Podcasts about weightlossjourney

After taking some much-needed time off before, during, and after our family cruise, I'm finally back behind the mic — and whew, it's been a minute! In this episode, I'm catching you up on life, how hard it can be to get back into your rhythm, and the lessons I learned along the way.This isn't just a vacation recap. It's a reminder that life is happening right now. You can't wait until you lose the weight or have it all together to make memories. From cruise chaos to core memories, I'm sharing how “someday” never comes, why you should take the trip, and what going with the flow taught me about self-acceptance and joy.Plus, I'll share a few of my favorite Amazon outfit finds and cruise must haves that made the trip easier, cuter, and a little more glam (even in mom mode).

In this emotionally charged and deeply honest episode, Christina and Brittany unpack what really happens when emotions take over in relationships. Christina opens up about a recent conflict that left her feeling angry, frustrated, and raw—sharing how quickly emotions can escalate when communication breaks down.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!

Ozempic continues to spark headlines as its role in weight loss becomes more central to discussion in both medical circles and popular culture over the past week. Driven by ongoing demand and complex debate, the medication, originally developed for managing type two diabetes, is being increasingly prescribed as an aid for weight reduction. Recent news coverage demonstrates that the public conversation about Ozempic's impact is not slowing down. One of the most prominent voices weighing in this week has been Oprah Winfrey, who has offered candid reflections on her own experiences with Ozempic and the accompanying social reactions.This week, Oprah Winfrey openly addressed her use of Ozempic, stating that the medication had been part of her recent weight loss journey. The disclosure provoked a surge of reaction, with many in the media and public responding to her admission. According to JB Press, Oprah was direct in acknowledging how Ozempic had contributed to her results and sincerely discussed the reasons behind her choice. She emphasized that her decision was informed not just by the desire for weight loss, but by a broader understanding of health, aging, and the pressures faced by individuals in the public eye. Oprah expressed that Ozempic helped her manage not only her physical appearance but also her relationship with food and ongoing health challenges.The admission generated considerable controversy, especially in social media circles and news outlets. AOL reports that Oprah faced criticism from some who accused her of taking what they described as the easy way out. Detractors argued that reliance on medication sidesteps the harder emotional and behavioral work of traditional weight loss approaches. Yet, others pointed out that access to new treatments like Ozempic can democratize health outcomes for people who have battled obesity and associated health issues for years. Notably, Oprah addressed the backlash with clarity, stating that individual health decisions are complex and personal, and that stigma can deter meaningful progress in addressing obesity.While much of the discussion this week has centered on celebrity use and cultural debate, medical professionals have continued to caution that Ozempic is not a substitute for healthy eating or exercise. They underscore that while it may curb appetite and support weight loss, it should be prescribed thoughtfully and monitored by a physician. New data has emerged suggesting that demand for Ozempic has increased during the past seven days, especially following endorsements by well-known personalities. This has prompted ongoing examination regarding accessibility, cost, and responsible use.The increased attention on Ozempic this week has also reignited questions about the long-term effects of its use. Medical experts, as quoted in several news sources, remind listeners that Ozempic is primarily intended for people with type two diabetes, and that off-label use must be scrutinized to prevent negative outcomes. They warn against seeking the medication without proper guidance and note that lifestyle change remains a crucial part of sustainable weight management. The FDA continues to evaluate the safety profile of these drugs as more data comes to light.Overall, the recent wave of coverage shows that Ozempic is at the heart of a rapidly evolving public conversation about medicine, body image, and social stigma. Oprah Winfrey's openness this week has made a significant impact, both in encouraging honest dialogue and in prompting critical reflection about how we perceive health and beauty in the modern era. The question of whether medical intervention for weight loss constitutes an easy fix or an important tool remains active, and the story continues to evolve as more individuals and experts join the discussion.Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai.Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

In this episode of The Body Pod, we sit down with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky — The GLP-1 Doc to uncover the truth about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, and what they really mean for women's health, hormones, and sustainable weight loss.We dig into the real science behind appetite, metabolism, and obesity, and why weight gain isn't a failure of willpower but a matter of biology and hormones — especially for women in perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Nadolsky explains the myths around diet culture, Big Pharma, and compounded GLP-1 medications, plus how the medical system often overlooks women struggling with weight, fatigue, and hormonal changes. Whether you're curious about GLP-1 drugs, navigating menopause weight gain, or frustrated by conflicting weight loss advice, this conversation will leave you informed, empowered, and hopeful about your health journey.

