Shaping Lives with Julie

When I started my health journey, I hit a wall. I had the desire to make changes, but still wasn't making them. I didn't understand why. I suspected that it must have something to do with my brain. It did! I was hitting up against old programs in my brain and expecting different results, so I decided to start studying neuroscience. I wanted to learn how the brain works. I wanted to learn how to take control of my brain, and in essence myself. Interestingly, during this time, I started praying for God to help me "garnish my thoughts with virtue." I came across an expert who was not only a neuroscientist, but also conducted research that proved that Quantum Physics and Neuroscience go hand-in-hand. I rediscovered meditation. I've been praying about meditation and experimenting with it. Then I came across a scripture that instantly came into my mind as a confirmation of the positive outcome I've experienced through meditation. I share the "positive fruits" with you in this episode. I also share about the things I've been learning during this season of my own personal "learning curve." Since I am still learning, it is important to listen with that in mind. I don't claim to have all the answers and I may only have one piece. Other pieces may be forthcoming and change my understanding and perspective entirely. It's happened before. The goal for me is to share in hopes that I can give a voice to others who are experiencing similar things as me, to support others in their growth and in their own journeys, to inspire others to strengthen their relationships with God and include Him in the journey, and to share what I am learning. https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Going through Food Addiction Recovery has required me to not only put my emotions and thoughts on trial and work through them, but it has exposed the underbelly of the essence of who I am and who I belong to. In other words, I suddenly feel open and vulnerable...something I'm not used to. Coming through the doors of trauma and experiences that were harmful or painful, I got very good at masking, isolating, and oversharing. Now that I am on the other side of trauma and pain, I am learning how to be vulnerable and why it's good to learn how to be. While it may not effect my food choices, it does help me in terms of connecting with others in healthy ways, which is really the opposite of addiction. In some ways it feels like entering through a back door in regards to my health journey, and yet it simultaneously feels necessary, relevant, and important. So how does one learn how to be vulnerable if they have experienced any type of trauma? Doesn't that leave us open to getting hurt? I answer these questions and more in this episode. If you have questions or would like to discuss this topic or others from previous episodes, I invite you to connect with me in the Healthy & Bright community on Facebook. https//www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Do you feel like you're just going through the motions, living out your life in a disingenuous way? That's been me most of my life. When I started Bright Line Eating, doing a program that had rules, something wasn't clicking. I'd do it for awhile and than derail. I couldn't figure out what it was until this past week when I stumbled upon an interview and ordered a book I learned about through watching this interview on YouTube. I share my takeaways, what I've learned so far, that is not only practical and applicable (my kinda style!), but it works! I'm only a few days in and have already noticed a difference in my attitude, my intentions, my ability to self-correct when I start reverting to my old ways, the mental chatter, and in my relationships. I feel like a sparkly, brand new version of myself...the "me" I've always wanted to be and knew I could be with God's help. I feel like God has been leading me through every step of my health journey and now, I'm on my way, living the life and becoming the person I know He intended all along. Because I know that my will is in alignment with His will for me, I have the confidence to move forward in my life and fulfill the measure of His creation that is "me." There are many ways people can arrive to the same point I'm at, but what I share in this episode is what's working for me. I feel like I have a new lease on life and it feels amazing! For more support in your health journey, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright . --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Being the independent person I am, I went into food addiction recovery believing that I could avoid the monthly subscription to the official BLE community that supports the BLE (Bright Line Eating) plan. I figured that if I find and use my accountability partner and consistently show up in support groups on social media, that I would be fine. I'm not fine. I'm nearly a month off plan now. While I'm beginning to recognize old "scripts" I've been running off of - faulty, outdated beliefs I held about myself (i.e., lies), and how that's impacted me and my life in a negative way, I'm still hitting against the question of whether or not we can succeed without the support of the official BLE community. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Sometimes it's hard to break old, bad habits and you may find that more often than not, you end up resorting to them. I realized this about myself and in that moment I understand that I needed more tools to support me in reaching my goals. What I was doing, clearly wasn't working. Can you relate? This past week, I had some great take-aways and I share what those take-aways were and the tools that I'm discovering and collecting in order to support myself in my health journey. For more support, I invite you to join us in our group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

