Podcasts about impossible beauty

Most often, this podcast focuses on struggles with beauty and body image among women. Today, however, I want to give us a glimpse into the widespread nature of struggles around food, exercise, and body image among men.Eric Pothen is a Certified Eating Disorder Recovery Coach who works primarily with men and knows firsthand the journey of eating disorder recovery. In particular, Eric works with clients navigating eating disorder recovery, disordered eating, and body image struggles, helping them break free from the grip of food rules, body shame, and self-doubt.In today's conversation, Eric helps us better understand the differences between disordered eating and eating disorders, why men are often hesitant to seek help for struggles with food and body image, names some of the disordered trends he sees at work in our culture when it comes to food and body image, and gives us helpful reminders of how we might all work toward greater wholeness in these areas.I can't wait for you to listen in to this important conversation!Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

American culture is full of striving: hustling at work, pushing ourselves in the gym, working to be beautiful or good enough. In today's conversation, I have the gift of talking with Kimberly Stuart about the concept of grace; how to apply it amidst our culture and why it's entirely miraculous and worth revisiting.  Kim Stuart is the author of eight published novels, a speaker, a writing coach alongside author Bob Goff, co-leads writing retreats, and hosts two podcasts, For Real with Kimberly Stuart and The Writing Room.  In today's conversation, Kim shares about her latest book, Star for Jesus and Other Jobs I Quit: Rediscovering the Grace that Sets Us Free. In particular, Kim discusses what drew her to the topic of grace, how we might reframe perfectionism, what living a great story looks like, and how we can use our agency to redefine beauty in our lives.  This was such a fun and meaningful conversation; I can't wait for you to listen!Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

When discussing the topic of true beauty, it's also important to talk about the times when life isn't so beautiful. In today's discussion, with Michelle Keener, that's exactly what we tackle. Michelle K. Keener (PhD, Liberty) is an adjunct professor of Christianity at Houston Christian University, as well as associate research fellow with the Kirby-Laing Centre for Public Theology. She is also the director of discipleship for a growing church in Las Vegas and an award-winning novelist and devotional author.  In our time together, we discuss Michelle's latest book, Comfort in the Ashes: Explorations in the Book of Job to Support Trauma Survivors. Michelle helps us see how we can be a loving, healing presence to those undergoing struggles, how the church can be more helpful and attentive to those undergoing or recovering from trauma, and what Job teaches us about the beauty of God amidst suffering. My hope is that this conversation will help you feel less alone in any struggle you may be undergoing and, as Michelle says, may we experience God to be our place of refuge.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

About ten years ago, Elise Hu moved to Seoul, South Korea and took a deep dive into the world of K-Beauty culture. Elise is a journalist, podcaster, and the author of Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital. She is the host of TED Talks Daily, a co-host of Forever 35, a host-at-large for NPR, and the host of Accenture's award-winning Built for Change podcast. She is also the co-founder of the podcast production company Reasonable Volume. In today's conversation, Elise opens our eyes to South Korea's intense appearance expectations and how some of those same K-Beauty trends have now made their way into American culture. She discusses how the digital world is impacting beauty standards, including increasing the pressure on all of us to “optimize” our appearance, and how K-Beauty culture's emphasis on flawless skin has made its way into Western beauty culture in significant ways.Most importantly, Elise reminds us that beauty is so much bigger than societal standards and that our worth has nothing to do with our appearance. This is such an important episode; I can't wait for you to listen!Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Do you ever struggle with fear or anxiety? In today's episode, author and pastor, Naeem Fazal shares how beauty can help us overcome fear in our lives.Naeem Fazal is the founding and lead pastor of Mosaic Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is a Pakistani, born and raised as a Muslim in Kuwait. He came to the United States shortly after the Gulf War and had a supernatural experience with Jesus that changed the course of his life.  In our time together, Naeem shares about his unexpected and life-changing conversion experience, as well as about his new book, Tomorrow Needs You: Seeing Beauty When You Feel Hopeless. In particular, he discusses his belief that beauty is the antidote to fear, why we need to put fear on a leash, and how we can practically allow beauty to speak loudest in our lives.This is such an inspiring episode; I can't wait for you to listen!Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Bruce Herman is a painter, writer, speaker, and the author of Makers by Nature: Letters from a Master Painter on Faith, Hope, and Art. Bruce also taught studio art for nearly four decades at Gordon College and his art has been exhibited internationally and is in public and private collections worldwide.In our time together, Bruce reminds us that, being made in the image of the Creator God, we have all been created to create. He also awakens us to the miracles all around us, discussing how God's own being is revealed in the things He's made. As a master painter, Bruce's insights on beauty in the human face and figure, as well as in the world around us, are profound and distinct. I found this interview to be deeply inspiring; I hope it is for you as well. Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Have you ever asked the question, “what is God's will for my life?” or “does my life have purpose?” If so, today's episode is for you. And, thankfully, I couldn't think of a better conversation partner for these topics than Trevor Hudson. Trevor Hudson is an ordained minister in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. After spending fifty years doing pastoral ministry in a local congregation, he now gives his time to lecturing, teaching, and writing in the areas of spiritual formation and spiritual direction.In our time together, we discuss his latest book, In Search of God's Will: Discerning a Life of Faithfulness and Purpose. Trevor shares practical ways to discern God's personal will for your life, helping you to become the unique person God has shaped you to be, and ultimately allowing us the privilege of participating in the hope of the entire universe. In profound and inspiring fashion, Trevor reminds us of God's nearness and active presence in our lives, as well as the true character and astounding love of God.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Rasa Troup, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, OLY is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian with over 20 years of experience. She also owns Rasa Nutrition where she helps clients create a healthy relationship with food. Rasa also competed in the Beijing Olympics and has served as a trusted voice regarding nutrition for various communities, including The Minnesota Vikings, The Minnesota Twins, The University of Minnesota Athletics, The Emily Program, and TRia Orthopedic, among others.In our time together, Rasa shares about her own struggles with nutrition as a competitive athlete and Olympian. She also highlights common lies in the field of nutrition, such as certain bodies having more value (based on their size and shape), as well as health having a ‘look.' Rasa also gives important insight regarding the recent rise in the use of GLP-1 medications, including potential dangers to be considered. Overall, Rasa demonstrates the importance of flexibility and non-perfection when it comes to nutrition and so helpfully reminds us that our bodies indeed do not need to be fixed.Informed Consent for GLP-1 medications document discussed in this episode:https://sizeinclusivemedicine.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MSSI-GLP1-Informed-Consent-10.pdfBuy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