In this episode of the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast, host Diana Winkler interviews Pastor Mark Sowersby, who shares his powerful testimony of overcoming childhood abuse and finding forgiveness and healing through faith. Mark recounts his early life filled with abuse, meeting Jesus at 16, and wrestling with his identity as a victim. Through the love of his church community and personal determination, he not only found freedom but also pursued education and ministry. He also speaks about reconnecting with his birth father and how the loss of his mother catalyzed the launch of his ministry, 'Forgiving the Nightmare'. The episode serves as an inspiring account of transformation, resilience, and the power of unconditional God's love. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:47 Welcome to the Podcast 01:25 Introducing Pastor Mark Sowersby 01:40 Technical Difficulties and Apologies 02:17 Pastor Mark's Testimony 05:49 Childhood and Abuse 07:10 Finding Faith and Forgiveness 18:06 Weight Loss Journey and Healing 23:08 Dyslexia and Education Struggles 24:42 Writing a Book and Ministry 28:14 Reading the Bible: Audio vs. Written 28:27 A Life-Changing Christmas Story 29:20 Overcoming Illiteracy with Help 30:14 A Love Story Blossoms 30:56 College Journey and Divine Guidance 32:49 Answering the Call to Ministry 33:13 Struggles with Self-Worth 35:15 Finding Confidence in God 35:56 Weight Loss and Self-Love 40:01 Victim to Victor: A Personal Transformation 45:00 Reuniting with Birth Father 48:20 Launching Forgiving the Nightmare Ministry 54:40 Final Thoughts and Prayer   website: www.forgivingthenightmare.com email: mark@forgivingthenightmare.com    Bio:  Reverend Mark Sowersby has been married to his wonderful wife Jennifer for 17 years and is the father of four children. Mark has been an ordained minister with Assembly of God for over 25 years and is currently the Pastor of Christian Assembly of Schuyler in beautiful upstate New York. Pastor Mark holds a BA in theology from Zion Bible College/Northpoint Bible College. In 2019 Pastor Mark went through a time of great healing. He began speaking about the experiences of his past and God's grace and the transformational work of forgiveness in his life. He now speaks about his story through his ministry, Forgiving The Nightmare. When he isn't serving his congregation and his community through ministry, teaching, and support, you can find him on all the trails and lakes in Upstate New York, spending time with his family.   Website: https://dswministries.org Subscribe to the podcast: https://dswministries.org/subscribe-to-podcast/ Social media links: Join our Private Wounds of the Faithful FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1603903730020136 Twitter: https://twitter.com/DswMinistries YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxgIpWVQCmjqog0PMK4khDw/playlists Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dswministries/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSW-Ministries-230135337033879 Keep in touch with me! Email subscribe to get my handpicked list of the best resources for abuse survivors! https://thoughtful-composer-4268.ck.page #abuse #trauma Affiliate links: Our Sponsor: 753 Academy: https://www.753academy.com/ Can't travel to The Holy Land right now? The next best thing is Walking The Bible Lands! Get a free video sample of the Bible lands here! https://www.walkingthebiblelands.com/a/18410/hN8u6LQP An easy way to help my ministry: https://dswministries.org/product/buy-me-a-cup-of-tea/ A donation link: https://dswministries.org/donate/ Transcript: [00:00:00] Special thanks to 7 5 3 Academy for sponsoring this episode. No matter where you are in your fitness and health journey, they've got you covered. They specialize in helping you exceed your health and fitness goals, whether that is losing body fat, gaining muscle, or nutritional coaching to match your fitness levels. They do it all with a written guarantee for results so you don't waste time and money on a program that doesn't exceed your goals. There are martial arts programs. Specialize in anti-bullying programs for kids to combat proven Filipino martial arts. They take a holistic, fun, and innovative approach that simply works. Sign up for your free class now. It's 7 5 3 academy.com. Find the link in the show notes. Welcome to the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast, brought to you by DSW Ministries. Your host is singer songwriter, speaker and domestic violence advocate, [00:01:00] Diana Winkler. She is passionate about helping survivors in the church heal from domestic violence and abuse and trauma. This podcast is not a substitute for professional counseling or qualified medical help. Now here is Diana. Welcome back. You made it well. I have a great guest for you today. I told you about him last week. Pastor Mark Sowersby and he has knocked this interview out of the park, and we had an amazing time. We did not have an amazing time with the Zoom platform. I could not hear him, but he could hear me, and it was a half an hour of back and forth trying to get it to work. So I wound up having to record this episode on our phones with the earbuds. So I don't normally do [00:02:00] that. I usually have my $300 studio microphone. So if it doesn't sound as good, I apologize. But this content is so great that I think you'll forgive me, but I'll try to do some, post-production, to make it sound better. So without further ado. Here is Pastor Mark. Yeah. Nice. Nice to meet you. Yes, nice to meet you also. And I saw your wife there too, so, and I think you saw my husband's beard anyway. Yes. And my wife is the strength and the brains of this operation around us. I'm blessed. I'm a blessed man there. Amen. Thank you. Yes. So we got the, um, the technical, uh, demons outta the way. Well, I appreciate that. We tried two computers and my Apple phone. And I have to tell you, I am a novice at computers at best, so Yeah, me too. So we're kindred spirits for sure. Amen. Amen. And I read your testimony about your [00:03:00] website and your faith and your podcast and everything. What a beautiful testimony you have. Oh, thank you so much. So you, you're in Arizona, is that correct? Yes. Wow. Wow. Well, I have to tell you of one of my bucket lists because I'm a northeast guy. I'm a New England, New York. We have snow. It's freezing. They're saying we could have a possible blizzard tomorrow. Uh, I love that. Go to the Grand Canyon. That's my, on my bucket list. My, my family. Hear me speak about that all the time. I've never seen it. But I long to, let me tell you, it's more breathtaking than you can imagine. The pictures don't do it justice. I've been there many, many times, of course. And yes, you should come as soon as you're allowed to travel. I would be over here. Yeah. There's so much more to see. We long to go. We really want to see it. You know, if somebody said, you really see the significance when you look at that great canyon and you see how [00:04:00] small you are, it humbles you and reminds you of what a great big God we serve. So, you know, we just, uh, amen. Thank you for hearing my story and my testimony, and it's an honor to be here with you and celebrate the victories that we have in Christ. Amen, brother. We're gonna get to know you a bit here for my listeners. So why don't you tell the, listeners a little bit about yourself. My name is Mark Sowerby. I'm a husband, a father, a friend. I'm a sports fan. I eat too much. I talk too much, but I'm a pastor and a servant of Jesus Christ. I was looking at all your pictures and stuff, and I saw your progression of your weight loss. That is so amazing. Thank you. Thank you. And my weight loss journey is really just a symptom. Or result of the greater healing that's taken place in my life. Uh, I'm very proud of it. It's something [00:05:00] I have to work hard for and be very disciplined in. So yes, there's a work towards it, but really it's the sub to the main plot. The main plot is what Jesus did in my heart to help me forgive and help me heal the abuses and the pains. And as that began to fill my life, this weight loss journey with the discipline and that burning good habits and exercising, and I'm up to running, uh, six miles a day on the treadmill. So, wow. Six miles. Yeah. So well, remember, we're not in Arizona heat, so it's not hot, well, I have a treadmill. That's usually what I exercise on. I have an exercise room, I don't run unless somebody's chasing me or the laxative has started working. Those are good reasons to run. so let's start at the beginning. So what was your childhood like? Well, unfortunately I have a story of brokenness, pain, and sorrow. I was born from an affair. Uh, so my [00:06:00] father never really had a relationship with him. I am assuming that as soon as he, uh, got the news, he, he left. So I was raised by my mom. I have two siblings that my mom had from a prior marriage. So the three of us kind of lived together at my grandmother's house, and that's what I knew. That was what life was. I was seven years old. A young man came into our family, and that young man eventually married my mom 20 years, her younger, and when he came into our home, he brought abuse and pain. He brought death and destruction. He brought lies and poison. And as any abuser, those abusers have touched many people. And as not only did he abuse my mom in a and. With just vulgarness and pain, but he also abused me and with sexual abuse and physical abuse and emotional abuse. And it was just a very difficult time in my life. So from seven to 14, that's kind of the world I knew. Not only did he abuse my body, not only did he steal from [00:07:00] me, my dignity, my value. Not only did he try to control me, but he also sold me for other men to abuse me. Mm-hmm. Other men to take my body. He stabbed me and beat me and burnt me. And at 16, I was invited to church, I ran into a youth group. And, uh, there's a whole story in that. But let me tell you, I ran into youth group and I ran into Jesus. Jesus was Amen loving. Amen. Jesus's loving arms. He wrapped him around me and started me on the journey, journey of forgiveness. And it's been a journey up. I just turned 50. We just lost my mom earlier this year. Wow. They say a flu. Some say COVID, but we lost her earlier this year and it was really kind of a season for me to walk through some even deeper, deeper healing. We have a lot in common. 'cause I just lost my brother this week. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry for your loss. Yeah. So we both have losses today. Yes. Yes. I'm so [00:08:00] sorry for your loss. You as well. Thank you. Your mother was a believer? She was at the end of her life. As we say, the 11th hour of Thief on the cross remember me. Mm-hmm. My mom did have one of those kind of conversions. Unfortunately, she never, the last few years of her life, she came to understand Jesus, but she never forgave herself or forgave. Her pain. She lived with the regrets and the shames and the guilt of her pains. She knew the love of Christ, and I believe that when she closed her eyes on this earth, she opened her eyes there because of what Christ did for her. But she carried this burden of shame and guilt and hurt. But I forgave her, not because I'm special, not because I'm better. I forgave her because Christ forgave me. And in that journey of learning with to forgive people say to me, how could you forgive such a great thing? I just forgave what was in front of me. That's it. Step by step, precept by precept. That's how I forgave. I [00:09:00] couldn't think about the whole journey all at it was too hard. What's in front of you? Well, we'll definitely get into, your process of forgiveness. Would it be okay to, circle back to your stepfather coming into your life? Now it sounded like it was a very violent to way he treated you. Did he do any grooming of you to start the abuse or was it violent right away? I believe there was grooming, again, being so young and, uh, being so, uh, naive. I probably didn't recognize it, but I'm sure there was grooming you know, there was this natural longing. From a child without a father to find a father figure. Mm-hmm. Um, being so young, not understanding the process of that, and any person that would gimme attention, I would run to them to try to find somebody who would govern me or lead me or [00:10:00] guide me or accept me. So I'm sure there was some manipulation in that, as I became more groomed or broken or became more pliable, if you would, because of my young immaturity. He began to have more of his way on it, just so you know. And I always refer to him as my mother's husband. Never as my stepfather? Yes. Oh, I'm sorry. Yeah. Oh, no, you didn't offend. No, I have forgiven him. I think in forgiveness, it's okay to have, uh, some boundaries. Sure. I think that, to have some healthy boundaries, I've forgiven him. I've put him in the hands of God, and I pray the grace of God will meet him and his pain and his sorrow, and only God can reach him. Uh, but again, there's some healthy boundaries around my life and my families. So what was your relationship with God when you were going through all this abuse? We grew up in a very religious home. I was a New England Protestant, so most of New England are [00:11:00] Irish Catholic, Italian Catholic, Polish Catholic, French Catholic. But I was the rare Protestant. And I remember saying to my grandfather one day, I asked him, I said I, well, let me back up and say, I always knew what I wasn't. I knew I wasn't a Catholic, but I didn't know what I was. So, grandpa used to tell us we weren't Catholic. He announced that pretty clearly. But one day I asked him, I said, then