I wondered how it was possible for Passover and Easter to occur without celebrating it. Where did the time go? It wasn't until I put this episode together that I realized that an Easter miracle had transpired for me, during the time many were celebrating these two holidays. At one point the lyrics to Chaka Kahn's "Through the Fire" came to mind but I heard them differently this time. When it gets to the chorus, I thought about how the lyrics described how I was feeling towards my Savior coming through my own "fire." I found it ironic how this fire felt like the "Refiner's fire." Nevertheless, these lyrics seemed to perfectly express how I felt about it... "Through the fire, To the limit, to the wall For a chance to be with you I'd gladly risk it all Through the fire Through whatever come what may For a chance at loving you I'd take it all the way Right down to the wire Even through the fire" This episode is probably the most raw, personal episode I've recorded and shared. It certainly is a record of the most profound healing I've ever experienced to date and the experience I share is nothing short of life-altering - a true benchmark - and an experience I will never forget! I'm not sure why Easter is a time I seem to experience incredible miracles, but it doesn't seem coincidental. Each miracle in my life that has happened around Easter time reminds me that our Savior lives on, that He loves us and is in the details of our lives, and that He is the reason we celebrate Easter and/or Passover. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Imagine what your spirit is like outside of your body? Then imagine going back into your body. How do you see yourself inside of your body? Did your mission on earth suddenly change? Do you identify yourself as your body? This episode asks important questions that may help you see yourself differently, especially if you are a person who has identified yourself as your body (i.e., fat, ugly, etc.) It can help you with putting food addiction recovery into a healthy, proper perspective of something that is actually achievable. At the very least, you may grow a greater appreciation for the purposes that our bodies and spirits provide us. To learn more about food addiction recovery visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Binge-Eating Disorder - This week, I realized that I am not only dealing with a food addiction, but also a disorder. I discovered this the hard way. Through the changes I've implemented in my life and in myself, my relationships are also changing. Those who cannot support me are falling away. Those who can, are emerging. Such is life and sometimes it's painful. I have been grieving over friendships that have shifted and fallen away. There is still and will always be love there; I've just learned to surrender to the natural ebb and flow of my relationships. We all are at different points of learning and sometimes we outgrow our relationships...sometimes permanently and sometimes not. As a result, I resorted to old coping mechanisms and habits - very bad habits! Not only did I spiral through a dismal, hard, and painful week, I was so desperate to pull myself out of it that I did two things: 1) I learned everything I could about Binge-Eating Disorder and what I could do about it 2) I prayed. I told God how I was feeling and asked for what I needed I share all about how I was able to transition from feeling utterly alone and unloved (loneliness), to peaceful, supported, and loved (solitude). For more about Food Addiction Recovery, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

The journey through food addiction recovery has taken me through a series of steps, as if I'm walking through different corridors that lead to different "spaces" in life. I describe what this journey is like and the "spaces" I currently find myself in - from addressing the part that agency plays, the undoing-ness of an old lifestyle and implementation of a new lifestyle, the "alone-ness" that has sometimes accompanied me on this journey, as well as the profound peace and love that I'm discovering. We each have our life journeys and no two are the same. There are similarities and there are differences. Each trial we endure gives us an opportunity to increase empathy and compassion... to learn new and deeper ways to love. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

No matter what it is that you are working on improving, there is one thing I can guarantee... you WILL encounter naysayers... sometimes in mass quantities! It will stink! You will feel unsupported. You will feel dismissed. You will feel disrespected. You may even feel hurt and discouraged, but I argue that we need them. If you are not in a strong enough space to deal with the naysayers, you may feel the need to put in some boundaries with them; however, what I've noticed about food addiction recovery, is that I've encountered so many naysayers and most of them were dear friends or family members. They weren't acquaintances, which meant that if I continue to put in boundaries with all of these people I love, I will find myself alone. No one is perfect. Not only did this experience put an exclamation point on the importance and value of addiction support groups, but I also realized that I needed to learn how to accept and handle differing opinions, thoughts, and feelings. I couldn't learn that piece if the naysayers didn't have the courage to be vulnerable in expressing theirselves, or if I kept putting in boundaries. In the beginning, I needed those boundaries, but as I've been learning and growing, I'm becoming stronger and more confident in the process of recovery. I have finally reached a point, where I can open myself up periodically and consider what they're saying, and still be okay. I am learning how to disagree without becoming disagreeable. Through this process, I am learning how to weather the storms of my food addiction recovery and so can you. https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyand bright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

The things that inspired you to begin on your health journey weren't just a coincidence. There is a reason behind it. There is inspiration behind it. When you don't get the results you want right away, in the way that you want them, it's easy to lose your focus and veer into another lane. Stay in your lane! What works for others may not work for you and that's okay. Before you doubt your plan of action, be willing to investigate the reasons why you're not working that plan or why you don't want to? Chances are that if you switch lanes BEFORE you figure that piece out, you will carry those same issues with you, into a new plan (or "lane"). I have tried over 20 diets/health plans. I actually wrote them all down and figured out why I stopped working those diets and plans. What I learned is that I experienced the most success whenever I stuck to my original plan. I was able to focus and stuck to the plan exactly as it was intended to be followed. I also discovered what pieces I was seeking and why I was seeking them, before I ultimately landed with Bright Line Eating. It is one of many reasons why I know that finding Bright Line Eating was inspired. It answered every single issue I had with previous diets and plans that I've tried. It FELT right even though it is "the harder way." The good news is that it's gotten increasingly easier over time, but that doesn't mean there aren't times when I see others experiencing results I want through a different method or way. You know what they say... comparison is the thief of joy. If it's working, even if it's slowly or in ways you didn't expect, appreciate your growth and any small or large successes and by all means... STAY IN YOUR LANE! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

