No Regrets Leadership Podcast

What does it really take to understand, mentor, and disciple young adults today? In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Albo Esilaba sits down with Dr. Steve Argue, associate professor of Youth, Family, and Culture at Fuller Theological Seminary, for a practical conversation about emerging adulthood, Gen Z, faith, mentoring, and intergenerational ministry. Steve challenges leaders to move beyond generational stereotypes and behavior modification and instead become curious about the stories, pressures, and transitions shaping young adults today. He explains why simply having lived through your own 20s does not mean you fully understand what young adults experience today. Rapid changes in technology, culture, work, relationships, education, and faith mean that today's emerging adults are navigating a very different environment. The conversation explores how churches and leaders can create genuine belonging, give young adults meaningful agency, adapt ministry expectations to more fluid lives, and develop relationships built on trust rather than assumptions. Steve also introduces ideas from his upcoming book, Own Your Twenties, which draws from research with emerging adults across the United States. He explains how young adults often navigate significant transitions involving identity, relationships, responsibility, self-care, faith, and their sense of purpose. Many young adults feel as though they are falling behind. Steve offers another possibility: what if they are not behind at all, but are learning how to navigate a new stage of life—and their lives are actually right on time? For parents, pastors, mentors, ministry leaders, employers, and anyone who cares about the next generation, this episode provides practical encouragement for building stronger relationships with young adults. The challenge for every leader is simple but important: How can we show up where young adults need us the most?

How can worship leaders create an environment where men feel comfortable engaging in worship? What makes worship meaningful, and how can churches lead men into a deeper relationship with Jesus? In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Executive Director Albo Esilaba sits down with longtime worship leader and pastor Sean Keith to explore practical strategies for leading men in worship, developing effective worship teams, and creating worship experiences that encourage spiritual growth. Sean has served in ministry for more than 25 years and currently serves as an executive pastor at Lifegate Church in Nebraska. A familiar face at the No Regrets Men's Conference, Sean shares lessons from decades of worship leadership, including how his personal journey through cancer transformed his understanding of worship, grace, and leading people through difficult seasons. In this episode, you'll discover: How to choose worship songs and keys that encourage men to sing Why meaningful worship is about more than outward participation How worship leaders can balance musical excellence with authentic worship Why song selection, biblical lyrics, and intentional worship planning matter How to create worship environments that connect across generations and cultures How to balance structure with flexibility and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit How to develop worship leaders through mentorship and intentional growth Why understanding the people you lead is essential to effective worship ministry Sean also introduces his upcoming book, Lanes, which explores five essential dimensions of worship leadership: spiritual, charismatic, relational, developmental, and administrative leadership. Whether you're a worship pastor, church leader, men's ministry director, or volunteer preparing worship for a men's event, this conversation offers practical insights for helping men encounter God and grow as followers of Jesus. RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS No Regrets Men's Ministry — Equipping leaders to disciple men intentionally. https://noregretsmen.org No Regrets Men's Conference — Bring the conference to your church and help men grow in their faith. https://noregretsconference.org LifeCamp USA — Supporting children of fallen military, law enforcement, and first responder heroes through meaningful mentorship. https://lifecampusa.org ABOUT THE NO REGRETS LEADERSHIP PODCAST The No Regrets Leadership Podcast equips church leaders and ministry leaders with practical insights, biblical wisdom, and real-life conversations about leadership, men's discipleship, and building intentional discipleship ministries. Subscribe for conversations that will help you strengthen your church, develop leaders, and equip men to follow Jesus and lead others. Watch this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mpreqihbI5Y #WorshipLeadership #MensMinistry #WorshipPastor #ChurchLeadership #NoRegretsMensMinistry

What would change if you lived with the same intentionality you bring to your work? In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Albo Esilaba talks with Jim Stolberg about becoming the Chief Life Officer of your life. Jim shares six practical principles for Christian men and leaders who want to live with greater purpose, clarity, and intentionality while remaining fully dependent on God. The conversation explores developing a clear vision for your future, creating a written life strategy, aligning your calendar and finances with your priorities, surrounding yourself with the right people, and regularly reviewing and redirecting your life. Jim also shares practical tools including the 80th Birthday Exercise, creating a personal roadmap, developing a personal board, living from spiritual overflow, and embracing seasons of transition as opportunities to seek God's direction. At the heart of the conversation is a powerful principle: pursue intentionality without insisting on control.

