Episode Description:

On this episode of The AR Bernard Show, we sit down with Pastor Gabriel Salguero, founder of The Gathering in Orlando, Florida, and president of the National Association of Latino Evangelical Churches (NALEC). This pastor duo discuss the rapid growth of the Latino evangelical community in America, its influence on politics, and the unique challenges Latino faith leaders face in shaping culture while maintaining biblical integrity.

Pastor Salguero also shares his journey of planting a thriving multicultural church in the heart of Central Florida, the impact of immigrant migration, and the challenge of staying true to biblical principles while actively addressing social issues. From immigration to poverty, education, and criminal justice, we explore the pressing issues shaping the Christian experience today.

Watch the full episode now and join the conversation!

Guest Bio:

Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero is the lead pastor of The Gathering Place, a Latino-led multi-ethnic Assemblies of God congregation in Orlando, Florida. Salguero is also the president and founder of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NALEC), a national coalition of several thousand evangelical congregations in the United States. He was the former Director of the Hispanic Leadership Program (HLP), and the Institute for Faith and Public Life at Princeton Theological Seminary. Salguero is also a powerful voice on issues that affect the close to 9 million Latino evangelicals in the United States. Salguero’s leadership through NaLEC, offers an important voice for the growing diversity and changing demographics in our country.

He has written extensively on Latino evangelicalism, immigration, racism, and multicultural congregations. Salguero has been named as one of the nation’s most prominent Latino evangelical leaders by the New York Times, Huffington Post, the New York Observer, the Center for American Progress, El Diario, CNN Español, NBC Universal, Univisión, and Jorge Ramos’s Al Punto. In addition, his leadership on issues of young male education and criminal justice reform has been featured by the Discovery Channel and the Oprah Winfrey Network. Rev. Salguero has served on the White House Faith-Based Advisory Council, the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), and the National Advisory Council of the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance. He is also on the board of La Asociación Evangélica Latina (AEL) the coalition of Latin American evangelicals which is the representative body for all evangelical associations in Latin America.

Salguero holds a BA in Spanish and History from Rutgers University, and M.Div (magna cum laude) from New Brunswick Theological Seminary, and holds a Doctorate in Divinity (honoris causa) from Eastern Nazarene College.

Rev. Salguero lives together with his wife, the Rev. Jeanette Salguero and their two sons in Orlando, Florida.

(Biography Source: www.tgporl.org)

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Episode Description:

In this episode of The AR Bernard Show, we sit down with Will Packer, one of Hollywood’s most influential producers, whose films have grossed over $1 billion worldwide. From blockbuster hits to groundbreaking television, Packer has mastered the art of storytelling—but his journey wasn’t easy.

Highlights from our conversation include:

The Power of Faith & Grit: Packer shares how faith instilled in him the determination to chase his dreams relentlessly. He believes that when you have faith—not just in God, but in yourself—you can achieve anything.

From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood: Before making it big, Packer worked minimum-wage jobs, including selling newspapers, all while trying to break into the film industry. His story is a testament to perseverance and hard work.

Authentic Storytelling for Marginalized Communities: Packer discusses his passion for showcasing the humanity of marginalized voices in film and TV, ensuring their stories are told with authenticity and depth.

Producing the 2022 Academy Awards: Packer gives us an insider’s look at what it was like to produce one of the most talked-about Oscar ceremonies in history (due to the incident with Chris Rock and Will Smith).

New Book Release: His upcoming book, "Who Better Than You? The Art of Healthy Arrogance & Dreaming Big," explores how embracing confidence and taking bold risks can lead to success.

This conversation is filled with wisdom, inspiration, and powerful insights on faith, resilience, and the art of storytelling. Don’t miss it! 