if we're not Catholic, what religion are we? And all he said was, go ask your mother. So, you know, we didn't really grow up in any kind of. Formal faith-based community, uh, you know, sometimes went to Christmas Eve service, you know, those kind of what we call Sea Easter and Christmas. The CE. The CE crowd. That's right. But it really wasn't, a church was not a part of my life. We knew God was there, be good and you go to heaven, be nice to people, you go to heaven. But there really wasn't a faith-based situation. I'll be honest with you, uh, the [00:12:00] only religion I got, or the only faith I got was the one album that was played in our home. It's not a Christian album, it was Jesus Christ Superstar. I'm a kid of the seventies. Yes, I'm very familiar with that. Yeah. And but God's name is so powerful now as a Bible college graduate, as a pastor, I could see all the holes of the theology in that and how it was really written, dragged down the gospel. They say Jesus Christ, and as a child, that name is so powerful. So, I mean, I didn't know anything. So here I was, I, I remember seven years old with a big headset on sitting in front of the speakers and listening to Jesus Christ Superstar. And, and now I realize what a mockery it was. But then just the name has power. Yeah, there was no resurrection in that movie. No, no, no. You know, when you have Mary Magdalene sing to, to him and say, you're just a man, [00:13:00] only a man. I mean, it's such a mockery. But again, at eight years old, 10 years old, I thank God that all truth belongs to God. Amen. And his name is so, amen, powerful. Amen. That every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. And as that name, Jesus was smoking, it pierced my darkness. Now, I didn't know about crying out. I didn't know about prayer, but God was preparing me for such a time. And at 16 the lifeguard at the apartment complex invited me to church. She was a pretty girl, and I didn't wanna say no. Uh, she invited she invited me and picked me up with her boyfriend. Oops. We went, yeah, we went to church that night and there began my journey into meeting Christ, knowing his mercy and grace into my faith walk and it's been a journey ever since. So is that when you, met the Lord for real [00:14:00] and got saved? Exactly, I was 16 years old. It was the early part of the summer and I went to that youth group and everybody told me that. To throw away my rock and roll music and to cut my hair and take my earring out. And everybody wanted to hug me and I didn't wanna be hugged by anybody. It's an evangelical Pentecostal church. And I was like, I don't, yeah. But come to find out, the youth pastor lived in the same apartment complex I did. I had a ride to church anytime it was open. So, later on that summer, mid-August, I remember a man inviting me, a young man from the youth group. It was raining. He was giving me a ride home. We got into his car and he asked me right there, uh, mark, do you wanna ask Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior? And we prayed right there the sinner's prayer. And I recognized the grace of God and the mercy of God and the Spirit of God. And at 16 years old, I asked Jesus Christ to be my Lord. And I thank him that he was calling me at such a time. So, and then I [00:15:00] had to grow up. Wow. And then I had to grow. I was still 16 with a messed up background and, still was spilling life all over myself. But that church loved me. They hugged me and kicked me in the can at the same time. Now were you out of your mom's house? Away from your abuser? Well. When the abuse first became, and I don't wanna say public, but when it became outside of the family when I meant the first person I confessed it to or, or shared it with, was my uncle. And I think that people have to remember my abuse happened from 19 7 7 to 1984. And the awareness and the advocacy that's out there today wasn't there then. And things like this happen behind closed doors. And I think culturally, not everybody, but culturally in most families said, we keep that stuff behind closed doors. We don't share it. We handle it as families. I told my uncle at [00:16:00] 14 years old. He was the first person I confessed to, and I ended up living with my uncle for about a year. He became my defender. So from about 14 to about 15 and a half, I lived with my uncle, and about 15 and a half I moved back with my mom. And yes, her husband was still there. But he, uh, he was very sickly at this time. So, he wasn't able to hurt me physically anymore. And I was strong enough to not allow anybody to hurt me anymore. So Now you said the word confess. Well, you didn't do anything wrong. Thank you. I, yeah, I just meant, I told. You shared your story, your abuse, uh, your victimization. So yeah. You don't have to apologize for anything. Amen. Thank you. That's right. It was probably a poor choice of words. I was just reading. I announced to my uncle, or I, I shared out, I took it out. I took it outta that simple family unit that I would tell my mom, [00:17:00] my mom having so much hurt and pain in her life, didn't know how to handle that. And just would say, well, he promises not to do it again. And he promised not to do it. And of course, so in a lot of ways I felt like my mom was a victim. And, and. Even though I've had to learn to forgive my mom because of what she allowed to happen, but in some ways, not that I justify it, but I've begun to understand it. Because she was abused by her first husband who broke her heart because, uh, just pain who had many affairs on her, and she was so broken down, so hurting and she did not understand love. I think she, um, interpreted love in a very, uh, trying to think of the word here you know, an enabling way. My mom was more of an enabler and I think she interpreted her love in enabling. So she enabled people. I mean, it sounds like [00:18:00] codependency. Was that the word you're looking for? Yes. Okay. Yeah. Thanks. So you struggled with your weight for years. Was that a symptom of your. Abuse your childhood? I, I think it was, you know, I'm, I'm not a psychologist or, a social worker. I'm a preacher, but you know, I think what I was trying to find in food was comfort, friendship. It always accepted me, uh, it comforted me when I was having a bad day and it rewarded me when I was having a good one. But like any drug, if you would, it lies to you. And it says, Hey, is everything will be okay. Just have a little bit more, have a little bit more, and, it just is. So for me, food became my drug of choice. Mm-hmm. Uh, it became where I found comfort, found peace, found acceptance. I punished myself with it. Boy, I'm no good. I'm going to eat ice cream. Oh, I'm having a great day. I'm gonna eat [00:19:00] ice cream. So, you know, it was one of those things. Uh, what I tell people is that I wish I could say to you that, that God has taken away all the hurt, all the pain, all the sorrow. It's still there in my life. It's still a familiar. Familiar pain that continues to call to me. But what God did is he became bigger. He became bigger than the pain. He became bigger than the shame. He became bigger than the hurt. So is it still there? Sure. And the flesh wants to run to it. And the psyche wants to run to it because I know it, it's comfortable. I, I know my role there. I, I understand what my protection and my manipulation that I can find there. But God became bigger. God became bigger. You know, I was telling a friend today, and I climbed a mountain after I lost about 50 pounds. I climbed a mountain. And it was about a half a mile long. And to me it was Everest. It was the biggest mountain in the world. And it took me hours [00:20:00] to go up and I had blisters on my feet and bruises on my toe. I was very proud that I climbed it. But after I lost about a hundred pounds, I climbed the biggest mountain in the state of New York called Mount Marcy. And what was the difference between those two mountains? One was bigger and I think that's the same thing. What happened to me is that even though that sometimes the enemy wants to try to bring me back to those familiar pains, those familiar insecurities, those familiar foes, God became bigger. His word, his spirit his love all became bigger. And I have to hold onto that and I have to claim, not claim it, but I have to run into it. You know, I have to run into that every day. So. Oh, you would love the mountains here. We have so many mountains to climb. So yeah. If you come to Phoenix, then we'll have to go hiking together. Yes. I wanna see that Grand Canyon. I wanna come to Phoenix. I am a New Englander, but it's cold [00:21:00] all the time here. But I hear that you guys leave for the summer and go back in the winter. We leave for the winter to warm places because it's so hot in Phoenix in the summer. Yeah. We're not snowbirds. We are here all year. Now we get to 110 every year. That's, that's normal. It gets to 120 here every summer. But this year it was 55 days of 110 degrees. Wow. Which, um, that killed all my plants and, uh, two of my trees, so Wow. Yeah, it's 70 degrees outside now, but in the summertime it's brutal. Wow. Don't come in the summer. Come in the winter. Okay. I, um, I did get to do a mission chip for Juarez, Mexico, which is obviously south of you guys and a little east, but at the same time, I got a touch of hot weather and I have done a lot of missions trips to Central America and the Caribbean, but they do have a different climate because of the sea and the water. So it's not that dry heat. [00:22:00] It's, definitely that, more moist, heat. Yeah, I think you'll do fine. Like I said, I looked forward to it. We were just in Israel in, November November, 2019, and it was 85 degrees. In Jerusalem and I roasted, I had such a hard time because the elevation was different and the humidity from the from the sea. Yeah. I don't know if you've been to Israel, I have not. Another, another bucket list, yeah yes, definitely recommend that for sure. Thank you. My wife and I, we love to travel. You know, we, we have four children, so right now our kids are in the ages of 15 to seven, so we are right in the midst of it. You know, we're, we're mom and dad, taxi and, and we homeschool. So my wife is going a hundred miles an hour all the time. Pastor wife. Homeschool mom and she's taking care of [00:23:00] me. So, I mean, this is, God bless her. If there's a hero in this story, it's my wife. Your wife's a homeschooler. Um, you had said in your story that you had dyslexia growing up. What was that like? Well, you know, I think that I still have it. Uh, God hasn't, hasn't healed me from it. So what happens is, is I tell people when the way I was raised, I survived my childhood. I wasn't raised, you know, I didn't have parents that, that looked out for me. I didn't have somebody who wanted to govern my experiences or, or was an advocate for me. So I, I really just kind of survived my childhood and one of the casualties of that. Was my education. Uh, it was the early seventies, so I think there was a lot going on with sight reading and some different kind of philosophies of teaching. So here I was in a broken home with a learning disability. I [00:24:00] was being bullied at school because the way I felt about myself and, you know, so yeah, reading has always been a chore for me. It still is a chore today. But again, the lord, he helps and he, he brings me through and he gave me a brilliant wife. Uh, she is a, a teacher by education. And my children love to read. My son will walk into walls. He reads books this thick. I mean, and I remember holding him the moment he was born, praying, Lord, give him just a heart for reading. And he does. I mean, my son 15 says, dad, can we go to the library? Love the library. Oh, he, yeah, we're friends with the librarian. Uh, if they need somebody to help him out, move books and they call him. But yes, reading has always been a chore and I, believe it or not, I'm in the midst of writing a book. Oh, I was just gonna ask that if you had a book out or not. We are just started to speak to a publisher, it's self-publishing company. Uh, so we're definitely in [00:25:00] conversations. We have written, just kind of let it pour out of me. It's been there for 50 years, so just kind of. And, uh, now we've kind of put it in front of people who really know what they're doing. I tell everybody, I wrote it my ways, I handed it to my wife and she interpreted it and made it legible. And, uh, we have some local friends who have done some basic editing, so they're kind of editing for us, and now we're sending it to the publisher who knows how to edit in a professional way. So, so, you know, the Lord told me years ago that this testimony would be written down. I remember I chuckled when he told me that because I said, Lord, I can barely read or write. And I remember saying to the Lord, Lord, if you want this written down, what am I gonna call it? He said, you'll call it Forgiving the Nightmare. So that's why the name of the ministry, the name of the book, the name of the website is called Forgiving the Nightmare. I think everybody uh, regardless of [00:26:00] how one came, you know, yours and I came in by probably hands of other people's, but sometimes nightmares come in by all different ways. Loss, regrets pains, hurts. And we all have to kind of say, Lord, how do we go through that? And I know as Christians, we want it instant, you know, we wanna stand on the word, we wanna claim it, we wanna save. Lord, give it to me. But I think sometimes we have to, uh, go through the process. I think of Jacob and how he wrestled with God, or he wrestled with the angel and they wrestled all night long. And, and God, the angel touched