

Rhythms and Roots Podcast: Living a Formed Life
Donnie Hinshaw
5.0from 10 ratings
- 16
- Episodes
- 10
- Ratings
- 2025
- First episode
About Rhythms and Roots Podcast: Living a Formed Life
Rhythms & Roots is a podcast about living a fully formed life—rooted in Christ, shaped by spiritual rhythms, and strengthened through physical health. Hosted by Donnie Hinshaw—pastor, chaplain, creative communicator, and endurance athlete—each episode weaves together Scripture, fitness, and everyday stories of faith. Through conversations about prayer, Sabbath, running, strength training, and holistic wellness, this podcast helps you cultivate rhythms that bring life and roots that keep you grounded. Whether you’re lacing up your shoes for a long run, seeking deeper spiritual formation, or simply wanting to live with greater intention, Rhythms & Roots will encourage you to abide deeply, live strong, and stay rooted in Christ.
- Publisher
- Donnie Hinshaw
- Category
- health & fitness · religion & spirituality
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 29 Sept 2025
- Latest episode
- 22 Jul 2026
Latest episodes
16 episodes in the feed.

22 Jul 2026
🎙️ EP 15 — Manny Garcia | Faith With a Body: The Theology of Embodied Discipleship
What if your body isn't simply carrying your soul—but is actually part of how God is forming you? In this episode of Rhythms & Roots, Donnie sits down with longtime friend Dr. Manny Garcia, General Superintendent of Iowa Yearly Meeting of Friends, for a deeply theological and practical conversation about what it means to follow Jesus as embodied people. Their friendship goes back to Barclay College, but so does a shared interest in the connection between formation and the way we actually live. Manny brings together years of theological education, pastoral leadership, athletics, and his growing love of endurance running—including his current journey toward a 100-mile ultramarathon. Together, they explore why the Incarnation validates the goodness and significance of the human body, why Christian discipleship cannot be reduced to something merely intellectual or "spiritual," and how physical health, movement, sleep, suffering, rest, Sabbath, and even running can become places of spiritual formation. The conversation also wrestles with an important tension: How do we steward our bodies without making health another idol? How do pastors and leaders pursue faithful ministry without treating exhaustion as evidence of faithfulness? And what does the Christian hope of resurrection tell us about God's intention for the whole person? This is a conversation about running—but it's about much more than running. It's about becoming fully present to the life God has given us. Body. Soul. Mind. Relationships. Work. Rest. Calling. Because the life you're living is forming the person you're becoming. Links: TikTok: @mannyruns Instagram: @MannyGarcia Book reference: You Are What You Love; The Spiritual Power of Habit by James K.A. Smith Chapters 00:00 — Manny, Barclay College & Our Story 01:00 — From Soccer to Running 03:02 — Does Your Body Matter to Your Faith? 05:48 — Why the Incarnation Changes Everything 10:54 — Are Body and Soul Really Separate? 34:44 — Physical Health & Spiritual Health 35:24 — When Our Bodies Affect Our Ministry 37:02 — Rhythms That Form Us 45:37 — Sabbath, Rest & Human Limits 01:06:24 — When Health Becomes an Idol 01:07:53 — Embodied Discipleship 01:08:09 — What Running Has Taught Manny 01:09:28 — What Happens When You Want to Quit 01:10:29 — A Theology of Running 01:12:21 — The Redemption of the Whole Person 01:15:20 — Why We Need Community 01:31:12 — Work, Rest & the Need to Stop 01:33:10 — Eternity in Finite Bodies 01:35:34 — Selah: Reflection & Prayer

