No Regrets Leadership Podcast
Join Steve Sonderman as he interviews speakers, thought leaders and authors to encourage and equip you to more effectively minister to the men in your church and community.
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Bob Merritt on Humility, Leadership, and Letting God Lead
12/16/2025
Bob Merritt on Humility, Leadership, and Letting God Lead
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 Hear from Bob Merritt and many other great speakers at the No Regrets Conference—register at .
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Building a God-Centered Life in a Me-Centered World with Thaddeus Williams
12/09/2025
Building a God-Centered Life in a Me-Centered World with Thaddeus Williams
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: Hear from Thaddeus Williams and many other great speakers at the No Regrets Conference—register at .
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Free to Lead: Chris Brown on Storytelling, Surrendering, and Finishing Strong
12/02/2025
Free to Lead: Chris Brown on Storytelling, Surrendering, and Finishing Strong
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 .
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Leading with Grace: Robby Emery on Developing Character Beyond the Field
11/18/2025
Leading with Grace: Robby Emery on Developing Character Beyond the Field
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.
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Russ Ewell on Leading the Next Generation for Christ
11/11/2025
Russ Ewell on Leading the Next Generation for Christ
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:
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Leading with Intentionality: Lessons from Dr. Chap Clark
11/04/2025
Leading with Intentionality: Lessons from Dr. Chap Clark
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
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Living Out Biblical Manhood: Practical Steps with Joby Martin (Part 2)
10/21/2025
Living Out Biblical Manhood: Practical Steps with Joby Martin (Part 2)
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:
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Stand Firm: Joby Martin on Biblical Manhood (Part 1)
10/14/2025
Stand Firm: Joby Martin on Biblical Manhood (Part 1)
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:
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Trying vs. Training: John Ortberg on True Transformation
10/07/2025
Trying vs. Training: John Ortberg on True Transformation
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:
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Starting Movements for Christ: A Conversation with Josh Howard
09/10/2025
Starting Movements for Christ: A Conversation with Josh Howard
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: Christian Extremism – Books by Steve Addison –
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From Nairobi to No Regrets: Albo Esilaba’s Story
09/02/2025
From Nairobi to No Regrets: Albo Esilaba’s Story
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.
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Practical Tips for Men’s Small Group Leaders with Vince Miller
08/19/2025
Practical Tips for Men’s Small Group Leaders with Vince Miller
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: – daily and weekly studies, books, and study guides for small groups
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How to Build an Intentional Small Group with Bill Search
08/05/2025
How to Build an Intentional Small Group with Bill Search
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:
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How to Build a Disciple-Making Church with Bobby Harrington
07/15/2025
How to Build a Disciple-Making Church with Bobby Harrington
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:
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Growing Together: Friendship, Faith, and Discipleship: John Groth’s Story (Part 2)
07/08/2025
Growing Together: Friendship, Faith, and Discipleship: John Groth’s Story (Part 2)
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:
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Strength in the Struggle: John Groth’s Story (Part 1)
07/01/2025
Strength in the Struggle: John Groth’s Story (Part 1)
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:
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Launching Men Forward: Retreats That Multiply Impact
06/24/2025
Launching Men Forward: Retreats That Multiply Impact
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:
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Gearing Up Now for a Strong Fall Men’s Ministry
06/17/2025
Gearing Up Now for a Strong Fall Men’s Ministry
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: | | |
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Capturing Momentum: Preparing Your Men’s Ministry for a Strong Fall
06/03/2025
Capturing Momentum: Preparing Your Men’s Ministry for a Strong Fall
Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Nate Gruber is joined by Jeff Dionne, Regional Director for Maine and the Northeast with Man in the Mirror. Jeff shares his powerful story of how simply signing up for a church softball team led him into men’s ministry leadership—and gave him a passion for helping churches disciple men with greater intention. In this episode, Nate and Jeff explore what it takes to create, capture, and sustain momentum in men’s ministry, especially heading into the fall. They offer practical insights on: Moving from random books and studies to a strategic discipleship plan Building effective men’s leadership teams Understanding the difference between vision-minded and mission-minded men—and how to utilize both Developing clarity around your ministry’s goals: Who are you trying to reach? What topics should you explore? Helping men move from cultural Christianity to an authentic pursuit of the God who is, not just the God we want Whether you're a pastor, small group leader, or just someone passionate about strengthening men in your church, this conversation will equip you with next steps for building an impactful and lasting ministry to men. Resources Mentioned:
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From the Sidelines to the Frontlines: Reengaging the Boomer Generation
05/27/2025
From the Sidelines to the Frontlines: Reengaging the Boomer Generation
This week on the No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman sits down with Jim Stolberg for a powerful conversation about the untapped potential of the Boomer generation. Jim shares his personal journey of discovering his God-given calling in the “second season” of life—after years of gaining work, life, and spiritual wisdom. Through that process, he found clarity on what God was truly calling him to do. Together, Jim and Steve explore how leaders can help Boomers recognize that their time, talents, and wisdom are not meant to be buried—they’re meant to be invested in the next generation. It’s a challenge to move from the “state” to the “sage,” from success to significance, from retirement to reinvestment. You’ll hear practical ways to: Clarify your calling and listen for what God wants you to do next. Bridge the gap between church life and work life. Reframe success by using your business and life experience for Kingdom impact. Mobilize Boomers as mentors, leaders, and difference-makers in ministry and beyond. If you’re a leader—or if you’ve ever wondered what’s next or how to make your greatest impact in your second season—this episode is for you. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about serving with purpose, giving back with intention, and stepping into the calling you can’t not do. Resources Mentioned: Halftime: Moving from Success to Significance –
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Healing the Past, Discipling the Future with Pat Morley
05/20/2025
Healing the Past, Discipling the Future with Pat Morley
On this episode of The No Regrets Podcast, Steve Sonderman sits down with Pat Morley—one of the pioneers of men’s ministry since the early ’90s and founder of Man in the Mirror Ministries. Pat shares his powerful and deeply personal journey: growing up in the church without truly knowing Jesus, and the life-changing moment when a group of men welcomed him in and pointed him toward authentic faith. He opens up about the hidden wounds from his family and past, and how those unaddressed hurts shaped his life until he began to truly heal. Together, Pat and Steve dive into why so many men are longing for deeper discipleship—and how unresolved pain from the past often stands in the way. Pat unpacks the heart behind his new book, Broken Boy to Mended Man, a powerful biblical guide to identifying and healing childhood wounds, breaking free from shame, and ending destructive cycles. Through honest reflection, practical steps, and spiritual wisdom, the book helps men face their past, process their pain, and emerge as whole, restored leaders in their families and communities. If you've ever felt stuck in your past, this conversation will help you begin the journey of facing your pain, finding healing, and moving forward in freedom. 🔗 Learn more about Pat at 📘 Get the book: or
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Why Every Leader Needs a Coach with Gary Rohrmayer
05/13/2025
Why Every Leader Needs a Coach with Gary Rohrmayer
In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Gary Rohrmayer—church planter, missionary, and author of Ten Marks of a Coachable Leader—joins the conversation to unpack the power of coaching in the life of a leader. Gary shares from his own leadership journey and offers insight into what coaching really is, what it looks like to work with a coach, and how a coach can bring perspective, encouragement, and clarity to your calling. He explains how coaching differs from mentoring, what makes for a strong coaching relationship, and why setting clear expectations and building trust is essential. Together, we explore the key principles of coachability—humility, teachability, and a willingness to listen—and how leaders can cultivate these traits to grow and lead more effectively. Whether you’re leading a church, a team, or just stepping into leadership, this episode will give you a clear picture of how coaching can transform your leadership and your life. Resources Mentioned: Ten Marks of a Coachable Leader by Gary Rohrmayer Learn more at Coaching tools and resources at
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Engaging Boomers for Kingdom Impact with Scott Papador
05/06/2025
Engaging Boomers for Kingdom Impact with Scott Papador
