Podcasts about Body image

Katie Austin is pregnant! In this episode, Victoria sits down with the Sports Illustrated model, fitness creator, and founder of the Your Daily app to talk about all things pregnancy; from how long it took to conceive to the brutal reality of her first trimester to what pregnancy is teaching her already. Katie opens up about the mental health toll of being sick for months, pregnancy anxiety, body image changes, whether she'll put her kids on social media, and what it's like stepping into motherhood in the public eye. Plus, we talk about how empowering it is to educate yourself about your body and your hormones, no matter what stage of life you're in. Tune in if you have baby fever, you're pregnant, or you're thinking about kids, because you are going to love this episode!Connect with Katie:Instagram: @katieaustin and @yourdailyDownload the Your Daily app: kadaily.app// SPONSORS // BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month.Premier Protein: Find your favorite flavor at premierprotein.com or at Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. Vuori: Go to vuori.com/realpod to receive 20% off your first purchase and enjoy free shipping on any U.S. orders over $75 and free returns.Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From "gainfully employed robots" to AI that accidentally ruins lives, this week's conversation unpacks the real-world fallout of futuristic promises. Leo, JPT, Iain, and Richard tackle energy sources, social media effects, tech layoffs, and the algorithms quietly taking charge. Meta is planning sweeping layoffs as AI costs mount Meta Said to Push Back Launch of Avocado Model Social media addiction trial: the plaintiff, Meta, and YouTube make closing arguments; jurors begin deliberations Friday on liability for harm to children Trump administration will reportedly get $10 billion for brokering the TikTok deal Bluesky CEO Jay Graber will step aside Digg's open beta shuts down after just two months, blaming AI bot spam X says it suspended 800 million accounts in 2024 over spam and manipulation Fake AI Content About the Iran War Is All Over X Musk admits xAI 'not built right' — weeks after Tesla invested $2 billion Nvidia Is Planning to Launch an Open-Source AI Agent Platform Amazon Wins Court Order To Block Perplexity's AI Shopping Bots Social Security watchdog investigating claims that DOGE engineer copied its databases DOGE Deposition Videos Taken Down After Judge Order and Widespread Mockery U.S. State Bans on Lab-Grown Meats Challenged in Court Easy-to-use solar panels are coming, but utilities are trying to delay them EcoFlow brings its plug-in solar power plant to US homes (related to the plug-in solar story) TerraPower gets permit to build reactor Ex-Uber CEO Kalanick Debuts Plan for 'Gainfully Employed Robots' Tennessee grandmother jailed after AI facial recognition error links her to fraud Justice Department and Live Nation Reach Settlement Terms in Antitrust Case Palantir CEO Makes Shocking Confession on Disrupting Democratic Power Palantir's lethal AI weaponry deployed to find chairs for US government staff How Pokémon Go is giving delivery robots an inch-perfect view of the world 'Flying Cars' Will Take Off in American Skies This Summer YouTube surpasses Disney, Paramount, WBD in 2025 ad revenue Ig Nobel Prize flees US for Switzerland after 35 years over safety concerns Swiss e-voting can't count 2,048 ballots after USB keys fail to decrypt them Tony Hoare, Turing Award-Winning Computer Scientist Behind QuickSort, Dies At 92 Host: Leo Laporte Guests: Iain Thomson, Richard Campbell, and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Download or subscribe to This Week in Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-tech Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: expressvpn.com/twit preview.modulate.ai monarch.com with code TWIT spaceship.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit

Perfectionism shows up in how we see our bodies, measure our health, and define our worth. This week, I'm bringing back a listener favorite—my conversation with Dr. Lisa Folden, who is a physical therapist, anti-diet coach, and weight-inclusive movement practitioner.At its core, this episode is about how breaking free from perfectionism allows us to reclaim joy in our bodies, relationships, work, and yes—our lives.We get into so much, including:* Growing up as a “role model” and shedding that identity* What research really says about weight, joint pain, diabetes, and intentional weight-loss* Navigating disordered eating as a Black woman and why underdiagnosis is common* Rebuilding a joyful, intuitive relationship with movement* Letting go of the perfectionism trap and showing up authentically* How health providers can approach shifting from weight-centric to weight-inclusive careIf you've ever felt your worth is tied to your body or achievements, this conversation is full of science, compassion, and practical tools to help you move with freedom and joy.Find Lisa on IG: https://www.instagram.com/healthyphit/Find the show on IG: @fullplate.podcastFind Abbie on IG: @abbieattwoodwellnessSupport the show: Enjoying this podcast? Please support the show on Substack for bonus episodes, community engagement, and access to "Ask Abbie" at abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribeApply for Abbie's Group Membership:Already been at this anti-diet culture thing for a while, but want community and continued learning? Apply for Abbie's monthly membership: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/circle-monthly-groupPodcast Cover Photography by Anya McInroyPodcast Editing by Brian WaltersThis podcast is ad-free and support comes from your support on Substack. Subscribe HERE. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribe

Today, host Heather Creekmore dives into the topic of exercise—addressing our complicated relationships with movement, why we often see exercise as punishment or penance for our eating habits, and how to shift towards a healthier, more joyful perspective. Heather Creekmore shares personal experiences and practical questions to help listeners honor their bodies, keep priorities straight, and embrace movement that feels both realistic and enjoyable. Whether you love or hate exercise, this episode offers uplifting truth and encouragement for changing how you view fitness, rooted in freedom and grace, not guilt. **Heather goes LIVE in the community 3/17 at 12:30pm!! Join us for this special event. Details in the commuity at: www.waitingforweightloss.com Join the community!Join the community at waitingforweightloss.com for encouragement and support as you rethink your relationship with exercise! Don’t miss Heather’s live Q&A sessions—check your email for details. Share your thoughts and questions about movement and connect with our coaches for practical help on your journey. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

From "gainfully employed robots" to AI that accidentally ruins lives, this week's conversation unpacks the real-world fallout of futuristic promises. Leo, JPT, Iain, and Richard tackle energy sources, social media effects, tech layoffs, and the algorithms quietly taking charge. Meta is planning sweeping layoffs as AI costs mount Meta Said to Push Back Launch of Avocado Model Social media addiction trial: the plaintiff, Meta, and YouTube make closing arguments; jurors begin deliberations Friday on liability for harm to children Trump administration will reportedly get $10 billion for brokering the TikTok deal Bluesky CEO Jay Graber will step aside Digg's open beta shuts down after just two months, blaming AI bot spam X says it suspended 800 million accounts in 2024 over spam and manipulation Fake AI Content About the Iran War Is All Over X Musk admits xAI 'not built right' — weeks after Tesla invested $2 billion Nvidia Is Planning to Launch an Open-Source AI Agent Platform Amazon Wins Court Order To Block Perplexity's AI Shopping Bots Social Security watchdog investigating claims that DOGE engineer copied its databases DOGE Deposition Videos Taken Down After Judge Order and Widespread Mockery U.S. State Bans on Lab-Grown Meats Challenged in Court Easy-to-use solar panels are coming, but utilities are trying to delay them EcoFlow brings its plug-in solar power plant to US homes (related to the plug-in solar story) TerraPower gets permit to build reactor Ex-Uber CEO Kalanick Debuts Plan for 'Gainfully Employed Robots' Tennessee grandmother jailed after AI facial recognition error links her to fraud Justice Department and Live Nation Reach Settlement Terms in Antitrust Case Palantir CEO Makes Shocking Confession on Disrupting Democratic Power Palantir's lethal AI weaponry deployed to find chairs for US government staff How Pokémon Go is giving delivery robots an inch-perfect view of the world 'Flying Cars' Will Take Off in American Skies This Summer YouTube surpasses Disney, Paramount, WBD in 2025 ad revenue Ig Nobel Prize flees US for Switzerland after 35 years over safety concerns Swiss e-voting can't count 2,048 ballots after USB keys fail to decrypt them Tony Hoare, Turing Award-Winning Computer Scientist Behind QuickSort, Dies At 92 Host: Leo Laporte Guests: Iain Thomson, Richard Campbell, and Jennifer Pattison Tuohy Download or subscribe to This Week in Tech at https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-tech Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsors: expressvpn.com/twit preview.modulate.ai monarch.com with code TWIT spaceship.com/twit threatlocker.com/twit

Today, Heather Creekmore guides listeners through a transformative conversation about our mindset toward food, rooted in biblical truth. If you’ve ever felt trapped by diet culture’s rules or found yourself struggling with your relationship with food and body image, this episode is for you. Heather addresses the core fears and misconceptions many women face—seeing food as an enemy rather than a good gift from God. She shares personal stories about disordered eating and reveals scriptural truths that encourage us to receive food with gratitude rather than guilt or suspicion. Discover why enjoying food isn’t indulgent, but a step towards true health, and how shame—not satisfaction—is the real enemy of caring for your body. Listen as Heather Creekmore explains practical steps for healing your relationship with food, escaping the binge-restrict cycle, and developing sustainable, positive habits that honor both God and your health. Plus, learn how joining the Waiting for Weight Loss community can offer you ongoing support from coaches and like-minded women. Tune in for encouragement, prayer, and actionable tips to help you stop comparing, start living, and see food the way God intends—for nourishment, joy, and provision. Join the community at: WaitingforWeightloss.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The impact that social media has on our body image is astounding. Understanding how and why this happens and how this affects our food is imperative for emotional and physical health. In this episode Wendi looks at the science around this. Knowledge really is power and knowing what to do with that is even more impactful.

Send a textPART 2 IS HERE: Professional gravel cyclist and NR athlete Sarah Sturm is pregnant! This is 2nd in a series of five episodes where we dive into the mental side of seeing your body change in the first trimester, where that weight gain is actually coming from, whether calories need to increase right away, and how hydration needs shift in early pregnancy.Whether you're currently pregnant, planning to be, or supporting someone through early pregnancy, Sarah's candid stories and Kyla's expert guidance provide tools to navigate with grace, knowledge, and a little more patience. Please note that this podcast is created strictly for educational purposes and should never be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.Mentioned:hDrop: https://hdroptech.com/ref/83/Use code HDROPNR to save 20%!Follow Sarah's Pregnancy Journey:IG: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsturmyMORE NR Save 10% on our website with code NEWPOD10 Apply to work with us, click here: https://nutritional-revolution.com/ Interested in having your biomarkers or nutrigenomics checked? Email us at nutritionalrev@gmail.com Follow us @nutritionalrevolution Save 20% on supplements at our trusted online source: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/kchannell Join Nutritional Revolution's The Feed Club to get $20 off with an extra $20 Feed credit drop every 90 days.: https://thefeed.com/teams/nutritional-revolution Shop NR founder Kyla Channell's top picks: https://shopmy.us/shop/nutrev If you're interested in sponsoring Nutritional Revolution Podcast, shoot us an email at nutritionalrev@gmail.com.

Welcome back to part 2 of my amazing conversation with Morgan Barkus! If you missed part 1, check that out here first! Morgan is an Empowerment Coach who helps women rebuild their relationship with their bodies, while growing their confidence and self-worth. In this episode, we continue our honest conversation about body image, where our beliefs about our bodies come from, and how we can start rewriting those stories so we can move through life with more strength and freedom.Listen in for more on: • How early experiences and comments can shape the way we see our bodies for years • Why dismantling old beliefs about body image is the first step to building real confidence • The difference between chasing a number on the scale and focusing on power, energy and longevity • How small habits and routines can help build self-confidence and self-loveLet this episode be your reminder that the relationship you have with your body is allowed to evolve. You get to question old beliefs, give yourself grace, and decide what confidence and strength look like for you now. Let me know if this chat inspired you as much as it did for me! My DMs are always opened for your thoughts @AlliArruda!Morgan's Links:Website: https://www.morganbarkus.com/Instagram: http://instagram.com/morganbarkus/Podcast: Your Unapologetic Life Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNSh27vzSXeQ5lshNgJhq9wWant to Make More Money in 2026? You Need to Be Seen!Secure your spot in the Visibility Accelerator!https://www.inspireandmove.ca/visibilityacceleratorGet on the Mentor Collective Mastermind waitlist:https://chrisharder.me/mentor Let's Connect!• INSPIRE + MOVE EVENTS• Instagram• Private Coaching• Website• Facebook• TikTok