16 Jun 2026
🎙️ EP14 | Season 3, Episode 3 "The Race Beyond Ego" Dylan Ledbetter | Cocodona 250
🎙️ Rhythms & Roots | Season 3, Episode 3 The Race Beyond Ego Dylan Ledbetter on Faith, Identity, and Cocodona 250 What happens when the finish line stops being about you? In this powerful conversation, ultra runner Dylan Ledbetter shares the story behind his journey through Cocodona 250—one of the most demanding endurance races in the world. But this isn't simply a race recap. It's a conversation about identity, surrender, suffering, purpose, and faith. Dylan opens up about growing up through family trauma, serving in the military, losing friends, battling alcohol, discovering endurance sports, and ultimately finding Christ in the middle of a search for purpose. Along the way, he shares how ultra running became more than a physical challenge—it became a classroom for spiritual formation. Together, Donnie and Dylan explore what happens when endurance strips away ego, performance, and recognition, leaving only the deeper questions of who we are and who God is calling us to become. At the heart of the conversation is a profound realization Dylan experienced just days before the race: "I almost wanted to remove my name from the bib." What followed was not just a 250-mile journey across Arizona, but a journey from achievement toward surrender. This episode is about faith under pressure, purpose beyond performance, and discovering that the greatest victories often happen long before the finish line. "The life you're living is forming the person you're becoming." Show Notes In this episode of Rhythms & Roots, Donnie sits down with ultra runner Dylan Ledbetter to explore the intersection of endurance, faith, identity, suffering, and spiritual formation. After recently completing the legendary Cocodona 250, Dylan reflects on the deeper lessons learned through ultra running and how God used endurance to reshape his understanding of purpose, success, and personal identity. In This Episode • Growing up through family trauma and loss • How wrestling and military service shaped resilience • Losing purpose after leaving the Army • Alcohol, grief, and searching for meaning • The unexpected role David Goggins played in his transformation • Giving his life to Christ before his first ultra marathon • The significance of "40" and a defining moment of faith • Why suffering often becomes a catalyst for growth • The spiritual lessons hidden within endurance sports • The difference between performance and purpose • Learning to become a vessel instead of seeking recognition • Cocodona 250 and the moment everything changed • Why Dylan almost removed his name from the race bib • Trusting God when fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty collide • Community, crew, pacers, and the power of shared endurance • How Scripture became part of his race strategy • The beauty of Arizona and the spiritual significance of the journey • Facing fear on Mount Elden • Faith, success, influence, and staying grounded • What comes next after accomplishing a dream Memorable Quotes "I almost wanted to remove my name from the bib." "It's about being the vessel, not the recognition." "If Jesus died on the cross for my sinful self, I can move my body across this finish line." "Not me." "Every step in His name. Every step closer to the finish." "God is undeniable." Key Takeaway The greatest challenge of endurance isn't physical. It's surrender. When performance, recognition, and ego are stripped away, we discover who we really are—and who God is forming us to become.

4 Jun 2026
Rhythms & Roots | Deeper #1 The Long Ride of Ministry | A Conversation with Dave Debus
Rhythms & Roots | Deeper #1 The Long Ride of Ministry | A Conversation with Dave Debus Welcome to the first episode of Deeper, a new leadership series within the Rhythms & Roots podcast. While Rhythms & Roots has always explored spiritual formation, health, purpose, and the rhythms that shape our lives, Deeper is designed to explore the calling, challenges, and formation of those who lead. Through honest conversations with pastors, ministry leaders, church planters, and faithful servants, we'll uncover the lessons that are often learned far from the spotlight. For our inaugural episode, Donnie sits down with longtime pastor and leader Dave Debus. From rural ministry on the eastern plains to decades of faithful service, Dave shares stories of calling, perseverance, leadership, and what it means to stay faithful when ministry isn't glamorous and growth isn't measured by numbers alone. Together they explore: The difference between success and faithfulness Lessons learned through decades of ministry Leading in small communities Endurance in leadership The importance of relationships and presence What keeps a pastor going through difficult seasons Why the Kingdom of God is often built through ordinary acts of faithfulness Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, volunteer, or simply someone seeking to live a faithful life, this conversation offers wisdom forged through years of walking with God and serving others. Because leadership isn't a sprint. It's a long ride. Rhythms & Roots | Deeper Conversations That Shape Leaders