The truth is that our soul is always being formed by something. In today's inspiring interview with Jennifer Tucker, she shares how Christian meditation on Scripture has formed her soul in profound ways. Jennifer Tucker is a bestselling author, artist, graphic designer, follower of Jesus, and an advocate for mental health.In our time together, Jenn shares about her new book, Present in Prayer: A Guided Invitation to Peace Through Biblical Meditation. Specifically, she shares how mindfulness and Christian meditation have deeply shaped her, especially in recent seasons of struggle. She also helpfully reframes anxiety as an invitation to connect with God and shares how mindfulness and Christian meditation can help us redefine beauty. I can't wait for you to listen to this episode!Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Natalie is joined by Susan Lieu to discuss what led her to writing her book, The Manicurist's Daughter, and creating her one woman show, 140 LBS: How Beauty Killed My Mother. After Susan's mother died of a complication during her tummy tuck surgery, Susan was left with a family that wanted to remain silent on her mother's death and how her family was forever changed. Natalie and Susan will use examples from their own stories to talk about how misogyny affects their lives through beauty standards, shame surrounding big feelings and caring for one's mental health, and how the broken medical system costs lives.Support the ShowMake sure you have subscribed to us on Patreon! Every tier has a 7-day free trial and it is the only place to find our free blog posts, Tolerator Check-In episodes, and The Misogyny Meltdown. Follow us at @menivetoleratedpod on Instagram! All ways to support the show can be found at https://linktr.ee/menivetoleratedpod. Join the newsletter so you never miss any update we have on Team Tolerator!Find SusanWebsiteInstagramPurchase The Manicurist's DaughterStream 140 LBS: How Beauty Killed My Mother

Each of us reflects a unique beauty in the world. In today's episode, Dr. Merry Lin invites us into the process of embodying our truest essential self in the world.  Dr. Merry is a clinical psychologist, author, and podcaster with over 30 years of clinical experience. She is also the Executive Director of Dr. Lin & Associates where she leads a team of psychotherapists, leadership and life coaches and HR Management consultants.  In our time together, Dr. Merry shares about her latest book, Rebecoming: Come Out of Hiding to Live as Your God-Given Essential Self. She discusses what the essential self is, why it's so important for us to uncover our essential self, and how it impacts the world around us when we do. Dr. Merry also shares how she sees societal beauty standards impacting women and how rebecoming our essential selves moves us more fully into experiencing true beauty. God has created each of us with incredible artistry and creativity. This episode opens our eyes and hearts to see that unique beauty within ourselves and in the those around us. Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Melanie Penn is a Nashville based songwriter at the crossroads of faith and culture. Melanie was a mainstay in the theatre scene in New York City for several years, most notably playing Sandy on the Broadway national tour of Grease!  After Broadway, Melanie transitioned to songwriting and has collaborated with Nashville producer, Ben Shive, on five albums, including the Immanuel project, detailing Melanie's songwriting journey through the Christmas story.  In my time with Melanie, we discuss her transition from Broadway to songwriting, and the helpfulness of attending to our emotions in decision making and discernment. She also shares about the experience of losing her dad. In that discussion, Melanie reminds us of humanity's need for rescue and the hope we celebrate this Christmas season. Also, amidst society's fear-based messages around getting older, Melanie reframes aging as an opportunity to become more alive.  I can't wait for you to listen to this inspiring conversation with Melanie Penn.Melanie's song, More Alive. Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Because of our unique identities, passions, and gifts, each one of us embodies a unique beauty in the world. Each of us is a limited edition. In today's episode, international speaker, theologian, apologist, and author, Amy Orr-Ewing unpacks the beauty of authenticity and encourages us to find our own unique voice.  More specifically, Amy discusses her latest book, Lead Like the Real You: Wisdom for Women on Finding Your Voice, Pursuing God's Calling, and Leading with Courage, sharing important insights on the uniqueness of leading as a woman at home, at work, or in ministry. She also dives into some of life's big questions, including how she holds fast to the beauty of God amidst the brokenness of life. So, if you're needing a reminder of your unique beauty or perhaps the goodness and beauty of God, this conversation is for you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

I am so grateful to be welcoming Dr. Charlotte Markey back to the podcast today. Dr. Markey is a body image expert, professor of psychology and director of the Health Sciences Center at Rutgers University-Camden. She has authored several books, including her latest release, Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life.Dr. Markey also writes monthly for U.S. News and World Report and Psychology Today, focusing on individuals' eating behaviors, body image, and health. She has also been featured in and interviewed by The New York Times, The Economist, The Today Show, ABC News, Time Magazine, and Mens Health, among others.In our time together, Dr. Markey shares how societal messages can influence body image and how body image is connected to mental health. We also discuss how diet culture currently presents as “health and wellness” and how an overemphasis on “healthy” or “clean eating” might not actually be good for our overall wellbeing. Dr. Markey also shares how changing our bodies doesn't actually improve body image and presents us with practices to confidently inhabit our bodies.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Alastair Sterne's invitation to joy was an unexpected one. Ironically, it was while struggling with depression that he started to pay attention to the full array of his emotions, including joylessness.In this fascinating conversation with creative director turned pastor, Alastair Sterne, he discusses his latest book, Longing for Joy: An Invitation to the Goodness and Beauty of Life. Alastair is currently the associate pastor at Coastline Church in Victoria, British Columbia. In our time together, he talks about why joy can be so elusive, how we can hold joy alongside suffering, how joy connects us to God, and practical ways we can cultivate joy. Regardless of where you are emotionally today, Alastair's insights are sure to inspire and encourage you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

In a turbulent world filled with so much darkness, where and how can we find hope? Furthermore, what role might we play in embodying real hope in a very broken world.  These are the kinds of questions I tackle on the podcast today with Tara Beth Leach.Tara Beth is an author, speaker, and the senior pastor at Good Shepherd Church in Naperville, Illinois. Her most recent publication is a six-week Bible study entitled, Live in the Light: Radiating the Hope of the Letters of John. In our time together, Tara Beth shares about the important role the church plays in living out light and hope in a broken world. She also talks about how we might live in a grounded and authentic hope and what has inspired her in the belief that, in the end, light wins. Tara Beth also shares some important distinctives of authentic beauty, versus societal ideals she sees at work inside and outside of the church.So, if you're needing a reminder of what true beauty is or where hope might be found, this episode is for you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

After having two miscarriages, followed by the sudden loss of her husband, Dawn Mann Sanders felt like it was the end of her world as she knew it. Dawn is a Bible teacher and author of When Your World Ends: God's Creative Process for Rebuilding a Life. In her book, and in today's conversation, Dawn shares what she's learned about rebuilding after significant loss, as well as what the creation story in the book of Genesis taught her about her own process of grief and rebuilding. If you're looking for hope and purpose on the other side of loss, this conversation is for you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

So often the fitness industry can feel intimidating, while messages around health and wellness can be confusing or fuel fear and anxiety. And that's where Michael Ulloa comes in.  Michael is an online personal trainer and performance nutritionist. In his online platforms, and in his work with clients, Michael is calling nonsense on unhelpful or ill-advised fitness and nutrition messages. With a background in occupational therapy, he takes a holistic approach to client care, bringing lightness, balance, and joy to the fitness, health, and wellness space.  ​In my time with Michael, he talks about his own journey, falling prey to fitness content and struggling with body image, as well as the lies he sees at work in the fitness industry. He also discusses how he sees cultural beauty standards influencing the fitness industry and tips for navigating fitness and nutrition content. So, if you're looking for clarity and balance in your journey with food and movement, this conversation is for you. ​Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

