Rucking with Rocks: A Men's Journey to Wholeness

Join Dr. Mark Romano, ND and Rev. Bill Donaldson on this monthly, year-long journey to discover your inner strength, connect with a community of men, and reclaim your birthright of wholeness. Each month, we will explore a theme as we hike with a weighted pack around the hills of Sticks and Stones Farm.

Rucking with Rocks fuses physical training with personal growth. Inspired by Robert Bly’s Iron John, we carry literal rocks for strength and endurance, while reflecting on the symbolic rocks we carry in life. It’s not just about grinding out miles — it’s about pushing limits together and building a circle where men support each other’s growth.

Why It Works

    •    Functional Strength: Rocks and rucks develop raw power, endurance, and mental grit.

    •    Initiation & Symbolism: Each rock is both weight and metaphor — the burdens and responsibilities you carry.

    •    Community Connection: Training is done side by side, with…