3 Jun 2026
🎙️EP13 |Breathe. Move. Become. SEASON 3 | #2 "Breathe . Move . Become with Josh Fly (Audio Fixed)
The conversation explores the theme of endurance, focusing on the physical and spiritual aspects of endurance in everyday life. It delves into the significance of breath, the challenges of endurance training, and the transformative power of experiential and formative experiences. The conversation also highlights the importance of community, invitation, and the connection between physical movement and spiritual growth. The conversation delves into the transformative power of nature, solitude, and self-discovery, as well as the spiritual and professional insights gained from challenging experiences. It also explores the significance of breath work and its impact on physical and spiritual well-being. Takeaways Endurance Breath Experiential Transformation Solitude in nature can lead to profound self-discovery and spiritual awakening. Breath work is a powerful tool for physical and spiritual well-being. Chapters 00:00 Transformative Experiences and Community Connection 38:06 The Power of Breath Work and Its Spiritual Significance

19 May 2026
🎙️ RHYTHMS & ROOTS | EP012 | SEASON 3 | #1 “Formed: The Life You’re Living Is Shaping You”
RHYTHMS & ROOTS — SEASON 3, EPISODE 11 Formed: The Life You’re Living Is Shaping You Episode Summary What if your life is shaping you more than you realize? Not just the major decisions… but the small rhythms you repeat every single day. In this solo episode of Rhythms & Roots, Donnie explores how spiritual formation is deeply connected to the way we live in our bodies, structure our days, respond to pressure, and move through the world. Through reflections on running, endurance training, discipleship, and everyday life, this episode wrestles with a deeper question: What does it actually mean for Jesus to be Lord? Not merely first on a priority list… but present over every part of life. This conversation moves beyond surface-level spirituality and into embodied faith — where pace, attention, recovery, surrender, and daily rhythms all become part of spiritual formation. If you’ve been feeling scattered, exhausted, disconnected, or spiritually reactive, this episode offers a slower invitation: Transformation rarely happens all at once. It happens through the small rhythms that shape us over time. In This Episode — Why formation is already happening whether we notice it or not — The connection between spiritual life and physical life — Romans 12 and the difference between conformity and transformation — Why “God first” can sometimes miss the deeper invitation of Lordship — Colossians 1 and the supremacy of Christ — Running, endurance, and the theology of repetition — How small daily rhythms quietly shape our souls — Practical ways to slow down and reconnect with God in everyday life Key Quotes “The life you’re living is forming the person you’re becoming.” “You can’t separate your spiritual life from your physical life.” “God is not asking for a place in your life. He is inviting you to let Him be Lord of your life.” “It’s easy to put God first and still live the rest of the day on our own terms.” “Transformation happens through repetition.” Scripture References — Romans 12:1–2 — Colossians 1:15–18 Practical Challenge This week, choose one rhythm and practice it with God. Maybe it’s: — A daily walk — A slower morning — A breath prayer — Five minutes of stillness — A simple daily check-in with God Don’t just do it. Do it with Him. Connect + Follow 🎙️ Rhythms & Roots Hosted by Donnie Hinshaw Exploring faith, formation, endurance, leadership, and the rhythms that shape our lives. YouTube: @rhythmsroots Instagram: @donniehinshaw #RhythmsAndRoots #SpiritualFormation #ChristianPodcast #EmbodiedFaith #TrailRunning #FaithAndFitness #Formation #Discipleship #Leadership #RunningCulture