No one understands what it takes to navigate life and career transitions better than NFL veteran, sports broadcast host, and content creator Isaac Rochell. He joins Vic to get real about navigating life after football, redefining who you are beyond your job, and confronting the food and body image struggles men rarely talk about. The former Notre Dame standout opens up about life in the league, from tough coaching dynamics and the constant fear of getting cut to walking away from the NFL and building a new career in media. Vic and Isaac also dive into supporting a wildly successful partner (and being proudly known as “Mr. Kuch”), becoming a girl dad of two, and the GLP-1 conversation entering sports culture. Tune in for a grounded, transparent conversation about athlete identity, career reinvention, and healing your relationship with food.Connect with Isaac on Instagram: @isaacrochell and TikTok: @isaacrochellRelated episodes:Allison Kuch: Life as a Creator & NFL WifeBody Image Q&A with Vic!! Navigating GLP-1 Pressure, Quieting Food Noise & Managing Triggers// SPONSORS //Premier Protein: Find your favorite flavor at premierprotein.com or at Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. Vuori: Go to vuori.com/realpod to receive 20% off your first purchase and enjoy free shipping on any U.S. orders over $75 and free returns.CozyEarth: Head to cozyearth.com and use my code REALPOD for up to 20% off.Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market with my link ThriveMarket.com/REALPOD for 30% off your first order plus a FREE $60 gift!Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Weight feels like one of those topics everyone has an opinion on, yet it's deeply personal for each of us. So, for this episode, Emily and Jill take the opportunity to dig into what it's like to navigate body changes in a world full of strong opinions, from the rise of GLP-1 medications to the stigma that can come with medical or surgical interventions.Jill opens up about her own journey with weight, body image, and ultimately deciding to have gastric bypass surgery, including what's shifted for her since, physically, emotionally, and socially. They also talk about the judgment people can face, how conversations about health often get reduced to discipline or willpower, and also zoom out to explore the bigger cultural messages about bodies and how therapists can support clients in talking about weight in ways that move beyond shame or “fixing.” Listen and Learn: Why shame, Yo-yo dieting, and a surprising therapy session insight led Jill to discover a life-changing path that transformed her health, mindset, and relationship with exerciseWhy the idea that weight loss tools are “cheating” reveals deeper cultural biases about bodies, health, and who gets judged for the choices they makeHow constant pressure on women's bodies may actually distract from power, health, and autonomy in ways most people never questionFocusing on values instead of weight loss goals to help you stop postponing the life you want to liveHow changing your relationship with cravings and “food noise” through psychological flexibility can make long-term weight loss maintenance more possibleResources: Jill's Website: https://jillstoddard.comConnect with Jill on Social Media https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNDJ6pR5PVGZSSzRFc556QAhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jillstoddardphd/ About Jill Stoddard Jill Stoddard is passionate about sharing science-backed ideas from psychology to help people thrive. She is a psychologist, writer, TEDx speaker, award-winning teacher, peer-reviewed ACT trainer, bariatric coach, and co-host of the popular Psychologists Off the Clock podcast. Dr. Stoddard is the founder and director of The Center for Stress and Anxiety Management, an outpatient practice specializing in evidence-based therapies for anxiety and related issues. She is the author of three books: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors: A Practitioner's Guide to Experiential Exercises and Metaphors in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Be Mighty: A Woman's Guide to Liberation from Anxiety, Worry, and Stress Using Mindfulness and Acceptance; and Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career. Her writing has also appeared in The Washington Post, Psychology Today, Scary Mommy, Thrive Global, The Good Men Project, and Mindful Return. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog. Related Episodes:348. Sustainable Exercise with Michelle Segar326. Weight Stigma and Body Image with Sarah Pegrum264. Raising Intuitive Eaters with Sumner Brooks and Amee Severson231. Eating Skills and Emotional Eating with Josh Hillis151. Intuitive Eating with Evelyn Tribole93. Effective Weight Loss with Evan Forman77. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Jill Stoddard36. Weight Loss Strategies From Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Jason LillisSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week on the DAM Parenting Podcast I reshared archive episodes about  the identity shift in motherhood wth Dr Naomi Gibson and then continued the conversation on Saturday with Ilena Standring in matrescence — the profound identity shift that happens when a woman becomes a mother.But identity isn't the only thing that changes.Our bodies change too.In this episode, Ii am sharing another archive episode with Ilena Standring as we open a deeply honest conversation about body image in matrescence — something many mothers experience but rarely talk about openly.Because motherhood doesn't just change your life.It changes the way you experience your body.We talk about:• why so many women struggle with body image after pregnancy • the pressure to “bounce back” after birth • how patriarchal beauty standards influence motherhood • the emotional complexity of postpartum bodies • why focusing on body functionality instead of body perfection can change everythingThis conversation also touches on sensitive topics including body perception, diet culture, trauma, and sexual abuse, so please listen in a way that feels safe and supportive for you.One of the most powerful reminders from this conversation is simple:Your body is doing its best.It carried life. It adapted. It healed. It continues to sustain you and your family.And that deserves compassion.If last week's episode helped you understand the identity shift of matrescence, this conversation continues that journey — exploring the physical and emotional relationship many women develop with their bodies after becoming mothers.Because matrescence is not just about becoming responsible for another human.It is about learning to inhabit yourself again.

Lawrence Zarian welcomes actress Justine Lupe to his podcast and they joke about prisms, John Hamm comparisons, and first meeting at The Kelly Clarkson Show. Lawrence asks Justine what she sees in the mirror, and she says she most identifies through her relationships—as a daughter, mother, sister, wife, and friend—crediting her close, codependent upbringing for prioritizing intimacy and safety over career volatility. They discuss her early creative spark (playing the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz), her New York years, and her work on Succession (choosing Shiv on a desert island) and Nobody Wants This, including Morgan's vulnerability, fearlessness, and dynamic with Sasha. Justine talks about transparency around body image and social media, advises focusing on soulfulness over aesthetics, and defines relationship essentials as mutual respect, vulnerability, and optimism. She ends by stating she is beautiful because she is soulful, kind, thoughtful, and deeply witnesses the people she loves.Timestamp Menu: 00:17 Prism Compliments00:58 John Hamm Mixup02:10 Kelly Clarkson Encounter05:33 Singing Suddenly Seymour07:06 Finding The Right Fit08:47 Mirror Question Identity11:21 Family Roots Of Closeness15:19 Midwest And New York Years16:58 Early Spark For Acting20:00 Parents And Healing23:10 Succession Breakout26:32 Desert Island Roy Pick28:57 Nobody Wants This Praise29:43 Fearlessness From Dad30:41 Embracing Goofy Humor32:56 Fearless Creative Risks33:35 Trusting the Film Crew35:56 Desert Island Character Pick36:48 Why Morgan Resonates39:25 Morgan and Sasha Chemistry41:33 Body Image and Transparency43:56 Advice for Social Media Pressure53:23 Season Two and Relationship Keys58:21 Beauty Definition and Farewell

Body image has become one of the most complex parts of the teenage experience, often shaped by a mix of online aesthetics and the constant feedback loop of social media. Supplements, workout routines, and influencer-driven wellness advice are everywhere, making it harder than ever for young people to know what's safe, what's hype, and what truly supports their health. On this episode of the Healthier You podcast, Dr. Ashlee Williams speaks with Dr. Mutsa Nyakabau, a board-certified pediatrician, about how online content shapes the expectations teens place on themselves and how we can help young people build a healthier relationship with their bodies, find balance in a high-pressure environment, and make informed decisions about fitness and nutrition.  Learn more about Mutsa Nyakabau, MD  

Welcome back to the "Waiting for Weight Loss" Lenten series on the Compared to Who? Podcast! In this heartfelt episode, host Heather Creekmore dives deep into the challenge so many face: How can we desire body change or weight loss while still honoring, loving, and accepting the bodies we have—right now? Episode Highlights: Heather Creekmore unpacks why self-hatred is NOT a biblical motivator for change, and what healthier (and more effective) alternatives look like. You’ll hear practical, grace-filled advice on: Buying clothes that fit and flatter your body today, not waiting for a “goal weight.” Stopping the cycle of body checking, mirror scanning, and anxious self-critique. Shifting your mindset from shame-driven to gratitude-driven, even if you’re still on the journey to acceptance. Releasing comparison and learning to thank your body for all it’s helped you accomplish, instead of shaming it for what it’s not. Embracing the foundation of being loved and accepted by Jesus as you are, regardless of your current size or shape. Key Takeaways: It's absolutely possible to want change for your body without making shame your motivation. Acceptance now actually sets you up for healthier choices later—no more waiting for the "perfect" time or body. True transformation starts with knowing you are already fully loved in Christ. Join the Community:Don’t try to tackle these tough topics alone! Join our free Waiting for Weight Loss community at waitingforweightloss.com and connect with other like-minded Christian women, get your questions answered, and receive coaching and encouragement on your journey. Let’s heal together—and walk through Lenten transformation with acceptance, dignity, and hope. Subscribe and share if you found this episode helpful, and don’t miss out on future encouragement from Compared to Who? Want to go deeper? Join the conversation in the Waiting for Weight Loss community today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Anything But Average, Brittany and Christina dive into a very real conversation about health, healing, and the wake-up calls our bodies sometimes give us. Brittany shares the unexpected experience of landing in the hospital for an emergency appendectomy, walking through the symptoms, the fast-moving hospital visit, surgery, and what recovery has actually looked like in the days following. From the anxiety of not knowing what was happening to realizing how incredible the human body truly is, this experience became a powerful reminder about paying attention to the signals our bodies send. Christina also opens up about her own health journey right now, including ongoing back issues, exploring peptides, and the work required to maintain strength, mobility, and resilience. Together they unpack: • What happens when your body forces you to slow down • The importance of acting quickly when something feels off • Recovery, patience, and giving your body the time it needs • Exploring new tools and therapies that support healing • Why health awareness and self-care should never be optional   This conversation is honest, reflective, and a reminder that even the strongest, most driven people still need to listen to their bodies. Sometimes the biggest lesson is simply this: health is everything. About Brittany and Christina: Meet Brittany and Christina, your dynamic podcast hosts who bring their unique blend of expertise, passion, and life experience to every conversation. Brittany, affectionately known as Britt, mom, mommy, bruh, and Queen, lives in Vancouver with her husband and their three fantastic kids (tweens and teens, hence the playful nicknames). Together for nearly two decades, Brittany and her husband share a love for travel and adventure. A self-proclaimed endurance sport junkie, Brittany thrives on pushing herself beyond her comfort zone to unlock her full potential. As a coach, she specializes in helping clients overcome overwhelm by aligning personal goals and values with actionable steps for success. Her greatest joys come from connecting with new people and witnessing their incredible achievements. Christina Lecuyer, a former professional golfer and TV host, is recognized as one of GlobeNewswire's Top Confidence Coaches. She works with clients worldwide, including entrepreneurs, Wall Street executives, stay-at-home moms, and small business owners. Through her signature "Decision, Faith & Action" framework, Christina has guided thousands of clients in creating their own versions of fulfillment and success, often leading to thriving six- and seven-figure businesses. Her 1-on-1 coaching model focuses on mindset and strategy to build self-trust, confidence, and long-term results. Together, Brittany and Christina bring their authentic, energetic, and empowering perspectives to help listeners navigate life, achieve their goals, and embrace their fullest potential.   Feeling like you want to share a hot topic you'd like us to discuss on the podcast? Send us a DM over on Instagram at @anythingbutaveragepod. Your hot topic just might make it in the next episode!

Becca Chilczenkowski is a Board-Certified Practitioner, female hormone and metabolic specialist, and the Founder and Co-Owner of FitMom, a leading virtual functional health practice helping women resolve complex chronic health issues and optimize their performance, energy, and longevity. Becca's path into functional medicine didn't begin in a classroom; began when her own health stopped making sense. Despite being a competitive CrossFit athlete ranked in the Top 100 in the world, her body suddenly felt like it was working against her. She was gaining weight despite strict nutrition and training, battling fatigue, mood swings, digestive issues, and constipation yet traditional medical answers fell short. That experience led her to functional medicine, where she discovered the powerful connections between the immune system, metabolism, hormones, gut health, and detoxification pathways. What began as a personal healing journey quickly evolved into a career devoted to helping other women uncover the true root causes of their symptoms. Over the past several years, Becca has helped oversee thousands of complex client cases through FitMom.  Outside of her clinical work, Becca is a wife, mother of two, former competitive athlete, coffee enthusiast, and passionate advocate for helping women become informed, empowered stewards of their health.   00:00 Introduction to Hormonal Health and Nutrition 01:11 Becca's Journey: From Athlete to Hormone Specialist 06:20 Understanding Body Fat and Hormonal Impact 11:40 The Dangers of Comparison in Fitness 14:17 The Stress of Overtraining and Its Effects 18:59 Identifying Hormonal Imbalances 23:57 Gut Health and Its Connection to Hormones 27:07 Night Sweats and Detoxification Issues 29:23 Understanding Body Changes and Proactive Health 30:02 The Role of Peptides in Health 31:29 GLP-1: Benefits and Risks 38:07 Social Media's Impact on Body Image 42:23 The Importance of Rest and Recovery 46:58 Evaluating Health and Weight Loss Strategies 48:50 Working with Health Professionals for Optimal Care   LINKS:  www.fitmom.co https://www.instagram.com/thehormonequeen/ Keto Mojo - https://keto-mojo.com/affiliate-link/?rfsn=7323937.137af4&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=7323937.137af4     