I've always admired disciplined people and simultaneously, discipline felt elusive to me. I would wonder how these disciplined people became disciplined. Is it really just a matter of changing your mindset - your beliefs, your attitudes, your thoughts? If I just change my thoughts, will I suddenly become disciplined? I've learned that it's that and more! In this episode I share about the catalyst that has been teaching me about how to discipline myself in hopes that it can help you. I share why I wanted to become disciplined and the benefits of working on this principle. I share what kept me from becoming disciplined so that you don't make the same mistakes I did. It's interesting to me that I could only learn discipline on the heals of learning to surrender. Discipline indeed, enters through the doors of surrender. Share your thoughts here -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

Last December (2022), I noticed a shift in my heart. I no longer felt a desire to strive for food addiction recovery. I no longer wanted to put forth the work and effort it required. Not only have I been struggling with a lack of commitment to my food addiction recovery plan, I was simultaneously struggling with my lack of commitment in regards to my relationship with Jesus Christ. I couldn't figure out why the sudden change of heart. Feeling the pain from making poor decisions, in desperation I plead for Jesus to give me a new heart; one that would be loyal to Him, love Him more than myself, and one that would be completely committed and devoted to Him. I plead for this not even knowing what I would need to surrender. I begged Him for this not understanding the part repentance would play. In truth, although I had heard the word "surrender" in conjunction with "food addiction recovery" many times, it hadn't become real or personal to me yet, not until now. This episode is different than the others I've done on here. It is unplanned, unscripted, unedited, unfiltered, and 100% raw. This is the current lesson I am learning and I share all about it in this episode. I invite you to discuss this topic in our online support group on Facebook called "Healthy and Bright." https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

.This episode is probably one of my favorites! I won't lie. I've been in a slump over this past 2 weeks and eating off plan. I have probably gained 10 pounds in the last 2 weeks. (I'll find out today when I get weighed at the doctor's office). I felt completely uninspired this morning. It is always the hardest to record an episode when I'm in a slump, so I prayed. I asked for inspiration, strength and power to overcome temptation, and help. I got it and right away! I immediately opened a book that was gifted to me. It is a book of devotions for the recovering food addict. It was manna to my soul and it is precisely the message I knew I needed to share today. How do you generate hope, excitement, enthusiasm, motivation, and joy when you feel the exact opposite? The short answer is to pray. In this episode, I share the long answer... all the yummy details... that will leave you feeling better than you did before you listened to this episode. I can say that because even as I was listening to myself share the message, I stopped (you'll hear it in the episode) and realized that I was excited to not only "start again," but to carry on with my day and all of the things I had scheduled in it. I invite you (after listening to this episode) to share about what you plan to do that will offer you a sense of renewal, hope, faith, joy, and motivation in our group: https:www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright . --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

There is a shame cycle that parallels (food) addiction. Staying on this cycle prevents us from moving forward and progressing. It breeds pride and tells us that we must hide or escape the inevitable, unbearable failure, so that no one can see it. It lends itself to perfectionism (i.e., impossible standards). Shame destroys. It tears down. It keeps us small and hidden away. It keeps us lost and without solutions. In this episode, I share how you can break that cycle and free yourself from shame, why we need God, and how extending compassion to ourselves as we strive to progress and can help you move forward. Join our group, "Healthy and Bright" for discussions or to reach out to me, Julie ( a.k.a. Julia). https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

The last four days, I had experienced a variety of uncomfortable and somewhat painful symptoms flare up rather suddenly. It wiped me out and I was pretty much confined to either my couch or bed. I got behind in a lot of my household chores. To top it off, it snowed most of those four days. The only exception was a little sunshine (which I was immensely grateful for) on Saturday. Between the symptoms and gloomy, cold weather that dominated over those four days, I hit a wall and fell into a pit of depression and anxiety. By the fourth day, I was so worn out and fatigued that I was desperate for anything to lift me out of the pit of depression and anxiety. I made a pour choice and once again the truth was staring me in the face, "The answer to our problems will never be through (processed) food." There it was. I saw it and I knew it. Usually, when I encounter a truth bomb that goes off in my face, the only way to survive the impact is to make a choice about what I will do differently. It's stupid really...I knew better than to keep the remains of the backfired "bake an take" sugary, unopened ingredients in my pantry, BUT, I apparently believed that if I didn't feel tempted one day by them, that I would never feel tempted by them. I didn't even store them at eye-level. It only took one intense bout of depression and anxiety to feel desperate enough to allow the temptation to partake of them, to seep through the cracks of my own pride...the pride that told me that I was about the temptation. I felt worse afterwards. My problem had only compounded. As I sat there on the couch that night with my daughter, and removed the food from out of sight, we had a discussion about how we were feeling emotionally and that's when inspiration came knocking at my door in the form of an "unexpected remedy." I share in this episode what my daughter and I decided to differently moving forward (so grateful that she is so supportive of me through my recovery). I share the inspiration in hopes that it may help you too. For continued support through your health and/or addiction recovery, I invite you to visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