After leaving her childhood home on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean, author, slow-living guide, and podcaster, Jodi Grubbs, had assumed the rapid pace and hustle culture in the U.S. Soon, she realized that burnout had crept in, and God was inviting her to a return to the "island time" of her past.In her book, Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale, and in today's conversation, Jodi invites us to grasp a more sustainable approach to life, anchored by the pauses of spiritual practices and an openhandedness before God. Jodi desires to give us all permission to slow down, to see what we're missing when we don't slow down and shares practical ways to adopt more gentle life rhythms. She also kindly shares about more tender parts of her journey, such as learning to trust God again after losing her first husband. If you're ready to take a deep breath and settle into a slower, more intentional way of life, this conversation is for you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Today we're joined by Melissa Johnson (you might remember her from episode 85 of the podcast) for a conversation on How to Talk to Your Kids About IDENTITY, SELF-WORTH & BODY IMAGE. In this episode, we explore how parents can guide their children in understanding their identity in Christ and how it shapes their self-worth. We dive into practical ways parents can instill these values and discuss the struggles young people often face regarding identity. Melissa shares insights on key conversations that parents should have with their kids about body image and offers advice on how to help children foster a positive and healthy view of their bodies. We also talk about how to create a home environment that continually affirms a child's God-given worth and encourages them to see themselves through God's perspective. Join us for this insightful conversation on raising confident, faith-filled kids! And don't forget to go back and listen to Melissa's previous episode for more of her story: https://youtu.be/mxNsHaDepU0  To connect with Melissa, head over to @Melissa.louise.johnson or @impossible.beauty on IG! Get Melissa's book here: https://amzn.to/3SCIfbh Listen to the Impossible Beauty podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/impossible-beauty/id1473369496  SHOP MY BOOKS: Waking Up: Living Open — https://amzn.to/3Lusgrz Love Is Devotional — https://amzn.to/3S6OZhs  FREE Path to Purpose Guide: https://hannahhughes.myflodesk.com/pathwaytopurpose  Shop my favorite Bible studies + devotionals, code HANNAHHUGHES: ⁠thedailygraceco.com/HANNAHH⁠  Connect: ⁠www.thehannahhughes.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thehannahhughes/⁠  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebywordsshow/⁠  Shop my Amazon faves: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/thehannahhughes⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bywords/support

Amidst the pressures and messages of diet and wellness culture, it can be hard to know how to help the next generation establish a healthy relationship with food. And that's where Oona Hanson comes in. Oona Hanson is an educator and parenting coach. Through her writing, workshops, and private consultations, she supports families in raising kids who have a healthy relationship with food and their body. Oona also worked as a Family Mentor at Equip, where she was part of a multidisciplinary care team treating children with eating disorders. She has been featured in television programs, like Good Morning America, and her work has been featured in various publications, including People, USA Today, US News & World Report, Today, CNN, and The Washington Post.In our time together, Oona discusses what lies from diet culture she sees at work in the lives of the families she works with, how a focus on “healthy eating” can become harmful, myths and misunderstandings about eating disorders, and ideas on how to help kids and teens develop a life-giving relationship with food. If you're looking for help walking away from diet culture and modeling something different for the next generation, this episode is for you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Given the pain and suffering in the world, when life isn't so beautiful, it can be hard to know how to interact and relate with God. In today's episode, Dieula Previlon helps us see how leaning into our questions with God can bring about healing and transformation in our lives. Dieula is a licensed professional counselor, ordained minister, certified life purpose coach, and the founder of the non-profit, ElevateHer International Ministries. ElevateHer works to empower women around the world to heal from trauma and become instruments for healing, peace and hope through large and small group trauma healing training. In my time with Dieula, we talk about her new book, Does God See Me?: How God Meets Us in the Center of Our Trauma-Healing Journey. Dieula helps us see the importance of lament, why integrating hope is pivotal in the trauma healing journey and reminds us that we are indeed seen by God.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Words have the power to form us. And that has indeed been the case for author, youth pastor, and podcaster, Micha Boyett. In today's conversation with Micha, she explains how living with the beatitudes, while raising her son with Down syndrome and autism, has deeply formed her.In our time together, she talks about the Dream of God, a reality in which everything is defined by the love of God, and how that concept has shaped her. She also talks about a renewed understanding of what ‘blessing' means and how we hold the tension of longing for the Dream of God, while living in a very broken world. In Micha's latest book, Blessed Are the Rest of Us, she was invited into a new way of living in the world, a way of wholeness and flourishing that Jesus taught about. And in today's conversation, she invites into that same way of living.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

In today's conversation, I was blown away by how a popular therapy model demonstrates the image of God in each of us. More specifically, author and marriage and family therapist, Molly LaCroix helps us see the relevance of the Internal Family Systems therapy model on the journey to healing and wholeness.  In our time together, we talk about her latest book, Journey to Shalom: Finding Healing, Wholeness, and Freedom in Sacred Stories. Molly helps us see the relevance of Biblical stories in our own lives, how our personal healing brings more wholeness in our relationships, and the God-given resources for resilience and healing that are innate in all of us. What I love about this episode is that it speaks to each person's inherent beauty. I can't wait for you to listen.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

So often diet culture disconnects us from our bodies and from having a peaceful relationship with food. In today's episode, I talk with registered dietitian and therapist, Alice Baker, MSRD CEDS-C LMHC LPC LDN, about shedding unhelpful beliefs from diet culture.  Alice Baker has over 27 years' experience in the field of eating disorders. She currently sees clients in private practice as a dietitian and/or therapist, facilitates support groups, presents locally and nationally, and supervises new dietitians in the eating disorder field. In my time with Alice, we talk about the normalization of disordered eating in our culture, the infiltration of diet culture in the church, and how a non-diet approach is compatible with health. Thankfully, Alice also gives us some practical ideas on how we can move toward wholeness in our relationship with food and our bodies amidst diet culture.  Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Melissa L. Johnson is a celebrated author renowned for her evocative storytelling and deep exploration of human emotions. Her latest work, "Soul-Deep Beauty," delves into the intricate ways beauty manifests both within and beyond the physical realm, captivating readers with its profound insights. With a background in psychology, Melissa skillfully weaves themes of self-discovery and personal growth into her narratives, making her a beloved figure among readers seeking both entertainment and enlightenment. Her writing not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on their own perceptions of beauty and identity. Melissa's unique voice and thoughtful prose continue to earn her a place in the hearts of those who cherish literature that resonates on a soul-deep level. Related Links: AMAZON: Soul-deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless WEBSITE: Impossible-Beauty.com