Christian leadership isn't about being the hero or having all the answers. It begins with following Jesus faithfully and helping others follow Him alongside you. In this episode, Albo Esilaba talks with Vince Miller, founder and president of Resolute Ministries and a featured speaker at the 2027 No Regrets Men's Conference. Vince shares how his struggle to become the perfect husband and father transformed his understanding of leadership. He and Albo explore overcoming shame and repetitive sin, replacing false humility with authentic vulnerability, and using prayer and Scripture to deepen intimacy with God. They also discuss why experienced Christian leaders can lose their wonder for God's Word, how ministry ambition can become discontentment, and why men must silence the voice of self-disqualification that keeps them on the sidelines. In this episode: • Following Jesus instead of trying to be the hero • Overcoming shame, fear, and defeatist thinking • Practicing authentic vulnerability • Building intimacy with God through Scripture and prayer • Recovering joy in God's Word • Pursuing contentment and finishing well • Stepping into Christian leadership with courage Join Vince Miller at the No Regrets Men's Conference on February 6, 2027: https://www.noregretsconference.org/ Vince Miller and Resolute Ministries: https://beresolute.org/ No Regrets Men's Ministry: https://noregretsmen.org/

Moral failure does not have to be the end of a man's story. In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, we explore how Christian leaders, churches, and fellow believers can respond when a man has experienced moral failure—particularly in the area of sexual sin. Genuine restoration does not minimize sin or avoid accountability. It brings truth and grace together, creating a path toward repentance, healing, and renewed faithfulness. This conversation considers what biblical restoration requires, how trusted men can walk alongside someone through the process, and why the church must become a place where men can bring their struggles into the light before failure occurs. This episode also connects with Forming Men in Christ a special event about sexual purity taking place at Elmbrook Church on September 26, 2026. Learn more about No Regrets Men's Ministry and find resources to help you disciple men intentionally: https://www.noregretsmen.org Subscribe to the No Regrets Leadership Podcast for more conversations that equip and encourage Christian leaders. #MensMinistry #ChristianLeadership #BiblicalRestoration Music attribution: Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: KF6TXUSASTD0GGHC

Healthy leadership begins with a healthy soul. In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Executive Director Albo Esilaba welcomes founder Steve Sonderman back following his sabbatical. Together, they explore what it means to guard the soul of a leader and lead from a place of spiritual health. Albo and Steve discuss the rhythms that keep leaders grounded, the warning signs of soul neglect, the importance of humility, and lessons Steve learned during his time away. Their conversation offers practical encouragement for pastors, ministry leaders, workplace leaders, and anyone seeking to lead others while remaining deeply connected to Jesus. Learn more about No Regrets Men's Ministry and find resources to help you disciple men intentionally: https://www.noregretsmen.org Subscribe to the No Regrets Leadership Podcast for more conversations designed to equip and encourage Christian leaders. #ChristianLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #NoRegretsMen

What does effective disciple-making look like across different cultures—and what can leaders in the United States learn from what God is doing around the world? In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Albo Esilaba talks with Steven Steinhaus, Regional Director for New Generations in Southeast Asia. Drawing from more than 22 years of missionary service, Steven shares how his understanding of leadership changed from personally filling every leadership gap to identifying, encouraging, and coaching others to lead. Steven discusses: Why disciple making begins before someone comes to faith The difference between counting conversions and developing reproducing disciples Why people in many gospel-unreached cultures may be more spiritually open than Western leaders assume How Discovery Bible Study helps people encounter Scripture without importing unnecessary cultural assumptions Opportunities to engage immigrants and refugees with the gospel Why leaders must allow others to see them faithfully following Jesus Steven also shares stories from Southeast Asia, Chicago, and other parts of the world that demonstrate how simple conversations, visible faith, and an invitation to explore Scripture can open the door to life-changing relationships. His final challenge to leaders is direct: Do not merely tell others how to follow Jesus. Live in a way that allows them to follow your example as you follow Christ. Learn more about No Regrets Men's Ministry and access disciple-making resources: No Regrets Men's Ministry: https://noregretsmen.org Subscribe to the No Regrets Leadership Podcast for practical conversations designed to equip pastors, ministry leaders, and men who want to make disciples who make disciples.