In this episode, Steve Sonderman sits down with Scott Papador to discuss The Grand Plan—a powerful 6-week curriculum designed to engage the often-overlooked force in our churches: Boomers. With 76 million Boomers in the U.S. and an estimated 35% of church attendees coming from this generation, Scott challenges us to consider: Are we fully utilizing their gifts, talents, and wisdom? Scott shares his personal journey to faith and what led him to help develop The Grand Plan, a tool designed to activate men and women aged 52–73 for meaningful kingdom impact. Drawing on insights from Wisdom at Work by Chip Conley and From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks, this conversation explores how Boomers can move from success to significance. Through a six-summit process centered on holistic health, vision planning, and intentional engagement, The Grand Planhelps Boomers discover how to serve with purpose—during retirement and beyond. Whether in small groups, businesses, or ministry, this episode encourages you not to bury your treasure but to live with impact throughout every season of life. Learn more and choose your path—live, self-paced, or facilitated—at . Books mentioned: Wisdom at Work by Chip Conley From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks
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Reaching the Next Generation: A Conversation on Discipleship with Troy Thomas
04/18/2025
Reaching the Next Generation: A Conversation on Discipleship with Troy Thomas
This week on the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Nate is joined by Troy Thomas from Crossway Church teaching team for a meaningful conversation on discipleship and connecting with the next generation. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities of reaching young men in today’s church and how spiritual formation is about more than just teaching—it's about doing. Troy shares how his journey has been centered around making disciples who make disciples, influenced by the writings of Greg Ogden, Dallas Willard, Eugene Peterson, and John Mark Comer. He unpacks the deeper dynamics of how men relate, addressing the widespread loneliness among men and the longing for authentic connection. Troy offers tactical insight into how older men can build meaningful relationships with younger generations. Resources Mentioned: Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ by Greg Ogden Crossways Church - Listen in to be encouraged and equipped to reach and disciple the next generation of men.
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Shaping Future Leaders: The Power of Mentorship with Josh Lindblom
04/01/2025
Shaping Future Leaders: The Power of Mentorship with Josh Lindblom
In this episode, Josh Lindblom joins Steve Sonderman to discuss the power of mentorship and investing in the next generation of men. What does it truly mean to mentor a young man? How do you choose someone to invest in? Josh shares his personal journey of being intentionally mentored and how it shaped his leadership, helping him navigate transitions and learn to walk alongside others. Leadership is a lifelong process of discovering how God has uniquely shaped each of us for influence in His kingdom. Josh dives into the importance of relational depth, why true mentorship isn’t scalable but deeply personal, and how empowerment begins with understanding that our weaknesses don’t define us. He also shares practical steps for building meaningful mentorship relationships and training others to become mentors themselves. We believe this episode will encourage and equip you to invest in the next generation and mobilize more men for Jesus. Don’t wait—there is an army of men ready to be mentored. Resources Mentioned: The Making of a Leader by Robert Clinton Steps: A Guide to Transforming Your Life When Willpower Isn’t Enough by John Ortberg Learn more at Listen in and take the next step in mentorship today!
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The Power of Apprenticeship with Matt Millar - Part 2
03/25/2025
The Power of Apprenticeship with Matt Millar - Part 2
Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with Steve Sonderman and Matt Millar as we dive deeper into the importance of apprentices in ministry. Jesus intentionally chose His disciples, He set clear expectations, and prepared them for their mission—so how can we follow His model today? In this episode, we continue to explore: - Preparation – Teaching apprentices what they need to know before sending them out. - Empowerment – Encouraging leaders and helping men overcome fear of failure. - Giving Away Responsibility – Developing leaders by providing clear roles and expectations. - A Holistic Apprenticeship Process – Investing in people at every level of your organization. A structured apprenticeship involves a four-step process: modeling, assisting, empowering, and fully releasing the apprentice into leadership while offering continued guidance. When it comes to graduation apprentices, it’s about setting clear expectations, equipping them with what they need, and providing ongoing encouragement and support as they step into their role. Matt Millar also shares key questions to ask apprentices and practical ways to make apprenticeship a core part of your ministry’s culture. Resources Mentioned: – Free resources, PDFs, and booklets. Books by Dave Ferguson: . Podcasts with Rob Wegner. Learn more about Matt Millar, Global Operations Director at NewThing: Listen in and start building a legacy of leaders today!