The first episode of Skinny Inc. was all about the science behind GLP-1s, and the second episode was about the business, from the pharmaceutical companies who make GLP-1s to the insurance plans that may or may not cover it. Today, we're exploring how the so-called “Ozempic era,” affects people's mental health. First, business owner Maiyhet Burton tells us how using a GLP-1 has helped her body image. Globe health reporter Kelly Grant details how experts are split on the effect of GLP-1s on weight stigma, and psychotherapist Zoë Bisbing explains how the body positive movement helps her clients. Plus, Tigress Osborn, executive director of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance on why the popularity of GLP-1s shows how far we have to go with anti-fat discrimination, and Ary Mahraj and Emily Donahue from the National Eating Disorder Information Centre tell us how people with eating disorders may be impacted by the constant discussions about weight loss. Finally, Dr. Stephen Glazer, Medical Director for the Bariatric Surgical Program at Humber River Hospital in Toronto on how weight stigma can be internalized. You can contact the National Eating Disorders Information Centre at their toll-free helpline at 1-866-NEDIC-20 or visit their website. Questions? Comments? Ideas? E-mail us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beyond thrilled to welcome Morgan Barkus to the podcast for another powerful 2 part episode collab! Morgan is an Empowerment Coach with a background that's as unique as it is inspiring. From her early days in a career as a stripper, to now empowering women to embrace their bodies, we discuss everything from body image struggles to the power of confidence and the importance of showing up as your authentic self. We're diving deep into Morgan's remarkable journey and the pivotal moments that led to where she is today, but this only scratches the surface so don't forget to stay tuned for part 2!Tune in to hear more about: • The turning point that helped Morgan shift her relationship with her body • The courage to embrace and own your identity, regardless of societal expectations • The lessons Morgan learned from past and how it shaped her career today • Why true confidence comes from within and how to start developing it yourselfIt's time to be kinder to ourselves and our bodies, while not settling for anything less. I would love to know if you had an “Aha!” moment from this episode over in my DMs @AlliArruda! Make sure you're subscribed to the podcast so you don't miss the next episode!Morgan's Links:Website: https://www.morganbarkus.com/Instagram: http://instagram.com/morganbarkus/Podcast: Your Unapologetic Life Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNSh27vzSXeQ5lshNgJhq9wWant to Make More Money in 2026? You Need to Be Seen!Secure your spot in the Visibility Accelerator!https://www.inspireandmove.ca/visibilityacceleratorGet on the Mentor Collective Mastermind waitlist:https://chrisharder.me/mentor Let's Connect!• INSPIRE + MOVE EVENTS• Instagram• Private Coaching• Website• Facebook• TikTok

Your body goes through a greater physical transformation during pregnancy than at any other time in your life. While growing a baby is an incredible feat, not everyone feels positive about the changes that come with it. Research shows that body dissatisfaction is common during and after pregnancy, and it can range from occasional negative thoughts to more serious struggles with body dysmorphia or disordered eating. This episode explores the research on body image during pregnancy and postpartum, what shapes it, and evidence-based strategies to help you build a healthier relationship with your body as it grows, changes, and recovers. Full article and resources for this episode: https://pregnancypodcast.com/bodyimage/ Thank you to the brands that power this podcast: Zahler goes above and beyond in formulating their Prenatal +DHA. It's made with high-quality nutrients like the active form of folate and bioavailable iron. Plus, it includes essential nutrients like omega-3s that you will not find in most other prenatal vitamins. In the month of March 2026, save 30% with the code PREPODHA30 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4qgc7Jp Plus, email your order # and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com, and Zahler will send you a free silicone baby bib! You can always see the current promo code at: https://pregnancypodcast.com/vitamin/ As the #1 Baby Monitor Brand in North America, VTech is trusted by millions of families to deliver crystal-clear HD video, reliable performance, strong night vision, and convenient smartphone access. The VTech VM901 Baby Monitor makes monitoring effortless whether you're at home or away. Save 20% with the code VTPODCAST20 and check out the VTech VM901 Baby Monitor at https://pregnancypodcast.com/vm901 8 Sheep Organics makes amazing, 100% Clean, Natural Pregnancy Products. From skin care to treating stretch marks with clinically proven ingredients, 8 Sheep has you covered. Every product comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee. Try it completely risk-free for 100 days. If you're not 100% happy with your purchase, simply send them an email and they will get you a refund, no questions asked. Check out 8 Sheep Organics and save 10% when you go to https://pregnancypodcast.com/8sheep/ Get More from the Pregnancy Podcast Join thousands of expecting parents who stay up to date with the latest pregnancy news, exclusive offers, and more: https://pregnancypodcast.com/newsletter Upgrade to Pregnancy Podcast Premium for ad-free episodes, full access to the back catalog, and a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book: https://pregnancypodcast.com/premium Save with discounts and deals available for Pregnancy Podcast listeners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/resources Follow your pregnancy week-by-week with the 40 Weeks podcast. Learn how your baby grows, what's happening in your body, what to expect at prenatal appointments, and tips for dads and partners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/week Find more evidence-based information on the Pregnancy Podcast website: https://pregnancypodcast.com

In Episode 8 of the "Compared to Who?" podcast, host Heather Creekmore dives into the theme of patience during the weight loss journey. She shares personal stories, including memories from her childhood, and discusses how impatience often leads us into unhealthy cycles of extreme dieting and disappointment. Heather highlights why slow and steady progress is not only more sustainable but ultimately more fulfilling. Emphasizing patience as a fruit of the Spirit, she challenges listeners to reflect on their motives and to extend the same grace and patience toward themselves that God does. The episode wraps up with practical encouragements for making small, meaningful, healthy choices and resting in the assurance of God’s love and acceptance. Join the NEW Community:Join the conversation! Visit waitingforweightloss.com to become part of the community, share your thoughts, and connect with others on the same journey. Let’s encourage each other to practice patience and experience sustainable, lasting changes together. Learn more about Compared to Who? by visiting: https://www.improvebodyimage.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if your home is the reason you can't heal?Most people focus on food and exercise but ignore the invisible toxins in their environment that are making them sick. In this episode, we're exploring the hidden connection between your living space and your health, from mold and air quality to building materials and vacation rentals that could be sabotaging your wellness journey.Annie Graybill is the founder of Havenwith, a non-toxic vacation rental company, and a passionate advocate for healthy living spaces. After healing her own autoimmune issues and her daughter's grand mal seizures by cleaning up her environment, Annie became obsessed with creating safe, toxin-free spaces for families.You'll discover how Annie healed her daughter's seizures naturally without brain-altering medications, why your bedroom should be your #1 priority when detoxing your home, the hidden dangers lurking in vacation rentals and hotels, and the shocking truth about male infertility that doctors never address. Plus, learn practical tools like the Scandinavian practice of "loofting" and what to look for when building or renovating.This episode is for anyone who's been doing "all the right things" but still not healing. Your home environment matters just as much as what you eat.If you're ready to take control of your health by cleaning up your space, this conversation will give you the tools to start today. Subscribe and share it with someone who needs to hear this message.

Body image pressure is no longer just affecting girls—more boys are now struggling with body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. In this episode, we discuss where these pressures come from, how they show up differently for boys and girls, and what parents can do to support healthier relationships with food and body image.

Explore the deep psychological toll of obesity, from childhood stigma to adult discrimination, and why compassion must replace blame. #ObesityStigma #MentalHealth #LifestyleMedicine #HealthTalks

Tyriq Withers joins to discuss the new film he's starring in, ‘Reminders of Him,' his time at the NAACP Image Awards, and what it was like playing Division I football at Florida State University. Also, body positivity advocates Katie Sturino and Gabriella Lascano discuss the future of body positivity as thin ideals trend again, with expert advice from psychologist Rachel Goldman on sustaining a healthy body image. Plus, chef Leslie Daniel makes a fish tempura with salad recipe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week's guest is Dr Anna Colton, clinical psychologist and author of How to Talk to Children About Food. Anna has spent more than 20 years working with young people and families in eating disorder services, from outpatient settings to inpatient units supporting the most severe cases. In her book, she unpicks how the way we speak about food, dieting and bodies - often without even realising - shapes our children's relationship with eating and with themselves.We talk about the anxiety many of us carry around what our children eat, the pressure parents feel in the face of childhood obesity headlines, and why Anna believes we should be far more focused on protecting our children's relationship with food than policing it.We also discuss the rise of GLP-1 weight loss jabs and what their growing normalisation means for teenagers who are forming their own body image. Anna shares her concerns about the current lack of regulation, the seductive messaging around rapid weight loss, and how parents can approach the topic at home.Anna and I also chat about:What a genuinely healthy family relationship with food looks likeThe “division of responsibility” and how to apply it without mealtimes becoming a battlefieldWhy food neutral language matters (and what to say when schools send home “healthy vs unhealthy” worksheets)How to respond when your teenager says they hate their body or want to go on a dietThe impact of parents modelling dieting - including GLP-1 useSocial media, “Skinny Tok” and building resilience in teenagersWhy eating disorders - not occasional McDonald's - are the real fearYou can find Dr Anna Colton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drannacoltonHer book How to Talk to Children About Food is available now from all major booksellers: https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Talk-Children-About-Food/dp/1785120557If you enjoyed this episode then please leave a rating or review - and you can follow the podcast to ensure you don't miss future episodes. Thank you! Not Another Mummy Podcast is brought to you by me, journalist and author Alison Perry. I'm a mum of three and I love interviewing people about parenthood and confidence on the podcast. You can check out my other episodes and you can come chat to me on Instagram: @iamalisonperry or on Threads: @iamalisonperry. You can buy my book OMG It's Twins now. Music: Epidemic SoundArtwork: Eleanor BowmerSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/notanothermummy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by Dr Charlotte Markey, Professor of Psychology at Rutgers University and a world-leading expert in body image research with over 25 years of research into body image and eating behaviours.Girls today are facing growing pressures around appearance, and with the rise of social media and the lasting impact of the pandemic, it's becoming even harder for young people to feel confident and comfortable in their bodies.Charlotte's updated book, The Body Image Book for Girls, is designed for ages 9–15 and gives practical, evidence-based tools to help girls understand puberty, navigate social media, challenge body image myths, and build a healthier relationship with their bodies.If you're a parent, teacher, clinician, or someone who cares about the pressures young people are growing up with today, this conversation is for you.Key Takeaways:Why Charlotte released an updated edition, and what's changed in recent yearsHow shame keeps body image struggles hidden, and why open conversations matterThe different body pressures facing girls and boys todayWhy body image concerns often linger, even in eating disorder recoverySocial media as a risk factor and how to make your feed saferWhy puberty can be a particularly vulnerable time for girls' body imageHow parents and educators can respond: validate first, ask questions, and seek support earlyTimestamps:00:00: Introduction and Charlotte's background03:40: Why the book exists and the importance of early support12:20: Clinical insights: body image and eating disorder recovery21:35: Social media, algorithms, and taking breaks30:10: Puberty and body changes38:35: Supporting young people: what adults can doResources & LinksThe Body Image Book series: TheBodyImageBook.comConnect with Us:Subscribe to the Full of Beans PodcastFollow Full of Beans on InstagramCheck out our websiteListen on YouTube⚠️ Content Note: This episode includes discussion of body dissatisfaction, eating disorders, weight and appearance pressures, puberty, and social media. Please take care when listening.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us spread awareness.Sending positive beans your way, Han

Hustle culture is out, and Dr. Michael Gervais is here to tell us why. The world-renowned high-performance psychologist, who works with Olympians, Fortune 50 CEOs, and the Seattle Seahawks, returns to Real Pod for the third time to challenge everything we think we know about success. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Mike breaks down the difference between peak performance and true mastery, why doing more will not make you extraordinary, and how to train your mind to be calm, focused, and unbothered. He shares how to create a compelling future, make a fundamental commitment to your values, and build the psychological agility needed to navigate setbacks without losing yourself. If you are tired of burnout, chasing validation, or feeling behind, this episode will shift your entire perspective. Tune in to learn how to be more so you can finally do less, but better.Resources:Morning Mindset Routine: linked here Website: findingmastery.comInstagram: @michaelgervaisPodcast: Finding Mastery with Dr. Michael GervaisRelated Episodes:Dr. Michael Gervais - Understanding Our Minds: How To Unlock Your Full PotentialStop Worrying About What People Think Of You & Unleash Your Authenticity with Dr. Michael Gervais// SPONSORS //Premier Protein: Find your favorite flavor at premierprotein.com or at Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. Quince: Go to quince.com/realpod to get free shipping and 365-day returns.BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month.LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that's 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the new craze over weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, how should Christians respond? Kevin and Josh talk about God's values vs society's, how humanism naturally leads to worshiping the body — and how we become what we behold. Then they go to the Scriptures for a holistic doctrine of stewardship that helps us to live well, without forbidding foods, turning our bodies into idols, or over-emphasizing the physical at the expense of the spiritual.