Dr. Jason Nagata is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine at the University of California San Francisco, and is an expert in eating disorders, particularly in boys and men. He has published over 300 articles in academic journals and serves as Senior Editor for the Journal of Eating Disorders, on the International Advisory Board of The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, and the Editorial Board of the Journal of Adolescent Health.  In my time with time with Dr. Nagata, we consider the damaging effects of societal body image ideals among boys and men. We also discuss the lack of research and awareness regarding eating disorders in males, the increasing prevalence of eating disorders in general, the normalization of disordered food and exercise-related behaviors in athletics, and how social media plays into body image struggles and eating behaviors. According to Dr. Nagata, 2/3 of American teenagers want to change their bodies. In today's episode, he helps us better understand food and body image-related struggles among boys and men. This is such an important episode; I'm so glad you're here.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Joy Marie Clarkson has learned the art of seeing goodness, truth, and beauty in our midst and she helps us do the same.  In case you are new to Joy, she holds a PhD in theology from the University of St. Andrews and is the author of two books, Aggressively Happy and, most recently, You Are a Tree. She is also a research associate in theology and literature at King's College London and the books editor for Plough Quarterly.  In our time together, Joy shares about how teaching a course on the idea of beauty in Western Theology has shaped her views on topic, as well as her study of how art can prepare us for death. Joy also explains the power of the metaphors we use and how those metaphors shape us and our experience. In our discussion, and in her latest book, You Are a Tree, she helps us move away from impersonal, productivity-oriented metaphors to help us live into more life-giving and generative ways of being human.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Heather Creekmore is a podcaster, mom of four, body image coach, and author. In our time together, Heather describes what inspired her to write her latest book, The 40-Day Body Image Workbook, as well as why she's so passionate about guiding women out of diet culture and into truth. Heather also describes what has helped her improve her own relationship with her body, she exposes lies associated with diet culture, and helps us reframe aging in a helpful way.If you have ever struggled with body image or beauty ideals, my hope is that Heather's story and authentic reflections will help you feel less alone and bring you greater freedom.*This episode mentions eating disorder-related thoughts, behaviors, and symptoms. Please use your discretion when listening and speak with your support system as needed.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

In today's episode I talk with Dr. Charlotte Markey about body image pressures impacting us and the next generation. Dr. Markey is a body image expert, professor of psychology and director of the Health Sciences Center at Rutgers University-Camden. She has authored several books, including The Body Image Book For Girls: Love Yourself and Grow Up Fearless, Being You: The Body Image Book for Boys, and the forthcoming Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life. Dr. Markey also writes monthly for U.S. News and World Report, Psychology Today, as well as other publications, focusing on individuals' eating behaviors, body image, and health. She has also been featured in and interviewed by The New York Times, The Economist, The Today Show, ABC News, Time Magazine, and Men's Health, among others.In our time together, we talk about recent trends related to social media use and body image, how to build body confidence in ourselves and the next generation, as well as what's behind the increasing rates of body dissatisfaction and eating disorders among males. Dr. Markey's wisdom is a needed voice in our increasingly image-focused society. May we become thoughtful observers of these trends, so we can opt out of the messages and beliefs that don't bring life.  Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

RichBeautifulRedeemingGrace-givingGentle All of these words come to mind when I think about this episode. I hope those sound as lovely to you as they are to me and I know you're going to love this conversation. Today I'm speaking with Melissa Johnson, host of the Impossible Beauty podcast and author of Soul Deep Beauty: Fighting for our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless. I recorded this months ago and as I edited and prepped it recently, I have to admit I needed Melissa's words now more than ever. We discuss:Melissa's experience with her eating disorder Body shameHow not to repeat the cycle of poor relationship with food and our bodies with our daughters"The baby shower effect"Breathand so much moreGet your copy of Soul-Deep Beauty here or purchase at the publisher, Baker House, for 30% off here. Listen to Melissa's podcast, Impossible BeautyConnect with Melissa:impossible-beauty.comInstagram: @impossible.beautyFacebook: Impossible Beauty PodcastMelissa Johnson is a marriage and family therapist, is a spiritual director, and teaches an undergraduate course at Bethel University on soul wellbeing. Melissa is also the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as “the life of God at work in us and among us.” Melissa lives near Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her husband. Learn more at impossible-beauty.com.Support the showReceive my free monthly journal full of food, fitness, faith, fun & moreConnect with Amy: GracedHealth.comJoin the Graced Health community on Facebook! Instagram: @GracedHealthYouTube: @AmyConnellJoin GracedHealth+ for virtual community meetups and bonus episodesLeave a one-time tip of $5Check out my book Your Worthy Body and signature online class B.COMPLETE

John Van Sloten is a Calgary-based writer, teacher, and pastor who is passionate about helping people engage God everywhere. Over the past ten years he has preached dozens of creation and Bible-based sermons on topics like radiation therapy, river hydrology, chemical catalysts, tree branches, human knees, and DNA repair mechanisms. John is a regular columnist with the Calgary Herald and his books include The Day Metallica Came to Church and Every Job a Parable. Over the past ten years, he has been awarded three John Templeton Foundation subgrants for preaching science, has been part of an Ambrose Seminary Science for Seminaries, and has been a Sinai and Synapses fellow. In my time with John, we talk about his latest book, God Speaks Science: What Neurons, Giant Squid, and Supernovae Reveal About Our Creator. John teaches that we can not only learn about God through the Bible, but through creation as well. He shows us that God's love and character can be known more deeply as we marvel at the complexities of His amazing creation. John also shares how his conversion to following God caused him to change his vocation, as well as about the new journey God is leading Him on. John's heart for God and his ability to see him in all things is inspiring. My hope is that this conversation may awaken us all to experience God's presence and work everywhere.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Diane Summers, MS, RDN, CD is the founder of Hope Nutrition Therapy and a nationally registered and state certified dietitian. Diane has treated the full spectrum of eating disorders and concerns since 2004, has been supervising eating disorder dietitians since 2009, and works with clients and consultees around the world. She is also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and a Narrative Focused Trauma Care practitioner.In my time with Diane, we talk about what diet culture is and how it impacts our relationship with our bodies, how diet culture impacts societal beauty ideals, and the prevalence of disordered eating. Diane also helps us unpack the topic of religious fasting during this season of Lent, including disentangling some unhelpful ideas often surrounding this practice. She also reminds us of the redemption and healing present in story work, as well as the richness that can come from growing older. Perhaps most importantly, Diane calls us back to the wild beauty that is innate in all of humanity, including you.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

In today's episode, we consider how looking heavenward can breathe new life into the present. This consideration is not a practice of escapism, but an opportunity to take a step back to see the larger story of humanity, where we've been and where we're headed. Thankfully, today's guest is a gracious and thoughtful guide. Amy Baik Lee is the author of This Homeward Ache: How Our Yearning for the Life to Come Spurs on Our Life today, a literary member of the Anselm Society Arts Guild, and a contributing writer at Cultivating Magazine and the Rabbit Room. In our time together, Amy unpacks what she calls our homeward ache, those moments of beauty or peace that cause us to long for a world we haven't yet experienced. In Amy's view, these moments are piercing hints of heaven that reveal “the great promise of a coming restoration.” Amy helps us understand why this homeward ache matters, how it has altered every area of her life, and how it helps her live more fully in the present. As Amy explains it, Beauty is breaking into this world and someday (to paraphrase J.R.R. Tolkien) everything sad will come untrue; here and now we are invited to be a part of that work of restoration.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Melissa Johnson is a therapist, a recovered eating disorder survivor, a Christian spiritual director, and the author of Soul-Deep Beauty, and the host of the Impossible Beauty podcast, and I am so excited to have her on the podcast today! She shares her story behind struggling with her own body image, as well as how society has place impossible beauty standards on all women. She is on a mission to help others embrace healthy self-talk, dismantle misunderstandings about wellness, and realign their beliefs on beauty. She discusses how to let go of shame, and how reconnect with the Creator (whose image we hold) and find true worth. Follow me on Instagram:Kathryn @kathryn_benkoHeart + Sole @heartandsolepodcastSole Fitness @sole_fitnessSign up for the Sole Online Training App!Use coupon code 'SOLE20' for 20% off your first month!!Follow Melissa on Instagram: @melissa.louise.johnsonListen to her podcast, Impossible Beauty, HERE!Purchase her book, Soul Deep Beauty, HERE!

