like tomahawk throwing, chainsaw seminars, and quiet mornings by the lake. Craig shares stories from the retreat that illustrate how God shows up when men step away from their routines and into brotherhood. If you're longing for more in your men’s ministry, this episode will inspire you to take the next step—pray, gather your guys, and go after it together. Learn more about the Fort Men’s Retreat happening September 11–14 and October 16–19: fortwilderness.com

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman is joined by Jordan Harnum from Impactus Ministries for a timely and practical conversation on preparing for a strong fall launch of your men’s ministry. Jordan, whose passion for equipping men started by simply showing up in young men's lives, reminds us that many guys are already doing ministry—they just may not know it yet. Together, he and Steve unpack key principles every men’s ministry should be using as they head into the fall. Whether you're starting fresh or building on existing momentum, this episode offers clear, actionable strategies to: Use your summer months to prepare for a strong launch Set a fall date and begin identifying and inviting leaders now Pray and cast a clear vision for what God wants in your ministry Engage men through doing—sports, grilling, or simple gatherings Build transparency and intentionality to draw more men in If you’re looking to equip, engage, and impact men this fall, don’t miss this energizing conversation packed with tools and inspiration to help you lead with purpose. Resources Mentioned: Impactus Ministries Articles & Resources Facebook | Instagram | YouTube LinkedIn | X (Twitter)