his hip and then he said, what do you want? And Jacob said, I want a new. And he became Israel, the promise. Mm-hmm. So he left deceiver, as you know, and he became Israel promise. And I think sometimes in that journey of forgiveness as much as Christians and people, we want it and we want it so true and so earnestly, [00:27:00] but sometimes we have to wrestle. We have to wrestle with the past. We have to wrestle with ourselves, we have to wrestle with the fears, and wrestling doesn't make us bad, doesn't make us sinners, doesn't mean God has left us. I think God's working with us, the process as a pastor, I've seen so many people who are unwilling to go through the process. And they get stuck. They get stuck in the cycle, in the the hurts and the pains of life. Just kind of build up on them. And I know God wants to set 'em free, but again, it, you have to learn to die to self crucify the old man, you know, tame the tongue. And it's hard. It's hard, especially when everything in the, especially when everything in the world tells you you're okay to have that. It's okay for you to hate. It's okay for you to be angry. It's okay for you to, when God says, for us to let him go first, let Him lead us. And God is, if we forgive those who trespass against us, he'll be faithful and just to forgive us. [00:28:00] And that scripture boy haunted me for a long time because I said, Lord, I'm not ready to begin. I'm sorry I'm preaching. No, you're awesome. I'm enjoying this. Um, I'm curious how you read your Bible. Do you use an audio bible or do you, um, do use an actual written Bible? Well, I do read Bible. I like the ESV, I like the NIV, I like those verses. I do read it. I do listen to audio at times. What happened was, is about 20, I was in my early twenties and a woman at church asked me to read the Christmas story out of Luke in front of the youth group. Now, when I say youth group, we had about a hundred youth in our youth group, maybe even 150. It was a large youth group and she was the kind of woman who would not take no for an answer. You know, the church lady? Yeah. I think every church has one of those. Yeah. And you know, I tried to give her every excuse in the [00:29:00] book, I lost my glasses. I was too embarrassed to say that I couldn't read. So I got up in front of the youth group and I read out of Luke chapter two and I. Stumbled over my words and I read slowly and I read broken up. And people were very kind to me that day. The youth pastor and the youth group, they were not cruel. And after service, that woman came back to me and said that she homeschooled her children and she would like to homeschool me if I'd want to. Now I was, I was a grownup. I was 23 and I went back to her house and there I sat with her 6-year-old, five-year old as she was teaching her 5-year-old, 6-year-old how to read. She was also teaching me phonics. I never learned phonics. I tell everybody, when I learned TION and Sean and not ion, it changed my life. Unbeknownst to me that church lady had an older daughter [00:30:00] and that older daughter watched me. Watch me struggle over my words, watch me go to the house and sit with her five-year-old sister and learn ae IOU and learn the rules of bowels and phonics. Well, years later, that older daughter would become my wife. Oh. Oh. So, yep. So, you know, she told me that she fell in love with me and she watched me there. And so that, that's a little bit of our love story. But yeah, she watched me from afar and, and now today we have four kids together and she still helps me read. So I do read. I a much stronger reader than I ever was. Uh mm-hmm. So I, I can read a much better than I could then. Well, I certainly can see looking back that you had so many people in your corner to that God sent to help you, and what a blessing. Now, did you go to college? I did. I [00:31:00] graduated from what's now called North Point Bible College. At the time, it was called Zion Bible College. It was in Barrington, Rhode Island. It was a very focused school for ministry only. Uh, so I did go there. I didn't wanna go there. I'm a New Englander. I knew about the school. It was in my backyard. I wanted to go to Southeastern to Florida. I wanted to go to pennsylvania and go to Valley Forge. Uh, those doors were not open to me. I remember saying, the Lord, I'm done. Lord, I've tried. Everybody's rejecting me because of my education. And he said, go to Zion. I went in and I met with the Dean of students. In that meeting, the dean of students said to me, mark, do you have a call? I said, yes, I believe I do have a call. He got up from his desk and he went to a big picture window, a woman who was walking in front of his picture window, and he tapped onto the window and he called this woman in. As she came [00:32:00] into his office, he introduced me to a woman named Jan Kruger. He let me know that Jan was led by God to go to school, to go to Zion the week earlier than me to start a learning center. And Jan and I became our first student in the learning center and we worked hard. The first year, most of my, classes were uncredited 'cause I had to learn how to be a student. I didn't know what a syllabi was. I didn't know how to take tests. Uh, we sat in that learning center. I cried, I complained. She was a mom. She hugged me sometimes and she told me to. To suck it up sometimes. And, uh, that was the best advice I could get. So yeah, i'm a proud graduate of Zion Bible College, and I'm ordained with the Assembly of God. So when did you get called into the ministry? Well, pretty much after, it was about my 17th year, 16 years old, I got saved and 17 years old, I was [00:33:00] at a Youth convention, and I pretty much felt like the Lord called me then. Now, I ran from that call for a long time because of my insecurities, my fears, my inabilities. See, when I walked into the room, I always felt like I was junk. Like I was dirt. Like I could offer nobody, nothing. And I was, no, you know, I, that's how I felt about myself. So who would let me be that pastor? What do I have to offer? I could barely read. Look what happened to me. So. For many years I wrestled with it and about 24, 25 years old, I had a brand new truck, little S 10 pickup truck. They called it Bernie because it was purple. I was listening to Petra, remember a Petra? I love Petra. And I was, I was listening to Petra from the seventies not the nineties. Petra and I remember I was listening to Petra and the Holy Spirit filled with the cab of that car and that truck I had to [00:34:00] pull over. I was on old post road. I'll never forget tears coming down my face. The Holy Spirit spoke to my heart and said, mark, choose this day whom you'll serve. I've called you and I will equip you. And I said, God, I want you. That's when the journey of. Colleges, and I wish I could tell you it was all roses and cherries after that. It wasn't, you know, there's still a lot of growing up and a lot of overcoming, and a lot of dying to self. And, and there still is. But yeah, that's how I got called and I went to that school and they loved me. They were honest to me. You sound like you had a lot , in coming with Moses with his speech impediment. He was, exiled to be a goat and a sheep herder. They're not gonna listen to me, Lord. You know? Did you feel like that? Oh, sure. I sure did. Like I said, I, for most of my life, I felt like what can I offer? So what I did is I put a facade on myself or I, I lived up to the role that I [00:35:00] thought people wanted from me, or a role to, to find acceptance or protection. So, if I had to be the clown, I was the clown. If I had to be the fool, I was the fool. If I had to be the weak, I was the weak because I felt those things about me. Recently in this weight loss journey and this giving, God has given me confidence. And I say that with much humility because I know it's not my confidence, it's confidence in him. But I've never had confidence before. I feel like a carpenter with a new tool. I feel like, you know, a businessman with a new suit that I've never had confidence before. Now again, it's not confidence in what I have. Because I'm still weak, but it's a confidence going, my Abba father makes a way for me. My Abba father heals me and, and goes before me. So it's, it's a kind of a new season for me to be confident and say, you know what? I can live a healthy life. People ask me why I lost the weight. [00:36:00] And I remember I was reading the scripture, and you're probably familiar with it, is when the Pharisee comes to the Lord or it says to him, Lord, how does one enter the kingdom of heaven? And the Lord says, well, what is written? He says, Lord, love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your mind, with all your strength, and with all your spirit, and love your neighbor as yourself. I've read that a million times. I've preached on it. I've studied it. One day I was reading it, he said, Lord, I know you love me, mark, but you don't love your neighbor, and you don't love yourself, so you can't love your neighbor. And I realized because I didn't love myself, I wasn't taking care of myself. I love my children. I love my wife. I wanna take care of 'em. They don't need me. I wife can, but I want to. I wanna do things for, I wanna take care of 'em. I wanna help 'em be better and stronger and smarter and wiser, and love the Lord. And I realized I didn't love myself. So the weight loss journey, forgiving the nightmare, forgiving my mom, forgiving the abusers, forgiving those [00:37:00] who betrayed me as a child, helped me begin to love myself again. No visions of grander. I'm still a just a normal guy saved by grace. Uh, I still put my big foot in my mouth, my wife can come in and tell you all the stories, but, uh, but you know, I started to love myself and. It sounds like, you found your self worth in the Lord Jesus because Jesus sees you as his child. You are a child of God, and that's where your worth is. So it sounds like your healing journey brought you to that place. Yeah. It's not self-confidence like the world says it is. It's how God sees you. You're precious and you're loved. Amen. And you're valuable. He died for you. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. You're gonna get me going now. Hallelujah. Hallelujah, hallelujah. I want others to [00:38:00] experience this. You know, I, my whole ministry, I've been surrounded by hurting people and hurting churches. I've worked with people that have had major traumas in their life. Not that I ever sought it. I can't. I think the Lord just led me to it. And as I've worked with people, people say that I've been able to bring comfort. I'm easy to talk to. I thought, well, okay, Lord. And I want people to find that freedom that I have. I understand being shackled to pain in the past. I understand allowing those things to form the way you think about and believe about yourself, and never truly being set free. Waking up with that numbing feeling of brokenness all the time. All the time, just constantly. But God truly set me free. He set me free. And because he set me free, I'm nobody special. And being a pastor, I see so many people that have a [00:39:00] form of this and they don't. They haven't gone through it. So they're still living with a confession in Christ, but still the hurts of the past. Blame them. I don't, I'm not putting fingers, I'm not taking the log out on my own eye before I take the twig from their eye. But I'm saying the freedom that God has for his people. Uh, and again, do we still stumble? Yeah. Do we still need refining? Sure. Are we still the clay? And he's still the potter of court, but there's a freedom that we find as a pastor. I've just met so many people who will say, pastor, I'm killed. I'm delivered. And you realize it's, it's only an inch deep. It's, you know, as soon as they get tested, as soon as they get, get bothered, it just spills out. It pulls out of them in, in a defense or in, in a rejection or in a way they, they have a self view of the world or of themselves. Now God's consent is free. God can set [00:40:00] us free. So, what's the difference between being a victim and being victorious? Hallelujah. Well, in my humble opinion, a victim is somebody who always sees themselves broken, sees themselves in a way that, that that allows them to stay in their victimhood. For a long time, my victimhood became my identity. I remember one day when the Lord brought me to the altar and he said those words to me. He said, mark, I want you to give this up. And I literally said, in an audible voice, Lord, if I'm not a victim, then what am I? Because all I knew was the, the role of being a victim. Oh, my victimhood was good. I could manipulate with it. I could win every argument with it. Oh, when I was 16 years old, my mom, who was a single mom with not much money she bought me a car. I had a phone in my room. I had cable on my own [00:41:00] tv. She made me breakfast in bed. Why she owed that to me. Why? Because I was a victim. And I got to see how I could win every argument at school. I could put my head down and I could lift up my head and go, well, who here else was molested? I was, and no one would say anything. And the Lord rebuked me at that and said, said, yeah, that's what victims do. At least that's what I did. He said, I wanna make you victorious. And I remember him saying, me saying to the Lord, if I'm not a victim, what am I? And he said, you're victorious in me. I had to learn what it meant to be victorious. Amen. I had to learn to let that facade go. Let that personality go, let that old man die and let the new man of Christ rise up inside him. That is awesome. I just love that. I've never heard anybody describe it like that. Now, I prefer the, word