Who is Alex Pineda?
I am a Disciple of Christ, a Husband, a soon to be father of a baby girl named Alexa, and a steward of FLYTE, a Supplement and Apparel brand whose mission is to be the light of the industry
What is FLYTE?
FLYTE is a ministry that is about more than simply selling supplements and apparel. We promote a lifestyle that encourages the bridging of faith and fitness in a culture that finds it difficult to see how the two can connect. We exist to glorify God by being a light in this spiritually dark industry that cares much about profits and recognition but little for the wellbeing of its consumers. We seek to encourage physical health unto even greater spiritual health as we shift the emphasis away from mere personal gain to impacting the lives of people who might find themselves in a dark place and in need of a light.
Do you have a life verse, or verse that you live by?
Yes, Matthew 6:33 is a verse I strive to live by daily. I believe with all my heart that my main concern should be to seek HIM first and strive to please and glorify HIM. As long as I seek Him, He will take care of everything else.
How did you come to know the Lord?
Through one of the darkest stages of my life in which everything I had built my identity on was stripped away. To top it off, my mom 45 at the time, was diagnosed with terminal stage 4 cancer. As her primary caregiver, I was exposed to all the suffering that comes with the disease which took a huge toll on me mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
Through the entire process, I witnessed Christ transform her daily into a completely different person and got to experience first hand, the miracle of Salvation. After 3 years of battle, she passed away in 2012. I then fell into a deep depression and it was at my weakest point that I finally decided to completely submit to His lordship. He has been changing my life ever since.
What has your relationship with him been like?
It’s been definitely interesting to say the least. I have experienced His Love and Grace as well as His discipline and mercy. I have seen a huge shift in my desires and an eagerness to serve Him and others. I have learned to be content, to be patient, and to trust Him even when I don’t understand. It has become the most important relationship of my life but it is a constant battle that requires me to die to self daily.
How has it impacted the way you view business?
I now view business in a completely different way. I believe that HE owns it all and that as stewards, we have a huge responsibility to manage it well. I believe whatever platform, profits, or gifts He gives us, either large or small, should be used for the sole purpose of bringing people to Christ. In reality, if we don’t use FLYTE’s earnings to touch people for the Lord, I really don’t see any reason for us to be in business at all.
What was the inspiration for FLYTE?
Matthew 5:14 which calls us to be the light of the world. After coming to know Christ, I was very confused as to whether to stay in the fitness industry or not, since it has become so self-centered and sexualized. I kept it in prayer for a few months and one morning during my daily time with Him, he revealed his next plan for my life by giving me a vision to start up this brand that would impact the industry and world for Him. Three and a half years later, here we are.
How has FLYTE impacted the fitness community?
I believe Christ has made an impact through the brand by bringing His message into it. We constantly get messages, emails, and prayer requests from people who are either encouraged by our message or in need of direction. It has been a privilege to be able to serve not only our customers, but other ministries as well as everyone involved with the brand.
Why do people love FLYTE?
I believe people love FLYTE because of Who the brand represents. I think that for many people, the brand brings some sort of hope and encouragement into their lives. Based on the messages we receive, it seems that people see the authenticity of the brand and the desire to make an impact. We also get an amazing response on the quality of our products, but we see that as an added bonus.
What do you hope FLYTE will inspire in others?
A deep desire to come to know Christ and to invest their lives in eternal things. I believe that only in HIM will you find true life and I truly desire that for everyone.
What does it mean to unite Faith and Fitness?
To be “the bridge” in our industry that makes the connection between them and the Lord just as Christ bridged the gap between us and the father. I believe that we all seek that “one thing” that will fill the void in our hearts which only God can fill. Many people seek to fill that void with their PR’s, physique, etc… and it is our goal to point them in the right direction.
This is such an amazing story and I love it! Being a Christian woman myself, I appreciate everything you have said and what you stand for. I own my own fitness business and I am also a health coach. My focus is to create more confidence in women through health and fitness. I lead by example and I am wondering how I can become involved or represent this amazing brand? I would love to partnership and bring this line to my clients. Please let me know how I can support you! Praise God for business’ like these!
Thank you very much for what you do,
Kelley
Kelley, our Executive Director, Becky Conzelman, would love to speak with you about ways to get involved with FAITH RXD as a business owner. She is currently backpacking with our Women’s Wayforward Adventures Wilderness Trip but can be reached at Becky{at}faithrxd.org if you’d send her the best way to contact you.
Inspirational! Thank you for witnessing to me and your example. Praise God! Jim