Lean In with Sarah Alyse

In this heartfelt episode of Lean In with Sarah Alyse, Sarah returns to the podcast after over a year to share reflections on life's seasons and how faith can provide purpose and perspective. She discusses the challenges of striving, the importance of relying on God's grace, and the lessons she's learned from Psalm 90:17. Sarah opens up about her journey of balancing work, family, and faith, emphasizing the significance of inviting God's presence into daily life and work. This episode is a reminder to focus on eternal purposes, embrace foundational practices like prayer and intentional living, and lean into God's plan—even in seasons of challenge or uncertainty. Whether you're navigating new beginnings, feeling overwhelmed, or simply seeking encouragement, this episode will inspire you to reflect on how God works through all circumstances for His kingdom.  

In this episode of Lean In with Sarah Alyse, Sarah shares an adventure she never thought she'd embark on: hunting. From her initial skepticism about the practice to the life-changing experience of harvesting her first deer, Sarah reflects on the importance of embracing new opportunities. She takes listeners through her journey at a South Texas ranch, learning the value of stewardship, sustainability, and community. This episode blends humor, faith, and a deep dive into the unexpected joys of stepping outside your comfort zone.  

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the importance of creating habits cannot be understated. Join Sarah in this episode as she delves into the significance of habits in bringing stability and a mindset change into our lives. Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed by the chaos of life? In times of uncertainty, habits can be your anchor. Stay tuned to discover how cultivating habits can help you navigate the storms or a season of waiting with confidence.  Sarah will also share a heartfelt prayer that beautifully encapsulates the essence of finding solace in the midst of chaos and waiting. Listen as we explore the power of surrender and faith, and how it can transform your life. Sarah talks about her real life and shares practical tips on how to establish habits that not only bring order but also enhance your well-being. Learn how to turn chaos into an opportunity for growth. ------   A Prayer for Those in Waiting   Dear Lord,   You are good. You are good no matter what, no matter when, and always. You reign Sovereign in every season. You are never perplexed, never surprised, and never confused by what I face. I have confidence that You have been working and will continue working to fulfill Your plan in my life for my good and for Your glory.   Father, in this season of waiting, I need You near to me. Surround me with Your presence. My heart is fragile in the in-between, and I cannot trust my human emotions. Forgive me for the moments where I grasp for control instead of fully surrendering to You. Forgive me for allowing my thoughts to spiral into worry instead of taking those thoughts captive and turning them into prayers. Forgive me for giving into fear and anxiety instead of trusting in Your promise that You are good, and You care for me. Forgive me, Lord, if I exalt myself by allowing my circumstances to dictate my faith and trust in You. Forgive me for wasting my moments on what-ifs instead of using my moments to worship.   Be evident to me, God. Bring to my mind the evidence of Your faithfulness in my life – past and present. Interrupt my spiraling thoughts and remind me of Your Truth. Humble me with Your peace and sovereignty. Bring me to my knees in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. I accept Your peace, which goes beyond my understanding, that I might guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. I will worship You for commanding things to unfold exactly as they should.   I surrender to You, Almighty God. My heart, my thoughts, my circumstances, my future; it is all Yours. I lay it at Your feet in full surrender, knowing that my life is best in Your hands. I cannot do it myself, Lord, and I don't want to, Because I know that there is freedom in my full surrender.   Be near to me, Lord. I do not want to go anywhere where You are not evidently before me. But sometimes, I move forward in an effort to make my own way, find my own path, or placate my anxious heart. Stop me, gracious Father, from moving in any direction that You have not ordained for me. Trip my step, avert my eyes, and disrupt my route until I am back in step with You. Help me have peace in Your pacing.   You love me too much to do anything outside of Your perfect timing. I surrender all to You, Lord. I need You. I praise You. I love You. Thank You for loving me.   Amen.   By Lisa Beymer