Nate Gruber sits down with No Regrets Regional Champion Brennen Sullivan for a conversation about the No Regrets Leadership Pathway and the work of releasing men into ministry and reproducing leaders who make disciples. Brennen is a pastor, disciple multiplier, and men's ministry leader living in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. In this episode, he shares practical wisdom from his own discipleship journey and from years of helping churches build a culture of multiplication. This conversation explores why many men get rooted in faith but never move into mission, how fear and lack of equipping can keep men from leading, and why churches need an intentional pathway to help men become disciple-makers. This episode is for pastors, men's ministry leaders, small group leaders, and anyone who wants to help men grow as followers of Christ and leaders who reproduce other leaders. Watch or listen on YouTube: [Insert YouTube Link] Learn more about No Regrets Men's Ministry: https://noregretsmen.org

Nate Gruber sits down with No Regrets Regional Champion Glenn Herschberger for a conversation about the No Regrets Leadership Pathway and the early work of discipling men by reaching them and rooting them in Christ. Glenn is a second-career pastor and church planter who currently pastors City's Cop Church in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. As a longtime follower of Christ and leader of men, Glenn shares practical wisdom and strategy for helping churches begin the process of discipling men in the ways of Jesus. This episode is for pastors, men's ministry leaders, small group leaders, and anyone who wants to help men grow as followers of Christ. Watch or listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pd9iEPSd2_4 Learn more about No Regrets Men's Ministry: https://noregretsmen.org

In this episode of the No Regrets Leadership Podcast, Jim Braniff shares encouragement and insight for men, pastors, and church leaders who want to grow in discipleship, leadership, and faithfulness to Christ. At No Regrets, our mission is to equip leaders in the local church to develop an intentional plan for discipling the men in their church and community. This conversation is designed to help men think more deeply about what it means to follow Jesus, lead with purpose, and invest in others through intentional discipleship. Whether you are a men's ministry leader, pastor, small-group leader, or a man who wants to grow in your walk with Christ, this episode offers practical encouragement to live out your faith and help others do the same. Learn more about No Regrets Men's Ministry: https://noregretsmen.org Subscribe for more conversations on men's discipleship, Christian leadership, church ministry, spiritual growth, and following Christ.

Pastor Mike, Missions Pastor at Elmbrook Church, joins Albo to talk about what it really looks like to reach men who are close to us—but far from God. This conversation gets practical. Pastor Mike shares stories, but more importantly, he challenges leaders to rethink how they live on mission. It's not about programs—it's about proximity, authenticity, and obedience. They also tackle the hard side of leadership: making difficult decisions when people don't align with your values, and why short-term discomfort often leads to long-term health. If you're leading a ministry, building relationships, or trying to live your faith out in the real world—this episode will push you to take action.

Matt Erickson, pastor at Eastbrook Church with over three decades of ministry experience, joins Nate Gruber to explore what it really means to lead faithfully in a complex and changing world. Drawing from his new book The Pastor as Gardener, Matt unpacks how the metaphors we live by shape the way we lead, pastor, and follow Jesus. In a culture that often pushes for results and performance, he offers a different vision—one rooted in presence, trust, and long-term growth. Matt reminds us that fruitful ministry doesn't come from striving—it flows from a deep, ongoing relationship with God. Like a gardener planting seeds, we are called to be faithful with what we've been given, trusting God to bring growth in His timing. If you're feeling the weight of expectations in leadership, this episode offers a grounded and hope-filled perspective: stay rooted, stay faithful, and let God do what only He can do. Get Matt's book: The Pastor as Gardener → https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802884145/the-pastor-as-gardener/ Learn more: https://mwerickson.com

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Albo Esilaba is joined by Dr. Gary Gregg to continue the series on mental health and leadership, focusing on how to understand and manage leadership anxiety. Dr. Gregg explains that anxiety isn't something we can—or should—eliminate. At a healthy level, it shows we care and are invested. But when it grows too strong, it can rob us of joy and impact our leadership. Rather than ignoring it, anxiety can be a signal pointing to something that needs our attention. They discuss how many leaders carry hidden fears of not being enough, and how trying to suppress anxiety often makes it worse. Instead, leaders need to reflect, be honest, and invite trusted people into their lives. We are responsible to others, not for them—and we don't have to lead alone. Dr. Gregg also shares practical habits for staying healthy: do your own work, avoid shortcuts in growth, and build strong relationships that help you stay grounded. Resource Mentioned: Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs by Steve Cuss