Kimberly Wilkerson believes in the power of language; how it impacts us and those around us. Kimberly is a speech language pathologist, as well as the founder of Token Clothing Co. At Token Clothing Co., Kimberly has fused her passion for language with her interest in fashion, to give women an experience that helps them overcome limiting beliefs and negative self-talk. In our time together, Kimberly and I discuss the impact of our self-talk on our brains and bodies. Kimberly also shares about her process of discernment in starting Token Clothing Co., as well as what she learned about beauty when participating in the Miss America program years ago. As we move toward redefining beauty in our lives, it's especially important to notice what messages we are believing about beauty and about our worth. My hope is that this conversation may not only help us become more aware of our self-talk, but also encourage us to speak words of truth and life over ourselves and others.Free I AM printables page here:https://www.tokenclothingco.com/pages/iamBuy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

With the start of the new year, we find ourselves in a season inundated with diet and fitness-related ads. We are being saturated with and sold the message that now is the time to change, reshape, or perfect our bodies or food intake. My hope is that today's guest will help us all detox from the current flurry of diet culture messaging and be reminded of the goodness of food and of our bodies. Lisa Diers is a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified yoga teacher who specializes in supporting eating disorder and body image recovery. Lisa has a combined over 20 years of experience in nutrition and yoga services and previously served as the National Nutrition and Yoga Director for a large national eating disorder treatment program. In our time together, Lisa and I discuss the prevalence of disordered eating, as well as what a balanced relationship with food actually looks like. Lisa also explains how nutrition and yoga can be instrumental and complementary in reconnecting with our bodies, why “carbs” and sugar aren't the fear foods diet culture makes them out to be, and offers guidance for those struggling with body image this time of year. My conversation with Lisa was like a breath of fresh air; I hope it is for you as well.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

In 2007, Kristi McLelland went to Israel and realized that God is better than she ever knew. After studying in Egypt and Israel in 2007, Kristi's life took a turn, and she began leading biblical studies trips to Israel in 2008. Kristi is an author, professor at Williamson College, and a biblical culturalist who teaches the Bible in its historical, cultural context. Kristi's most recent book is entitled, Rediscovering Israel: A Fresh Look at God's Story in its Historical and Cultural Contexts. Kristi's study trips to Israel, Italy, Turkey, and Greece, as well as her in-person and online resources position Westerners to discover the Bible within the Middle Eastern context in which it was written.In my time with Kristi, we talk about what she experienced in Israel that helped her encounter the goodness of God in a new way. Kristi also talks about her reflections on the current situation in Israel, the relevance of the Bible in our lives today, why she believes the Bible is the greatest story there is, and how God is a God who sees his children and acts on their behalf. In this season when we reflect on the birth of Jesus, my hope is that this conversation may help us all enter more deeply into the reality of God's nearness to humanity, and to each one of us.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Registered dietitian and author, Dana Sturtevant, believes that society has ruptured our relationship with food, movement, and our bodies. Food has become something to restrict and our bodies a project to tweak and “perfect.” But Dana believes it doesn't have to be this way. She has spent more than 15 years helping people let go of chronic patterns of dieting and disordered eating and move ​​into a more authentic, sustainable way to occupy and nurture their bodies. Dana Sturtevant is the co-author of Reclaiming Body Trust: A Path to Healing and Liberation and the co-founder of the Center for Body Trust. In our time together, Dana discusses the origins of the Center for Body Trust, how diet culture so often gets in the way of trusting our bodies, how “health” has become an aesthetic, and how to engage joyful movement versus toxic fitness culture. Dana's insights are fresh and freeing. My hope is that this conversation may help lead us into more connected and nurturing relationships with our own bodies.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

All too often these days, bread gets a bad rap. In many ways, diet culture has taught us to fear “carbs” in all forms. Today's guest, however, helps us see bread in a new way. She not only invites us to see bread as a gift, but as a sacred reminder of God's presence and provision. Kendall Vanderslice is a professionally trained baker, speaker, and author, including her most recent title, By Bread Alone: A Baker's Reflections on Hunger, Longing, and the Goodness of God. Kendall is the founder of the Edible Theology Project, an educational media project connecting the Communion table to the kitchen table. She holds a master's degree in Gastronomy (Food Studies) from Boston University and a Master's of Theological Studies from Duke Divinity School. Both personally and professionally, Kendall explores how God meets us in preparing food and sharing food with others. In today's episode, Kendall shares how she has come to love bread, how being a baker has shaped her faith, how what we do with our bodies shapes us spiritually, and how she has come to see food as a gift, after experiencing a disordered relationship with food. Kendall's insights are fresh and important. May this episode open our eyes to the gift of food, the gift of our bodies, and how God is forming us and teaching us through all of it.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Deb Benfield has helped hundreds of women heal their relationship with food, eating, and their bodies in her 35-year career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. In her own aging journey, she became frustrated by how difficult it was to find well-researched advice on aging with vitality that was not related to managing weight or youthful appearance. In her group and one-on-one coaching, Deb works with middle-aged women and beyond to help them feel vital and free of culture's stifling diet and movement rules.In my time with Deb, she names and disproves unhelpful myths about the aging process, discusses the prevalence of disordered eating in middle-aged women and beyond, the energy that is available to us if we aren't trying to white knuckle our bodies, and why elderhood is the time to emerge as our truest self. Deb Benfield's work, perspectives, and approach regarding aging are important and powerful. My hope is that this conversation might help you shed unhelpful societal beliefs about aging, so you might walk into the aging journey with more freedom, confidence, and vitality.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Several months ago, The Atlantic reported that forty million Americans have stopped attending church in the past 25 years, representing the largest concentrated change in church attendance in American history. In today's episode, I talk with pastor's kid turned pastor, Natalie Runion, about the trend of diminishing church attendance. Natalie Runion is the author of Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away, worship leader, and the former Pastor of Women and Creative Pastor of Family Ministry at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Natalie has also established the Raised to Stay community “for anyone weary of God's people but longing to keep their faith in God.” In my time with Natalie, we talk about how her experience in the church has led to her current work and ministry, the beauty that is possible in the church, as well as the lies about beauty she's seen at work in women's ministry. Perhaps most importantly, Natalie reminds us that despite the brokenness we sometimes encounter in the church, God's steadfast beauty remains.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Donetta Floyd's compassion and perspectives are so refreshing. When it comes to societal messages around food and our bodies, we can often be left with the feeling that we aren't doing it right. In today's episode, registered dietitian Donetta Floyd helps dispel unhelpful ideas and misconceptions regarding our relationship with food, our bodies, as well as Type 2 Diabetes. Donetta is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who works with clients to help them find freedom in their relationship with food, using a Health at Every Size®, Intuitive Eating, and non-diet approach. In our time together, we talk about how Donetta became passionate about working from a non-diet approach, markers of disordered eating, and misconceptions about “health” having a certain look. Donetta's thoughtful approach to holistic wellbeing is inspiring. My hope is that you leave this conversation feeling more peace in your relationship with food and your body.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Today, I have author Melissa Johnson of Soul Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless. Melissa is also the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as “The life of God at work in us and among us.” She is a marriage and family therapist who has her own story of how God broke her free from the lies of a poor self-image to know her true worth in God. She talks about why we buy into the corrupt beauty standards that our culture pushes and how to be aware of how the beauty industry promotes insecurities among women. It was, for sure, an eye-opener for me as I will look at beauty advertising through a whole new lens! https://www.impossible-beauty.com/souldeep-beauty-book https://www.impossible-beauty.com/ CONNECT WITH JAYME ON SOCIALS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠ l⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ l ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest⁠⁠⁠⁠ l ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠JaymeElizabeth.com