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The Power of Apprenticeship with Matt Millar - Part 1
03/18/2025
The Power of Apprenticeship with Matt Millar - Part 1
Join Steve Sonderman and Matt Millar as they explore the vital role of apprentices in ministry. Discover how developing, deploying, and equipping apprentices can expand your impact and help you reach more men for Jesus. In this episode, Matt shares his personal journey and why apprenticing is a biblical mandate. Jesus calls us to make disciples, and that starts with intentional training and investment in others to create a lasting legacy for His kingdom. Learn the four key steps Jesus modeled in apprenticeship: 1 - Selection – Jesus specifically chose His 12 disciples. 2 - Expectation – He set clear expectations for their mission. 3 - Preparation – They saw how He lived and learned. 4 - Graduation – He sent them out to continue His work. Your ministry will only grow with leaders. Listen in and discover how to equip others for the work of Jesus and create a deeper impact with the men you serve. Learn more about Matt Millar, Global Operations Director at NewThing:
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Sharing Your Faith with Greg Stier - No Regrets Conference
02/19/2025
Sharing Your Faith with Greg Stier - No Regrets Conference
Join us for today’s episode from the No Regrets Men's Conference as we hear from speaker Greg Stier, founder of Dare to Share Ministry, who shares the nuts and bolts of witnessing in a natural and comfortable way. Greg shares his journey—from witnessing to his own family to inspiring others to boldly spread the powerful message of the gospel. He reminds us that the gospel is like a grenade—no matter who pulls the pin, it has the power to transform lives. In this conversation, we’ll explore: ✅ How to make evangelism a natural part of everyday conversations ✅ The importance of fueling up with the right motivation—obeying Christ’s call to make disciples ✅ The Prayer-Care-Share model for reaching others ✅ What it means to be Radical Like Jesus Be encouraged, be equipped, and get ready to live out your faith with confidence! For more about Greg - Dare 2 Share Website for youth ministry - The Life in 6 Words app provides an interactive and engaging way to naturally initiate spiritual conversations. Use it to walk someone through a clear message of the Gospel and the hope found in Jesus Christ! Download on the App store or find out more at https://li6w.com 🎧 Listen now!
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Investing in Men: Building a Culture of Discipleship with Nate Gruber
02/04/2025
Investing in Men: Building a Culture of Discipleship with Nate Gruber
On today’s episode, Steve Sonderman welcomes the newest member of the No Regrets team, Nate Gruber. Nate shares his powerful journey to Christ, his lifelong passion for telling others about Jesus, and how waking up each day to follow Him can transform everything. Nate’s heart for discipleship fuels his mission to help churches build a disciple-making culture through the No Regrets Ministry. Steve and Nate discuss the importance of investing in a small group of men—affirming, encouraging, and walking alongside them in faith. Nate also shares his excitement about Basecamp, a powerful resource designed to equip men to deepen their walk with Jesus and experience the security of knowing they are fully loved by God. Together, Nate and Steve explore the beauty of a life rooted in Christ, the confidence that comes from representing the Father, and what it truly means to live fully alive in Him. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! Links Discussed in Today’s Episode:
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Impactful Leadership: The Power of Mentorship with Dr. Crawford Loritts
01/30/2025
Impactful Leadership: The Power of Mentorship with Dr. Crawford Loritts
Join Steve Sonderman for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Crawford Loritts as they discuss the profound impact of mentoring and why it’s essential for every man. Dr. Loritts challenges men to remove boundaries and barriers, step into the role of hope-givers, and invest in the next generation of leaders. Mentorship isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being available, accessible, and intentional. As older men, we have the opportunity to guide younger ones by sharing our failures, praying with them, and providing the encouragement they need to grow. True leadership is about taking your God-given equity and using it to empower those around you. They also explore the concept of finishing well—how living well each day leads to a strong finish. Decision precedes development, and responding to God in the moment shapes the legacy we leave behind. This conversation will equip and encourage you in the ministry God has called you to, helping you embrace mentorship as a calling and a privilege. Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Crawford Loritts’ work: Leadership as an Identity: The Four Traits of Those Who Wield Lasting Influence by Crawford Loritts– Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane Ortlund – Don’t miss this powerful discussion on leadership, mentorship, and finishing well!
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