It has been said that the 12-Step Addiction Recovery Program was inspired by the Beatitudes found in the book of Matthew, chapter 5, verses 3-12. I don't know if that is true, but upon further study, I have discovered correlations between the two. In this episode, we delve into the Beatitudes and extract principles that support the 12-Step Addiction Recovery Program. Discovering these connections has strengthened me in my resolve to "stay the course" in food addiction recovery. It has brought peace to my mind and heart. My hope and prayer is that it will offer the same peace and enlightenment for you. All episodes of the "Foodiciton" podcast are open for discussion here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

When I was feeling sick, I went in to see my doctor and he prescribed me Amoxicillin for a sinus-infection. I had stayed on my Bright Line Eating plan throughout the ten days I was on my prescription and noticed that I had gain two pounds. By the last day, I was back to the same weight I was when I started. Overall, while I didn't gain, I didn't release weight either. I was a little puzzled by this and decided to look into medications that cause weight-gain. In this episode I share some common, specific medications that have the side effect of weight gain, what types of medications typically do cause weight gain, why they cause it, and what you can do about it. If you would like to see the list for yourself, feel free to hop into the support group on Facebook called, "Healthy and Bright:" https://www.facebook.com/healthyandbright . In there you will also find a post with an image that shows you which type of prescription depletes your body of certain vitamins and minerals. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

There is a lot of talk about goals this time of year, but today I want to talk about habits... all of those habits that help us reach our goals, or in other words, become the person we wish to become. These three tips are not about rigidity or rules. In fact, quite the opposite! You mean there's an easier way? Yes! There is! Not only is it easier, but more effective too. There is hope! Anyone can do these three simple things to create new habits and that's what I love about them the most. If you would like to discuss this topic or others from previous episodes, or if you would like additional support in your health goals, hop into the "Healthy AND BRIGHT!" group on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright You'll find recipes, monthly meal menus and meal ideas, resources, humor, new friends, confidentiality, accountability through our group chat, support, announcements and event information, new podcast episodes, and spiritual inspiration. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/foodiction/message

What is "Post-Event Collapse Syndrome" and what can I do about it? This episode sheds light on a term that Dr. Susan Pierce Thompson coined as "Post-Event Collapse Syndrome." I didn't even know it was a thing until a friend mentioned it on social media and I came across a V-log that Dr. Susan Pierce Thompson did. The timing of this was right smack dab in the middle of my own post-event collapse and helped me get through it. Check back Mondays for new episodes! Join our online discussions in our "Healthy and Bright" group on Facebook -> facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright #foodaddictionrecovery #healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Who knew that watching a docuseries would inspire such probing thoughts and questions relating to my own platform and life experiences, but it did! I wanted to share about the "faith piece" - that piece of my life that concluded with God (the God I am referring to is Jesus Christ). You may be wondering why I did and what led me to the decision to include Him, not only in my life, but specifically in my health journey in overcoming food addiction. It all started with a list of "pros and cons" relating to both cases: the case in choosing to act on faith in Him versus choosing not too. I share what happened when I did this and how that one action was the catalyst in helping me determine what I needed to do next. Check back Mondays for new episodes! Join our online discussions in our "Healthy and Bright" group on Facebook -> facebook.com/groups/healthyandbright #foodaddictionrecovery #healthyandbright --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Thanksgiving was a breeze! I had a plan and executed it perfectly! I thought that going into the Christmas and New Year holidays, that I'd be equally successful... that is, until last week happened. Yesterday was the peak of my pit... a pathetic day of gluttony, laziness, and binging. The result is adding a ninth tip the the eight I already had from getting through Thanksgiving. It's hard to believe that anyone could derail if they do these 9 tips. You can do them anytime, not just during the holidays, but since I know that the holidays can be difficult, sharing them now seems serendipitous and advantageous. I'm glad I learned this 9th tip now and not later. We still have this week to get through and can make any necessary adjustments and changes to ensure a successful holiday season. We now have a NEW SUPPORT GROUP that was inspired by this podcast and bears the same name, "Foodiction!" I extracted inspiration from James Clear's book, "Atomic Habits," as well. In his book he talks about focusing on who you want to become as opposed to what you want. I took this inspiration and created 4 legs for this group...becoming: God-centered, healthy, connected, and free! I'll be sharing recipes, meal ideas, tips, new episodes, resources, and humor. I'll also offer you accountability, support, and connection. This group will provide a safe space for anyone who is desiring to overcome food addiction. Come join us! --> https://www.facebook.com/groups/foodiction --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

In this episode, I share about my recent, strange experience surrounding baking for the holidays. I also share my experiences leading up to reading the book, "Atomic Habits" by James Clear and what my takeaways were. We set goals and every goal is comprised of a series of systems that ultimately lead us towards achieving those goals, but if our systems our faulty, we won't reach our goals. I expound on this subject and talk about changing a system that I recently discovered was faulty and how that has set me on a course to succeed more often than not. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Have you ever tried to overcome food addiction only to find yourself in a ditch? Genevieve Campbell has successfully released 150 pounds and has kept it off for three years and counting. In this candid interview with her, she shares her inspiring story and how she was able to get out of the metaphorical ditch she found herself in. For those who struggle with finding their "whys," Genevieve (also known as "Genny") simplifies "the why" and clarifies what the journey of recovery is all about. She leaves you questioning what you need to be willing to give up in order to gain true freedom from food addiction. If you would like to help raise awareness about food addiction recovery and keep this podcast free, please share this link: https://anchor.fm/foodiction There is new content every Monday. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