In this thought-provoking episode, Sarah delves into the profound message of Galatians 5:16 and its connection to being conscientious stewards of the resources we've been entrusted with. Join Sarah as she explores the wisdom behind "walking by the Spirit" and how it guides us away from gratifying the desires of the flesh. We'll uncover the timeless relevance of Galatians in the Christian faith and shed light on its practical applications for today's world. Sarah dissects the verse's meaning and implications, investigating how aligning our actions with spiritual guidance leads to a righteous life. The journey continues by bridging this spiritual insight to the concept of stewardship—a holistic approach to responsibly managing our finances, environment, time, talents, and relationships. Drawing inspiration from the parable of the talents, we see how stewardship is deeply rooted in biblical teachings and how it harmonizes with the principles of Galatians 5:16. Delving into the heart of the matter, we explore how walking by the Spirit transforms our attitudes toward material possessions and resources, encouraging us to be thoughtful and compassionate stewards. Amidst the challenges of today's consumer-driven society, Sarah candidly address the struggles of maintaining a spiritual walk while striving to be good stewards. However, the rewards of aligning our lives with these principles are immeasurable.  In the final segments, we guide you through introspection and application, urging you to reflect on your own life and identify areas for growth in stewardship. Setting achievable goals, Sarah challenges you to integrate the teachings of Galatians 5:16 and responsible stewardship into your daily life. Tune in to uncover the transformative power of Galatians 5:16 and learn how to navigate life's complexities with spiritual wisdom and responsible stewardship.   Have a prayer request? Send Sarah a DM here: https://www.instagram.com/sarahalysefitness    

Lessons from Luke: Embracing Faithfulness and Blessings   In this episode, Sarah returns after a two-year hiatus and shares an inspiring reflection from the book of Luke. Drawing from the story of Jesus and Simon Peter, who experienced a miraculous catch of fish, Sarah explores the significance of obeying God's call even in seemingly mundane situations. Join in to discover how answering God's call can lead to unexpected abundance and a deeper relationship with Him in our everyday lives. Get ready to be encouraged and challenged to make room for the Holy Spirit and embrace divine opportunities in parenting, relationships, work, studies, and beyond.

So you are ready to transform your body? That's amazing. Remember, diets treat only the symptom - not the root problem. I think we use them for a quick fix because they are easier than doing the heart work.  But we need the heart work for transformations.  Sister, I encourage you to lean in, listen to this podcast with an open heart, and trust God's opinion of you and stop listening to the lies.  That way, you can be a good steward of all your resources and truly transform every area of your life.  --- Want to connect with Sarah? Ready to work with her? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

Nothing hits harder than that midday wall. Today, I'm sharing a few tips that will help you have the energy to teardown that bad boy.  --- Want to connect with Sarah? Ready to work with her? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

Before you reach the big change you desire, you likely need to make many small changes.  Good news? These are typically easy changes. Heck, they should be easy, so you will actually do them.  I'm talking about why those small changes matter and how you can start today.  --- Want to connect with Sarah? Ready to work with her? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.  

I had covid last week and here are some takeaways from the whole experience. Take a listen and be encouraged.  --- Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

Did you struggle to start a new habit in the summer? Thinking you need to wait until things settle down with kids going back to school to start again? Think again.  Find out why right now is the best time to start a new habit.  --- Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

We are running ourselves ragged and our health is suffering. I'm here to remind you rest is important. Your margins matter. Take a listen and be encouraged.    --- Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

When you feel stressed, pressed, or just worn thin, how do you treat your body? That's a question I'm digging into on this week's podcast. I don't have to tell you how hard life can be - you KNOW this fact is true.  I want to encourage you that even in this season, God is providing.  Verse:  The Lord will guide you always;     he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land     and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden,     like a spring whose waters never fail. Isaiah 58:11     Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

I keep seeing all these amazing results from 75 Hard. No, it's not a diet per se; however, this mental toughness challenge has many incredible outcomes that are seen and unseen. Ya'll, I've done it - twice - so I know.  We can convince ourselves super quick that we NEED that too, but I'm here to tell you. It might not the right season. Don't fall into the trap of taking on more than you should in this season of life. PS I think 75 Hard is amazing - and I will do it again - when the season is right.    Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

A wise person once said, "Comparison is the thief of joy." It's true. But how often do you find yourself caught in the comparison trap? More than you care to admit, right?  Today, we are unwrapping some biblical truths about you and your purpose in life.  Listen in and be encouraged and inspired.    Today's verses: 

Weight loss is hard. It becomes even harder when we miss the first step - starting with gratitude for the body you have and kicking the desire to look like anyone else but you to the curb. In today's podcast, I look at the weight loss journey (or any goal you might have) through the lens of  Solomon's wisdom in Ecclesiastes 6:9 (NLT): Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have.  I hope this message encourages you and helps you purposefully live the life God created for you.  Love you!!   Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

No one intends to drift away from God, their goals, important relationships, or healthy habits. But from time to time, it happens. In today's podcast, I talk about how changing your mindset and setting up some marker in your life will help you stay focused on living a life full of purpose that God created just for you.  "We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away." - Hebrews 2:1 NIV The story of Jesus walking on water - Matthew 14:22-33.   Want to connect with Sarah? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to share a prayer request? Click here, and she will be in touch.