A new MP3 sermon from Generations Radio is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: What Does the Bible Say About Body Image? Speaker: Kevin Swanson Broadcaster: Generations Radio Event: Radio Broadcast Date: 3/4/2026 Length: 27 min.

Women’s bodies are back in the headlines with Kelly Osbourne this week slamming online trolls for their cruel and dehumanising comments about her appearance at the BRIT Awards. So, is it ever ok to comment on someone’s body? And when you are concerned someone could be unwell, what do you do? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Body Image expert Professor Gemma Sharp from The University of Adelaide to unpack it all. This episode contains descriptions of disordered eating and body image that may be triggering or distressing for some listeners. For support, call the Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673) or visit www.butterfly.org.au to chat online or email, 7 days a week, 8am-midnight (AEDT). Headlines: The federal government has announced it will deploy six Australian crisis consular teams to the Middle East, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers has warned inflationary pressure from the Middle East Conflict will affect the upcoming Budget, and Greens Senator Sarah Hanson Young has called for radio host Kyle Sandilands to be sacked effective immediately. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In previous episodes, we've explored the unique body image pressures placed upon gay men, from the intense focus on gym culture and the idealized twink aesthetic to broader societal expectations and body obsession. These pressures can contribute to disordered eating, a struggle that is often overlooked in men despite its prevalence in the gay community.In this episode, Kyle Ridley, an Emmy Award winning journalist, joins us to discuss his personal experiences with disordered eating, the unique body image pressures faced by queer men, and strategies for navigating these struggles.Related Episodes:Listen to Episode 32. Gay Men and Body ObsessionListen to Episode 82. Gay Gym CultureListen to Episode 91. Fat and Fabulous: Embrace Body Positivity (with Matthew Simko)Listen to Episode 130. Pride in Motion: Inclusive Fitness and Body-Positive Coaching (with Roy Belzer)Listen to Episode 151. Twink Death: RIP Skinny JeansAdditional Resources:The Pressure to Achieve Perfection: Body Obsession in the Gay Community and Its Impact on Self-WorthNavigating Gay Gym Culture: Body Image, Societal Masculinity, and Mental HealthEmbracing Body Positivity in the Gay Community: Redefining Beauty Standards and Championing Self-LoveLGBTQ+ Body Image: Embracing Body Positivity and Redefining Fitness StandardsTwink Death: Navigating Aging, Aesthetics, and Body Image in Gay CultureLearn More About Kyle RidleySubscribe to The Tangle with Kyle RidleyFollow Kyle on InstagramConnect with Kyle on LinkedInSupport the showGet Your Merch

In this powerful episode of Compared to Who?, Heather Creekmore takes a deep dive into one of the most important (and personal) topics discussed in our community—negative self-talk. Are you your own harshest critic? Do you find it easy to be kind to others but unbearable when it comes to your own reflection? This episode is for you! Heather openly explores the critical inner dialogue that many of us experience, especially on our journeys toward body image freedom. She addresses where negative self-talk comes from, why it's so hard to stop, and shares practical steps to start recognizing, writing down, and confronting those mean inner phrases that hold us back. What You'll Learn: How negative self-talk becomes a habit The spiritual and emotional roots of self-criticism Why simply "thinking positive" isn't enough Practical tips for noticing, documenting, and challenging negative thoughts How to find community and encouragement on the road to body kindness How our deep-seated beliefs shape the way we treat ourselves Key Takeaways: You can't stop negative self-talk until you notice it—awareness is the first step. Much of our negative inner dialogue stems from lies we’ve adopted as truth, often rooted in our childhood or from past hurtful comments. Community and vulnerability are vital; you’re not alone, and healing often grows in connection with others. Action Steps: Start tuning into your self-talk. Notice and write down the harsh words you’re telling yourself. Reflect: What’s stuck with you—and who put it there? Visit the Compared to Who? community at www.waitingforweightloss.com to share your story and receive support from others on the same journey. Challenge those hurtful statements with what God says about you. Links & Resources: Join the community: waitingforweightloss.com Learn more about the 40-Day Body Image Workbook and interactive journey Stay tuned for Heather Creekmore’s new book, coming in 2027! Rate & Review:If this episode resonated with you, please rate and review this podcast and share it with a friend who needs encouragement! Ready to ditch the inner critic and start your journey to body image freedom? Tune in now! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, Christina and Brittany are having one of those honest, unfiltered conversations. The kind where you talk about what's actually happening in your body… how aging really feels… and why health can't sit at the bottom of the priority list anymore. They dive into inflammation and how it quietly impacts everything from energy to long-term disease, the growing conversation around peptides and recovery, and the reality of navigating wellness in a world where “nothing feels real anymore.” This episode is about taking your health seriously. About discipline. About gratitude. About choosing to live in a way that doesn't leave you with regret. If you're building a life, a career, a family — none of it works if your health falls apart. This is real talk on movement, mindset, nutrition, recovery, and what it means to age with intention. We don't shy away from the skepticism. We don't pretend we have it all figured out. But we do believe this: Health is non-negotiable. About Brittany and Christina: Meet Brittany and Christina, your dynamic podcast hosts who bring their unique blend of expertise, passion, and life experience to every conversation. Brittany, affectionately known as Britt, mom, mommy, bruh, and Queen, lives in Vancouver with her husband and their three fantastic kids (tweens and teens, hence the playful nicknames). Together for nearly two decades, Brittany and her husband share a love for travel and adventure. A self-proclaimed endurance sport junkie, Brittany thrives on pushing herself beyond her comfort zone to unlock her full potential. As a coach, she specializes in helping clients overcome overwhelm by aligning personal goals and values with actionable steps for success. Her greatest joys come from connecting with new people and witnessing their incredible achievements. Christina Lecuyer, a former professional golfer and TV host, is recognized as one of GlobeNewswire's Top Confidence Coaches. She works with clients worldwide, including entrepreneurs, Wall Street executives, stay-at-home moms, and small business owners. Through her signature "Decision, Faith & Action" framework, Christina has guided thousands of clients in creating their own versions of fulfillment and success, often leading to thriving six- and seven-figure businesses. Her 1-on-1 coaching model focuses on mindset and strategy to build self-trust, confidence, and long-term results. Together, Brittany and Christina bring their authentic, energetic, and empowering perspectives to help listeners navigate life, achieve their goals, and embrace their fullest potential.   Feeling like you want to share a hot topic you'd like us to discuss on the podcast? Send us a DM over on Instagram at @anythingbutaveragepod. Your hot topic just might make it in the next episode!

Send a textIn this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with soca artist Jadel Legere for a raw conversation about resilience, reinvention, and building success on her own terms.Jade opens up about growing up in a strict religious household, struggling with identity and self-esteem, and how “pink” became a symbol of reclaiming the childhood she never had. From studying law and battling depression to singing in casinos and eventually touring internationally, her journey is one of discipline, manifestation, and relentless belief.We explore:Her transition from church singer to soca performerWriting, producing, and engineering her own musicThe business realities of being an independent female artistGoing viral with “Shake Up Yuh Batty Girl”Building consistency without relying on a “monster hit”Touring internationally and finding greater reception abroadSacrificing comfort and image to secure financial stabilityPurchasing and investing in property as a long-term strategyTurning pain, heartbreak, and criticism into fuelThis episode is about ownership — of your story, your finances, your brand, and your future.Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or someone rebuilding your life from the ground up, Jade's honesty and strategy will resonate.click the link in my bio for the full episode#coriesheppardpodcast #JadeLegere #SocaMusic #TrinidadAndTobago #WomenInMusic #CaribbeanCulture #MusicIndustry #EntrepreneurMindset00:00 – Introduction01:00 – Why Pink Is Her Power03:30 – The $25,000 Valentine's Day Booking Request06:00 – Body Image, Confidence & Public Scrutiny10:30 – School Days & Being Called “Big Bottom Reds”14:30 – Heartbreak During Law School18:20 – “Stand By Another Man” Explained24:30 – Writing with XplicitMevon26:00 – Growing Up Strict & Sheltered30:00 – Reclaiming Her Childhood Through Motherhood33:00 – Moving House to House Growing Up36:30 – Religious Upbringing & Identity Struggles40:00 – Studying Law & Financial Pressure45:30 – The Casino Turning Point52:00 – From $3K a Month to $3K a Night54:30 – Joining Surface & Traffic58:30 – Going Solo & Learning Music Production1:06:00 – Creating “Haunted” with Kernal Roberts1:12:00 – Shake Up Yuh Batty Girl Goes Viral1:17:00 – Sacrificing Image to Build Property1:23:00 – Why Breaking into Soca Is Hard1:30:00 – Touring Internationally vs Local Reception1:36:00 – Do You Need a Monster Hit?1:38:30 – Final Reflections

Something I've noticed in food recovery is that certain foods and meals become associated with dieting. Suddenly, you're afraid or feeling resistance to eating certain vegetables or fruits because these foods have been somatically connected to deprivation and restriction. Your body tenses, your breath gets shallow, you feel tight, and you hear an internal, "NO, don't eat that." You might find yourself questioning if you're on a diet if you choose the salad over the burger. The sensations attached to NO make it feel like eating these foods are "wrong." And when you do eat these foods, you feel panicked about if you're going to get enough, will you be satiated, does this mean you're back on a diet again, and on and on. A part of food recovery can be updating your body's story that all foods are safe but this is not only the foods you have labeled as "bad" but also the foods you used to diet with. In this week's episode, I chat with Bonnie Roney, Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, about: The illusion of control in dietingRebuilding trust with your bodyNavigating the hunger and fullness scaleThe importance of consistent eatingNuances to saying yes and no to foodsUnderstanding food choices beyond dietingVisualizing your life and finding your identity beyond dietsYou can also read the transcript to this week's episode ​here​: https://www.stephaniemara.com/blog/making-empowered-food-choices-beyond-diet-cultureI really loved this conversation and you will walk away feeling a lot of relief in how to normalize all of your food decisions.With Compassion and Empathy, Stephanie Mara FoxKeep in touch with Bonnie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diet.culture.rebel/ Website: https://dietculturerebel.com/Support the showKeep in touch with Stephanie Mara:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_stephaniemara/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephaniemarafoxWebsite: https://www.stephaniemara.com/https://www.somaticeating.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephmara/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephaniemarafoxContact: support@stephaniemara.comSupport the show:Become a supporter: https://www.buzzsprout.com/809987/supportAll affiliate links: https://www.stephaniemara.com/resourcesReceive 15% off my fave protein powder with code STEPHANIEMARA at checkout here: https://www.equipfoods.com/STEPHANIEMARAUse my Amazon Affiliate link when shopping on Amazon: https://amzn.to/448IyPl Special thanks to Bendsound for the music in this episode. www.benso...

If you're a Christian woman struggling with body image, food, or feeling at peace in your body, this devotional will help you understand what's really happening. What feels like a physical struggle is often rooted in a deeper spiritual battle affecting your focus, your identity, and your peace. Instead of trying harder or blaming yourself, this devotional will help you see your struggle through the truth of God's Word so you can stop fighting yourself and begin standing in the spiritual authority God has already given you. In this Christian devotional, you'll reflect on: • Why your body image struggle is not just physical • How spiritual distraction weakens your peace and focus • What Scripture teaches about your identity and spiritual protection • How standing in truth brings peace, confidence, and freedom • A powerful reflection to help you realign your mind with God's truth When you understand the nature of this battle, you stop striving and start walking in peace, stewardship, and alignment with God. Next Steps Are you ready to go all in with God in your health journey? Could you use a step-by-step plan that puts Jesus at the center of how you care for your body? I'm currently offering live Thursday coaching calls where you can receive accountability, prayer, encouragement, and direct guidance so you can stay rooted, consistent, and spiritually strong. Join us inside the Fit God's Way 30-Day Transformation ➞ https://kimdolanleto.com/fit-gods-way-course This devotional is part of the Strong. Confident. His. podcast, where faith and fitness come together to help you renew your mind, strengthen your body, and walk confidently in who God created you to be. If this episode spoke to your heart today, please share it with a friend who needs that same encouragement. You can also help me reach more women by leaving a five-star review on Apple or Spotify. Every review helps someone else find hope, healing, and strength in Jesus. With so much love, Remember, You are Strong. Confident. His. Kim Dolan Leto   Listen or Watch the Strong. Confident. His. Podcast.: Apple ➞ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strong-confident-his-christian-fitness-health-and/id1504962677 Spotify ➞ https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ymer79UOqIbItrwPJErxC YouTube ➞ https://www.youtube.com/kimdolanletofit All Episodes ➞ https://kimdolanleto.com/podcast Connect with Me Newsletter ➞ https://kimdolanleto.com/get-on-the-list Website ➞ https://kimdolanleto.com Instagram ➞ https://instagram.com/kimdolanleto Facebook ➞ https://facebook.com/kimdolanleto YouTube ➞ https://youtube.com/kimdolanletofit Podcast ➞ https://kimdolanleto.com/strong-confident-his-podcast Shop ➞ https://kimdolanleto.com/shop