20 Apr 2026
🎙️EP 11 | All Things Together: When Life Feels Solo and God Seems Silent
EP 11 | When Life Feels Solo and God Seems Silent All Things Together: Living a Formed Life This episode wasn’t planned. No guest. No big story. No major update. Just… real life. In this solo episode, Donnie Hinshaw reflects on a season where plans didn’t come together, training didn’t go as expected, and even spiritually—things felt quieter than usual. But maybe that’s the point. What if God does some of His deepest work… not through what we planned— but through what we didn’t? Drawing from Romans 8:26–28, Donnie explores how the Holy Spirit meets us in our weakest moments—interceding, praying, and working even when we don’t feel progress. This episode is about learning to: Trust the process when life feels off-track Stay rooted when emotions feel unstable Keep moving when progress feels slow Because even when it feels like nothing is working… God is working in all things. 🔑 Key Themes Trusting God’s timing in uncertain seasons The Holy Spirit’s role in prayer and intercession Formation through setbacks, not just success Emotional honesty without emotional leadership Faith, endurance, and resilience in real life 🔥 Memorable Lines “The Spirit helps us in our weakness.” “When I don’t have the words… the Spirit is already praying.” “If it’s not working the way you thought—don’t quit.” “Jesus has already worn that.” 🏃♂️ In This Episode Training for the Quad Rock 50 and adjusting expectations Navigating setbacks, allergies, and missed plans Why listening to your body matters more than forcing the plan A powerful reminder: formation happens in the in-between 📖 Scriptures Referenced Romans 8:26–28 Zechariah 3 ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Personal Reflections 06:15 – Navigating Life’s Unexpected Turns 11:17 – The Role of the Spirit in Our Weakness 17:14 – Trusting the Process in Training and Life 24:15 – Rest, Trust, and Moving Forward 🌱 Final Thought If it’s not working the way you thought… Don’t panic. Don’t quit. Don’t let your emotions lead you. Trust the process. God is not wasting this season. He’s forming you through it.

11 Mar 2026
🎙️EP10 | Jadon and Audrey Ross | Reframed | Running Between Callings
Keywords friendship, endurance, faith, transitions, parenting, physical health, emotional health, running, ministry, personal growth Summary In this episode of the Rhythms and Roots podcast, host Donnie Hinshaw engages in a heartfelt conversation with friends Jaden and Audrey about the intertwining of friendship, endurance, and faith. They reflect on their shared experiences in ministry, the challenges of transitioning through life stages, and the profound lessons learned from endurance training. The discussion emphasizes the importance of physical and emotional health, the role of faith in navigating life's uncertainties, and the wisdom gained through experience. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a reminder of the beauty of friendship and the strength found in shared journeys. Takeaways Friendship can be built over shared experiences and challenges. Physical endurance can enhance emotional health and resilience. Life transitions often lead to unexpected growth and opportunities. Parenting requires endurance and a shift in perspective. Faith plays a crucial role in navigating life's uncertainties. Endurance training teaches valuable life lessons about perseverance. Wisdom is gained through experiences, both good and bad. It's important to recenter and take moments for reflection. Healthy living and spiritual practices are interconnected. The journey of life is often more valuable than the destination. Chapters 00:00 Friendship and Shared Experiences 06:02 The Journey of Parenthood 11:22 Reflections on Running and Ministry 59:37 RR Outro - Fall 2025 2.mp4

4 Feb 2026
🎙️EP09 | BUILT DIFFERENT | Finding God in Fixing Things (With Don Stewart)
Summary In this episode of the Rhythms and Roots Podcast, Donnie Hinshaw is joined by his good friend Don Stewart—a Kansas firefighter, builder, and deep thinker—for a grounded conversation on movement, identity, and faith. Don isn’t an ultrarunner, but he brings a powerful perspective on how God meets us in ordinary work, physical movement, and everyday life. Together they explore pain and trauma, joy and humor, authenticity, and why our identity must be rooted deeper than what we do. This episode invites listeners to find God in the mundane and embrace a faith that’s lived, not just believed. Key Takeaways If you’re going to be stupid, you better be tough. God meets us in movement, work, and daily rhythms. Identity is deeper than roles, abilities, or productivity. Pain and trauma can shape growth and faith. Joy and humor are essential to spiritual depth. Authentic relationships and community matter. Titles Built Different: Finding God in Everyday Movement The Spirituality of Movement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Built Different 10:38 The Life of Don Stewart 20:15 Finding God in the Mundane 29:32 Building, Fixing, and God’s Character 33:20 Holiness, Joy, and Humor 46:46 Authenticity and Identity 59:40 Finding God in Everyday Movement 01:10:25 RR Outro – Fall 2025

