In this episode, Steve McKinney, a bestselling author, fitness coach, Brazilian Jiujitsu black belt, and pastor, shares his journey of integrating his passion for fitness with his faith and how it became a gym ministry. He discusses the importance of aging gracefully, maintaining physical health, and how his unique three W approach to fitness can transform lives. Steve also touches on the challenges of maintaining healthy eating habits in ministry and emphasizes the significance of self-care for effective leadership.

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Steve McKinney is a bestselling author, fitness coach, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, and church pastor who has spent decades helping people take care of their bodies so they can show up fully for their lives and their calling. As the owner of Fitness and More Incorporated and author of The Gospel of Fitness, Steve brings a refreshingly whole-person approach to wellness—one that weaves together the physical, mental, and spiritual in a way that makes total sense for ministry leaders. He gets the unique pressures pastors carry, because he lives them too.

What You'll Learn

• Why caring for your body is an act of stewardship—not selfishness
• How to recognize the early warning signs that stress is taking a toll on you physically and emotionally
• Practical strategies for navigating food-centered ministry culture without derailing your health goals
• Why allowing yourself to grieve, rest, and be human actually makes you a more effective leader
• How your physical health directly impacts your financial decision-making and ministry clarity

Key Quotes

• "We have to learn to allow ourselves to be human."
• "Exercise is medicine for my brain. It keeps me sane."
• "Taking care of yourself isn't selfish. It's stewardship."
• "If you lose muscle, you can eat the same amount of food and begin to gain body fat—the decline begins around 35 if we're not doing something."
• "I would tell pastors: 'I'm trying to feel better so I can serve you better.'"

Practical Takeaways

• Pay attention to your body's alarm bells. Notice what stress does to your sleep, focus, and mood—so when it happens, it's informative rather than frightening.
• Protect at least one regular physical outlet, whether that's walking, lifting, or a fitness class. Consistency matters more than intensity.
• Be honest with your community about your health goals. A simple "I'm trying to feel better so I can serve you better" goes a long way at potlucks and fellowship dinners.
• If you're a pastor, find a regular space where you're around people who aren't believers. It keeps your ministry grounded—and your compassion alive.

Resources from this Episode:

• The Gospel of Fitness by Steve McKinney (available on Amazon)
• Fitness and More Website
• Part Two of Steve's Interview

Connecting with Steve McKinney

• Website: fitnessandmore.net
• Instagram: @fitnessandmoresst
• Facebook: Steve McKinney

Connecting with Pastors & Money

• Website: pastorsandmoney.com
• Instagram: @PastorsandMoney
• Facebook: @PastorsandMoney
• Email: [email protected]

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Connect with Pastors & Money

Email: [email protected]

Instagram/Facebook: @pastorsandmoney

Website: pastorsandmoney.com/podcast

The Pastors & Money Podcast helps pastors, ministry leaders, and churches start thriving financially using money as a tool to fuel God's mission in our churches and families.

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