It's time we get honest with ourselves as women today—we're being lied to. Today's cultural beauty standards are messed up. We all know it, and we all think we can resist the pull to look a certain way. But most of us—and our sisters, daughters, and nieces, too—are still striving for a broken kind of beauty while feeling like we're not good enough. In this episode, I'm sitting down with Melissa Johnson, a marriage and family therapist. The lie of today's beauty standards eventually led her to battling an eating disorder. Through that experience, she saw that chasing broken beauty breaks us as women in so many ways. And she also realized that true, soul-deep beauty is not impossible—it abounds in us and all around us.  Melissa and I are talking about how to uncover the hidden damage cultural lies about beauty have on your mind and soul, how to reconnect with God, in whose image you are made, and how to walk away from shame and striving. If you find yourself wishing that you were thinner or smaller, have a list of things you wish you could change about your appearance, or compare your body to other women's bodies, and you're longing for a more self-compassionate relationship with your body, sister, this letter is for you.  Topics we talked about in this episode: Melissa's story as a Christian woman The origin story of Melissa's new book, Soul Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless and what you'll find when you open the cover The unhelpful (but normalized) beliefs we are buying as women when it comes to beauty What happens when we embrace our bodies as miracles and what it looks like to practice gratitude for our aging bodies What living in loving community with other women looks like How Melissa defines true beauty The ways that Melissa lives out the feminine genius in her own daily life Resources you should check out after listening to this episode: Pick up a copy of Soul Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless Visit Melissa's website, Impossible Beauty and listen to the Impossible Beauty podcast Follow Melissa on Instagram Check out the sponsor for today's episode, CORDA, and use the code LETTERS to get 10% off your purchase at checkout Pick up a copy of the Letters to Women book (and use the code LETTERS at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase!) Check out my monthly newsletter, Naptime Notes Subscribe and Review Letters to Women in iTunes Are you subscribed to Letters to Women? If not, you should subscribe today! You don't want to miss any of the upcoming episodes. Click here to subscribe in iTunes.

Emmy Russell is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter who has been performing for the majority of her life. Touring on the road with her grandmother, country legend Loretta Lynn, Emmy started singing on stage at the age of two. Years later, Emmy sang with Willie Nelson's son, Lukas, at her grandmother's memorial. This special performance was nominated for Performance of the Year at the CMT Music Awards. Most recently, Emmy released the song, “Skinny” with The Song House, detailing her struggle with an eating disorder. The song has received a warm reception and has been widely shared, getting over 300k likes on Instagram. In our time together, Emmy shares about her struggles with disordered eating, the pressures of image in the music industry, and how she's moved toward healing in her own journey. Emmy's song and authenticity are beautiful and courageous. She reminds us of the power of vulnerability in helping ourselves and others move toward healing.*This episode mentions eating disorder-related thoughts, behaviors, and symptoms. Please use your discretion when listening and speak with your support system as needed.Watch Emmy Russell's performance at The Song House here.Watch the official music video for "Skinny" here. Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Gaelynn Lea is a professional musician and sought-after public speaker. She has opened for numerous artists including the Decembrists, composed the music for Macbeth on Broadway, starring Daniel Craig, and her perspectives have been shared on outlets such as On Being With Krista Tippett and PBS NewsHour.Having been born with Osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease, Gaelynn has had to navigate the world differently. Such life experiences have shaped her perspectives in important in meaningful ways, including becoming an advocate for Disability Rights and Accessibility. In our time together, Gaelynn shares about the beautiful insight that disability can bring, as well as her passion for increased education about disability. She also discusses the transcendence of music, how she is able to hold life's beauty and pain, and how she broke free from lies associated with societal beauty.Gaelynn Lea is an incredibly talented musician, and she is so much more than that. She invites us all to take a deeper look at life, what it's ultimately about, and the kind of beauty that is truly worth pursuing.To watch Gaelynn's TED Talk, go here. Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Societal notions of “beauty” and our relationship with our bodies and food have been deeply influenced by diet culture. Author and registered dietitian Christy Harrison defines diet culture as: “a system of beliefs that equates thinness, muscularity, and particular body shapes with health and moral virtue; promotes weight loss and body reshaping as a means of attaining higher status; demonizes certain foods and food groups while elevating others; and oppresses people who don't match its supposed picture of ‘health'…It masquerades as health, wellness, and fitness.” (Anti-Diet, Christy Harrison, p. 7).In today's episode, I talk with registered dietitian, sports nutritionist, and nutrition therapist Leslie Schilling about the widespread impacts of diet culture, including in our schools, medical offices, and places of worship. Leslie recently released her second book, Feed Yourself: Step Away from the Lies of Diet Culture and into Your Divine Design. She has also served as a performance nutrition consultant for Cirque du Soleil®, an expert contributor to U.S. News & World Report, and has been featured in media outlets like Health, Women's Health, Self, Pregnancy Magazine, Yoga Journal, The Huffington Post, and on HGTV.In my time with Leslie, she helps us unravel some of diet culture's lies, including how its beliefs and practices have infiltrated the church. She also helps us see that thinness isn't synonymous with health, our worth is not tied to our body size or what is on our plate, and that body diversity is divine. In so many ways, Leslie helps us name the lies of diet culture so we can fight back, live in freedom, and trust our body's divine design.Learn more about Leslie's book, here.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Thank you for listening to My Yes Is On The Table, a podcast hosted by Jennifer Hand and Coming Alive Ministries.  Today Jenn welcomes Melissa L. Johnson to talk about her new book, Soul-Deep Beauty.  Melissa is a marriage and family therapist and founder of the Impossible Beauty blog and podcast. Melissa's new book: Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless Impossible Beauty podcast with Melissa Johnson Captivating podcast with Stasi Eldrege Your Next Brave Step podcast with Deb Brown Connect with Melissa L. Johnson: Instagram, Impossible-Beauty.com Connect with Jenn: Instagram, Facebook, Website DONATE to Coming Alive Ministries  

Grace Wabuke Klein has had her share of ups and downs. From fleeing Uganda under the reign of Idi Amin as a child to having her prayers to get married answered at the age of 42, Grace has had a full life. She has also learned, and now encourages others, that we can find purpose even in difficult days and seasons of waiting. In her new book Flourish: Finding Purpose in the Unknown and Unexpected Seasons of Life, Grace gives a fresh perspective on the winter seasons we all go through, as well as practical steps to not just survive but to find purpose in the unknown and unexpected. Grace has empowered others in their leadership and spiritual growth as part of the pastoral leadership team at Faith Church in West Covina, California and now with her husband at focus412, a ministry that helps encourage church growth. In my time with Grace, she explains how she remained connected to God during her own winter seasons of struggle, what has helped her establish deep roots of faith, and the lies about beauty she has had to shed over the years. Perhaps most importantly, Grace reminds us of our true identity and deep beauty; ultimately, as Grace says it, “we are a reflection of who God is on this earth.”Learn more about Grace's book, here.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Some of life's greatest lessons come from unexpected teachers. For Lacy Finn Borgo, some of her greatest teachers have been children. In Lacy's new book, Faith Like a Child: Embracing Our Lives as Children of God, Lacy invites us to consider what we might learn from children. Moreover, could welcoming our child selves draw us deeper into wholeness and our relationship with God?Lacy Finn Borgo teaches and provides spiritual direction through Renovaré, Mercy Center Burlingame, Companioning Center, and with children at Haven House, a transitional facility for families without homes. She holds a doctor of ministry degree in leadership and spiritual formation and a certificate in spiritual direction from Portland Seminary. Borgo has also authored Spiritual Conversations with Children and the children's book, All Will Be Well. In our time together, Lacy and I discuss what we can learn from children and what it means to welcome our child selves. We also consider the importance of tending to childhood wounds, how to remain open to wonder amidst life's griefs and brokenness, and why imagination is pivotal in the life of faith. This episode is filled with so much wisdom; I can't wait for you to listen.Learn more about Lacy's book, here.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Melissa L. Johnson is a licensed marriage and family therapist, adjunct instructor at Bethel University, and the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as “the life of God at work in us and among us”. Melissa's writing and podcast interviews seek to uncover what true beauty is, what it is not, and how we go about finding beauty in a broken world. Melissa is releasing her debut book with Bethany House publishing in June, 2023, entitled Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless. LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE IF: You want to learn how we are being lied to about true beauty You seek to love yourself- and others - unconditionally You want a new perspective about how true beauty invites us into an adventure and affirms our true worth You can learn more about Melissa: Instagram: @Melissa.louise.johnson Impossible Beauty Podcast www.impossible-beauty.com

This conversation with my new friend, Melissa Johnson is such an important one to have. We talk about how media and other outside influences are determining our self worth and identifying who we are in every area of our lives. In her new book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting For Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, Melissa discusses the importance of looking to God to find our identity. She talks about her struggle with an eating disorder that began in her adulthood and how the recovery journey has influenced her and led her to understand God and His Presence in a whole new way! I pray this conversation helps and encourages you today where you are to truly look beyond the exterior and into who God created you to be starting with the inside. Bio: Melissa Johnson is a marriage and family therapist, is a spiritual director, and teaches an undergraduate course at Bethel University on soul wellbeing. Melissa is also the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as “the life of God at work in us and among us.” Melissa lives near Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her husband. Anchor Verse: John 10:10 Connect with Melissa: Website: https://www.impossible-beauty.com IG: https://instagram.com/melissa.louise.johnson Ministry IG: https://instagram.com/impossible.beauty FB: https://www.facebook.com/impossible.beauty.podcast Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/impossible-beauty/id1473369496 Book Links: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/492083?fbclid=PAAaaCt5RYBLGaGHQNyrQumzNLEjAvxTaoASDL9Um20Xs1ERRpmbbwCCcj6vU_aem_th_AfT7B5AYDMGTyNAc8dPGJe0-CKjb8EDByNZ_qakaayg_shpvMm2LObZFttdTs-IraNE https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Deep-Beauty-Fighting-Demanding-Flawless/dp/0764241656/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= **This podcast is a proud member of the Spark Network! It is a network of Christian podcasts that cover so many different topics!  Head over to: https://www.sparkmedia.ventures/spark-network#/ to find more amazing podcasts!!**

Do you ever look in the mirror and feel like your reflection doesn't measure up? If so, you're in good company. I think we can all agree that American beauty standards have gotten out of control. That's why we've got Melissa Johnson of Impossible Beauty with us today to expose the lies our culture and media preach and help us redefine beauty so we can finally be free to embrace the fullness of who God created us in His image to be. To connect with Melissa , head over tohttps://www.impossible-beauty.com/ or @melissa.louise.johnson / @impossible.beauty on Instagram! Get your By Words Story candle here: https://www.juneandblume.com/shop/p/storycandle  (Use code BYWRDS10 for 10% off your June + Blume order!) Shop my favorite Bible studies + devotionals: thedailygraceco.com/HANNAHH  Get 20% off your BIOHM Health order with code HANNAH: https://www.biohmhealth.com/  Connect: www.thehannahhughes.com Instagram: @thehannahhughes @thebywordsshow Shop my Amazon faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thehannahhughes --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bywords/support

Join Stasi and her guest Melissa Johnson – therapist, teacher and author – as they discuss soul-deep beauty. Most of us have been sold a shame-based view of beauty which can rob us from resting in our true authentic beauty. Melissa defines authenic beauty as the life of God at work in us and among us. Friends, we are at our most lovely when we are living in union with God, embracing the fullness of the life for which we are created.…..SHOW NOTES:…..Melissa Johnson BIO:Melissa L. Johnson is a licensed marriage and family therapist, spiritual director, and the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as “the life of God at work in us and among us”. She also teaches a course on soul well-being at Bethel University. Melissa's writing and podcast interviews seek to uncover what true beauty is, what it is not, and how we go about finding beauty in a broken world. She is releasing her debut book with Bethany House publishing on June 6, 2023, entitled Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding FlawlessWebsite: impossible-beauty.com @melissa.louise.johnson@impossible.beautyFacebook: Impossible Beauty Podcast and Blog…..Don't Miss Out On The Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:Spotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

Are you being sold a broken brand of beauty?Beauty narratives our culture feeds us literally destroys lives. However, God has a different version of beauty, one that's life giving, and soul deep! So let's chat it about! On this episode we welcome Melissa L. Johnson, author of Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless. This conversation is so good and so necessary!Listen wherever you get your podcasts or use the link in our profile.And as always, we'd love if you'd share this episode with your friends and/or leave us a review. (Five star reviews are our faves—hint, hint, wink, wink, lol. Thank you!)About Melissa:Melissa L. Johnson (impossible-beauty.com) is a marriage and family therapist, as well as a spiritual director. She is also the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as "the life of God at work in us and among us." Melissa lives near Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her husband.Website | Podcast | Book:https://www.impossible-beauty.comSupport the showWhat's Your Story on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/whatsyourstory.podcast To connect with Hannah visit http://www.hannahrconway.com To connect with Stephani visit http://www.stephanicook.org

In this episode, Hope and Haley talk about how to have a positive self image while constantly comparing your image to social media influencers. Lip filler, fake lashes, Botox- How do you even keep up?

This month we're talking about topics we don't often spend time talking about, but we should. Today, the impossible pressure from our culture regarding beauty - to look forever young. This is NOT just a show for women, since men struggle with the glory days, as well.  What does Jesus say about this in scripture. Listen in today for some great wisdom on this hard, cultural hot topic. Links: Better Help Subscribe to Ministry Strong Podcast Website   A JOE Production. For more information, contact lainie@lisawhittle.com  

The Italian election, and how hard it is to cover international news. Ontario shop teacher makes Caitlyn Jenner look like a tourist. The Governor General redacts orange juice from catering receipts. No one wants to join the military of a liberal government.R'ohan Well Service is hiring for all positions.office@rohanltd.com780-872-7887rohanltd.com

Body dysmorphic disorder linked to deficits in cognitive flexibility and visuospatial skills https://www.psypost.org/2022/07/body-dysmorphic-disorder-linked-to-deficits-in-cognitive-flexibility-and-visuospatial-skills-63425 Study indicates that thin influencers do not motivate healthy food choices among tweens https://www.psypost.org/2022/07/study-indicates-that-thin-influencers-do-not-motivate-healthy-food-choices-among-tweens-63449 Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comFollow KOP on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Facebook @kingofpodcastsSend a question, comment or topic to KOP to kingofpodcasts@yahoo.com and I will talk about it on a future segment of Depraved and Debaucherous.

The beauty standards promoted in culture are nearly impossible and destructive for many. Do we need a new and expanded perspective on beauty? Today's guest helps us do that. Melissa Johnson, marriage and family therapist, and educator talks with Dr. Carol about her own story of leaving her distorted view of beauty behind to grasp God's perspective, and how she is now helping other people on the same journey. Connect with Melissa Johnson on her website, Instagram, or Facebook. Check out her Impossible Beauty podcast. Check out the episode when Dr. Carol was on the Impossible Beauty podcast. Dr. Carol would love to hear from you! You can leave a confidential message here. 

This week we're joined by the incredible Dana Omari, RDN, owner of the IG Famous by Dana instagram page and host of the Serial Fillers Podcast! Why do celebrities who have obviously had work done deny it so aggressively? Is there anyone 100% natural left in Hollywood? Did Drake get lipo on his abs??? We get brutally honest and down & dirty about just how common celebrity cosmetic surgeries, injections and procedures are, the myth of “natural" perfection, impossible beauty standards, the Brazilian Butt Lift's meteoric rise to power, why some influencers benefit from staying quiet about the work they've had done, super subtle nose jobs you may not know about and MORE! Send us your feedback and questions for next week's episode to podcastbrutal@gmail.com or DM us on instagram @brutalpod ! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brutalpodcast/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brutalpodcast/support

""Telling It Like/Your Check Shirt" was created using samples extracted from a 30-minute 2013 shortwave broadcast of Radio Australia Jazz Notes. Sound/conceptual artist Alyce Santoro and composer Reed Maxson collaborated long-distance to create the finished piece, with draft sound files sent back and forth between Texas and California over the course of several days.  The following works are woven into the piece — all credit is due to the artists:  The Catholics, Yonder, "I Cover the Waterfront": https://thecatholics.bandcamp.com/track/i-cover-the-waterfront Jess Green, Tinkly Tinkly, “Your Check Shirt”: https://jessgreensbrightsparks.bandcamp.com/track/your-check-shirt  Stoneflower, Stoneflower, “Impossible Beauty": https://stoneflower.bandcamp.com/track/impossible-beauty   The Catholics, Yonder, "Mr. Crocodile": https://thecatholics.bandcamp.com/track/mr-crocodile" Composition by Alyce Santoro & Reed Maxson. Part of the Shortwave Transmissions project, documenting and reimagining the sounds of shortwave radio - find out more and see the whole project at https://citiesandmemory.com/shortwave

In today's episode, I open up about body image, beauty standards and how our inner monologue is impacting your self esteem. Sneaky podcast discount for my store ILOVEME for 20% sitewide - click here to shop - Valid from 1 Aug - 8th Aug 2021

Hello to you in Saint Albans, Vermont, the Maple Syrup Capital of the World! Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday with questions carefully chosen to help you collect stories in the oral tradition or spark your own writing. Either way, you'll say, "Thanks for the memories." In the absolute depths of winter I've gone cross-country skiing through maple syrup groves and there is no place quite so silent. This tranquil memory is for those times when I can't shut out the noise and must create my own silence by returning to nature and be there. One of the world's great mysteries is how nature is our quiet symbol of silent impossible beauty.As Walter Russell reminds us: “Seek to be alone much to commune with Nature and be thus inspired by her mighty whisperings within your consciousness. Nature is a most jealous god, for she will not whisper her inspiring revelations to you unless you are absolutely alone with her.”Story Prompt: What inspiring revelations has Nature whispered to you? Write that story!  Practical Tip: The magic of stories is also in the sharing. If you wish share your story with someone or something.   All that matters is you have a story.This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic.  Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time! You're invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story ArtsProduction Team: Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 - Present: for credit & attribution Quarter Moon Story Arts

In this episode, Shnequia and Lakesha center the discussion around the topic of body image. Topics of discussion will include defining what body image is, what influences body image, the effects of poor body image, and ways to promote positive image. Additionally, we give our perspectives and opinions on some current events in the "buzzworthy topics" segment including the verdict of Derek Chauvin. Don't forget to like, share, comment, subscribe, and follow us! New episodes every other Tuesday!

Today’s episode is a little different. Back in Episode 18, I shared a little about my story and why I’m so passionate about beauty and why I even started Impossible Beauty in the first place. In today’s episode, I share a bit more about why I care so much about this topic and why I hope you’ll join me in redefining beauty and seeking after true beauty. So please sit back and I hope you enjoy part two of “Why I’m So Passionate about Beauty.”

Today on Benny Asking People Questions we speak with Siu and Leah of Loopy Tunes Music in New Zealand. We discuss their love for music, their love for culture and language sharing and their impending impossibly massive and most beautiful of projects. The post The impossible beauty of a loopy tune appeared first on Benny Time.

We really need to learn to love ourselves without all that extra stuff. We welcome your reviews and comments email: chimein@theconversationtheory.com Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE!!! Rate!!! And Review!!! You can follow the Podcast and Mia on Twitter or Instagram at: https://twitter.com/TheConvoTheory https://twitter.com/TheTheoryofMia https://www.instagram.com/theconversationtheory/ https://www.instagram.com/thetheoryofmia/ Don't forget the blog "After Thoughts" on our website at http://theconversationtheory.com/afterthoughts/

In this fourth week of the Great Fast, when the Church commemorates the universal adoration of the precious Cross, our broadcast looks at an important passage by St Symeon the New Theologian, on being joined to the suffering Christ and so attaining the "impossible beauty" of His glory. We ask with the saint: how shall we approach such glory?

In this fourth week of the Great Fast, when the Church commemorates the universal adoration of the precious Cross, our broadcast looks at an important passage by St Symeon the New Theologian, on being joined to the suffering Christ and so attaining the"impossible beauty" of His glory. We ask with the saint: how shall we approach such glory?