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Nate Gruber is joined by Dr. Dan Green, Clinical Director of New Life Resources and a long-time partner of No Regrets, for an important conversation on the mental health of the men we lead—and the men we are becoming. Dr. Green brings practical insight for leaders who feel stuck or are facing roadblocks in their own lives or on their teams. As mental health becomes more widely discussed, many men are still unsure what to do with what they're feeling. Labels can sometimes increase isolation rather than bring clarity, especially when men struggle to express their needs. Nate and Dan explore the reality that men today are often more psychologically drained than physically exhausted—and more disconnected than ever. In a world filled with constant information, they emphasize the importance of real, face-to-face connection and intentional relationships. Every man carries a unique story and set of pressures, and understanding those demands is key to leading well. They also discuss how leaders must first care for their own health before they can care for others. As Dr. Green shares, every man needs a few trusted relationships—men who aren't impressed by him, but who will challenge, support, and walk with him honestly. When leaders model vulnerability and authenticity, they create space for others to do the same. This episode offers practical tools for understanding your own needs, recognizing what's being blocked when frustration arises, and learning how to lead with greater awareness, care, and connection. Ultimately, as we grow in knowing God, we begin to understand ourselves more fully—and lead others more effectively. Resource Mentioned: Overcoming Guilt and Shame by Daniel Green and Mel Lawrenz

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, host Albo Esilaba is joined by David Delk for a thoughtful conversation about navigating leadership transitions and finding success through inevitable change. David spent 22 years leading Man in the Mirror and now coaches faith and business leaders through seasons of transition through Delk Consulting. In this conversation, David shares his own journey—from serving in ministry leadership to stepping into a new calling at age 56 when God began opening doors for him to launch Delk Consulting. David explains that relationships are the glue that holds ministries together, especially during seasons of change. Healthy transitions require humility, honesty about what isn't working, and a willingness to surrender outcomes to the Lord. Leaders must focus on building authentic, Spirit-filled relationships where people feel known, supported, and encouraged to grow. Albo and David also discuss the importance of raising up new leaders—even when they may not feel fully ready. Passing responsibility to others, discipling them, and inviting them to step into leadership is part of how ministries grow. Ultimately, leadership is about obedience to God rather than controlling the results. David also offers wisdom for caring for your soul during times of transition—reminding leaders to slow down, listen to God, and trust Him through seasons of uncertainty. Learn more about David and Delk Consulting at https://www.delkconsulting.com Find more resources at https://www.noregretsmen.org

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Albo Esilaba is joined again by Steve Sonderman for Part Two of the series: 10 Lessons in Ministering to Men. Drawing from nearly four decades of experience leading men's ministry, Steve shares practical wisdom that will encourage and strengthen anyone investing in men. In this episode, Steve continues unpacking five more lessons that have shaped his ministry: Follow me as I follow Christ. Men need more than words—they need an example. Demonstrate what it looks like to follow Jesus in everyday life. Let God break your heart. Ask God to give you a vision for what breaks His heart. Often our own brokenness becomes the fuel for our purpose. Use the Word. Jesus is our model for ministry, and Scripture is our guide. Keeping the Word of God central helps men grow deeper in their faith. Catch and release. Get men into the field serving. Everyone has a role to play, and ministry grows when men step into action. Meet with a purpose. Take time to understand where a man is in his journey and encourage him to take the next step in following Christ. This conversation is filled with encouragement and practical insight for anyone leading men or looking to help others grow in their walk with Jesus.

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Albo Esilaba is joined by No Regrets Founder, Steve Sonderman for Part One of a powerful two-part series: Lessons in Ministering to Men. Drawing from 37 years of ministry experience, Steve shares wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for anyone leading or investing in men. The conversation begins by celebrating the incredible momentum from this year's No Regrets Conference—159 host sites, a sold-out gathering of 3,000 men at Elmbrook Church, and countless stories of surrender, prayer, and life change. The movement continues, and you can still access conference sessions and sign up for the follow-up study. In this first episode, Steve unpacks five foundational lessons he's learned over nearly four decades: What we are doing matters. Ministering to men is challenging, but when a man's life changes, it impacts his family, workplace, church, and community. Become friends and change the world. Men are lonely. Relationships are transformative. Ministry was never meant to be done alone—Jesus had a team, and we need one too. Have a big enough vision to think small. Bigger isn't always better. Real movements begin with a few men committed to discipling others. Prayer is the front lines. The walls around men's hearts are high, and only prayer can soften them. Lead with humility. True leadership begins with listening and serving, following the example of Jesus. This episode is filled with perspective, encouragement, and practical direction for anyone serious about helping men grow. You can still watch the conference sessions and join the follow-up study at: https://noregrets.pathwright.com/library/surrender-follow-up-study-242034/749353/about/

