Ruck the Way

Coming up — Mini Pilgrimage in Charlotte
Saturday, May 16 · 9:00 AM · McDowell Nature Preserve
A taste of what Ruck the Way is all about — walking, community, and a moment set apart. Chris is flying in from Scotland. The kilt has been promised. Bring your kids. Bring your dog. Bring a friend.
This is also our official US launch event for Ruck the Way as a nonprofit. Food, fellowship, and a real mini pilgrimage experience.
RSVP and details: www.rucktheway.com
One small step
If this episode found you tired and you don't know where to start, here's the invitation Gabe and Chris leave us with:
Pick one thing. Cut work off at six. Block a Sunday on the calendar. Plan two weeks off — actually plan it. Or just sit with the questions: What do I believe will happen if I rest? Is that really true?
Grace, kindness, curiosity. That's the pace.


Gabe and Chris sit down (well, Gabe sits, Chris is in Scotland, and the dog is wandering the studio) for an honest conversation about something neither of them claims to have figured out: rest.

This one is less a "how-to" and more a "we're-in-this-with-you." Two friends, three cups of coffee, one wandering dog, and a long look at why rest is so hard — and so necessary — in a culture wired for constant output.

What we get into
Why "vacation" (from the Latin vacare, to be unoccupied) is defined by what it isn't — and why that might be part of the problem
"Holiday" as holy day — a time set apart, not just emptied out
What the French and the Scots understand about rest that most Americans don't
The uncomfortable origin of retirement at 65 (spoiler: it wasn't about your flourishing)
Sabbath as something baked into creation — not a suggestion, but a rhythm
The Shemitah, the Babylonian exile, and what happens when we refuse to let things rest
Why we don't work toward rest — we work out of it
The deep difference between absence-of-work and reconnection-with-life
Honest confessions about boundaries, the church on Sundays, and why two weeks off matters more than one
Small steps for people who feel like rest is impossibly far away
A few lines worth sitting with
"We're meant to enter into work out of rest — not work our way into it."
"Perfect is the enemy of good in this case. Take a step."
"Let the walk do the work."
Mentioned in this episode
The Rest of God: Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath by Mark Buchanan — the book Gabe references on entering work out of rest rather than collapsing into it
The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel (1951) — the modern classic on Sabbath as a "cathedral in time," and the source of the story Gabe shares about Heschel's daughter remembering Friday night Shabbat meals and her father floating in the pool
The liturgical season of Ordinary Time — green, unhurried, often overlooked
The Jewish practice of the Shemitah — every seventh year, the land rests

Mark Your Calendar: Ruck the Way Launch Party
Join Gabe, Chris, and friends for a mini pilgrimage experience in the Charlotte, NC area:

Date: Saturday, May 16
Cost: Free
Details: rucktheway.com

(Yes, Chris will be wearing a kilt. He promised.)

Connect with Dr. Noah Manyika
Website: noahmanyika.com
Books on Amazon:
Redeeming Sundar: Faith and Innovation in the Age of AI
The Challenge of Leadership: Is There Not a Cause?
Prevail: Reclaiming the Divinity of Our Humanity
Kitchen Copilot: kitchencopilot.com — download the app and start planning meals with intention

What does it look like for the church to engage AI not with fear, but with faith? In this wide-ranging conversation, Gabe and Chris sit down with Dr. Noah Manyika — a man whose life refuses to fit in a box. Born in colonial-era Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), educated at Georgetown's School of Foreign Service, and now leading a tech company at the intersection of health, food, and AI, Noah brings a rare combination of pastoral depth, global perspective, and entrepreneurial clarity.

From the soil of Rhodesia to the launchpad of Artemis, from the demise of the Christian bookstore to the rise of ChatGPT, Noah challenges believers to stop being "culture-bound" and start building the future God has called us to steward. This is a conversation about parenting, legacy, leadership, technology, and the unflinching belief that nothing is impossible for those who walk by faith.

Dr. Noah Manyika

(00:00) Welcome and introductions
(02:00) Born in Rhodesia: the family that built Noah's belief system
(05:00) Where is Rhodesia? Geography, colonial rule, and the shaping of a worldview
(08:00) Parenting advice: training kids up in the way they should go
(13:00) "My umbilical cord is buried in this soil" — rootedness and takeoff
(17:00) The Artemis metaphor: what to carry, what to shed
(19:00) Where America is culture-bound: entitlement, victimhood, and missing the speed of life
(23:00) Georgetown, Madeleine Albright, and a missionary calling
(27:00) The story behind Redeeming Sundar — and who Sundar is
(34:00) Why the church reacts with fear instead of faith
(43:00) Future-proofing your faith
(47:00) Redemptive entrepreneurship and the unspoken fear behind institutional decline
(56:00) The cautionary tale of the Christian bookstore
(01:00:00) A word for parents raising kids in an AI-disrupted future
(01:03:00) Kitchen Copilot: redemptive innovation in your kitchen
(01:06:00) Where to find Noah's books and the Ruck the Way launch event


If This Episode Moved You…
Subscribe to the Ruck the Way podcast wherever you listen
Leave a review — it helps these conversations reach more people
Share this episode with a leader, parent, or believer who needs to hear it

And as always — let the walk do the work.

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

In this conversation, Gabe and Chris welcome Leanne Huffman — calling in from California at 5 AM — for a wide-ranging discussion about storytelling, faith, creativity, and the holy work of pivoting when life doesn't go as planned. Leanne is the editor of Gabe's forthcoming book, but as Gabe shares, she's also a professional storyteller across multiple mediums: acting, poetry, and now novel writing.

What unfolds is one of the more thoughtful conversations the show has hosted — a meditation on what it means to live a creative life as a person of faith, how failure shapes us, and why humility might be the most underrated virtue in any industry.

Leanne Huffman is an actress, poet, and novelist based in Los Angeles. A pastor's kid from Central California, she pursued acting in LA and has worked across film and short-form projects. She's also a professional book editor and is currently completing both a poetry collection and a romance novel. Her first acting role? Playing baby Jesus in a church Christmas production — a tough opening act, as Gabe pointed out.

Connect with Leanne
Website: http://www.leannehuffman.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leannehuffmanactor/
YouTube: Search "Leanne Huffman" for her short films and acting work
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4022129/
Look out for her upcoming poetry collection and romance novel

0:00 - Introduction to Leanne Huffman
5:20 - The connection between rucking and faith
12:45 - Lessons learned on the trails of Scotland
18:30 - Navigating seasons of spiritual "wilderness"
25:15 - The importance of community in the pilgrimage
32:10 - How to start your own spiritual rucking practice
39:45 - Overcoming physical and mental barriers
47:00 - The role of daily prayer in endurance
54:30 - Leanne’s most impactful scripture for the journey
1:02:15 - Final words of encouragement and wrap-up

Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/
Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay
Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

NOTE: This episode is best watch through YouTube:
https://youtu.be/C1QD0p1rpTI

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

In this special episode of the Ruck the Way podcast, Chris is joined by his close friend Vinnie King on a unique "whiskey pilgrimage" to the island of Islay off the west coast of Scotland. As they walk between legendary distilleries like Lagavulin and Ardbeg, they explore the deeper spiritual purpose of pilgrimage and the challenges men face in developing authentic friendships. Using the ruins of Lagavulin Castle as a powerful metaphor, they discuss the emotional walls men build for protection and the courage required to tear them down to allow for genuine connection. This conversation captures the beauty of the Scottish landscape and the profound insights found in both mundane and spiritual moments on the way.Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWayMeet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

00:00 – Intro
02:11 – Introduction of guest Vinnie King and the "Whiskey Pilgrimage" on Islay
03:38 – Arrival at Lagavulin Distillery and Parks & Rec references
04:17 – Describing the Scottish landscape in March
:05:06 – Defining pilgrimage as a journey with spiritual purpose
06:05 – Transitioning to the walk between Lagavulin and Ardbeg
08:45 – Vinnie discusses the metaphor of protection and ruined castles 11:13 – Reflections on the emotional walls men build early in life
14:07 – Living life on pilgrimage: Noticing what others miss
15:36 – The struggle with trying to "curate" a spiritual experience
16:30 – "Setting the table": Allowing for profound moments in the mundane

Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/
Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay
Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

Music Credits:
Upbeat Music Credits for YouTube
-Quicksand by Ian Aisling:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/quicksand
License code: YTPHMDMY5WKDPP7H
-The Cloud Council’s Quarterly Meeting by Ben McElroy:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/ben-mcelroy/the-cloud-councils-quarterly-meeting
License code: KLYXS8YQFEQUJ2PD
-Afterlife by Ambient Boy
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/ambient-boy/afterlife
License code: AXG1VGJTZSW5M6Z9

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

In this episode, Gabe and Chris explore the complex terrain of midlife and the "reckoning" that often occurs around the concept of vocation. Using the metaphor of Mons Gaudium (the Mountain of Joy) from the Saint Cuthbert Way, they discuss the moment a pilgrim first sees their destination after days of strenuous travel. They differentiate between "calling—our primary identity as image-bearers of Godand "assignments" the specific tasks and roles we hold in different seasons. The conversation tackles the shame and loneliness men often feel when their professional strategies begin to break down, offering a safe space to ask three penetrating questions: What do you love? What do you hate? And where have you been wounded? This episode is an invitation to transition from surviving your work to thriving in your true identity.

Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/
Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay
Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage We sit down with Ron Dasher, a leader in men's ministry and founder of the Iron Collective. Ron shares his 15-year journey of "Clashes with Stashes," a biannual fishing trip that exemplifies the power of long-term intentional brotherhood. We dive deep into the concept of "The Invitation"—the persistent, life-changing act of seeing and valuing another man. Ron discusses the "wilderness" seasons of life and the importance of unmasking the heart to move from a "conquering king" mentality to that of a "settled sage." By exploring emotional fluency and naming the currents beneath the surface, Ron illustrates how men can show up fully present and fully alive for their families and communities. It is a compelling call to step out of the drifting current and into a life of intentionality and high-trust community. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and June Pilgrimage announcement 01:04 - Welcoming Ron Dasher to the podcast 03:12 - The "Man Cave" and creating masculine spaces for groups 05:50 - "Clashes with Stashes": 15 years of intentional friendship 10:55 - The progression of relationships over a decade and a half 15:48 - Seeing life trajectory through the lens of "Story" 20:13 - Ron’s Family of Origin and meeting Jesus 22:82 - The Power of the Invitation: How Ben wore Ron down 28:83 - The Wilderness Years: From seminary to the call center 37:25 - Why the word "Invitation" carries so much weight 41:42 - Defining the Iron Collective and "The Box Talk" 51:58 - Vulnerability: What we desire to see but fear to show Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/ Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

This particular episode of the Ruck the Way podcast is best viewed on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay) to experience the hill walk in the sweeping beauty of Scotland

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

In this episode, we invite you to step outside and join us for a meditative "Holy Week Hill Walk." As we climb the historic Traprain Law in East Lothian—a site deeply connected to the ancient origins of Scotland—we reflect on the physical reality of Jesus’ journey toward Jerusalem. This isn't just a metaphorical exercise; it's an invitation to use your body to process the deep themes of crucifixion and resurrection. We explore the "liminal space" of Holy Saturday, the place between despair and hope, and encourage listeners to walk slowly through their own personal history and the history of the world. Whether you are on a mountain trail or a neighborhood sidewalk, discover how faith is lived out through the physical act of moving forward even when the summit is not yet in view.

Learn more about us:: https://www.rucktheway.com/

Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay

Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

Summary: A physical and spiritual reflection on Holy Week that encourages using the body to connect with the story of Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection while navigating life's "in-between" spaces.

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

We dive into one of their favorite and most foundational topics: the idea that everyone has a story.

"Do I really have a story?" and "Does it matter?"

Whether you are a business leader, a pastor, or a college student, understanding your narrative is a key part of "Ruck the way" Gospel of the week: Verse: "No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us." — 1 John 4:12

Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/ Subscribe to our Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@RucktheWay Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

AVAIL THE BOOK: Travel With a Stick by Richard Frazer UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Travels-Stick-Pilgrims-Santiago-Compostela/dp/1780275684
US: https://www.amazon.com/Travels-Stick-Pilgrims-Santiago-Compostela/dp/1780275684

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

In this episode, we are joined by Reverend Richard Frazer, the former minister of the historic Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh and our first native Scottish guest. Richard shares the profound spiritual and physical journey he undertook on the Camino de Santiago, a trek spanning 800 kilometers that he documented in his book, Travels with a Stick. We explore the intersection of modern ministry and the ancient practice of pilgrimage, discussing how the simplicity of walking helps strip away life's distractions to reveal a deeper connection with the Creator. Richard reflects on his transition from the bustling heart of Edinburgh to a more contemplative life in Findhorn, offering wisdom on the importance of community and the "long walk" of faith. This conversation is a beautiful invitation to anyone seeking purpose in their own life’s journey. Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/ Subscribe to our Podcast: / @rucktheway Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about

BUY THE BOOK: Travel With a Stick by Richard Frazer
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Travels-Stick-Pilgrims-Santiago-Compostela/dp/1780275684
US: https://www.amazon.com/Travels-Stick-Pilgrims-Santiago-Compostela/dp/1780275684

UPCOMING PILGRIMAGE: https://www.rucktheway.com/pilgrimage

In this episode, we are joined by Reverend Richard Frazer, the former minister of the historic Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh and our first native Scottish guest. Richard shares the profound spiritual and physical journey he undertook on the Camino de Santiago, a trek spanning 800 kilometers that he documented in his book, Travels with a Stick. We explore the intersection of modern ministry and the ancient practice of pilgrimage, discussing how the simplicity of walking helps strip away life's distractions to reveal a deeper connection with the Creator. Richard reflects on his transition from the bustling heart of Edinburgh to a more contemplative life in Findhorn, offering wisdom on the importance of community and the "long walk" of faith. This conversation is a beautiful invitation to anyone seeking purpose in their own life’s journey.

Know more about our cause: https://www.rucktheway.com/
Subscribe to our Podcast: / @rucktheway Meet the founders: https://www.rucktheway.com/about