Summer is lovely, but it is also so hard. With the kids home, it feels like we have to wear all the hats all the time. Not only does that get really exhausting - the task leaves us feeling like we are being a crappy [fill in the blank]. Ya know? Yes, there is an ease to the summer, but there is also considerable tension. In today's podcast, I hope to encourage mamas struggling with the pressure, give practical advice on how to rock your summer, and reframe how you see the struggle.    Need those free nutrition resources? Check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here. Want to connect with Sarah? Want her to coach you? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Click here, and she will be in touch.

I know...eat more. Sounds like I'm crazy; however, rhe first thing I ask most of my clients to do is eat more (and sleep more but that's a conversation for another time). Why? Well much like you can't have a roaring fire without the wood, your body's metabolism needs food to work optimally. It appears to be counter-intuitive thanks to the marketing strategies of the diet culture. But it's needed...take a listen to find out more.    Need those free nutrition resources? Check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here. Want to connect with Sarah? Want her to coach you? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Click here and she will be in touch.

Perhaps you are a little frustrated like me, because, time and time again, you find yourself doing the EXACT thing you said you wouldn't do. But like a moth to a flame you are back to the bad habit.  Today, I am talking about taking a stand against a bad habit. I am focusing on my tendency to randomly scroll social media but your thing could be anything - maybe food or fitness - and the same approach applies.  Today's Bible verse: Romans 7: 14-20 ---- Need those free nutrition resources? Check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here. Want to connect with Sarah? Want her to coach you? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Click here and she will be in touch. 

Summer is almost here. We are busting out the shorts and swimsuits and they are tighter than last year so what do you do? In this podcast, Sarah gives a few tips and some encouragement for anyone wanting to work on their health goals.     ---- Need those free nutrition resources? Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to connect with Sarah? Want her to coach you? Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

Sleep is so underrated but SOOOOOO important. In today's episode, Sarah is busting a few myths and dropping some hacks all for the love of sleep. ---- Have a topic you want to hear more about? Want to connect with Sarah? Want her to coach you? Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

The truth is we have a choice.  Believe in the truth or buying into the lies. What we choose has the power to keep feeling stuck in a crazy downward spiral OR set us free from toxic thoughts and into a life full of freedom. Whatever our anxiety - it falls into one of these three categories of lies: I'm unworthy. I'm unloveable. I'm helpless. But sisters, that's not the truth. Listen in and be empowered to make the brave choice and believe God's truths about you.  Let's fight, ladies! Be brave and fight!  Identity statement verses:  Psalm 139:13-16, John 1:12-13, John 10:28-30, John 15:1-17, Romans 6:1-1, Romans 8:1, Romans 8:9-17, 1 Corinthians 6:19, 2 Corinthians 5:13-21, Galatians 3:26-4:7, and Ephesians 1:3-2:10. The study I mentioned -> Get Out of Your Head Study Guide: A Study in Philippians by Jennie Allen (Affiliate link)  Listen to Ryan Leak's Message: Sufficient Grace   ---- Want to connect with Sarah? Want her to coach you?  Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

I've spent most of my life trying to be better. But I truly believe we are called to so much more. We are called to be different. It matters greatly and it really helps us shift the focus from what we can do to what God will do.    ---- Want to connect with Sarah? Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

You don't accidentally fall into shape, nor do you nail your food choices and other goals without intention and planning. When life gets bonkers, we tend to spiral down BUT that doesn't have to be our story; take a listen to practical advice to feeling and looking better.  Mentioned in this episode:  Start today: The Love Framework: Self Love 5 Week Challenge Workout Tracker Stickers: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AB2Studios   ---- Want to connect with Sarah? Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

I've not fallen off the wagon because I burned that stupid thing years ago. But my healthy habits need some QT and attention.  So I need a change - maybe you do too. Instead of asking Coach Google for advice, because she will show you shiny things like new diets, pills, patches, or potions - listen to this podcast.  Grit + Grace: Habits - Join here!    Want to connect with Sarah? Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

I know 2020 is in the rearview mirror but that doesn't mean we aren't still feeling the ripple effect. If you are still feeling the effects, you aren't alone. Listen in and feel encouraged.    Want to connect with Sarah? Click here, and she will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) she has for you here.