24 Jan 2026
🎙️ EP08 | SEASON 02 | RUN, SHOOT, REPEAT | with Trevor Blackman
Scripture: Psalm 19:1–2 Theme: Seeing God through motion and beauty — how wonder fuels worship Keywords movement, creativity, photography, running, spirituality, nature, light, art, faith, community Summary In this episode of the Rhythms and Roots podcast, host Donnie Hinshaw engages in a deep conversation with Trevor Blackman, a trail runner and fine art photographer. They explore the intersection of movement, creativity, and spirituality, discussing how running and photography can enhance one's appreciation of nature and the divine. Trevor shares his journey of capturing light and beauty through his lens, emphasizing the importance of pausing to appreciate the world around us. The conversation also touches on faith, mentorship, and the significance of community in both running and art. Where you can connect with Trevor: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runshootrepeat/ (https://www.instagram.com/runshootrepeat/) Website: https://www.mneian.com (https://www.mneian.com) Art By Trevor Blackman Gallery in Carpenteria, CA: 3819 Santa Claus Lane, Carpinteria, Ca, 93013 Takeaways Trevor Blackman emphasizes the importance of capturing beauty in photography. Running can serve as a spiritual practice, allowing for reflection and connection with God. The process of printing photographs is as significant as taking them. Art can help individuals perceive the world differently and appreciate its beauty. Community and mentorship play crucial roles in personal and spiritual growth. Trevor's journey in photography began with a passion for capturing light and nature. The act of running can lead to moments of awe and gratitude for creation. Trevor believes that the true beauty of a photograph is revealed in its final print. Faith and creativity are intertwined in Trevor's life and work. The conversation encourages listeners to slow down and appreciate their surroundings. Titles Capturing Light: The Art of Running and Photography Finding God in Nature: A Conversation with Trevor Blackman Sound bites "I want to capture beauty." "I always wanted to shoot." "Running has no control over me." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Movement and Creativity 03:53 The Intersection of Running and Photography 09:41 Chasing Light: Artistic and Spiritual Perspectives 19:28 The Experience of Photography and Its Impact 29:31 Faith, Art, and Personal Journey 33:37 Finding Identity in Faith 37:52 The Art of Photography and Spirituality 47:01 Personal Faith Journeys 53:24 The Importance of Mentorship 54:45 Connecting Physical Activity with Spiritual Reflection

7 Jan 2026
🎙️ EP07 | Abiding Through the Climb with Mario Mendoza Jr. | Pro Ultra Runner and Pastor
Theme: Faith, Endurance, Culture, Abiding Tone: Warm, energetic, culturally rich, faith-forward. Summary In this episode of the Rhythms and Roots podcast, host Donnie Hinshaw engages in a heartfelt conversation with Mario Mendoza, a pastor and professional trail runner. They explore the deep connections between running and faith, discussing how running serves as a spiritual practice and a means of community building. Mario shares his journey from growing up on an avocado farm in California to becoming a respected figure in the running community, emphasizing the importance of unity and cultural representation. The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning from professional athletics to ministry, the significance of patience in personal growth, and the joy of encouraging the next generation. Connect with Mario: https://mendozarunner.com/ (https://mendozarunner.com/) Film: Faith in the Future | Brooks Running https://youtu.be/KQg8JEXor6g?si=lVtw-8iIF_iRlK9n (https://youtu.be/KQg8JEXor6g?si=lVtw-8iIF_iRlK9n) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mendozarunner/ (https://www.instagram.com/mendozarunner/) Young Adults pastor at @westsidechurch (https://www.instagram.com/westsidechurch/) ⛪️ Join us 5pm Sundays at @westsidechapel (https://www.instagram.com/westsidechapel/) Track Coach at @madrastrackandfield (https://www.instagram.com/madrastrackandfield/) 🏃🏻👣 Takeaways Running is a spiritual practice that connects us to God. Community and unity are essential in both running and faith. Jesus modeled a unique form of unity by embracing all people. The journey of a runner is often a reflection of spiritual growth. Patience is crucial during transitional seasons in life. Cultural representation in sports can inspire others. Finding joy in running can enhance perseverance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Abiding in Faith and Running 05:53 The Spiritual Connection in Running 11:36 Growing Up on an Avocado Farm 17:26 The Influence of Jesus on Community and Unity 23:24 The Journey of Marriage and Family in Running 24:08 The Role of Family in Achievements 27:24 Support Systems in Ministry and Running 28:58 Finding Your Calling in Ministry 33:08 Parallels Between Running and Spiritual Growth 39:15 Endurance and Spiritual Formation 45:33 Joy and Perseverance in Challenges 47:09 Finding Strength in Faith 49:29 Cultural Identity and Representation 51:25 The Role of the Church in Embracing Diversity 53:58 The Journey of Growth and Endurance 56:06 Investing in the Next Generation 59:54 Transitioning to New Seasons of Life