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, host Albo Esilaba is joined by Brett Clemmer, CEO and President of Man in the Mirror, for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation about community, loneliness, and the urgent need for men to thrive together. Brett brings both deep research and personal experience to the discussion, offering insight into how different generations of men have been shaped—and why today's men are more isolated than ever. While Brett shares about the strong foundation he received growing up—particularly the confidence instilled in him by his father—he also speaks candidly about a season in his own life when success and busyness came at the expense of his family. Traveling constantly for work and filling weekends with ministry, Brett realized he was doing what he thought was "for" his family, but in reality, he was neglecting them. It was through joining a small group and opening up that he discovered he wasn't alone—many other men were struggling with the same issues. In this episode, Brett challenges men to become catalysts for creating communities where others can flourish. He addresses the frustration of living in an algorithm-driven culture that keeps us divided and distracted, and he speaks directly to the loneliness epidemic facing men today. If loneliness is the problem, relationships are the solution. Albo and Brett discuss the powerful movement happening among young men—particularly on college campuses—where many are boldly rediscovering Christian faith and speaking truth with conviction. They explore how simple gatherings—men slowing down, sharing hobbies, and having real conversations—can become fertile ground for the Holy Spirit to work. The message is clear: when men come together in authentic community, God moves. Create the space. Trust the Spirit. Watch what happens. Learn more about Man in the Mirror at https://maninthemirror.org/ Discover more about community initiatives like Sons United at https://sonsunited.org/

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Nate Gruber is joined by Mike Young, founder of Noble Warriors and a leader with decades of experience in men's ministry. Mike shares his powerful journey of faith—how the pull of the Holy Spirit and encouragement from his wife led him into full-time ministry, and how discipleship transformed his life and calling. Mike reflects on the reality that he wasn't truly discipled until he was 30 years old. Though he was sitting in the pews and secure in his salvation, he never had someone walk alongside him in spiritual formation. That experience changed everything and ultimately led him into ministry focused on helping men grow deeper in Christ. Together, Nate and Mike discuss how the simple, consistent practice of discipleship can fuel and reset a men's ministry. When ministries feel stuck—same people, same conversations, no progress—it may be time to shift from an addition mindset to a multiplication mindset. Growth requires spiritual discomfort, intentional time in God's Word, and investing deeply in a few men who can then disciple others. Mike shares practical encouragement for leaders: start by asking a man his story. Look for the guy who seems disconnected. Spend time with those who think differently than you. Young men today are curious and hungry to learn about Jesus—they're looking for seasoned men who will walk beside them and help them live out their faith. This episode is both an opportunity and a challenge to step up, invest intentionally, and help launch a new movement of discipleship in your church. Learn more about Noble Warriors at https://noblewarriors.org

Today on the No Regrets Podcast, Albo Esilaba is joined by Kenny Luck, Lead Pastor of Mariners Church in Trabuco Canyon and Founder and CEO of Every Man Ministries. Kenny shares powerful leadership insights and reflects on the moments that shaped his calling and faith. Kenny talks about how hearing a message from Billy Graham changed the trajectory of his life, leading him to take bold risks to bring the gospel to those who didn't yet know Jesus. Saying "yes" to the adventure of following Christ eventually led him into missions, the marketplace, and continued service within the local church. Along the way, Kenny saw how one transformed man can begin transforming many—ultimately leading to the launch of Every Man Ministries. In this conversation, Kenny unpacks what surrender truly means: being with Jesus to become like Jesus, trusting God enough to "get in the boat," and embracing the mystery of following Christ. He also shares his heart for mentoring, calling out the lies that keep men stuck, and speaking truth into the lives of younger men so they can bear spiritual fruit. Kenny encourages listeners to reflect on where they are placing their trust—are we surrendering to what we see, or to the unseen work of God? This episode is an invitation to continue surrendering to Jesus, again and again. Listen to Kenny's Ultimate Surrender message from the 2026 No Regrets Conference and join the follow-up study on the No Regrets App. Learn more about Kenny and Every Man Ministries at https://www.everymanministries.com