survivor instead of victim. But I think you took [00:42:00] it up another notch. We are, victorious in the Lord. Well, my victimhood, you know, as much as I was a victim, but I used it for my own gain. Mm-hmm. Which made me just as not guilty of what happened to me, but made me not a healthy place. It put me in a Right. But it's all I knew, you know, I could manipulate, I could win the argument. Right. I was the guy. Who else here was stabbed and burnt and abused? I could show you my scars where they stabbed me. I could show you the burn marks. I was prostituted for other men to abuse me. Boy, you know, I could really win the, the argument. But that was wrong. Yeah, it was wrong. It was wrong to put that on my mother, it's wrong to put that on my family. It was wrong to put that on others. And the Lord had to rebuke me and, uh, wow. And he did, because he loves, he rebukes the ones he loves, so he rebuked you. I just so appreciate your raw [00:43:00] and honest, telling of your story. Because, you've heard stories where they just put the fluff or they put the stuff that's gonna, bring up the ratings or whatever. But you really, kept it real. And I think you're a great pastor because people see that you're a real person. You're not some fake up there that can't relate to your congregation's problems, do you feel that way? Oh, definitely. You know, my congregation, as you know, like we talked earlier, I wrestle with dyslexia and every once in a while I'll stumble over a word while I'm reading the Bible and in front of my congregation. And, and that really bothered me for a long time. My Lord, I'm a pastor. How can I not read this and now. When I stumble over a word, my congregation yells it up to me. So I'll be on the platform. And you know what? They'll see me stumbling and you know, they'll yell it up to me and it's just a term of endearment. [00:44:00] It's not been one of rejection or shame, and I say, you know what? I'm doing that just to make sure you're in the Bible. That's what I tell 'em. But I'll be reading the scripture and, and my dyslexia kick in, or, or the word will be all scrambled. And, and they're the kind voices. Oh, pastor, that's, that means this. And, and it's kind of a nice direction. I tell people the church I pastor is a real church with real people serving a real God. Wow. So, wow. Fancy fluff. Church don't come to us because, you know, we're real and we cry together, we do life together. We step on each other's toes. We don't always agree, but we always love God. That is so awesome. Pastor of Christian is Alia Scott. That's right. I didn't announce your church name. I wanted to ask you to tell another story about. You said that you met your birth father at one point. What happened during that reunion Union? [00:45:00] Well, I was 45 years old and I wanted to reach, I wanted to know, I tell people my birth father and I met at the right place in life. I think if I would've met him younger, I would've still been angry. Rejected Kyle, but I was 45. I was the father of four. I've made my own mistakes, my own problems. I learned to mature a little bit. To be really frank, my father's wife passed on, so he was more ready to meet me. So his wife that he had the affair on to si me, if you would, she passed. So he was more open to meet me and uh, I just didn't meet him, but the whole family met him together. We met in a restaurant, we met in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and the family came in and the kids instantly. Started to call him grandpa. I thought, I don't know if I'm okay with that. And he never rejected it. So the last few years of [00:46:00] life, we just lost him. I, I had him for about four years. It wasn't warm and fuzzy, daddy and son, but it was something, we had a relationship. We'd talk about sports, we'd talk about life. He was a snowbird from Massachusetts to Florida and he just kind of let me know. So I'm very thankful for the four years I had. Again, it wasn't, Hey buddy, I'm proud of you kind of moment, but I got to find out a little bit about. Who my dad was and who some of my relatives are on my father's side. I got to learn about some of the health conditions of, of my father. And you know, he said he was pretty, he made it to 84. He liked to drink and he liked ladies, I like Jesus, I like one lady, Wow. That's an incredible story. I tell people it was the right time. Again, if I would've met him at 25, I would've been angry. I would've said, you know, why did you abandon me? 45 was a good time because. You know what, by that [00:47:00] time I, I stepped in enough life of my own to, to not, to be slow to judge, oh, God does have the perfect timing. I haven't spoken much about my story at all on here, but my husband and I talk about, boy, I wish that we had met, long time ago, you know, and skipped all the pain because we were both victims of abuse from our previous spouses. I'm sorry. And, um, but we thought about it and we thought we were different people. If we met at that time, I don't think I would've been interested in you and you wouldn't have been interested in me. And, I think that God brought us together this time of our life. No, we've been married 11 years. Congratulations. Thank you. So, God brought us together at our time of life because that was the perfect time and Sure. We're best friends. We never even have had a real fight. We didn't disagree, of course, but now you should write a book [00:48:00] about that. Okay. I mean, we disagree and, um, get on each other's nerves, but the Lord has just, you're normal. Just blessed us. Yeah, we're definitely normal. Um, especially during pandemic. It's like you learn about your spouse when you're stuck with them 24 7. Right? That's true. That's true. Yeah, we had to make some adjustments. Amen. And, um, we still love each other, and that it's great when you're talking about times of life, you know, for such a time as this, and I think for me, the Lord spoke to me years ago about forgiving the nightmare ministry. He actually spoke to me when I was in college about this. I didn't know it was gonna, uh, blossom or what it was gonna look like, but he spoke to me years ago about writing it down and it was always inside me. And I kept, my wife knew about it. We would always think, how's the, what's the Lord gonna do with this? Is it distant inside me to guide me through life? Is it more for others? Is it, Lord, how's it, how's it [00:49:00] gonna? Blossom if you would manifest. And we lost my mom and I have to tell you that, not immediately, but pretty quick. After losing my mom, I felt like this ministry could just launch. And it has launched. God has brought, brought a web designer into our life. He's brought some, um, producers into our life to help me tell the story. We're talking with a, an editor and a publisher. All this has happened fairly quickly. And I think, Lord, why now? And I think, to be honest with you, and this is just my opinion, I, I don't know if I have chapter and verse to back this up, but my mom was so embarrassed. She was so full of shame because of my upbringing every time for the last 20 years of my life, every time me and my mom were alone together, she would just apologize. And I don't just mean say, sorry. She would grovel and I would say, mom, I forgive you. I forgive you, [00:50:00] Marky. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. And if my mom knew that I was speaking to podcasts or writing a book, she would've been so, so embarrassed. So she may, it would've just troubled her so much. So I think outta the grace of God, and again, don't have chapter and verse, but I think upon her passing released me to be able to share this story, to be able to bring others into it, to just think God was being merciful to my mom on her journey. And again, it was almost pretty instant after her, uh, her own passing that I remember being on the treadmill one morning and the Lord just kind of. Just impressing upon me by giving the nightmare. Remember those words? I spoke to you. This is where it's gonna take place. And since then, we've made a couple videos, uh, we've launched a website. I'm talking to wonderful people like yourself and just trying to get the [00:51:00] story out of forgiving the Nightmare and trying to say to people whatever that nightmare was. Was it physical and sexual abuse like mine? Was it a tragedy in your life? Is it regrets? Is it fears? Is it the loss of a child or a loved one? Whatever that pain is that your nightmare. I want you to know that God can help you forgive it and overcome it and break the shackles so we don't have to be the man or the person. The hurt tried to make us. We no longer have to be Jacob. We can become Israel. Your mom would be so proud of you. And I think that, thank you. If, the Lord's probably told her, you know, the good things that have come out of a terrible situation, she said she had, you said she had some shame. Oh. I think if she was looking down at you now that, that shame would be gone. [00:52:00] That shame is no longer there. Look how God's using my son, my, my wonderful son to spread the gospel and to help people. And so Well, thank you. I'm so thankful for you, brother. Thank you for saying those words, sister. It's very kind of you. I used to say to my mom, even up to her last days, I would say, mom, who's your favorite? And she would say, I love you all, all the same. And I'd say, mom, stop lying to my siblings. I'm the youngest of three. My older brother and my older sister never made me feel like a step or a half brother. Uh, we just kind of always lived in the same house. We got real family problems and just life, but they've never left, never met me, felt, never let me feel like I was less than even to today. So I'm very thankful. My oldest sister, who is, a second mom to me, my oldest sister, she is my second mom and I'm thankful for her. So. Wow. Well, we [00:53:00] just had just a great time tonight. When your book comes out, please contact me. I would love to have you on the show again, to promote your book because obviously you, your story is so powerful and we wanna get it out to as many people as we can. So, tell the folks how to connect with you. Well, the best way to connect with me is@forgivingthenightmare.com. Forgiving the nightmare.com. Forgiving the nightmare.com is the best way to connect with me. If you go there, you'll find a email, it's called mark@forgivingthenightmare.com. That comes directly to me, right on my phone. So that's the best way to connect with me. Also you can go to our Facebook page called, forgiving the Nightmare. For giving Nightmare Facebook page. I try to put up pictures and little devotions there and stories there. So that's the two. Best way through Facebook, after Giving the Nightmare, after giving the Nightmare do [00:54:00] com, those are the best ways to connect with me. And I hope to get so Arizona someday. You have an open invitation. Wow. I'll be a tour guide for you. I know that Arizona like the back of my hand. Wow. Wow. Now my children could hear you in the background, so they're gonna be pretty excited about that invitation. There's so much stuff for, for their Edge group as well. So, we will hook you guys up. So thanks for being patient with the tech stuff and I'm glad we pushed through and didn't let the devil get the victory tonight. We found a way to get you on here. That's right. May I pray for you as we close. Oh yes, please. Thank you. Father God, we just come to you tonight and we thank you again for your son, Jesus Christ. Lord, we thank you for the sacrifice that he gave to us upon the cross, Lord. And we pay the price we could not pray, Lord. And we thank you for the gift of life [00:55:00] and life more abundant. Lord, we thank you for the promises. It says in this life there will be many troubles, but fear not because you are with us always. And Lord, tonight I pray for my sister. Father, I thank you that you're using her Lord. To spread the gospel to share, hope to be a light and a dark place. But Father, now, I pray that you come beside her father as she's shared that she's lost her brother this week, Lord. And I pray you comfort her. Lord, you said you had to go so the comforter could come. I pray, the comfort of the Holy Spirit will come beside my sister and be with her and her family as they grieve their loved one, their family member, their friend, Lord. So Lord I pray peace upon my sister. I pray Lord that you use her, continue to bless her. I thank you for the testimony of her and her husband, 11 years that you've brought together for such a time as this. I pray, Lord God, that they grow closer to you so they can grow closer to each other. And Lord, we thank you tonight [00:56:00] that Lord, we're no longer Jacob. You've made us Israel Father, no longer do we have to be shaped by our past, but now we can hold on to the promises. Lord, no longer does, we have to be shackled by somebody else's abuse, and we can be set free by your word. So, Lord, I pray that you fill us. You lead us, and may we be the light and may we be the salt, and may we lift up your name. We pray for a unity across our nation. We pray for a healing across our land, and we pray, Lord, for a revival of your salvation to come to our our country again, in Jesus name, amen. Thank you so much, brother. God bless, sister. Thank you. Take care yourself. Bye now. Bye. Thank you for listening to the Wounds of the Faithful Podcast. If this episode has been helpful to you, please hit the subscribe button and tell a friend. You could connect with us at [00:57:00] DSW Ministries dot org where you'll find our blog, along with our Facebook, Twitter, and our YouTube channel links. Hope to see you next week.