15 Dec 2025
🎙️ EP06 | Integrating Faith, Fitness, and Daily Habits
Summary In this episode, Donnie Hinshaw discusses the integration of faith, fitness, and daily habits into a personal formation plan. He emphasizes the importance of small, sustainable steps and daily rhythms that shape our lives over time. Donnie shares his personal experiences with tracking progress through tools like heart rate monitors and journaling, highlighting how these practices contribute to spiritual and emotional health. He encourages listeners to create good rhythms and habits that align with their goals and to reflect on their daily experiences to live intentionally and glorify God. Download Daily Reflection Guide: (on Podcast Page) www.rhythmsroots.com (http://www.rhythmsroots.com) guide will also be posted on Instagram in Bio. Takeaways The podcast aims to connect episodes through themes of health. Physical, spiritual, and emotional health are interconnected. Daily rhythms shape who we become over time. Small steps lead to significant changes in life. Tracking progress is essential for personal growth. Heart rate training can inform both physical and spiritual health. Journaling provides insight into emotional well-being. Productivity is about stewardship of gifts and time. Creating good habits is crucial for personal formation. Intentional living requires reflection and goal-setting. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Season Overview 03:02 The Importance of Rhythms in Life 04:53 Integrating Faith, Fitness, and Daily Habits 07:11 The Power of Small Steps 11:27 Tracking Progress and Habits 13:22 Using Technology for Training 21:08 Journaling for Self-Reflection 25:00 The Role of Boundaries and Cadence 26:49 Understanding True Productivity 30:39 Identifying Personal Responsibilities 34:22 Building a Formation Plan 37:39 Conclusion and Call to Action 41:04 RR Outro - Fall 2025 2.mp4

6 Nov 2025
EP05 | Fuel for the Journey – Feeding Body and Spirit
Keywords nutrition, exercise, spirituality, personal growth, endurance training, self-discovery, faith, health, running, support crew Summary In this episode, Donnie Hinshaw explores the themes of personal growth, nutrition, and spirituality, emphasizing the importance of finding one's unique path in both physical and spiritual journeys. He shares personal anecdotes about his experiences with endurance training and the challenges of discovering what truly nourishes the body and soul. The conversation encourages listeners to experiment with their own practices and to seek out what genuinely fuels them, both physically and spiritually. Takeaways Finding a support crew is essential for personal growth. Nutrition and exercise are deeply personal and should be tailored to the individual. You cannot copy someone else's journey to health or spirituality. Understanding your unique needs is crucial for effective training and nourishment. Spiritual practices should resonate personally, not just follow tradition. Experimentation is key to discovering what works for you. Your journey in life is unique and should be embraced as such. Physical and spiritual nourishment are interconnected. Developing a personal rhythm with God is vital for spiritual health. What works for you now may change over time, so stay adaptable. Titles Fuel for the Journey: Finding What Feeds You The Unique Path to Nourishment Sound Bites "Go find your support crew." "You are uniquely wired." "Discover what fuels you." Chapters 00:00 Opening — Welcome & Theme: 10:58 Section 1 — Finding My Own Fuel: 14:36 Section 2 — Psalm 139: Uniquely Formed: 18:16 Section 3 — The Physical Pillar: Learning the Hard Way: 23:26 Section 4 — Fuel for the Soul: 27:13 Section 5 — Rooted Practice: Discover What Fuels You: 33:42 Closing / Breath Prayer: "Selah Moment"