I recently chatted with a bunch of ladies about the thoughts we think and how quickly they can take a turn. It turns out - my knee-jerk reaction is doubt (no doubt rooted in fear) vs. confidence. Perhaps you have this same struggle - what if we saw our struggle a bit different - listen in.   Want to connect with me? Click here, and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things (including newsletters) I have for you here.

The truth is there's no magic to maintaining fat loss BUT there are about ten things that are proven to help you keep off that weight you fought so hard to lose. Trust me, these work -  I've kept off the 30+ pounds I lost for nearly 15 years now.  __________ Want to connect with me? Click here, and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.

The problem with health goals is that what appears to be healthy might be causing harm. Sarah discusses why releasing the grip on control may be just the thing needed for a deep level of growth in today's podcast.   __________ Want to connect with me? Click here, and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.

Joy. Yes, please, more of that! But how can we find joy in the midst of this chaos?!? My guest today, Suzie Eller, dives into this topic and so much more. She's an author, podcaster, blogger and a lover of Jesus. I just know you will love listening to this one.  Be sure to get plugged into her work at https://tsuzanneeller.com/ Follow her on Instagram at @suzanne.eller and  Facebook @SuzanneEller.     __________ Want to connect with me? Click here, and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.

Last night in a dark room, I hit a wall; I've walked my room numerous times without running into something, so what gives this time? Turns out I was turned around a bit, so I was going off course as I moved forward. I just needed a little light to see things more clearly. Often, this is what happens in diets, we start taking steps forward, but our approach isn't locked into the coordinates of our truly desired goals. But when we turn on the light and start loving our beautiful bodies as they are, something happens. We honor them in our choices vs. demanding them to change. And a new life is born, and a radical new way of living remains. Change takes root in the fertile soil of love. Take a listen.     Get your free Self Love Mini Workbook here. Find out more about The Love Framework Self Love 5 Week Challenge now. Want to connect with me? Click here and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.  

I recently took a break from my regularly planned out life - ya'll I planned everything and had no plan (kinda). My problem was rooted in striving to hit expectations that were never meant to take on. It left me feeling overwhelmed and defeated. You too? Take a listen and created the shift from striving to thriving   Want to connect with me? Click here and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.

Life without social media has been INCREDIBLE. Sure, I'm only about 2 weeks into my 40-day social media fast but the lack of distraction has been so eye-opening and so rewarding.  In today's episode, I compare it to cleaning out my closet. Getting rid of all the clothes that no longer fit my life. Take a listen and lean in... I mentioned this book in the show - it is sooooo good!  Joy Keeper by Suzanne Eller.  Want to connect with me? Click here and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.

The goal of being healthier is worthwhile. However, problems pop up when the definition of "healthy" leans heavily into diet culture. Incidents of this are when foods are labeled "good" and "bad," when restrictions are stringent, and when success is defined solely by the change in the scale. There's a different way. Listen in to find out more about how to improve your health - mind, body, and soul.   Want to connect with me? Click here and I will be in touch. Or check out all the free guides and workbooks I have for you here. 

I'm digging into Ephesians 4:17-24 - the part where you've got to remove your old self in order to put on your new self. Taking a little time today to dig into this.  I mention my social media fast - listen in to the original podcast here - 89: Let Go of the Dang Buoy....why I'm walking away from social media... Want to connect with me? Click here and I will be in touch. Or check out all the things I have for you here.   

We are so hard on ourselves, especially when looking in the mirror. But if our reflection was the voice of a beloved friend or our daughter, what would she say?  Self Love is an inside job. Making the shift in the thoughts you think gives way to a change in your actions and habits.  Ready to dig in deeper? Check out the TLF Self Love Self Pace course here.

When your phone runs out of batteries, you plug it in and let it recharge. Curious why when we feel depleted and in need of a recharge, we call ourselves selfish, lazy, or unproductive?  Let's dig into that a bit more, shall we?      Click here to let me know you want more info on Recharge and I will be in touch. 

You don't need 30 minutes to start moving more every day. Heck, you don't even need 15. I'm giving you permission to move your body even if it's only for 5 min. That's the secret to success - start.  Have you checked out my programs but aren't sure of which one to pick? I can help. Click here and I will be in touch. 

"I want to do _____ in the morning but I'm just so tired." I have a solution to your little predicament. Take a listen.  Let's talk. Click here and I will be in touch. 