I am bringing on a special guest and health coach, Erin Hart! In this interview with Erin, she shares her inspiring story of how she released about 120 pounds of extra weight in less than a year, and 5 key principles in staying on track with your health goals! If you would like to connect with Erin, you can do so by visiting: erinhart.healthcoaching or find her on Facebook. Help raise awareness for food addiction recovery and keep this podcast free by sharing this link: anchor.fm/foodiction. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

You may be wondering why I've chosen to get back on my plan (known as "Rezooming" in the Bright Line Eating community) on Thanksgiving day and not the day after. If I wait until the day after, I wouldn't have to worry about what I'm eating. I could just eat whatever I want. In fact, I confess that I have taken this approach before when I wanted to excuse myself from doing the necessary work to "stay bright" (on plan). If a birthday came up, I would give myself permission to go off of plan just for that day and go back on plan the next day. Recently, I realized what that was costing me and what I had to gain by resetting and getting back on my plan the day of Thanksgiving - today! I share this with you in hopes that it will help support you through the holidays and adapting to a new, healthier lifestyle. Trust me! I've had SO much fear and anxiety surrounding the holidays! Up until today (and today is not over yet but I have already chosen to stay on plan today), I had never successfully made it through the holidays on plan. This was the exact time last year that I derailed and had it not been for my doctor, probably would have remained off plan. I had no experience to draw from. YIKES! I want you to know that you're not alone and that this plan is doable no matter what time of year it is. Happy Thanksgiving! Know how grateful I am for each of you sharing in this journey of food addiction recovery with me. We all deserve to be healthy and experience long-lasting joy. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Tonya Wirfs is a coach for moms, she is a mother and a wife. She has successfully reached her health goal and is maintaining her health goal as a lifestyle. In this interview, she shares about the importance of establishing a solid foundation to work from as you heal from food addiction. You will get to hear her story and what steps she took that ultimately led to success in her health journey, and also in her life. If you would like to connect with Tonya Wirfs, you can find her on Facebook or Instagram (IG or FB @TonyaWirfsMomCoach) in addition to her website: https:TonyaWirfs.com. New episodes are available every Monday. If you want to help raise awareness about Food Addiction Recovery or keep this podcast free, please share the link to this podcast: anchor.fm/foodiction. Chances are if it's helping you, it can help others too. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Do you struggle with being inconsistent on your health plan? We hear all about motivation, willpower, determination, and goal-setting and maybe you've tried all those things in attempting to be more consistent. What could be missing? In this episode I share an epiphany I had in hopes that it will also help you! If you would like to support the podcast, raise awareness about food addiction and food addiction recovery, and help your loved ones, please share the link to this or any of the episodes: anchor.fm/foodiction --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

If there is one thing I've noticed that I resort to when I am making a bad food choice, it is in justifying that food choice! Why do you justify your food choice and what can you do instead? This is the topic for today and it's currently what I am addressing in my own health journey. I share my experiences with this and also explain the cognitive dissonance that lends itself to justification. If you would like to support this podcast, please share the links to the episodes and what resonated with you. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Years ago, I was at a standstill. No matter what diet I tried, I had little to no success. I stopped dieting completely and conducted an online search for what I hoped was a common sense approach to my health. Instead, I suffered from information overload and struggled to discern truth from deceit. I called a friend an sobbed over the phone. I felt hopeless, confused, mentally exhausted and frustrated. This experience inspired this episode that is created with the intention to help debunk some of the myths they diet culture has sold us, or at the very least, to help you learn how to discern truth from deceit. I want to empower you and teach you principles that will aid you in your health journey. In order to subscribe to this podcast, I would have to monetize it. I have no interest in doing that anytime soon, as I want people to be able to have access the information, tips, and stories I share without worrying about a subscription at this time. I will be laying down the foundation for healthy eating and I believe that everyone deserves these tools, regardless of money. If you would like to support this podcast, please share the link to the episodes that are your favorites on social media and share what you found valuable about it. Text your friends and family and share the link with them. That is the best way that you can suppor this podcast. If you are on Spotify, click on the star on the profile and you will have easy access to the podcast. You won't have to search for it each time. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

Are you an emotional eater? You're not alone! It is estimated that 75% of overeating is caused by emotions. In this episode I share some tips about how to come more fully aware of your emotions so that you can take measures to manage or regulate them. I also address existing in survival mode, what that looks like and what you can do about it. Join me every Monday, 8 am MSt and be sure to subscribe so that you never miss an episode. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

We've all probably been there....you know...another diet and another failure! We feel discouraged and hopeless. We stop trying even though in our heart of all hearts, what we really want and dream about is being healthy someday. Discouragement is dangerous. It keeps us feeling "stuck." In today's episode, I am sharing 7 steps you can take to end discouragement and find hope again. Remember to mark this episode as a favorite or subcribe so that you won't miss an episode. Join me every Monday live at 8 am MST. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

This episode answers two important questions: 1. What exactly is food addiction? 2. Why don't I feel in control of my food choices? There are two brains in our bodies: the gut and the brain. Today we're looking into our brains. Understanding how certain substances (we call "food) affects our brains can help us understand why we feel hijacked, discouraged, hopeless, out of control, and scared. It's just like a patient waiting for a diagnosis. Knowledge is power. When we know what the problem is, we are better equiped to find a solution. The information I am sharing is also shared in Dr. Susan Pierce Thompson's book, "Bright Line Eating." I highly recommed reading her books and also books authored by Dr. Amen. Both of these doctors have studied brains in depth and have offered ground-breaking evidence of what is affecting our brains and how our brains function. Dr. Susan Peirce Thompson expounds on the facts that I have extracted and shared. She explains in much greater detail the information presented in this episode. Even if you weren't ready or wanted to try her plan, her book is definitely worth the read simply for the education alone. It is life-altering! Remember to subscribe or mark this podcast a favorite so that you will be alerted when new episodes are available. Download the Anchor app so that you can participate in discussions on "Foodiction." I would love to hear your thoughts, insights, opinions, and feelings. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/foodiction/message

How many times have you thought you didn't do something because you're just being lazy? How do you know you weren't just stuck in apathy? In this episode, you'll: discover the difference between laziness and apathy understand the definition of apathy identify 4 ways to conteract apathy learn the warning signs of depression and anxiety begin to see where complacency enters the picture increase awareness about the part that perfectionism plays in apathy and/or laziness I've condensed a lot of valuable information in this little episode in hopes that it will help you get "unstuck" and prevent you from falling into the trap of guilt. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

This episode could have easily been titled, "The Feel-Good Episode." Who doesn't love a good story with a happy ending? Sometimes, when we go through hardships, it's hard to recognize or catch miracles when they happen. We could use a renew hope or faith in humanity, especially with so much evil in the world. I could sit and binge-watch inspiring reels of miracles happening in the form of someone surprising another with money or doing a kind deed. (I may or may not have done this...often.) Why? Witnessing miracles reaffirms and can restore our faith in humanity and in G-d. It helps us understand that G-d is often in the details of our lives...IF we let Him. It helps us understand that good people still exist in our world and inspires us to be that miracle in someone else's life. I hope this episode gives you all the feels as I share about the miracles that have happened in my life. I don't share these personal stories to boast, but rather to instill a hope or faith that good things still happen, that modern-day miracles are real, and to inspire you, our audience, to be that miracle in someone else's life. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

I have a philosophy and it goes like this... There seems to be two types of relationships: the soul-mate type of relationship that is often portrayed in movies, or marrying your opposite. Both encounter problems, but somehow one type seems more "ahead of the game" than the other type, often leaving those who have married their opposites, envying and wishing they had the "soul-mate" relationship. I hate using the term "soul-mate" in conjunction with the word "marriage" because it suggests that one type of marriage is better than the other. A soul-mate relationship is typically one where two individuals are very much alike. There is a natural ease and harmony present because the similarities are so strong and prevalent within that relationship. There are problems but the approach or solution comes with ease because the two individuals who make up the relationship tend to think alike and/or take similar approaches. Where does this leave those who have married or are in a relationship with their opposites? Opposition is necessary. It is the door that learning and growth come through. Marriages comprised of opposites have great potention for learning and growth - even healing; however, it may require a little more work in problem-solving and compromising. These types of relationships also experience tremendous rewards if and when they can get on the other side of their problems or issues. They can be highly stimulating. At any rate, you cannot compare your relationship to others. No two relationships are the same and the probability is high that there are more than just the two types of relationships I mentioned above. No two individuals are exactly the same. In this episode I share insights from my 14-yr. marriage to the love of my life who also happens to be my exact opposite. I share some of the snags we've hit and what we did to have recently experience some breakthroughs and healing. I share the tips that have helped us. There are times I needed a little encouragement, inspiration, and hope in my marriage and it's my intent to provide that for you - should you find yourself needing those things too. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

"Don't let the pain of addiction outweigh the pain of recovery." Special guest Paul Pulsipher beautifully expresses this point in this episode. Recovery is painful? This may be a new concept for some and a familiar one for others. The answer is, "Yes, it can be." It's often a process and depending upon the addiction, your brain can change, you may experience withdrawals, or unbury deep pain or trauma that needs to be addressed. The one thing all addictions share in common is the necessity of adopting a lifestyle change which can show up in adopting not only a new mindset, but new relationships, new and healthier habits, and/or new interests/hobbies. Anything new takes us out of the familiar and comfortable...even if it is good. Paul and I discuss our experiences with different types of addictions, what we have and continue to learn, and our healing processes. Paul has been clean from pornography addiction for 3 years, and I am currently recovering after 20+ years of struggling with a food addiction. Since we are both Christain, we share our experiences from a Christain stand point. This is important because there is an unspoken expectation of perfection when it comes to being Christain. It's important for Christains and non-Christains alike to acknowledge that Christains are human beings with weaknesses, experience temptations and hardships, and commit sins. The Christain community is not exempt from addiction. DISCLAIMER: I have marked this episode "explicit" because we do discuss adult topics such as pornography, masterbation, death, and sexual intimacy in marriage as it relates to pornography addiction. If you would like to connect with Paul Pulsipher, you can find him on TikTok, Facebook, and Instragram under "PaulPulsipherPianoServices" as well as on his podcast, "Stepping Into Freedom" on Spotify, Wisdom, and Podamatic. If you would like to connect with me, Julie Hatch, you can find me on Facebook or through this podcast. I invite you to subscribe to this podcast and share it with your friends and family. Your support is appreciated. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