In this episode of The Find A Way Podcast, Dusty dives into how marathon pacing and the weight loss journey share the same heartbeat: progress built one step at a time. Fresh off pacing the Bowling Green Marathon and navigating post-surgery recovery, Dusty opens up about the challenges of swelling, water retention, and feeling heavier—but also the perspective that comes with endurance.He breaks down why success in both running and life isn't about winging it, it's about setting realistic goals, tracking your progress, and adjusting mile by mile, month by month. Whether you're losing weight, rebuilding after surgery, or just trying to stay consistent, this one is a powerful reminder to slow down, stay the course, and find a way.

This week on Lisa's Corner, we're diving into the heart of lasting wellness: bliss. It's easy to focus on the “why” behind your goals, but what about the joy that keeps you going? Lisa explores how rediscovering what makes you happy can transform your mindset, strengthen your motivation, and make the journey feel lighter (and more fun!). Because true progress isn't just about losing weight, it's about gaining peace, purpose, and a little bit of bliss along the way. Tune in and learn how to bring joy back to your health journey.

Ever found yourself at the vet swiping your card with one eye closed—just hoping the total isn't another $3,000 surprise? You're not alone.In this episode, Brittany and Christina pull back the curtain on the real cost of pet ownership — the emotional love story that often comes with a hefty price tag. From emergency surgeries to “Can I just pull them out myself?” moments, they dig into how far we go (and how much we spend) for the animals we adore.They chat about the emotional side of spending on pets, how the industry has exploded into a multi-billion-dollar machine, and why it's so hard to draw the line between love and financial logic when it comes to our fur-babies.If you've ever questioned whether that vet visit, dental cleaning, or MRI was “worth it,” this episode will have you nodding, laughing—and maybe rethinking your next pet insurance policy. 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!