Episode #162 

Welcome back to the "Compared to Who?" podcast! In today’s episode, host Heather Creekmore continues the Waiting for Weight Loss series, taking us through the third "exhale": Establishing Your Purpose. Episode Highlights: Heather Creekmore gets real about her longtime struggle with believing that she needed to “fix” her body before stepping into her God-given purpose. She addresses the misconception that physical appearance is necessary for spiritual effectiveness, referencing Biblical truths and reflecting on Jesus’ own earthly life. Do you ever feel like your body is an accident or a barrier to God’s plans? Heather dives deep into the theological roots of these beliefs and encourages listeners to release them. Discover why God intentionally created your body for HIS purposes—not your goal weight, not your own timeline—and how the idea of stewardship is often misunderstood. Real talk about shifting your focus: from waiting for weight loss to living out your calling, right now. Listen for practical encouragement: Heather leads a breathing exercise to help you exhale the pressure and inhale purpose. Key Takeaways: God’s purpose for your life is not on hold until you hit a certain weight or achieve a certain look. Your body was intentionally crafted, and you can embrace your calling today. Stewardship of your body matters, but it shouldn’t overshadow all other gifts and stewardship principles—in fact, there’s no direct Biblical command to be a “good steward” of your body above all else. The more you step into your purpose and gifting, the more you’ll find peace with your body image. Join the Community! What stood out to you in today’s episode? Has waiting for weight loss ever made you put off something God is asking you to do? Share your story and join the conversation with others who are also letting go of the wait. Visit waitingforweightloss.com and become part of our supportive community today! Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, and leave your feedback on the episode—we’d love to hear from you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The country superstar Luke Combs sits down with Joe and Jon ahead of the release of his sixth album, “The Way I Am.” Combs opens up about his journey to Nashville success (including “healthy competition” with Morgan Wallen and Zach Bryan) and his mission to make huge hits again after spending the past couple years away from the spotlight.  Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Outlouders, enjoy this free bite of Mia Freedman. Catch the full conversation — Oh Sh*t. We Let Creeps Decide Our Beauty Standards — at 5 pm TODAY. Not a subscriber yet? Put matters right HERE. When a newsletter has the internet in a chokehold, you better believe that Mia Freedman has to unpack it. And so it is with the recent Substack from Jameela Jamil. Writing from what Jamil calls the "funeral of the body positivity movement," she posits a theory that is as provocative as it is dark: that the obsession with extreme thinness, hairlessness, and agelessness isn't just about vanity — it’s a standard designed to mimic the aesthetics of children. Jessie and Holly join Mia to dive deep into the sinister framework of the 'sexy baby' trope, questioning why grown women are taught to spend their lives trying to get back to a body they had at thirteen. Is the 'Epstein-ness' of this current cultural moment exposing a wider fetishisation of youth among the world's most powerful men? Or is Jamil's critique of the homogenised look of our favourite female stars—from Sabrina Carpenter to Taylor Swift—unfairly judging their "sparkly underpants" choice? "Your body is not meant to look the same at 28 as it did at 18." Is it time to reclaim our waistlines, our wrinkles, and our right to look like grown-ass women? Mia has thoughts — and we're pretty sure you do too. Remember, this is your free sample of today's subs episode. The full debrief drops for subscribers at 5pm. What To Listen To Next: Listen to our latest episode: "I'm A Working Mum & I Just Want To Quit" Listen: Mia & Amelia On CBK: The Clothes, The Curse, The Love Story Listen: Prince William Has Entered The Chat Listen: The New Dating Rule That Blew Up A Comments Section Listen: 'Prince' Andrew's Arrest Is Not What You Think It Is Listen: Angelina Jolie & The Existential Threat Of Desirable Older Women Listen: MAFS & The Specific Cruelty of the ‘Sexual Chemistry’ Question Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. SUBSCRIBE here: Support independent women's media Watch Australia's #1 podcast, Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read: Jameela Jamil's Substack: Ah shit! We let pedophiles decide our beauty standards. Britney Spears, Brooke Shields and the 'criminal' interviews child stars don't want us to forget. Chappell Roan can take a stand, we apparently just need her to suffer a bit first. 'You’re routinely underestimated.' The 9 untold benefits of being an ugly child. Sarah says she has 'ugly privilege'. Okay, it's time we talk about the thing we're all too scared to talk about. THE END BITS: Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at outloud@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You don't have to love your body every second of every day to have a healthy relationship with it. Ryann, Sabrina, and Jess unpack what body image and why it can shift by the hour. They revisit the body positivity wave of 2020, talk about why forced affirmations can feel hollow, and explore why body neutrality tends to be a more sustainable place to land. Instead of trying to convince yourself you love everything you see in the mirror, they make the case for acceptance first. The conversation weaves through social media, diet culture, GLP-1s, unsolicited body comments, and the quiet ways comparison creeps back in. They dig into body checking, the "I'll be happy when…" trap, and why chasing an old version of yourself rarely delivers what you think it will. You'll also hear how stress, sleep, hormones, and under-eating can magnify negative body image days, and why going into a calorie deficit isn't always the solution your brain thinks it is. Most importantly, they share practical ways to start shifting your internal dialogue. If you've ever tied your happiness to a number on the scale or pant size, this episode is a reminder that you can't hate yourself into lasting change. And that bad body image days are rarely about your body in the first place. Black Iron Nutrition Book a Free Discovery Call Free Macro Calculator Free Downloads Black Iron Blog

After a year of headlines, heartbreak, and healing, Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia is stepping into a whole new era. One of Barstool's most prominent female voices, host of her relaunched Plan Bri Uncut, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit feature, and Fox's Special Forces alum, Brianna joins Vic to open up about surviving a very public breakup, redefining closure, and rebuilding her relationship with herself. She gets candid about her anxiety-induced eating disorder, the truth about gaining weight in a world obsessed with shrinking, and what it really took to become healthy again. From solo trips to Scotland that helped her rediscover her personality to hard truths about being “selfish” in your healing season, this episode is a masterclass in moving forward with confidence. If you've ever struggled with heartbreak, body image, people-pleasing, or finding your spark again, this one will hit home!Connect with Bri:Instagram: @briannalapaglia and @planbriuncutTikTok: @ihatebriannachickenfry// SPONSORS //Premier Protein: Find your favorite flavor at premierprotein.com or at Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. Vuori: Go to vuori.com/realpod to receive 20% off your first purchase and enjoy free shipping on any U.S. orders over $75 and free returns.Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com. CozyEarth: Head to cozyearth.com and use my code REALPOD for up to 20% off.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to the Compared to Who? podcast and our ongoing series, Waiting for Weight Loss. In today’s episode, Heather Creekmore shares a powerful story about a time when her identity—literally—was stolen, setting the stage for an honest discussion about our true identity in Christ. Episode Highlights: Heather Creekmore opens up with a personal experience of being mugged and losing her physical identification, making the connection to how many of us “lose” our spiritual identity while chasing the approval of others or pursuing body goals. She asks: Has your identity been stolen—figuratively—by misplaced priorities, societal pressures, or the pursuit of weight loss? We explore the idea that any identity outside of Christ is a “fake ID,” and discuss what it means to rest in our adoption as daughters (and sons) of God. Heather Creekmore unpacks how our attempts to earn love and acceptance through appearance or achievements are distractions from the Gospel. The healthiest approach to weight loss and goals? Pursuing them from a place of already being fully loved and accepted, not from a place of insecurity or striving to earn worth. Reflection Questions: What “fake IDs” have you been carrying? How would your approach to your body and your goals change if you truly believed your identity was already secure in Christ? Check out Episode on Boasting Here Join the Community!Join the conversation! Heather Creekmore invites you to become part of our supportive community at waitingforweightloss.com. Share your story, connect with others, and discover what it means to pursue your goals from a place of true security and love. Don’t walk this journey alone—head over to waitingforweightloss.com, join the community, and let’s cut up those “fake IDs” together! Thank you for listening—see you in the community! *learn more about Compared to Who? at https://www.improvebodyimage.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Fear of Aging and Body Image isn't really about wrinkles, weight, or appearance. It's about something much deeper.In this episode, we explore how anxiety around aging and body image issues are often rooted in the fear of rejection and the need for approval. When we believe we're only acceptable if we look a certain way, we begin changing ourselves to feel safe — not authentic.

In this episode of Compared to Who?, Heather Creekmore invites listeners to take a deeply-needed exhale from the relentless messages around body image and self-worth that the world sends our way. Building on the "Waiting for Weight Loss" series, Heather opens up about her own struggles with feeling valuable through fitness and body changes, and the letdown that follows when external goals don’t bring the internal peace we’re promised. Heather dives into the concept of "monetized insecurity"—the way industries profit from our feelings of inadequacy—and breaks down why finding your worth in God, not in weight loss or body perfection, is the only path that leads to real security and rest. You’ll walk away with: Practical breathwork exercises for grounding and relaxation A guided prayer for internalizing your true value An honest look at cultural lies vs. God’s unchanging truth about your worth Reflective questions to revisit whenever you need a reminder that you are already loved, worthy, and enough Key Question: Whose message is easier for you to believe: monetized insecurity or God's message of worth beyond what you measure? Call to Action Ready to break free from the pressure and join a supportive, faith-based community on your journey? Join the Waiting for Weight Loss Community—it’s totally free! Connect with others for real conversations, encouragement, and support as you dig into what it means to find worth beyond the scale.

