No Regrets Leadership Podcast

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, host Albo Esilaba is joined by Robby Emery, the Director of Character Development for Michigan Football. Robby shares how his leadership journey has been shaped by grace, intentional investment, and a renewed understanding of the gospel's power to transform lives. In this conversation, Robby and Albo talk about developing young athletes for success beyond the field—helping them discover their purpose, handle pressure, and grow in character when no one is watching. Robby explains his belief that "character starts with culture," and that true growth happens in the unseen moments of faithfulness and humility. He challenges players to lean into their God-given purpose, value every role on the team, and lead through respect, discipline, and consistency. He also shares how each of us is an essential part of the Church—just as every athlete contributes to the strength of the team, whether they're on the field or supporting from the sidelines. Together, they explore what today's younger generation is teaching us about leadership—how they crave community, clarity, and challenge. Robby encourages leaders to stay close, be clear in their convictions, and challenge others to rise up, all while trusting that God's blessings are stored up for those who persevere. Be sure to listen to this episode—there are countless nuggets of wisdom for anyone invested in leadership, discipleship, or character formation.

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Nate Gruber is joined by Russ Ewell, pastor and leader in the Bay Area, who is doing incredible work engaging and empowering Gen Z and millennials. Russ shares his story of growing up in a church-filled community but never feeling connected—until a friend invited him to a Young Life event that changed everything. It was there he first saw what authentic Christian community could look like. Now, as pastor of a multi-campus church that continually raises up young leaders, Russ talks about the importance of releasing control, giving the next generation real opportunities to lead, and creating environments where young people can shape the church in a biblical and relevant way. He shares how his team intentionally simplifies messages, includes younger voices in sermon writing, and keeps new people close to stay connected and grounded in everyday ministry. Russ and Nate also discuss practical ways to reach Gen Z in today's world—meeting people where they are, investing deeply in relationships, and addressing the rising challenges of anxiety, ADHD, and depression with compassion and understanding. If you're looking for ways to lead young people in your context in a way that makes sense to them and invites them to grow in faith, this episode is for you. Learn more about Russ and his ministry: Russ Ewell Deep Spirituality The Chemistry Lab

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Albo Esilaba is joined by Dr. Chap Clark to talk about the power of intentionality in leadership. Chap shares how his life was shaped through Young Life, when someone remembered his name and invited him into authentic community. That early encounter taught him the lasting impact of seeing others with intentionality—and it continues to shape how he leads today. Together, Albo and Chap explore what it looks like to create intentional spaces that reflect the heart of Jesus—spaces marked by care, service, and encouragement, rather than aggression or hierarchy. They discuss how leaders can honor and empower people in everyday settings, paying close attention to those God has placed in their care. Chap also shares practical insights for equipping and celebrating young people, preparing them for faith, and affirming them through relationship and encouragement. He emphasizes the importance of being like a "big brother" who calls out the value in youth while also being willing to learn from them as mutual partners in faith. This conversation is a reminder that every act of intentional leadership—whether with young men or men of any age—has kingdom impact. Even small investments of encouragement can ripple out in ways that change lives. Learn more about Dr. Chap Clark at chapclark.com

This is the second episode in our two-part series on biblical manhood. In this conversation, Albo Esilaba is joined again by Joby Martin, pastor of The Church of Eleven22 and author of Stand Firm and Act Like a Man. Together, they go deeper into practical ways of living out godly manhood in everyday life—whether you're a dad, a leader, or a man of influence in any setting. Joby and Albo challenge the divide between "sacred" and "secular" work, reminding us that all vocations are God-given assignments and that every man has been sent into the world as a frontline minister. They discuss how aligning your work, business, or leadership with biblical principles can create environments that impact the kingdom and help people flourish. They also explore how to raise the next generation of men, emphasizing that more is caught than taught. From praying scripture over your children, asking heart-level questions, and parenting toward relationship, to surrounding your teens with godly adult mentors—Joby gives practical tools for modeling and passing on godly manhood. Along the way, they remind fathers to give themselves grace, to never give up, and to embrace the responsibility of leading well. This episode is a powerful reminder of the need for men who will stand up, take ownership, and live out biblical manhood in every area of life. Resources Mentioned: The Church of Eleven22 Stand Firm and Act Like a Man by Joby Martin

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Albo Esilaba is joined by pastor and author Joby Martin from The Church of Eleven22 for the first episode in a special two-part series. Joby shares from his new book, Stand Firm and Act Like a Man, a biblical guide to what Scripture says about who men are and how they are called to live. Instrumental in discipling men, Joby currently leads a church in Jacksonville, FL, where over 20,000 people gather in person each weekend—and many more join online—to discover and deepen their relationship with Jesus. His passion is to help men stand firm in their faith, live out their calling, and follow Jesus in a culture that often makes true biblical manhood feel harder than ever to find. In this conversation, Albo and Joby explore what makes a godly man and what it takes to become one. They discuss what biblical manhood is—and what it isn't—while addressing the confusion and cultural noise surrounding manhood today. Joby reminds men that they are not alone, and that Jesus invites them to take the journey His way. This powerful conversation will challenge and inspire you to start or strengthen your walk as a godly man. Come be transformed in this two-part series as we learn what it means to stand firm and act like a man. Resources Mentioned: The Church of Eleven22 Stand Firm and Act Like a Man by Joby Martin

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