Rooted and Real : Raw Discussions

As the Advent season comes to a close, we turn our focus to the final two candles and where they fall within the Christmas timeline. In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions, we reflect on what these candles represent, how they prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ, and why slowing down in this sacred season matters more than ever. Through Scripture, reflection, and honest conversa...

In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , we reflect on the third week of Advent and the Candle of Joy. This conversation explores what it means to live out true joy—not as a fleeting feeling, but as a response to God’s presence in our everyday lives. As the season unfolds, we’re reminded that joy is rooted in Emmanuel, God with us, even in the midst of real life. Find us on Instagram...

In this deeply reflective episode of Rooted and Real , we journey through the Advent season, exploring its rich timeline and spiritual significance. From the anticipation of Christ's birth to the hope, peace, joy, and love that the season represents, we dive into the deeper meaning behind each week leading up to Christmas. Special focus is given to the second candle of Advent, known as the &qu...

In this heartfelt episode of Rooted and Real , we begin our Advent journey with the first candle—the Candle of Hope. Join us as we lean into the raw, honest places where hope is both fiercely needed and deeply felt. We unpack what “hope” truly means in seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and longing, and how the Advent story invites us to anchor ourselves in something steady, ancient, and life-giving...

In this powerful episode of Rooted and Real , the men of The Foxhole—Troy, Michael, Eric, Greg, Charlie, Tyler, Zo, and Mark—gather for an insightful roundtable discussion on the healing of the paralyzed man in Luke 5:17-26. Together, they dive into the themes of faith, community, and the boldness it takes to bring others to Jesus. As they reflect on the story of the friends who went above and bey...

In this reflective pre-Advent episode, we pause before the season of anticipation begins. Pre-Advent: The Calm Before the Hope invites listeners into a quiet, honest space—one where stillness meets longing and faith meets real-life tension. Join us as we explore what it means to wait well: the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities of preparing our hearts before the celebration of Advent tr...

In this honest and vulnerable conversation, we dive into a topic that too often goes unspoken — church hurt . From broken trust to unmet expectations, many have silently carried wounds from places meant to offer healing. Join us as we unpack the pain, the confusion, and the journey toward restoration. We’ll talk about how to recognize spiritual and emotional harm, the difference between human fail...

In this episode of Rooted and Real , we sit down with Michael Peach for an honest and insightful conversation about what discipleship looks like in today’s world. Together, we unpack how following Jesus goes beyond Sunday services—touching every part of our lives, relationships, and communities. Michael shares personal stories, practical wisdom, and challenges the church to rediscover authentic di...

n this powerful episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , we explore the concept of identity and the emotional masks we put on in our daily lives. From social expectations to internal struggles, many of us wear a facade to protect ourselves or fit in, but at what cost? Join us as we dive deep into the pressures that lead us to hide our true selves, the impact of masking on mental health, and h...

n this powerful episode of Rooted and Real , we dive headfirst into the raw reality of failure, heartbreak, and personal setbacks. "The Fall" unpacks the idea that life’s most painful tumbles often lead to our most meaningful growth. Through honest reflection and faith-centered dialogue, we explore how falling—whether spiritually, emotionally, or circumstantially—can be a necessary part...

In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , Kyle Tipton opens up about how his faith shapes his daily life and family dynamics. From real-world struggles to spiritual growth, Kyle shares honest insights on living out belief with integrity, consistency, and love. A powerful conversation for anyone seeking faith that’s real, grounded, and lived—not just preached. Find us on Facebook &...

In this episode, we talk about the comparison trap we all fall into—whether it’s on social media, at work, or in our personal lives. We share some real ways to stop measuring ourselves against others and start embracing our own unique journey. If you’ve ever struggled with comparison, this episode will help you break free and find peace with where you’re at. Find us on Facebook & Instagram Ema...

In this episode of Rooted and Real , we’re getting behind the wheel of our faith journey and talking about what it really means to shift into faith — like shifting gears in a car. Whether you’re stuck in neutral, grinding in first, or cruising in overdrive, your spiritual walk has seasons and stages. Join us as we unpack the messy, beautiful, and sometimes bumpy ride of trusting God more deeply. W...

We’ve all made mistakes, but we don’t have to stay stuck in them. In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , we explore how God gives us a fresh start, freeing us from the graveyard of past sins and regrets. It’s time to let go, rise up, and step into the grace of a true “Dude Do-Over.” Find us on Facebook and Instagram Email the show at RootedandReal@yahoo.com Podcast theme song "...

Life doesn’t slow down—and neither does the chaos. In this raw and real episode, we unpack what it truly means to experience joy when everything around us feels unstable. How do we hold on to peace, purpose, and faith when life gets loud, messy, and overwhelming? Join us as we dive deep into biblical truths, personal stories, and practical tools to stay grounded in Christ, even when the world feel...

n this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , we explore Paul’s powerful time in Ephesus and the lasting impact of his letter to the Ephesians. From spiritual revival to cultural resistance, Paul’s ministry in this influential city offers rich lessons on faith, identity, and perseverance. We dive into themes like unity in the Church, standing firm in spiritual warfare, and living out our ca...

In this thought-provoking episode of Rooted and Real , we dive into the intersection of social media and modern faith —where curated posts meet spiritual practice. Are we living out our beliefs authentically, or are we filtering our faith for likes and approval? Join us as we unpack how platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube shape our spiritual expression, community, and identity. From the...

In this heartfelt episode, we dive deep into the beauty and challenges of building a Christian community that feels more like chosen family. Whether you're starting from scratch or trying to find your place in an existing faith circle, the journey isn’t always easy—but it’s worth it. We explore the messy, sacred process of forming authentic relationships rooted in Christ, and the vulnerability...

In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , AJ sits down with his good friend Jason Barrett to talk about what it means to live out faith and raise a family in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world. Together, they share personal stories, honest struggles, and practical wisdom on keeping Christ at the center of both personal life and family life. From navigating modern culture to creati...

What happens after the breakthrough? After the fast, the wilderness, the waiting? In this episode, we explore the concept of  The 41st Day —the moment after the biblical 40 days and nights, when the real journey begins. Alan Riley dives deep into what it means to live out your faith not just during the spiritual highs, but in the everyday grind that follows. This raw and honest conversation challe...

In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions, we’re diving into a side of Jesus that doesn’t always make the Sunday morning highlight reel — His rebellious nature. From flipping tables to flipping cultural norms, Jesus didn’t just fit into the world quietly — He challenged it, disrupted it, and called out both religious and societal systems that missed the heart of God. We’re talking about...

In this candid and empowering episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions , we’re talking about the art of letting go—and how to do it with grace, grit, and God. Whether it’s criticism, past mistakes, or the weight of unrealistic expectations, “brushing it off” isn’t about ignoring pain; it’s about choosing freedom. Find us on Facebook and Instagram. Email the show at RootedandReal@yahoo.com Podca...

In this raw and real episode of Rooted and Real , we tackle one of the most well-known verses in Christianity — John 3:16: "For God so loved the world..." But we’re not just glossing over it. We’re digging deep into what this verse really means for us in the hustle and grind of modern life. How does God's love, shown through Jesus, impact us personally ? What does it look like to liv...

Welcome to the very first episode of Rooted and Real ! In this opening conversation, join host AJ as we’re digging into what faith looks like beyond Sunday mornings and stained glass. How do we live out what we believe in the everyday — in our work, relationships, communities, and decisions? This episode explores the idea that real faith isn’t confined to a church building — it’s active, lived, an...

Whether it’s personal growth, navigating life’s messiness, or simply finding meaning in the everyday, this show is all about staying rooted in truth and keeping it real with yourself and others. 🎧 New episodes begin Monday, June 14 📅 Tune in bi-weekly on Mondays for fresh, thought-provoking episodes that go deeper. Follow now and get ready to grow with us — one conversation at a time. #RootedAnd...