*Disclaimer* This episode contains adult content and is not recommended for young listeners.   284. DON'T MISS THIS! Controversial Sex Questions, Answered with Dr. Juli Slattery   1 Samuel 24:19b NIV “May the Lord reward you well for the way you treated me today.”   *Transcription Below*   Bio: Instagram Facebook Authentic Intimacy Website Java with Juli Podcast   Thank you to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Questions and Topics We Cover: As Christ followers, should we use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? If one part of Scripture talks about turning the other cheek, is that the same as saying God expects you to stay in an abusive marriage? Is it reasonable to assume that once they have a smartphone, 100% of kids will be exposed to pornography?   Previous Episodes on Sexual Intimacy on The Savvy Sauce, Including Past Episodes with Dr. Juli Slattery: Fostering a Fun, Healthy Sex Life with your Spouse with Dr. Jennifer Konzen  Ways to Deepen Your Intimacy in Marriage with Dr. Douglas Rosenau  Ten Common Questions About Sex, Shared Through a Biblical Worldview with Dr. Michael Sytsma Hope For Treating Pelvic Pain with Tracey LeGrand Treatment for Sexual Issues with Certified Sex Therapist, Emma Schmidt Talking With Your Kids About Sex with Brian and Alison Sutter Natural Aphrodisiacs with Christian Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Douglas Rosenau Healthy Sexuality, Emotional Intelligence, and Parenting Children with Autism with Counselor, Lauren Dack Pain and Joy in Sexual Intimacy with Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Identifying and Fighting Human Trafficking with Dr. Jeff Waibel Bridging the Gap Between Military and Civilian Families with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cuthor, Podcaster, and 2015 Military Spouse of the Year, Corie Weathers Enjoying a God-Honoring, Healthy Sex Life with Your Spouse with Certified Sex Therapist and Ordained Minister, Dr. Michael Sytsma Enjoying Parenting and Managing Conversations About Sex with Certified Sex Therapist and Author, Dr. Jennifer Konzen Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, and Infertility with Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese Hormones and Body Image with Certified Sex Therapist, Vickie George Passion Pursuit with Dr. Juli Slattery Female Orgasm with Sue Goldstein Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, and Treatments Available with Dr. Irwin Goldstein Turn Ons, Turn Offs, and Savoring Sex in Marriage with Dr. Jennifer Konzen Desire Discrepancy in Marriage with Dr. Michael Sytsma Answering Listener's Questions About Sex with Kelli Willard Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Healthy Minds, Marriages, and Sex Lives with Drs. Scott and Melissa Symington Female Pornography Addiction and Meaningful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day Building Lasting Relationships with Clarence and Brenda Shuler Healthy Ways for Females to Increase Sexual Enjoyment with Tracey LeGrand Pornography Healing for Spouses with Geremy Keeton Sexual Sin Recovery for You and Your Spouse (Part Two) Personal Development and Sexual Wholeness with Dr. Sibylle Georgianna  Our Brain's Role in Sexual Intimacy with Angie Landry Discovering God's Design for Romance with Sharon Jaynes Sex in Marriage and Its Positive Effects with Francie Winslow, Part 1 Science and Art of Sexual Intimacy in Marriage, Part 2 Making Love in Marriage with Debra Fileta Mutually Pleasing Sex in Marriage with Gary Thomas Sex Series: God's Design and Warnings for Sex: An Interview with Mike Novotny Sex Series: Enhancing Female Pleasure and Enjoyment of Sex: An Interview with Dr. Jennifer Degler Sex Series Orgasmic Potential, Pleasure, and Friendship: An Interview with Bonny Burns  Sex Series: Sex Series: Healthy Self, Healthy Sex: An Interview with Gaye Christmus Sex Series: Higher Sexual Desire Wife: An Interview with J Parker Sex Series: Six Pillars of Intimacy with Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo 215 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part One with Dr. Kris Christiansen 216 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen 217 Tween/Teen Females: How to Navigate Changes during Puberty with Dr. Jennifer Degler 218 Secrets of Sex and Marriage: Interview with Dr. Michael Sytsma 222 Pornography: Protecting Children and Personal Healing, Victory, and Recovery in Christ with Sam Black Special Patreon Release: Holy Sex: An Interview with Dr. Juli Slattery Special Patreon Release: His Desires and Her Desires in the Bedroom with Dr. Jennifer Konzen 224 Surprising Discoveries of Sex in Marriage: An Interview with Shaunti Feldhahn 252 Maximizing Sexual Connections as Newlyweds to Long Term Marriages and Recovering from a Sexless Marriage with Dr. Cliff & Joyce Penner 260 Sex After Cancer with Dr. Kris Christiansen 277 Breaking Through Addiction in Marriage with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:11 – 0:11)   Laura Dugger: (0:11 – 2:21) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message.   Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com or connect with them on Facebook.   My returning guest for today is Dr. Juli Slattery.   She has authored another book entitled Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything, and we're going to cover a few themes from this book, but I think what you're going to find most helpful are her candid responses to some really tricky questions related to dating and pornography, technology, thought life, shows that we watch as believers, divorce, and just intimacy in general as married couples.   So, I think this is an episode that you're going to want to learn from yourself, but you'll also want to share with others because Dr. Juli has offered us such a gift as she directs us back to the heart issues and wisely guides us into sexual integrity in our own lives.   Here's our chat.   Welcome back to The Savvy Sauce, Dr. Juli.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (2:21 – 2:21) Thanks so much for having me back. It's always a joy.   Laura Dugger: (2:21 – 2:22) Well, I love that you've been a repeat guest many times. So, we get to just dive right in today because I'm going to link all of your previous episodes in the show notes. But to dive in, I'm just curious, as believers, where does your heart break as you see us compromising on God's design for sex?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (2:22 – 3:31) Hmm. That's such a good question. You know, I think my heart breaks the most in that when we compromise God's design for sexuality, or even when we don't understand it or understand His goodness, it means that there is a breach in our relationship with God.   And so, I am so passionate about what I do, not necessarily because I love talking about sexuality, but because for a lot of people, sexuality represents a wall between them and God, like an issue they can't resolve, or a place of shame that they just can't quite shake free from, or battle with sin that they feel like they're enslaved to. And so, those things mean that there's a limit to how much they invite God into their lives.   And so, for me, that's where my heart breaks the most is, you know, ultimately, we were created for the greatest fellowship with God and anything that gets in the way of that is something that God cares about and something that I care about.   Laura Dugger: (3:32 – 4:03) You say that well, and you've written many books, but in this most recent one, you plainly state one issue when you write, “You will not be able to obey God with your sexual thoughts, while binging shows and music that continually display the exact opposite.”   And I love how practical that is. So, Juli, why do you think this has become so normalized? And I would say, especially in Christian marriages.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (4:05 – 5:58) Yeah, you know, I think a lot of it is that the church has been historically really quiet about sexuality, you know, like we might talk about save sex for marriage, and don't cheat on your husband and that sort of thing. But the gray areas about how we think about our sexuality and kind of what we have the liberty and freedom to engage in, there's kind of silence, or maybe there's legalism.   And I think in that space, what ends up happening is the culture is so forthright with a message about sexuality, like woven throughout every single show that you could stream on any platform, you know, your music on Spotify, even the news you consume, the Instagram feeds, whatever, it's consistently showing you a way to understand sexuality that is contrary to God's design, and the messaging can be so subtle, or so repetitive that we don't even realize we're ingesting it.   And so, it's normal to talk about with your friends, like the latest season of The Bachelor, or, you know, the latest thing that you're streaming that if you really look at it, there's probably 100 references to sexuality that are outside of God's design. And so, we end up just having our mind conformed to this world.   And the scripture says really clearly in Romans 12, that we can't offer ourselves to God while we're still thinking like the world thinks that it requires an act of transformation of our thinking. And I don't know that there's anywhere more than we need this than in the topic of understanding our sexuality.   Laura Dugger: (6:00 – 6:59) Okay, so for I'm thinking of married couples, because I was recently at a wedding shower. And I love a friend from church. Her name is Dawn Karius. And she was giving the devotional and just sharing. You know, it's very easy to get married and fall into this trap. She was talking about what you watch specifically.   And she said, so many couples will watch something together, watch a show before bed, but be really intentional. If that is what you choose to do, then the shows that you're watching, even though you're with your spouse, is that drawing both of you closer to Christ? Because if it's pulling you further away from Christ, it's also pulling you away from one another.   And so, with all of that, and with what you've studied and written about, if a couple's hearing that and or some single person just hearing this, what would be your practical advice or encouragement for them?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (7:00 – 9:29) Yeah, some of it is, we can't live in a bubble. You know, it's, I think that there are some couples will have the conviction that, you know, we're just going to get rid of all of our devices, we're going to get rid of every streaming service. And there's nothing wrong with that decision, you might feel convicted to do that.   But for most couples, I would say, they're like, okay, we live in this world, we need to understand even the world we live in. And so, it's not like we're going to completely be cut off. But are we being discerning about what we consume?   And what are the standards that we might hit where we might just say, “You know what, we don't need to be watching this.” You know, like I can think of one show in particularly that my husband and I were watching. And it was a well-written show. It was exciting. But there was just so much profanity and just gross kind of sexual content that after two or three episodes, we're both just like, “You know what, as good as the show is, we just, this isn't, we're not watching this. Like we need to stop.”   And I think you need to have those discussions and you might have a different level of conviction than your spouse does. And that's okay, but at least have those conversations and you need to follow your conviction.   But then the other thing I would say that is equally important, if not more important, what are you consuming that helps you get God's perspective of sexuality? And what I've found is that a whole lot of Christian married couples know very little about what it looks like to build a healthy sex life in their marriage. And they're not consuming anything that helps them know how to love each other better, how to overcome differences, even how their bodies work, how to focus on one another and enjoy sex in a holy erotic way.   And so, even if you're watching and consuming very little content from the world, but you're not actively pursuing anything that gives you a biblical perspective, you're still going to end up defaulting to what the world says. And so, I think that again, it's equally as important or not, if not more important to be pursuing what's true and what's right and what's good.   Laura Dugger: (9:31 – 9:53) I love that, how you flipped it. And that discernment piece is huge because we don't want to be desensitized to then that we're consuming and we also want to feed on the good. So, I think it even leads to a broader question, again, as Christ followers, how can we recognize if our conscience is being pricked?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (9:54 – 12:05) Yeah, we can start by asking the Lord. You know, I mean, I think it's in, is it Psalm 139, where, you know, David is basically saying, “Search me, oh God, and know my thoughts, you know, show me if there's any offensive way within me.”   I think that's a beautiful prayer as an individual and as a couple, like God, we want to honor you with what we consume in media, with what we think about, would you guide us and would you show us? And then I think we all have that experience of watching something or listening to something or reading something where we're like, “Uh, I don't know, like, this is sort of a gray area. Like, I'm uncomfortable here. I probably shouldn't be watching this.” Or “Wow, that's really, that's really in your face. Like that's really graphic.”   And it's heeding the Holy Spirit when you get those prompts, instead of just pushing through and being like, “Ah, it's not that big of a deal. It's not going to affect me.” Like when you feel that sense of prompting, you respond to it and you say, “All right, I'm going to put this down. I'm going to shut this off.”   And, um, you know, the scripture says that we can become callous to those promptings of the Holy Spirit if we are in a habit of just running right through that. But we become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit when we yield and when we obey.   Um, and so, I think even just keeping track, you know, every day or every week, like where were the times regarding this or anything else that I really felt convicted by the Holy Spirit about maybe something I said about a friend, uh, or about a little white lie I told, you know, where were the times where I really felt the Holy Spirit nudging me and what did I do? Um, where do I need to confess that I didn't respond well? And where do I need to celebrate that? Yes, I listened, I obeyed, I yielded. Um, and so, I think that's a practice we get into of either ignoring that conviction or really yielding to it.   Laura Dugger: (12:06 – 12:28) Hmm. And that gets after the heart issue, which Jesus is so concerned about our heart. And that's a very softened heart approach. Yes. I hope we can have. And as it relates to sexual integrity, then what are some other ways that we need to be on guard so that we're careful not to be misled?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (12:29 – 13:37) Yeah, boy, I think there's just so much conversation. Um, again, even in Christian circles, sometimes around having a negative attitude towards sex, um, kind of accepting some forms of pornography as normal and even good, you know, husband bashing, wife bashing, you know, like complaining, kind of letting the thought feed in your mind of maybe I should have married somebody else.   Maybe that my life would be easier if I, I weren't married to this person. I wish they were this or that. So, sort of that discontent that is natural to feel in marriage. But the question is, what do you do with it? Do you give it space to grow and to nurture, or do you bring that before the Lord?   Um, so, I think those are some of the ways that we want to look at, like, how am I giving the enemy space in my life and in my marriage versus how am I inviting God to really reclaim what's broken here?   Laura Dugger: (13:38 – 14:01) Well, and then even thinking of the other side to guard ourselves from having a critical and judgmental spirit toward others or just having self-righteous pride. Can you educate us on some common reasons why some people may be predisposed to struggle with some certain sexual sins?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (14:02 – 17:20) Yeah, absolutely. I think that's so important, um, because the research really shows that some of us are more, I don't know if I'd say it that way, but we are going to be more predetermined maybe to struggle with things like pornography or same-sex attraction, or even hooking up.   And it's never like a one plus one equals two exactly. But there are what we might say indicators or risk factors that make you more vulnerable to those kinds of sexual struggles. And some of them might be unhealthy family dynamics growing up, you know, none of us had a perfect family, but let's say you grew up in a family where one of your parents was like overtly critical towards you all the time.   Maybe you went through a divorce with your parents where, um, you know, at a certain age, you just, your family fell apart and you're kind of looking for that stability and love. People who have experienced sexual trauma in childhood or the teen years are going to be more pre-dispositioned to want to understand that or act that out.   People who might struggle with anxiety. And, you know, some of it is we got to understand that sex, because it elicits dopamine in our brain and oxytocin and endorphins, which are all really feel good kind of experiences and hormones and neurotransmitters. When we had a sexual experience at a young age, our brain can learn, “Oh, this is how I deal with stress. This is how I deal with depression. This is how I deal with loneliness.”   So, a lot of times when you talk to somebody who has an ongoing struggle with a sexual temptation or sin, it's because they've learned as a pattern from maybe the time they were 10 years old or 12 years old or 15 years old, that this is how I dealt with the stress in my family. This is how I dealt with when my father died. This is how I dealt with when I was sexually abused. Like this was the way that I found to self-regulate and to self-medicate and to find comfort.   And that can be masturbation. It can be pornography or again, you know, acting out sexually. And so, for people who have that kind of story, and this might be your spouse, or this might be against somebody that you're looking at and judging to just say, “You need to stop that behavior,” is often not going to be enough. They need to do the work of really looking at what am I using sex for? What are the wounds that I'm using sex to cover up?   And how do I actually get the healing I need and find healthier and safer ways for me to cope with negative emotions? And that's why groups are really important for people who have sexual struggles. Counseling is really important. And again, that long journey of healing and freedom, not just a one-time decision that I'm going to try to never do this again.   Laura Dugger: (17:21 – 20:19) Love that word freedom, even because that hope is available. And just pointing out how you said this is not deterministic. That's not what we're saying is if you experience something, you will act out sexually. But I agree with you that it is fascinating and helpful to hear the correlation of certain things that happen, especially in childhood, and how that plays out long-term.   And I am blanking on which guest it was on The Savvy Sauce, but somebody was enlightening me. I think it was for females that if they were sexually abused, typically before a certain age, then they were more likely to struggle in marriage with wanting to completely avoid sex. But then if it was after a certain age, that it was completely opposite where they maybe used sex to medicate, or they were very aggressive and even would act out, let's say in single years, that they would sleep around with a bunch of partners if they had been wounded.   And so, I just think it just, it helps us to not be judgmental of one another. We don't know the full story.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (20:20 – 21:09) Yes. Yeah. There's always more there than we usually realize at first. And, you know, this plays out a lot in marriage because there are a lot of women who are married to guys who are addicted to pornography. And that's a deeply painful dynamic. That's really hard.   But to understand that your husband didn't want to have this struggle, often doesn't know how to get out of it, you know, gives you compassion. It doesn't mean that you look the other way, you need to get help, and you need to insist on getting help. But it does give you empathy and compassion that there's something underlying this and feeding it. It's not just, “Oh, I think I'm going to, you know, look at porn and hurt my wife again,” that there's always a deeper dynamic at work.   Laura Dugger: (21:10 – 21:50) Absolutely. And even an example from your book, I'll just read a quote where you said, “I spoke with a man who runs a sexual addiction program. He told me he had never met someone with sexual addiction, who did not also have significant sexual or psychological trauma in their past.”   And I think it goes along with what we're saying. But if we also then flip it and look at more of the positive side, how can we rightly prioritize connection and intimacy in marriage as God intended?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (21:53 – 24:24) I think first of all, we need to be convinced that this is worth it. You know, when we look at everything there is to do in life, there's so many worthy demands on our time. You know, from I want my house to look nice, and we need to make friends and we need to be an outreach to our community. And our kids are taking a lot of time and they should, and they've got all their activities and our church needs our help. Like when do you have time to do all this? And then, oh yeah, prioritize your marriage.   And I think we have to become convinced that if we're not working on our marriage, and specifically if we're not working on the sexual connection in marriage, then all those other things have the potential to fall apart. That the way I've learned it over time is that sex is never going to be a neutral issue in your marriage. It's either going to be something that is bonding you together and causing you to work on the deeper levels of intimacy, even as you talk through sexual difficulties, or it's going to be something not immediately, but over time, that becomes a wedge between you.   It might start as a wedge of resentment of my needs aren't getting met, or I feel like you're objectifying me or you're putting pressure on me. Or it might be a deeper wedge of a pornography addiction or something that's not being addressed. Or I don't trust my husband because of my trauma. And those things don't just stay dormant. The wedge becomes bigger and bigger and bigger until you get to the place where now you're not comfortable being in the same room anymore and you feel like roommates. And then now one of you is attracted to somebody else and the story plays on.   And there are very wonderful godly men and women who have gotten married with every purpose to stay together. But a wedge like this has grown over time to the point where they're now thinking about divorce or one of them has cheated on the other. And so, we have to be convinced that honoring God in our lives means prioritizing our marriage, and it means working on this intimate aspect of our marriage so that we can be a stable foundation for our families and our churches and our communities.   Laura Dugger: (24:26 – 24:39) And so, if we're getting as practical as possible, what are the best practices that you've seen in married couples who are happily married? How have you experienced that?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (24:40 – 28:04) Yeah. I'll put it in kind of like a cliche sort of way because I think sometimes that's catchy. Number one, I would say they're couples who will resist the drift, who will repair the rift, and who will adjust to the shift.   So, I can kind of break that down a little bit. But you know, the first thing is resisting the drift of you can go weeks without meaningfully connecting with your spouse. And I don't just mean sexually, but I mean like eye to eye, you know, just loving touch, just connecting to their hearts. And so, couples who know how to resist that drift, like they have regular times built into their calendar where this is where we connect every day. Like even for 10 minutes, this is where we hold each other's hands, we look at each other in the eye, we really connect with what's in your heart, how are you? And they have regular rhythms of once a week or once every other week, we're going to go out and do something fun together, just the two of us. We've worked through what sex looks like in this season. Like how many times do we want to have sex? Are we scheduling that? How are we making sure that's a priority? And so, that's the resisting the drift.   