Your struggle with willpower is not an uncommon one. Many people struggle with it because they don't undertand how the brain works as it pertains to Willpower. In this episode I define "willpower." You'll discover: 1. What it is 2. What depletes it 3. What restores it While you may have thought you were weak or lazy at times, it could have just been masking the lack of willpower. I believe we are stronger than we know or realize and the information I share will change your perspective and understanding of yourself. Remember to subscirbe by marking the star or "favorite." --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

Have you ever felt like you had the rug pulled out from under you? Have you struggled with trauma or addiction throughout your life? In this episode I share an experience I had today. I came face-to-face with an old wound; one that for many years went unaddressed. It came out of nowhere and smacked me upside the head in the middle of church. It had nothing to do with the messages given at church. I recognized a reaction (i.e., "trauma response") I had that didn't serve me, that has literally been blocking me, and was the result of unhealed trauma from my past. It's great that I recognized the wound, and NOPE, I still felt the old pain resurface which sucked! That's all well and good. I'm beyond the "blame game" at this age, but I was left with the question, "Now what?" --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

Sam Faulk is our special guest and we're talking about the elephant in the room. He is many things: a son, a friend, a Librarian, an alumnus, a podcast host...and he just so happens to have a disability. In this interview, Sam talks candidly about his experiences with his disability, what he preferred his teachers didn't do, what happened when he was in a relationship, his college years, and many other experiences that clarify, offer valuable insights and a much greater understanding of living life with a disability. You can learn more about Sam and his team by following his podcast on Spotify and Anchor.fm: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7GiqR9Oijl2ruu6e9prRXw?si=fb0dd849c83e4370 Remember to subscribe to his podcast so that you will be alerted to when new episodes are published! While you're at, you can do that same for Past & Present. (wink) New episodes of Past & Present are published on Mondays. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

Roe vs. Wade has been overturned and emotions are high! WOW! Now is a great time to spend your time and energy on something as productive, SUPER effective, and simple as kindness. In this episode I share a REALLY embarrassing, but funny moment. I call it my "Mr. Rogers Moment" - evidence of just how "weird" I can be. I also share a real story that happened to me when I used to work eons ago at Wal-mart in their Customer Service department, and how that one experience changed me. Never underestimate the power of kindness or question if one person can truly inspire change. Remember to mark this podcast "favorite" to stay updated on new episodes and also to give you an opportunity to join us live. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

Have you ever wondered, "Why is history important?" Have you ever had the thought that history is in the past and should stay in the past or that we can't change the past so why invest any time or energy into learning about it? Maybe you have an interest in it, but you just haven't gotten around to it. Perhaps you don't know where to begin or feel overwhelmed by it. Whatever your reason is, at one point or another, I have probably felt each of these things. Let's face it, chances are that your Family History isn't something you have fallen in love with from the get go. Usually, a seed is planted and we GROW to love it the more that we do it. In this episode, I answer the "why" and "how." I share my own journey of falling in love with Family History. It is this love that developed a passion for history in general and ultimately gave birth to our Facebook group, "American Fork Past & Present." This group, and this podcast, are for those who are passionate about preserving history, writing our own histories, connecting through our stories and in turn, strengthening our communities - specifically, American Fork, Utah. It is for people who care and understand the importance of our relationships and fulfilling our purposes. Remember to subscribe by clicking on "favorite" or subscribing to receive notifications of when new episodes are published. You'll also be able to join in on our some of our conversations and sharing your thoughts. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

George Paullin, III is a co-administrator in the social media group, "American Fork Past & Present" on Facebook. In this episode he shares the inspiration and vision he has for this group and the movement of coming together as a community to serve and learn from our past ancestors, as well as from each other. As a member of his community for over 40 years, he discusses the changes that he's witnessed and the things we need to extract from our rich heritage.  As a member of your community, what changes would you like to see and why? How does one go about bringing an ever-expanding and ever-growing community together in the spirit of love, learning and service? Subscribe to be notified of new published episodes we release every Monday and be sure to download the Anchor.fm app so that you can also join in on some of our conversations.  --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