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson is joined by longtime client Dr. Brian Davis to discuss his journey to increasing lean muscle, losing fat, getting stronger, and pursuing healthy aging.With over 10 years of training at Discover Strength, Dr. Davis shares how pairing evidence-based strength training with a GLP-1 allowed him to lose significant weight without sacrificing muscle or metabolic health. He reflects on the mindset, consistency, and simple workout structure that helped him stay strong and resilient through the highs and lows of life.This real-world success story is packed with insights for anyone navigating body change, modern weight loss interventions, and the science of healthy aging.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the United States. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !

In the past week, Ozempic and its role in weight loss have remained at the forefront of health news as public discussion deepens about its efficacy, risks, and the pronounced cultural shift these medications have sparked. Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide and originally developed as a diabetes treatment, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that works by slowing gastric emptying and suppressing appetite, making users feel full longer and reducing overall food intake. This mechanism has made it exceptionally popular for weight loss, particularly as social media, celebrity testimonials, and off-label prescribing converged to push demand higher than ever before. Market analysts note that by late 2025, the majority of new Ozempic prescriptions are for weight management rather than diabetes, marking a significant departure from its intended clinical use and raising concerns about access for patients with diabetes who genuinely need the drug.The transformation of Ozempic from a type two diabetes solution to a cultural touchstone for cosmetic weight loss is partly credited to the attention from high-profile figures such as Oprah Winfrey. This week, Oprah appeared at the American Ballet Theatre Fall Gala in New York City, her appearance turning heads and fueling conversation due to her notably slimmed-down figure. Reports from Hello Magazine describe Oprah's confidence on the red carpet as she showcased a dramatic weight loss of more than fifty pounds, achieved through a combination of lifestyle modifications and, crucially, the assistance of a GLP-1 medication. At age seventy-one, Oprah has spoken openly this week about the lifelong struggle with her weight and the social stigma that accompanied it. She told People Magazine that after decades of blame and shame, both from external commentators and herself, the availability of medically approved weight loss medications feels to her like both relief and redemption. She described how the weight loss journey for her began in earnest following knee surgery in 2021, when she started an active regimen of hiking and physical fitness, complemented eventually by her doctor's prescription for semaglutide.Oprah acknowledged grappling with the stigma tied to weight loss medications, initially resisting the idea out of concern it may appear she was taking an easy way out. However, recent interviews reveal she has set aside any feelings of shame, now describing the medication as a legitimate tool—one that enabled her to shed long-standing weight and maintain her health, not just for cosmetic reasons but as a genuine medical necessity. Though some have criticized the trend of using medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro for cosmetic weight management, Oprah's insights over the week have reframed the conversation for many listeners. She emphasized that the ability to access medication for weight issues in her lifetime is not something to hide but a breakthrough for many who have suffered physically and emotionally from long-term obesity and its attendant health risks.The clinical conversation around Ozempic has also intensified this week. Drug safety concerns, including the risk of gastrointestinal complications such as pancreatitis and gastroparesis, have been spotlighted by healthcare outlets and legal analysts. Regulatory agencies continue to grapple with the surge in off-label use among populations that may not fully meet the criteria for medical obesity, often motivated by the relentless demands of modern aesthetics rather than underlying health needs. Medical professionals report increasing pressure from patients desperate to access these drugs after seeing dramatic transformations online, which has complicated the careful balancing act between ensuring proper care and responding to unprecedented demand.Critically, the public discourse, amplified by Oprah's willingness to openly discuss her experience, is moving the conversation from that of quick fixes and shame to one of nuanced understanding. The stories told this week highlight not only the potential of new medications to change lives, but also the importance of honest dialogue about the physical and emotional realities of weight loss. Social platforms remain abuzz, but the conversation is shifting toward understanding the full spectrum of medical, ethical, and personal implications.Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

In this refreshingly honest episode, Brittany and Christina dive into the world of skin treatments, self-care, and the modern perception of beauty. From micro-needling and recovery realities to the deeper conversation about aging gracefully versus chasing “natural beauty,” the duo explores what it truly means to feel confident in your own skin.They talk openly about the pressures women face to look “effortless”, why “aggressive treatments” can sometimes deliver the best results, and how appearance impacts confidence, first impressions, and opportunities in both personal and professional settings.This isn't a conversation about vanity—it's about ownership, empowerment, and redefining beauty standards on your own terms. 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!