We choose to love imperfect people every day. Why is it so hard to love our imperfect body? "But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 Ready to choose love and put it in action but not sure where to start? I can help. Click here and I will be in touch.   

This is a topic near and dear to my heart. One that I've seen client after client struggle with. And one that I want to help women overcome. Take a listen and find out more about Self Love 5 Week Challenge now.

In this really hard season, my days can quickly fill with worry. Do you feel that too? But faith cannot grow in a sea of worry. So we must do something different. Lean in with me today and let's trust what God's doing even if we can't see it.    Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

I don't always make the best food choices: Ah-hem...mall sushi.  However, when it comes to enjoying Christmas, I jump right in and eat all the cookies...guilt-free and shame-free. Do you? Listen in for tips on how to navigate the holidays and post-holidays seasons of life.   Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

I'm struggling these days. 2020 is royally kicking my butt, you too? I've spent a lot of time struggling with submission - you know, letting go of many things I wish I had more control over -  and this causes a ton of inner conflict. I sat down today and dug into God's Word to see what He has to say.  Lean in and discover what we need to do to possess God's greatest gifts. Spoiler alert - you must be willing to let go of what (and who) God never intended for you (to be) to make room for the life He created for you!  Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com  

I had in my head that I would be fiercely fit by forty. My coach was down for it and we knew that it was gonna be epic. I had in my head where I wanted to be and knew what it would take to get there. Done deal.    But I also knew that if at any point the process was hijacking other goals, then I would pull the plug and happily walk away.    And well, that's totally happening now.   Listen in and find out what's going on and why my decision to not diet might be just what you should consider too.      Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

Have a ton of thoughts that bombard your every moment? Ya, me too. The problem comes in when we accept our thoughts to be true without sifitng them out. Just like gemstone miners use a sieve to sift out the muck revealing the beautiful stones, we must do the same with our thoughts. We must let the thoughts that don't align with God's Word and His truth to drop fall through the sieve. After all, our actions are determined by our thinking. If you want to change your habits, you must change your thinking first. Have a ton of thoughts that bombard your every moment? Don't feel like you measure up? Is worry consuming you? Are you anxious about the future? The problem comes in when we accept our thoughts to be true without sifitng them out. Just like gemstone miners use a sieve to sift out the muck revealing the beautiful stones, we must do the same with our thoughts. We must let the thoughts that don't align with God's Word and His truth to drop fall through the sieve and be washed away.   Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

Our annual trip to TN was quite the journey. Apparently, a big van driving in the mountains with 108k miles is susceptible to transmission failure. Here's my story of the uninvited (but oh so wonderful)Thanksgivng journey   Feeling a little off after your Thanksgiving? Check out how Grit + Grace: Habits - The 28 Day Transformation Challenge can help you get back into the swing of things and it's only $37! Sign up or find out more here.   Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

On this special Thanksgiving week podcast, I dive into how to create success over Thanksgiving week, which includes enjoying yourself fully on Thanksgiving day with zero shame and a grateful heart. Sound advice that can be applied to any holiday or special event.    Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!    Sarah's resources: Sign up for Newsletters: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

I'm so thankful for the opportunity to chat with my dear friend, Taylor Nichols. She is a lighthouse and you will hear her heart in our conversation. I just love how she loves and shows up so authentically to her perfectly imperfect life. Looking to and pointing back to God in everything. Enjoy.   Connect with Taylor:  Instagram: @nichols_taylor Speak Life Podcast Sarah's resources: Links: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com  

If I ever participated in an endurance swim, I'm certain I'd be the girl clinging on to the buoy - not wanting to go further. Well, at least that's how I feel in life right now. Desperately clinging to something that is holding me back. I'm finally ready to let go and swim into deeper water.  This is my surrender.    Sarah's resources: Links: https://linktr.ee/sarahalyse Email: info@sarahalyse.com

Last week was a wild and crazy wrench throwing festival. I missed workouts, didn't hit step goals, and was inconsistent with food. But I was happy to report to my nutrition coach that the week was a SOLID win - mainly because there was no mental backlash about any of my less than stellar choices.    He shared something with me and I'd love to share it with you.     Grit + Grace: Habits - The 28 Day Transformation Challenge will help you with living in that 80% and it's only $37! Sign up or find out more here. Sarah's resources: www.sarahalyse.com Follow me on Instagram Join my FREE private Facebook community Email: sarahalysefitness@gmail.com