When Ryan Deveau mentioned that he is a volunteer firefighter of about ten years, I instantly knew that I needed to bring him on as a guest and interview him. I couldn't help but wonder what compels and individual to voluntarily serve, especially when an opportunity may arise that requires you to put your life on the line. I had to know! I was SHOCKED to learn the stories behind his volunteer work and I think you will be too! There are so many delicious nuggets in this episode...so many take aways! If anyone has ever given thought to how they can become more involved in their community, raise children with a love of service, or inspire an entire community, than this interview will be a treat for you! You're welcome. Many thanks to Ryan Deveau for taking the time to do this interview with me all the way from Nova Scotia! Thank you for sharing and inspiring, for being a light in your own community and showing us how we can too. You can follow Ryan on Youtube. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

Today is Memorial Day. My heart and my thoughts are on the men, women and their families who made ultimate sacrifices for the freedom and liberty we enjoy today. It got me wondering about why some of us aren't doing more to protect and defend our rights and freedom. This brought me to complacency...something I believe each of us has dealt with at one time or another. I share about what it is, how we can show up in complacency, and what we need to do in order to move into action. Then, I talk about how we can apply this to becoming more engaged within our communities, specifically in regards to politics and local government. This podcast is available on Anchor.fm, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Overcast, Pocket Cast, Radio Public, and Stitcher. Remember to subscribe! You'll be notified whenever a new episode is published. You can connect with me on Facebook under JCHatch or email me at: hatch.beehive@gmail.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

It's been 3 years since the last episode that was part of the "Miles and Smiles" podcast. With a new name and vision, I am relaunching a new podcast titled, "Past and Present." The vision of this podcast is similar to our social media group on Facebook, "American Fork Past & Present." That vision is extracting stories and lessons form the past, to create stronger relationships at home and within our communities, in the present. Today's episode highlights this vision along with others that we have for this podcast. I will also be sharing how we can move from isolation to integration...how to connect with others in spite of our differences. I touch on the goal of connection and you may be surprised to learn that the goal ISN'T and shouldn't be to understand. I explain why in this episode and also what the goal NEEDS to be. Remember to subscribe to our podcast to receive notifications of when our next episode will be published. You can find "Past and Present" on these platforms: Anchor.fm, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Overcast, Radio Public, and Stitcher. If you'd like to share your thoughts about today's episode, you can reach me through Messenger, Facebook (under JC Hatch), or email: hatch.beehive@gmail.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastandpresent/message

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As I've taken time out in my life to remove myself from the hamster wheel and become still, I have discovered a whole, new world! I had no idea what was in store for me. I can only say that it's been such a rewarding part of my journey in life. For the first time in my life, I am enjoying a sense of fulfillment. I used to think that fulfillment came when I reached goals or benchmarks in my life. It's so much more than that! In this episode, I share some of the pitfalls that keep us from feeling fulfillment in life and offer some suggestions on how to find fulfillment in life for yourself. To connect with Julie visit: www.TheTrueLoveTour.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/support

There are so many ways to find and experience peace in our lives, even amidst chaos or the storms. Why on earth would anyone, including myself, avoid it? Intuitively, You may feel drawn to it, crave it in your life and still not surrender to it. Is it because you feel unworthy? Are you afraid of what you may discover in that space of silence? I did until I finally gave in. Here I was, detached from the "doing-ness" in life and finally listening to my heart and boy was it uncomfortable at first! I really struggled and maybe you can relate. In this episode I discuss this journey that started off as a journey to peace and ended up as a journey to one facet of love and reverence for life....eternal life....that is you and that is me. I'm 100% raw, vulnerable and share from my heart. The intent isn't to teach you anything as I feel that this truth I share is already apart of our intelligence - who we innately are. Instead, my desire is to bring it back to your remembrance and hold a space to consider the gift of silence. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/support

Do you have that song going through your head now? With Valentine's Day around the corner, it just seems appropriate to do an episode about love. Obviously love is complex and I don't think one episode is enough time to cover this topic so I've narrowed it down to a few, juicy nuggets; things like... How do you love a person who has a different lifestyle, different beliefs, opinions and views without compromising your own in the process? -OR- What does self-worth have to do with love? As you know, self-worth is a form of loving yourself - part of the 2nd commandment to love others as you love yourself - not "more than" or less than" but "as." And where does that first and greatest commandment to love God come into the picture. How can you love God if you never see Him? I also wanted to share what I've learned about love through my relationships. My first marriage, I saved myself for my husband and experienced a very innocent type of love. After my divorce, I no longer lived my faith and experienced relationships and love based upon chemistry and initial attraction. The greatest love I've experienced has been in my marriage of 12 years now. Why? It was a relationship that was unexpected and one where I didn't have an initial attraction or chemistry. I learned about a love that is deeper than any love I've ever experienced to date and didn't know was possible. I discovered things about my husband that I never knew that I share in this episode. It doesn't matter if you have a Valentine or not. Love is a choice. Think of all the people in the world who could use a little love and share a portion of it. No one need be exempt from love. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/support

Do you struggle with boundaries? Do you think they are cruel or selfish? In this episode, you will learn why you may struggle with boundaries, what the differences are between healthy and unhealthy boundaries and how to set them in place. To connect with Julie visit: https://www.TheTrueLoveTour.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/miles-smiles/support