No Regrets Leadership Podcast

In this episode of the No Regrets Podcast, host Albo Esilaba is joined by one of our 2026 No Regrets speakers, Simon Mbevi, founder and Executive Director of Transform Nations—an organization committed to community transformation through transformative leadership, healthy families, and lasting community change. Pastor Simon shares his powerful story of surrender—how God invited him to lay down his own plans and dreams to embrace a greater calling. Choosing to let his life count for something beyond himself, he reflects on what it truly means to let God lead and to live for a purpose greater than personal success. Together, they explore what surrender looks like in everyday life: living for an audience of One, releasing the need for approval, and allowing Jesus to be Lord—even when surrender doesn't feel attractive. Pastor Simon emphasizes that following Christ is a journey of trust, one that requires slowing down, embracing silence and stillness, and learning to hear God's voice. They also discuss the importance of humility and community—inviting others to speak into our lives and help us see what we might miss on our own. A key reminder from this conversation: we stand tallest when we are down on our knees. Hear more from Pastor Simon at the No Regrets Conference—register at https://www.noregretsconference.org.

In this episode of the No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman and Albo Esilaba share practical, encouraging advice for churches and individuals hosting the No Regrets Conference on February 7, 2026. With world-class speakers and a growing global audience, the conference will cover topics including parenting, spiritual growth, mental health, work, men's ministry, marriage, and more. Steve and Albo offer simple tips to help hosts prepare well: build a team so you're not doing it alone, make the event your own by integrating it into your existing men's ministry, get the word out early, and most importantly—pray. Prayer, they remind us, is the front line, and building a prayer team to cover the event is essential. They also talk about what happens after the conference. For individual men, the goal is to join a follow-up study to process and apply what was learned. For churches, resources like DiscipleMaker 101 and 201 can help turn conference momentum into a disciple-making movement within your church. There's still time to sign up—whether you're in southeastern Wisconsin or anywhere in the world. You can begin registering now. Be sure to check out the pre-conference Bible study and download the No Regrets app for schedules, details, and updates at https://www.noregretsconference.org.

This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Nate Gruber welcomes Jonathan Misirian, pastor of Southbrook Church in Franklin, Wisconsin. Jonathan reflects on growing up in church, his struggle with Sunday-only faith, and how God drew him into a life of authentic, surrendered leadership. Jonathan tells the story of how Southbrook Church began intentionally building relationships with their city—reaching out to local schools, the police department, and public works teams simply to say thank you. That small step of appreciation opened doors for real partnership, trust, and influence in the community. They talk about how living out your faith in everyday life can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to evangelism. Jonathan shares simple, practical ways people can show up and share Jesus in their own way—without pressure to be someone they're not. Evangelism, he explains, doesn't have to be forced; it can be as natural as being faithful, present, and genuine. Jonathan also reflects on surrender as one of the most powerful acts in the Christian life—something we don't do once, but something we recommit to daily, much like a marriage. As people search for meaning and truth, Jonathan believes this is a pivotal moment to live in such a way that others begin asking questions about Jesus. Hear more from Jonathan at the No Regrets Conference—register at https://www.noregretsconference.org

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Nate Gruber talks with Pastor A. R. Bernard, Founder and Pastor of Christian Cultural Center, one of the largest and most influential churches in the United States. Pastor Bernard shares his remarkable story—from being raised by a single mother who immigrated to the U.S., to finding Christ while working in the world of finance, and eventually stepping out of a successful banking career into full-time ministry. Together, Nate and Pastor Bernard explore what it truly means to surrender to God and follow His calling. They talk about engaging—not avoiding—the culture we live in, recognizing that God works through real-world events and real people. They discuss what it means to seek the Kingdom of God in everyday life, our responsibility as Christians in the world, and the transforming power of God's grace at work within us. Pastor Bernard also shares powerful insights on spiritual maturity—reminding us that maturity doesn't come with age, but through the responsibility we take for our actions and choices. He highlights the importance of having clear principles and values that govern decision-making and create healthy boundaries. The conversation also touches on one of the great challenges men face today: isolation, and how spiritual maturity calls us out of it. This is a rich conversation on calling, character, and living faithfully in the world God has placed us in. Learn more about A. R. Bernard: https://arbernard.com https://www.youtube.com/@ARBernard

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, host Albo Esilaba is joined by Bob Merritt, retired pastor of Eagle Brook Church in Minnesota. Under Bob's leadership, Eagle Brook grew to more than 28,000 people across 10 locations. In this honest and meaningful conversation, Bob and Albo talk about pride, humility, friendship, and trusting God through every season of leadership. Bob shares one of the lowest moments of his life and career—when he nearly lost his job at the church. That season became a powerful wake-up call. From that moment on, Bob committed to leading with humility, staying willing and available, and letting God direct his path. They also discuss the grief and loss that can come with retirement, the challenge of releasing a role that shaped so much of one's identity, and learning to trust God in the uncertainty that follows. Bob reflects on what he would tell his younger self—encouraging counseling to better understand strengths and weaknesses, seeking help where needed, and investing deeply in friendships. Bob shares how prioritizing relationships has brought unexpected joy into his life and why leaving space in our schedules matters. When our lives are too tightly planned, we can miss God's invitations and opportunities. This conversation is a powerful reminder that humility, friendship, and surrender are essential—not just in leadership, but in every stage of life. Learn more about Bob at https://www.bobmerritt.com Hear from Bob Merritt and many other great speakers at the No Regrets Conference—register at https://www.noregretsconference.org.

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Thaddeus Williams is joined by host Nate Gruber. Thaddeus is a professor of theology at Biola University, an author, and a trusted voice helping believers navigate culture with biblical wisdom. He shares part of his story—growing up in a religious home, wrestling through honest questions, and discovering faith for himself. Those early questions pushed him deeper into Scripture, deeper into study, and ultimately into academic scholarship. Nate and Thaddeus dig into what surrender looks like—not just as a one-time decision but as a continual posture of the heart. They talk about relational wisdom and what it means to engage others the way Jesus did—with truth, grace, patience, and clarity. Thaddeus gives a preview of what he'll be speaking on at the No Regrets Conference, addressing how culture elevates self-gratification, self-fulfillment, and autonomy. He challenges men to resist self-first living and instead live radically countercultural lives aligned with God's heart rather than personal preference. He closes the conversation with encouragement and practical steps we can all take to lead well, surrender daily, and become men whose lives reflect Jesus in a world obsessed with self. Learn more about Thaddeus: http://www.thaddeuswilliams.com https://www.youtube.com/@drthaddeuswilliams Hear from Thaddeus Williams and many other great speakers at the No Regrets Conference—register at https://www.noregretsconference.org.

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, host Albo Esilaba is joined by Chris Brown, speaker, leader, and Senior Pastor and Teaching Pastor at North Coast Church. Chris shares how his gift for storytelling—once something he lacked confidence in—became one of the most important tools in his ministry and leadership. Chris opens up about the freedom that comes from being fully yourself in leadership. If God has called you, you already have what it takes. Albo and Chris also discuss the importance of churches working together rather than competing, and what true surrender looks like for men and leaders today. They dive into the challenge of being disliked as a leader. Chris talks honestly about becoming a lightning rod in ministry, carrying others' frustrations, and navigating anger directed at you—while remembering that every one of us is broken and in need of grace. Finally, Chris shares his desire to finish strong by empowering the leaders around him. Together, they explore what it means to fade out with strength, pass the baton well, and ensure ministry continues with health and momentum for the next season and the next generation. Hear from Chris Brown and many other great speakers at the No Regrets Conference—register at https://www.noregretsconference.org.

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