And the second one is repairing the rift. And at every marriage, there are going to be things that tear you apart. And sometimes those things might be sexual in nature, like a temptation, an emotional affair, pornography use, sometimes it's going to be something else where you have a deep disagreement that you can't resolve on your own. And you need to be courageous enough to reach out for help and say, like, if we don't get help, if we don't address this issue, like it's going to become something that tears us apart. Any couple that you meet who is happily married for like 30 years or more, they can tell you a story of when they had a rift, and the kind of help that really address that.   And then I think the third thing is adjusting to the shift. And in even the normal stages of marriage, there are shifts that happen. Like, you know, I'm in the stage right now where me and the people my age are going through biological changes with menopause and with aging. And, you know, some people are going through becoming grandparents and retirement. And there's all these shifts that are happening even naturally. There's other couples that are younger who are going through the shift of pregnancy and battling infertility. And some people are going through cancer. And there are things that happen that require you to shift your expectations. And to not just wish that it is like it used to be. But this is the marriage we have now. Here are the circumstances we have now. Here are the bodies we have now. How do we learn to love each other and embrace this season, given the changes that we're experiencing?   And so, I think that's a framework that I've seen healthy couples navigate over time that really fosters intimacy.   Laura Dugger: (28:05 – 29:29) That is incredible. I love how you put that. And I've shared with you before that my background is in Christian sex therapy. So, sex is a topic that does come up a lot and people feel comfortable sharing or asking questions. So, just in regular conversation, I want to recap two conversations that kind of show stances on both ends of the spectrum. And I'd love to hear your wisdom on how to respond to each one.   So, first, there was a Christian married woman with children, and she was teaching younger women to say yes to every single sexual advance from their husband. And she said, “If your husband has the higher drive, and he wants to have sex twice a day, then consider yourself lucky. And don't ever say no, because your body is not your own.” Yeah, it's hard to recap. So, this is not my perspective. So, sharing both ends.   So, that was one person. And then on the other end, I've heard a woman tell me, “You know, I just didn't feel like having sex for about a year and a half after we had our baby. So, I just told my husband, you're going to have to wait.”   So, loaded question, but Dr. Juli, how would you respond to each of those?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (29:29 – 32:31) Well, Laura, I feel like you probably would have just as good of response as I would to those. Yeah, I like that you're presenting those as two extremes, because they are two extremes. And I think both extremes kind of miss the heart. We want to be able to say yes to sex and intimacy. And being able to say yes means also being able to say no.   In that first situation, essentially, what is going to end up happening is that that wife is going to start feeling like my husband wants me for sex. And I don't have the capacity to enjoy it twice a day. I'm starting to feel like an object or used. And the husband is never going to learn that covenant love requires self-denial. And at every level, you know, what did, what did Paul say to husbands in Ephesians 5, like love your wife as you love your own body and be willing to lay down your, your life for your wife. And that means being sensitive to the fact that she doesn't have the same sexual appetite as you do. She doesn't have the same biology you do, that it actually can be physically painful, emotionally traumatic for a wife to have sex when she's not physically ready. Really, that couple is not working on intimacy. They're, they're kind of reinforcing a pattern that sex is about the husband getting his needs and desires met only through the wife without considering her. And that might work for short term, but that's not building intimacy in the long term. And it's not teaching either of them. And that wife needs to learn her own sexual desires and patterns and be able to communicate those to her husband. So, that's what I would say in that first one.   And the second one, essentially, you have a wife kind of having that more selfish perspective of, I only have sex when I want it and on my terms, instead of considering the husband. And, you know, how do I focus on him? How do I work on experiencing sexual desire? How do I foster that? Because it's important for my husband, it's important for our marriage. And I don't want to be selfish.   And so, I think both of those situations are kind of approaching sex where one person gets to be selfish, and the other person has to sacrifice. That's ministry, that's not intimacy. And so, we really want to be at a place where both of us, the higher desire one and the lower desire one, are learning what does it look like to really love well, to love sacrificially and to communicate the ways that I feel loved. I don't know, what would you add to that or change?   Laura Dugger: (32:31 – 33:11) That's why I asked you, you said that beautifully, better than I could have responded. And again, you're getting back to the heart of it and pointing us back to Jesus with each answer. And, you know, commonly people do struggle with having a safe place where they can ask candid questions about sex.   So, I am going to throw some more at you. And some of these are ones that you wrote about. But just to give us a little taste, even of the book, or if somebody has a burning question like this, I'd love your healthy response.   So, how do you respond when people ask, “How far is too far to go in a dating relationship?”   Dr. Juli Slattery: (33:14 – 36:32) Yeah, I think people are looking for a line, you know, like, as long as I don't cross this line, are we good? And of course, I think their traditional line would be as long as you're not having intercourse. But I think that misses the larger context of the purpose of sex. I've had to be convicted of this in my own life. And we talked very early in our conversation about how we've just sort of ingested messages from the culture. And the culture says that healthy sexuality is an expression of how I feel, right? So, so if I feel safe with you, if I feel romantically connected to you, if I feel sexually attracted to you, then it would be healthy for me to engage sexually with you. And then Christians would come and say, yes, but as long as you don't cross this line. So, that's sort of the narrative that I think a lot of us have heard in the church.   But if we look at, from a biblical perspective, God did not design sex to be an expression of how I feel. Okay, let that sink in for a minute. God did not design sex to be an expression of how I feel. He designed it to be a seal and a celebration of covenant, of the choice that a man and a woman make to covenant their lives to one another. And for them to say, just like I give you my whole life, I promise faithfulness to you. I promise that we are becoming one as a family. We have now a physical way to symbolize that in becoming one with our bodies. And so, even if I feel romantically attached to somebody I'm not married to, I don't act on that. Or even if I don't feel romantically attached to my husband, we work on our sex life because we're in covenant.   And so, when you begin to understand sex from that standpoint, you answer that question differently of how far can I go? Why are you sharing your body with another person when you haven't shared your life with them? And, you know, I think that the standard is not legalistic, but the heart of the question is a lot, that's a harder question. You know, like it says, and I think 2 Thessalonians or 1 Thessalonians, you know, Paul says, the will of God is that you do not engage in sexual immorality. Don't take advantage of a brother or sister.   And how many times in dating relationships do you look back and you're like, “Wow, I gave too much of myself to that person or I took too much of myself from that person. Like we engaged in things that now we're broken apart. Like I wish I could take back.” And so, what does it look like to honor each other? What does it look like to honor the Lord? So, I think those kinds of questions help you get to the heart of how do we steward dating relationships a lot better than looking for a line we're not supposed to cross.   Laura Dugger: (36:33 – 37:31) When was the first time you listened to an episode of The Savvy Sauce? How did you hear about our podcast? Did a friend share it with you? Will you be willing to be that friend now and text five other friends or post on your socials anything about The Savvy Sauce that you love? If you share your favorite episodes, that is how we continue to expand our reach and get the good news of Jesus Christ in more ears across the world.   So, we need your help.   Another way to help us grow is to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts. Each of these suggestions will cost you less than a minute, but it will be a great benefit to us. Thank you so much for being willing to be generous with your time and share. We appreciate you.   As Christ followers, should we use a friend's preferred names and pronouns? So, how would you respond to that?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (37:32 – 39:20) Boy, this is a hot topic. There are people who have really strong opinions on this. You're saying, do I use a friend's preferred names and pronouns?   And I think the fact that you have a friendship means that you can have a deeper conversation about the meaning of the names and pronouns. And I think that deeper conversation needs to happen. Because, you know, ultimately we don't like, we don't want to just say, “Oh yeah, whatever you want to call yourself is fine with me. Truth doesn't matter.” But on the other hand, we really want to get to the spiritual issue underneath this. And there's a, there's a big difference between somebody who doesn't know the Lord, doesn't know where you stand on any of this, and somebody that you can engage in a conversation with and seek wisdom on.   I think there, there's probably more latitude to use somebody's preferred name than pronouns. And I think in friendships, sometimes you can work that through and just say, you know, “Hey, I love you. I understand where you're coming from. I'm going to try my best to use the name that you're asking. But the pronoun is something that I'm not comfortable with. And here's why. And just like I'm, I want to understand where you are. I hope that you would have grace and understand where I am.” So, in a friendship, you're able to have those kinds of conversations. Whereas if it's a coworker or it's a stranger or a neighbor, sometimes we can't have that level of conversation. And so, I, we might choose to handle the situation a little differently.   Laura Dugger: (39:21 – 39:36) That's good. A hundred percent truth, a hundred percent love or kindness. And what if somebody asks, how much attention should we be giving these secondary issues as believers?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (39:39 – 41:03) Boy, I, I think first of all, the secondary issues come out of the primary issues. So, the primary issue, and you know, the issue I wrote Surrendered Sexuality is about is if my life belongs to the Lord, then my whole life needs to belong to Him, including how I think about cultural issues, including how I treat my neighbor.   And so, I don't see them as secondary issues. I see them as an outgrowth of the primary issue. I think when they become secondary issues are when we argue with other believers about it and it becomes the most important thing. Like I put you in a category based on, will you use preferred names and pronouns? And then I think we're missing what God calls us to.   The primary issue is that we want to honor God and we want to love each other. And so, let's keep going back to that primary issue. How do I love my neighbor well? How do I honor God's truth well? How do I pursue unity within the body of Christ well, as we're navigating some of these secondary issues? So, you know, like if we're going back to the primary issue, it means that we have to talk about the secondary issues, but we talk about them in light of what's primary.   Laura Dugger: (41:04 – 41:17) I like that. And I just have three more of these kind of tricky questions. So, another one, does pornography addiction qualify as reasons for a biblical divorce?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (41:20 – 42:50) I would say, first of all, technically, if we look at the word for sexual immorality in the scripture, which is porneia, we would say, yeah, you know, pornography does qualify for that.   But for the person who's asking this, maybe the woman who's asking this, I would say, why do you want to get out of the marriage? And what Jesus said is Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of your heart. And I think a more important question is where's your heart and where's your husband's heart? Because I've seen people with pornography addictions who have really open hearts towards healing, and they're willing to get the help that they need. They're repentant. They're willing to do the work. They're willing to go through even a time of separation to show that they're serious about that work.   And then there are people who have very hard hearts of, “This is who I am. I might go through the motions, but I'm really not interested in change.” And so, I think the pornography addiction is less the issue than the posture of the person's heart and their willingness to work. And if your spouse is willing to work, then I think it's on us to have soft hearts too, and to be open to the work that God can do.   Laura Dugger: (42:51 – 43:34) That's good because saying you have to zoom out and see more of the story in that stance, because that's very different. Somebody who's working on it and hates the struggle and is wanting to break free versus being married to a narcissist who is abusing you and treating you in a certain way and addicted to pornography. So, you point out well that all of these questions have more to them.   Okay. So, two more, if a spouse has had an emotional affair in the past with a coworker, but they still work with this person, what is the wise thing to do and how should they handle it if their spouse is uncomfortable with them still working there?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (43:36 – 44:33) Yeah, boy, that's something that I would want to seek counseling on. You and your spouse really need to get with a counselor and talk that through. The generic advice in that situation would be to get a different job, to not have that relationship still a temptation or available.   But there are sometimes very extenuating circumstances where that's not a possibility, or at least for now, that's not a possibility. And so, I would really encourage you to meet with a third party to sort through the details of your particular situation. Because it could be that your spouse isn't willing to take that hard step of cutting off that relationship, or it could be that they're willing, but again, there's extenuating circumstances. And I would really want a wise person who is engaging with you to help you navigate that.   Laura Dugger: (44:34 – 44:44) But I love that, how you highlight that something to look for though, is that you would hope your spouse would be willing to make that right, especially if they were the offending.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (44:46 – 44:46) Okay.   Laura Dugger: (44:47 – 45:00) And then also, Juli, because scripture does talk about turning the other cheek, does that mean it's the same as saying God expects you to stay in an abusive marriage?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (45:02 – 47:41) Absolutely not. If you were in an abusive marriage, you are not doing your spouse any good. You are allowing your spouse to be in a place where they're destroying their own life and they're destroying the people that they love.   Now you say, okay, where biblically do we see this? We see that Jesus, he says in John, he says, “I laid down my life for my sheep. I lay it down willingly. No one has the authority to take it from me. I have the authority to lay it down and I have the authority to take it up again.” And we see Him living that out with religious leaders who were after Him all the time, who wanted to stone Him, who were accusing Him of things. It says over and over again that Jesus escaped from them. He just got out of there until it was time that the Father said, now is the time for you to give yourself for the world.   So, we take that principle and we say, Jesus was not abused. Jesus did not let Himself be abused. He gave Himself as a lamb to the slaughter as a sacrifice for the Father and for the world. But that's very different. Up until that time, we see Him have great boundaries. We see Him not get, it even says He didn't entrust Himself to man because He knew what was in their hearts. I mean, He had boundaries with people that could have hurt Him.   And I also love when we see this in the story of King David and Saul, when Saul is chasing David, Saul is abusive, right? He wants to kill David. And so, David escapes. And there's a situation where David has the power or the opportunity to kill Saul and he doesn't do it. And then Saul just is struck by his conscience, and he comes back to David. He goes, “You're a better man than I am. I'm so sorry. You know, come back with me and I'll treat you well.” And even though David doesn't take revenge, he doesn't go back with Saul. He's still, he's like, “You go your way. I'll go my way. I'm going to let the Lord judge between us.”   And I think that's a great model. If you're in any kind of abusive relationship, you don't take revenge, but you also don't stay in that situation. You go your way, let them go their way, and you let God judge between you. And I think we see that over and over again in scripture.   Laura Dugger: (47:42 – 48:19) I think that is so well said. And it reminds me of a somewhat recent conversation in 2025 with Stacey Womack who's saying with domestic violence, really the way God would see it is child abuse. And that kind of helps our paradigm because we are His child.   And she elaborates on that. So, I said that that was the last one, but I actually thought of one more as it relates to our children.   So, is it reasonable to assume that once a child has a smartphone, 100% of them will be exposed to pornography?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (48:21 – 49:15) Yeah, it is. And I would say not just once they have a smartphone, because I know with one of my kids, we delayed the smartphone decision, but he had a learning disability that required him to have an iPad for school. And somehow, even though we locked down all the apps, somehow he's able to access it through that. Or it can be a gaming system, or it can be a friend's phone. And so, having a smartphone or device like that certainly makes it more probable.   But you know, like our kids are surrounded by screens and technology, not just what's in our home, but in other people's homes and at school. And so, I think it's safe to assume, unfortunately, that yes, 100% of our kids are going to be exposed to pornography, probably by the time they're 13 or 14.   Laura Dugger: (49:16 – 49:31) And sadly, some much younger than that. But even if there's parental controls, or filters put on, it is just something on my heart that we have to be so vigilant against.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (49:32 – 50:12) Yeah, no, I felt like when, you know, I have three boys, and when they were all three kind of in those teen years, I felt like I was trying to plug holes in a boat, and there'd be new ones popping up all the time. Whether it's like apps, or you know, things that you think are completely safe. Somehow, pornography can get through.   And our kids are smart, like they know the workarounds to the parental things. And that's why we just need to have conversation after conversation, just discipling them, not just protecting them from pornography, but discipling them through what they're inevitably going to be exposed to.   Laura Dugger: (50:13 – 51:05) That's a great point that not just being reactive, but proactive. I think why I have such a heart for this is because practicing and doing therapy and having so many people come in those wounds, that if that addiction gets a stronghold, and that pornography use, it just can wreak havoc in people long term. And so, if we can do that hard work of discipling early on, it is such a blessing to our children, to the generation.   So, I'm just so grateful for your candid responses. And I think it's also a helpful reminder just to never take on a burden that was never meant for us to carry. So, are there any ways that God has taught you to not try and do His business?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (51:07 – 52:16) Yeah. Boy, that's such a great question. I've had to come to the conclusion that I can't convince anyone of right and wrong. You know, like, I can't convince anyone that pornography is wrong, or gay marriage is wrong, or you know, like, that's not my job. My job is to walk with the Lord with integrity and faithfulness and to testify as to who He is.   And so much of this work, whether we're talking about marriage or our friends or our children, so much of this work has to be the Lord's work. And you reach a stage with your kids when they hit those teen years, where you realize the things my kids most need, I can't give them. I can't give them a relationship with God. I can't give them the desire to follow and seek the Lord. Like, I can model that for them. I can encourage them. But that is between them and the Lord. And if I try to control that, I'm just getting in the way of the work that God wants to do in their lives.   Laura Dugger: (52:18 – 52:33) Goodness, I will need to write that down and reflect on that. That is so good, Juli. And there's still so much more that you could share with us.   So, where is your preferred place that we can go online and continue learning from you?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (52:34 – 52:48) Yeah, I would say two places. Number one, our website is authenticintimacy.com. And the second one is the podcast that I do called Java with Juli. It goes along with The Savvy Sauce, you know, like they kind of go together.   Laura Dugger: (52:49 – 53:11) Yes, absolutely. We will certainly link to all of that in the show notes for today's episode.   And you're familiar, I've asked you many times before, because we are called savvy, because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge or discernment. So, as my final question for you today, Dr. Juli, what is your savvy sauce?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (53:13 – 53:58) Oh, I don't even remember how I answered this the last few times. I think I may have said this before, but I think reading the dead old guys is one of my savvy sauce, like reading people who didn't live in this generation who loved the Lord.   And learning from them is just, that's probably taught me more discernment than anything, because they just cut right through the cultural noise that I think sometimes can blind us. And they really help me see my heart for what it is and help me really want to pursue God at a deeper level.   Laura Dugger: (53:59 – 54:03) Wow. Any specific recommendations that have been personal favorites there?   Dr. Juli Slattery: (54:04 – 54:22) Yeah, I love A.W. Tozer. I love many of Andrew Murray's books, particularly Humility and Absolute Surrender. And C.S. Lewis is another great one, Mere Christianity. So, those are some that I would recommend you start with.   Laura Dugger: (54:23 – 54:44) That is wonderful. Thank you for sharing that.   And Juli, it's just always such a delight to get to share an hour of conversation with you. And you are just this beautiful mixture of bold and gentle and humble, all combined into one. So, thank you for being my returning guest today.   Dr. Juli Slattery: (54:44 – 54:49) Oh, thank you. And it's such a pleasure to be with you. Thanks for your great questions.   Laura Dugger: (54:51 – 58:33) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