Guest Bio:

Will Packer, Founder and CEO of Will Packer Productions and Will Packer Media, is one of Hollywood’s most prolific and commercially successful producers with a wide variety of projects on his slate. He can currently be found on The Hollywood Reporter’s illustrious Forces for Change list which draws attention to the heavyweights in Hollywood pushing for change.  Most recently, Packer produced the critically acclaimed limited series “Fight Night” for Peacock. It was the most-watched premiere in Peacock history and the #1 drama through its first weekend. Packer assembled an all-star cast including Kevin Hart, Taraji P Henson, Samuel L Jackson and Don Cheadle for this thriller about how a party after Muhammad Ali's 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta became an infamous heist. 

Packer has produced or executive produced a wide range of movies grossing more than $1 billion worldwide at the box office, including “Girls Trip,” “Night School,” “Ride Along,” “Think Like a Man," and “Straight Outta Compton.” Packer’s television, digital, and branded content company, Will Packer Media, produces episodic scripted and unscripted series across television, podcasts and digital platforms and compelling content for brand clients and short-form digital content.  

In 2022, Packer made history as the first Black producer and producing team to preside over the Academy Awards, for which he received an Emmy nomination. In May 2024, it was announced that Packer became one of four new limited partners to the Atlanta Falcons ownership group. He serves on the board of the Atlanta Hawks Foundation, is a longtime supporter of HBCU initiatives, and a magna cum laude graduate of Florida A&M University (FAMU).

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Episode Description:

In this episode of The AR Bernard Show, I sit down with Reverend Tony Lowden, a faith leader, criminal justice reform advocate, and former pastor to both President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia. As the first African American pastor of the church, Lowden shares his perspective on President Carter’s deep commitment to service, democracy, and faith. He reflects on Carter’s appreciation for the contributions of African Americans and his belief in compassionate leadership rooted in Christian values.

Beyond his pastoral work, Lowden has played a significant role in criminal justice reform. In 2020, he was appointed by the Trump administration as Executive Director of the Federal Interagency Council on Crime Prevention and Improving Reentry, commonly known as the "Reentry Czar." In this role, he led efforts to help formerly incarcerated individuals successfully reintegrate into society by coordinating federal agencies and community organizations to provide education, job training, housing assistance, and other critical resources.

In 2022, Lowden founded Jabez Ministries, an online platform dedicated to breaking down barriers to worship and making faith more accessible to all. In our conversation, we also explore generational trauma, the evolving role of the church in communities, and the intersection of faith and social change.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on faith, leadership, and the power of service.

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Episode Description:

At the tender age of nine, Nicky Cruz wanted to end his life. This was during a traumatic time when his mother disowned him and made him feel so unloved that suicide felt like the only solution. Until, his brother cried out to save him.

Since that day, Nicky's life has taken many twists and turns, but it's God that finally got him on the straight and narrow. This transformation led him to being my spiritual mentor and a Christian leader who has spoken to over 50 million people.

In this episode of The AR Bernard Show, he gets vulnerable and shares his life story of growing up with two parents who practiced witchcraft, leading an infamous gang in Brooklyn, and becoming an evangelist who has brought many people to Christ — including myself.

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Guest Bio:

Nicky Cruz is the author of eighteen books, including the all-time Christian classic, Run Baby Run, published in 1968 and translated into more than 40 languages worldwide. It continues to be a top-10 bestseller in the United Kingdom, and is required reading in many high school curricula in the UK, Finland, Australia, New Zealand, and many more.

Nicky Cruz was born in Puerto Rico. His parents were heavily involved in Santeria. His mother was a witch and his father was a satanic priest. Nicky was the victim of repeated physical abuse and rejection at their hands. As a teenager, he was sent to New York City to live with his brother Frank. He quickly got caught up in the gang violence that was sweeping the city. He rose through the ranks of the notorious Mau Maus gang in Fort Greene, Brooklyn to become their warlord.

His life was a downward spiral of violence and dysfunction. A court-ordered psychiatrist told the court and Nicky that he was “doomed...finished...on a one-way trip to jail, the electric chair and hell.” The one day a young country preacher from Pennsylvania named David Wilkerson came to the war-torn streets of Brooklyn. Initially, Nicky confronted and threatened to kill the preacher, but Wilkerson delivered a message to him: “You can kill me and cut me into a thousand pieces and throw them right there on the street. But every piece will cry that Jesus loves you, Nicky!”

Remembering this confrontation with Wilkerson, Nicky says: “Jesus sent him there to bring a message to the gangs. I almost killed him then because I really was totally full of hate. That was when he told me that Jesus loved me.”

Several weeks later at a rally at the St. Nicholas Arena in NYC, Nicky surrendered to Jesus Christ and exchanged his weapons for a Bible.

For nearly 60 years, he has been traveling around the world preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is estimated that he has spoken in person to tens of millions of people. His life story has been told in the bestselling book, The Cross and the Switchblade, and in the movie of the same title, which starred Pat Boone and Erik Estrada. Nicky Cruz continues to minister in inner cities, prisons, street corners, and stadiums around the world.

He is the president of Nicky Cruz Outreach, and Executive Producer of TRUCE, an aggressive international evangelism ministry dedicated to reaching urban communities. The father of four daughters and ten grandchildren, Nicky lives in Colorado Springs with his wife, Gloria. He was recently awarded the degree of Doctor of Divinity by the Latin American Theological Seminary, as well as Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Therapy from Dayspring Christian University. After numerous awards and commendations, the burden of his heart is only to reach those who are lost and broken, just as he was.

The Wall Street Journal described Nicky as the “Billy Graham of the streets.”

Episode Description:

In this episode, host AR Bernard sits down with Carl Lentz, an influential executive coach, speaker, and podcaster, whose impact has spanned the globe through his sermons, books, and conferences. Known for his work in personal mindset growth and organizational strategies, Lentz shares insights from his transformative journey, including his time as the founder of Hillsong Church NYC, where he ministered to a diverse congregation, including global celebrities like Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, and Kylie Jenner.

Now based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Carl and his wife, Laura, are building a new chapter centered on faith and renewal. Tune in as we explore his journey, the power of redemption, and the success of his Lights On podcast, which continues his mission of inspiring and guiding others.

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Episode Description:

In this episode of The AR Bernard Show, host AR Bernard sits down with the outspoken and charismatic Stephen A. Smith. Known for his fiery takes and candid opinions, Stephen opens up about his remarkable career journey, his deeply rooted faith, and the values that have shaped his life. The two dive into Stephen’s bestselling memoir, Straight Shooter, exploring the lessons he’s learned along the way and how they’ve influenced his perspective on leadership and accountability.

Stephen doesn’t shy away from the tough topics, discussing the backlash he’s faced for taking strong stances in both sports and culture. He also shares his views on the Democratic Party’s relationship with Black voters, sparking a thoughtful conversation about political representation and empowerment. And, of course, no interview with Stephen A. Smith would be complete without his unfiltered thoughts on sports—especially his well-known issues with Dallas Cowboys fans.

About Stephen A. Smith:

Stephen A. Smith is a celebrated sports journalist, commentator, and television personality. He is best known as the host of ESPN’s First Take, where he delivers sharp analysis and bold opinions on the latest sports news. With decades of experience in sports media, Stephen has become one of the most recognizable voices in broadcasting. He is also the author of Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes, which chronicles his personal and professional journey. Beyond sports, Stephen is a passionate advocate for education, leadership, and cultural conversations, frequently addressing topics that extend beyond the playing field.

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As the holiday season approaches and we reflect on the year’s end, The AR Bernard Show revisits powerful conversations about faith’s influence on our lives and careers.

Comedian Rickey Smiley shared how faith sustained him after the tragic loss of his firstborn son. Award-winning singer couple Israel Houghton and Adrienne Bailon-Houghton explored the challenges of being professional Christians. Director Christine Swanson critiqued faith-based films, while actor Jamie Hector revealed moments when his beliefs nearly led him to walk off set. Rabbi Potasnik addressed the decline of organized religion among younger generations, and author Lisa Fields described faith and doubt as “fundamental twins.”

Actress and director Latanya Jackson reflected on faith as her guiding principle, and BeBe Winans recalled how a conversation with Roberta Flack inspired his journey into playwriting. Journalist Linsey Davis emphasized the importance of being unapologetically Christian, while composer Ray Chew shared insights on maintaining excellence throughout his career. CeCe Winans spoke about staying relevant in ministry through music, and actor Courtney B. Vance opened up about relying on faith during difficult times.

Don’t miss these inspiring conversations—listen to the full episodes to see how faith continues to shape lives.

On this episode of The AR Bernard Show, we are thrilled to welcome Cheryl McKissack Daniel, a distinguished CEO, entrepreneur, and author. As President and CEO of McKissack & McKissack—the nation’s oldest minority- and women-owned design and construction firm—Cheryl carries forward a remarkable legacy that began in 1905 with her ancestors. Under her visionary leadership, the company has become a driving force behind iconic projects like Penn Station and JFK Airport, leaving an indelible mark on New York City’s skyline.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cheryl is a passionate advocate for female entrepreneurs and a champion of diversity in the workplace. Her journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of legacy. In this episode, AR Bernard and Cheryl delve into the realities of business ownership, tackling challenges like paying off debt, making tough decisions, and staying true to a long-term vision.

You can find her on social media:

Instagram: @cheryl.mckissack

Angela Yee joins AR Bernard for an engaging conversation about her remarkable career journey and the lessons she's learned along the way. From her pivotal role as co-host on The Breakfast Club, where she became a beloved voice in radio, to her decision to branch out and host her own show, Angela shares her experiences navigating the challenges and opportunities of a 20-year career in media. Together, they dive into the art of building strong relationships, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her ventures beyond broadcasting—including the impressive story of flipping a house she purchased for just $1,000. This episode offers inspiration, insights, and a closer look at the woman behind the mic.

About Angela Yee

Angela Yee is a renowned media personality, entrepreneur, and advocate for empowerment. Best known for her role as co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show The Breakfast Club, Angela has earned widespread recognition for her thoughtful interviews and ability to connect with diverse audiences. She made headlines by launching her own talk show, Way Up with Angela Yee. further cementing her status as a trailblazer in the media industry. Beyond radio, Angela is a savvy entrepreneur, investing in real estate, launching lifestyle ventures, and championing financial literacy. Her accolades include numerous awards and being an inspiration to aspiring broadcasters and entrepreneurs.

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This week on The AR Bernard Show, AR Bernard is joined by Lisa Fields, a trailblazer in Christian apologetics and education. As the founder of the Jude 3 Project, Lisa is committed to equipping Black Christians with resources to address faith-related challenges and defend their beliefs in a culturally relevant context. With a deep understanding of theology and a passion for engaging younger generations, Lisa’s work brings clarity and compassion to spiritual conversations.

AR Bernard and Lisa Fields dive into her latest book, When Faith Disappoints, which explores how to reconcile doubt and disappointment with one’s spiritual beliefs. The discussion also touches on the challenges of engaging younger audiences, the supernatural elements of Christianity, and the historical struggles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in reconciling theological concepts like the resurrection.

About Lisa Fields

Lisa Fields is a renowned Christian apologist, educator, and speaker dedicated to making theological concepts accessible and culturally relevant. She is the founder and president of the Jude 3 Project, an organization focused on equipping Black Christians with resources to explore and defend their faith. Lisa is a graduate of the University of North Florida and Liberty University, where she earned her Master of Divinity with a focus on Theology. Her work bridges the gap between faith and culture, addressing complex issues with clarity and empathy. Lisa is also the author of When Faith Disappoints, a guide for navigating doubt and spiritual challenges, and she regularly speaks at conferences, churches, and universities across the country.