25 Oct 2025
EP04 | Your Support Crew — Community that carries you to the finish.
Summary In this episode of the Rhythms and Roots podcast, Donnie Hinshaw discusses the vital role of community in both physical training and spiritual life. He emphasizes that no one can run the race of life alone and that support from others is essential for success. The conversation explores three pillars: spiritual rhythms, physical training communities, and the importance of endurance communities. Donnie shares personal experiences and insights on how these communities shape our lives, encourage us, and help us grow in faith and resilience. Takeaways Community carries us to the finish line in life. Spiritual rhythms are essential for drawing closer to God. Faith was never meant to be an isolated journey. Branches in a vineyard grow together, not in isolation. Your support crew is God's provision for you. Physical training communities hold you accountable. Endurance communities foster lasting connections. A bad run is better than no run at all. We accomplish more together than alone. Relationships are stories meant to be shared. Sound bites "You need a tribe to support you." "We do more together." "Branches do not grow in isolation." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Community and Support Crew 05:14 Pillar 1: Spiritual Rhythms — Community as God’s Design 19:26 Pillar 2: Physical Rhythms — The Power of a Training Crew 26:03 Pillar 3: Rooted Living — Ultra Community and Lasting Connection 31:16 The Role of Community in Faith and Life

17 Oct 2025
EP03 | The Sabbath Sprint — Why Rest Is the Secret to Going Farther
🎙️ Episode 3 — The Sabbath Sprint: Why Rest Is the Secret to Going Farther In this episode, Donnie explores the surprising truth that slowing down might be the most powerful way to move forward. Drawing from Jesus’ words in John 15 — “Abide in Me, and you will bear much fruit” — we’ll look at how rest, recovery, and Sabbath rhythms are not optional extras but vital for spiritual endurance. Donnie shares how a week of active recovery in training revealed a deeper spiritual principle: growth happens not just through effort, but through abiding. You’ll also hear insights from endurance research and stories that remind us — even rest is part of the race. Take a breath, pause, and let this episode help you recover your soul for the miles ahead. Root Truth: Sabbath isn’t optional—it fuels deeper formation. Practice: Try a “mini-Sabbath” this week — a quiet walk, an hour unplugged, or a moment of stillness. Scripture: John 15:4–5

6 Oct 2025
EP02 | Abide and Endure — Lessons from John 15 and the Long Run
In this episode of Rhythms & Roots, Donnie shares a deeply personal journey of endurance—from mile 40 of the Quad Rock 50 ultramarathon to years of healing from military-related PTSD. Along the way, he explores John 15 and what it truly means to abide in Christ as the source of strength when life feels overwhelming. You’ll pause for a Selah Moment with guided breath prayers rooted in Scripture, reflect on how abiding re-scripts the stories we tell ourselves, and hear an invitation to visualize your own finish line—no matter where you’re starting from. Whether you’re walking your first spiritual mile or pressing through the fortieth, this episode will encourage you to find renewal, resilience, and divine endurance in Christ.

29 Sept 2025
EP01 | The Starting Line"
Every race begins somewhere—and so does a life of faith. In this first episode of Rhythms & Roots, Pastor Donnie introduces the three pillars of the podcast: spiritual rhythms, physical rhythms, and rooted living. Together we pause—Selah—to reflect on 1 Timothy 4:6–7, where Paul reminds us that while physical training has value, training in godliness is valuable for all things. Whether you’re lacing up your shoes for a run, journaling with coffee, or driving down the road, this episode invites you to step up to your own starting line and begin the journey of living a formed life.
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- 7 ratings
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- 3 ratings
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