Ozempic is everywhere, and the conversation around it reveals far more than a debate about weight loss. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar step into the cultural moment surrounding GLP-1 medications, clarifying their medical purpose while asking more profound questions about motive, discipline, and identity. The guys acknowledge that these drugs have saved lives, especially for those with type two diabetes, but they focus on the growing trend of using them as shortcuts to self-control and image management. What emerges is a challenge to examine why so many are willing to chemically alter their bodies in pursuit of a certain look, and what that pursuit reveals about the desires shaping the heart.The discussion widens to the obsession with perfection and comfort that shapes modern life. The guys describe how we live in a filtered and photoshopped world where appearance becomes currency and praise becomes addictive. Ozempic, they argue, functions as a cultural artifact that exposes a lack of discipline and an unwillingness to embrace discomfort. This shortcut mindset shows up not only in health but also in faith, work, and ministry, where people want outcomes without formation. Discipline, once seen as virtuous, is now treated as oppressive, yet Scripture calls believers to discipline themselves for godliness rather than convenience.Contentment becomes a central theme as the guys contrast cultural messaging with a biblical worldview. Advertisers thrive by sowing dissatisfaction, but Scripture calls believers to gratitude, stewardship, and eternal perspective. Identity is often tied to the scale or the mirror, yet value is rooted in belonging to Christ. Oscar shares practical wisdom about food as fuel rather than a fixation, modeling balance rather than restriction or obsession. Ray emphasizes enjoying God's gifts without letting them rule us, reminding listeners that health is complex and cannot be reduced to appearance alone.The conversation closes with a call to examine judgment, pride, and purpose. The body is not a trophy to display but a temple to steward, and viewing it rightly frees believers from comparison and condemnation. Psalm 139 affirms God's intentional design, pushing back against cultural pressure to reshape what God has formed. True contentment comes from denying self, following Christ, and living for eternal glory rather than temporary praise. There are no shortcuts to sanctification, only grace, discipline, and a life oriented toward making Christ known rather than making ourselves admired. Send a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Vic is doing something wildly out of character… and that's the point! In this life update, she shares why she and her husband, Max, are packing up and living in a sprinter van for a spontaneous three-week road trip across California. After a season of burnout, routine, and always chasing the next goal, Vic opens up about craving more freedom, curiosity, and space to figure out who she is becoming in this next chapter. She breaks down how the trip came together, how Max reacted to her out-of-the-blue idea, what van life will actually look like, and why this journey is about more than just the views. If you've been feeling stuck, overplanned, or disconnected from your sense of adventure, this episode might be the nudge you need. Tune in to hear why Vic is choosing spontaneity, simplicity, and the journey inward this season.Related episode:Chaotic Life Update: I'm Burnt Out & Something Needs to ChangeAubrey & Corporate Natalie are Back!! 2025 Reflections & New Year Goal Setting// SPONSORS // Premier Protein: Find your favorite flavor at premierprotein.com or at Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month.Quince: Go to quince.com/realpod to get free shipping and 365-day returns.LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that's 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ozempic has become a cultural flashpoint that exposes deeper issues of discipline, identity, and the pursuit of approval. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar explore how GLP-1 medications, while medically helpful for some, are increasingly used as shortcuts to self-control in a culture obsessed with comfort, image, and instant results. The guys wrestle with the motives behind using these drugs, asking whether the desire is rooted in health or in the need for affirmation and praise, and they connect this trend to a broader pattern of wanting outcomes without formation. They emphasize that the body is a temple meant to serve the Lord rather than a trophy to impress others, calling believers to pursue contentment, practice godly discipline, and find lasting identity in Christ rather than in appearance or quick fixes. The conversation ultimately points listeners toward eternal mindedness, reminding them that true freedom and transformation come not from altering the body, but from being shaped by Christ.Send a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro