Image: Transformational speaker and city pastor, Robert Burale

Preacher and motivational speaker Robert Burale recently sat down with radio host and podcaster Alex Mwakideu for a candid conversation that revisited Burale’s brief marriage to Mwakideu’s sister, Rozina.

The highly anticipated interview, aired on the Alex Mwakideu TV podcast, saw Burale confronted directly with questions about why the marriage — which lasted just over a year — ended.

Mwakideu introduced Burale as his “former brother-in-law” and noted that many look up to him for guidance on matters of relationships and marriage. Without hesitation, he posed the question:

“My sister Rozina Mwakideu — why did you divorce her?”

In response, Burale described Rozina as “a very respectable woman and a great woman of God,” stressing that he continues to hold her in the highest regard.

Pressed to give a definitive reason, Mwakideu pointed out that divorce is often linked to infidelity or domestic violence. Burale firmly dispelled both possibilities.

“There was no violence in my marriage. There was no infidelity in my marriage. But I think sometimes two good people just don’t work out,” he explained.

While absolving his ex-wife of any blame, Burale acknowledged his own shortcomings. He admitted he had not lived up to the expectations of maturity and spiritual leadership within the marriage.

He further reflected that one of their greatest missteps was allowing too many outside voices into their relationship:

“Some of the people who call themselves your friends don’t really want you to stay together,” he cautioned.

Burale went on to describe the marriage as a “failure,” but one that has since given him perspective and purpose.

“I failed in that area. But I have a message that gives other people victory,” he said, noting that his divorce in 2013 — 12 years ago — set him on a path of self-discovery.

For Burale, the experience remains a personal lesson in growth. While painful, it has become a cornerstone of the testimony he shares with others, blending honesty about his past with encouragement for those facing similar struggles.