Pushing harder isn't working. Despite your best efforts, you're still stuck in the same patterns: starting strong then quitting, living in extremes, or running yourself into the ground.   If you've ever waited for the "perfect time" to start something, thrown in the towel after one slip-up, or pushed yourself to exhaustion because "that's just what it takes,” this episode is for you. The belief that more effort equals better results keeps you trapped in cycles that leave you exhausted and frustrated. Most high achievers live by this belief, nodding knowingly when they hear it out loud, yet continuing to grind away hoping things will finally fall into place.   Listen in this week to hear the three biggest traps that are currently keeping you stuck. You'll learn how each trap operates differently, and you'll gain practical tools to recognize these patterns and choose different ways of thinking that actually move you forward instead of keeping you spinning in the same exhausting loops.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/174   Follow me on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/carriehollandmd https://www.instagram.com/carriehollandmd/

In this heart-filled and honest conversation, Brittany and Christina open up about their recent travels — from the charm of Telluride to the beauty of Aspen — and the lessons learned along the way. With laughter, reflection, and raw authenticity, they explore how travel mirrors life's unpredictability and how seasonal shifts often prompt deeper self-awareness.As the holidays approach, they dive into the importance of community, gratitude, and staying grounded through change. Together, they remind listeners that life's beauty lies in both the chaos and the calm — and that growth often comes from simply showing up and embracing it all. 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!

Most people carry around a mental scorecard of their failed attempts. Every diet that fell apart, every workout routine that fizzled out, every promise to stop snacking that ended with your hand in the chip bag - they all stack up as evidence that maybe you're just not cut out for lasting change.   Your brain uses this track record like a crystal ball, predicting that your next attempt will end the same way. And when you're stuck in that loop of trying and failing, it becomes harder to trust yourself each time you want to try again. The real challenge with habit change isn't finding the perfect program or the right motivation. It's believing you can actually stick with it when your history says otherwise.   Join me this week to discover how to stack small wins, expect discomfort, and keep moving forward even when belief feels far away. If you're tired of starting over and ready to build lasting habits (even if you don't fully believe you can yet), this episode is for you.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/173   Follow me on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/carriehollandmd https://www.instagram.com/carriehollandmd/

Girl, I am so over these creepy AI “fitness” ads. Filters are bad enough but now we have actual robots preaching toxic diet culture BS! It's wild how far we've come from Photoshop and filters — now we're literally being sold body image standards that don't even exist.In this episode, I'm venting (because seriously, what is happening?!) but also unpacking what this means for those of us healing our relationship with our bodies. Because if you're already struggling to feel good in your skin, seeing these fake “fitfluencers” can seriously mess with your head.We'll talk about: 

Struggling with consistency in weight loss? This episode will help you stop letting setbacks undo your progress. Jess & Melissa reveal why the all-or-nothing mindset keeps women stuck and share their proven R.I.S.E. method so you can bounce back, stay consistent, and lose weight without constantly starting over. CONNECT WITH JESS & MEL | LUMINU The 5-Day Body Reset: https://stan.store/luminu/p/5day-body-reset 90 Days to a Lighter You [Your Personal Plan for Lasting Weight Loss]: https://luminu.com/elitecoaching/ Join our free LUMINU Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/luminu.wellness Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luminu.wellness/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luminu.wellness Check us out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@luminu.wellness

In this easygoing yet insightful episode, Brittany and Christina dive into their weekend adventures and latest skin care rituals, reflecting on the power of authenticity in both personal growth and business. From the realities of chemical peels to the importance of hydration and electrolytes as they age, the duo shares relatable laughs and lessons. They also explore what truly matters in business—connection and community over vanity metrics—emphasizing that success is about impact, not just follower counts. The chat wraps with humor and honesty about the never-ending pursuit of glowing skin and grounded confidence. 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!

Eleven days past Dingtember and the dings just won’t stop. The next show will be dingless, I promise, but then the show after…

You can't out-diet an identity. And you can't out-coach a limiting belief.Read that again.Your clients can have the perfect macros, the cleanest meal plan, the best workout routine—but if they still identify as "someone who always fails" or "someone with no willpower," their brain will sabotage them every single time.This is why your clients are stuck in the cycle: Start strong → fall off track → feel like a failure → start again → repeat.And you're left wondering: "Why isn't my program working? What am I missing?"Here's the truth: You're not missing better meal plans. You're missing the other 50%.In this episode, I'm breaking down:The 50/50 weight loss formula (METHOD + MINDSET)What identity actually is and how it controls your clients' choicesWhy your clients' brains are wired to keep them stuckThe exact 5-step process to help clients shift their identity and create lasting changeThis is the weight loss conversation no one else is having. And it's the missing piece that transforms your coaching.Ready to help your clients rewrite their story? Listen now and then add this holistic approach to your coaching with the Holistic Nutrition Weight Loss Coach Certification starting October 27t: www.fitchicksacademy.com/hwlc

Have you ever woken up already under attack in your thoughts?In this powerful and prophetic episode, Christian Life Coach Sherrie Kapala exposes the hidden emotional patterns that keep women stuck in cycles of frustration, comparison, and self-sabotage on their Christian weight loss journey.You'll learn how the enemy uses familiar feelings — like jealousy, rejection, and inadequacy — to distract you from your spiritual progress and delay your physical transformation.Sherrie shares how the Holy Spirit revealed a “hidden operating system” in her own life and taught her to stop reacting and start discerning through spiritual awareness, authority, and obedience.If you've ever wondered why you keep falling into the same emotional traps, this episode will help you:Recognize vain imaginations and lying spirits that disguise themselves as your thoughts.Understand how spiritual warfare and weight loss are deeply connected.Learn to govern your atmosphere and stop agreeing with emotional lies.See why temptation isn't sin — agreement is.Discover how to walk in alignment so your transformation can finally last.This isn't just another weight loss conversation — it's a spiritual wake-up call for every Christian woman who's ready to take authority over her emotions, renew her mind, and invite God into her transformation.

When life gets overwhelming, there's a natural human tendency to look around and wait for someone to fix it. But that waiting becomes a trap - a comfortable but suffocating space where you convince yourself that your circumstances will magically improve. And while you wait, the years slip by and nothing changes.   Join me this week as I share seven words from David Goggins' book Can't Hurt Me that completely shifted my perspective. You'll discover practical ways to stop making excuses, own your choices, and focus on solutions instead of living in your problems. Most importantly, you'll understand why taking control of your life - even when it's messy and imperfect - is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/172   Follow me on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/carriehollandmd https://www.instagram.com/carriehollandmd/

On this episode of Healthline 3, we're joined by Irina Haas Ghattas, owner of Shed It Weight Loss & Wellness in Bossier City, physician assistant Catherine Schaefer, and former radio personality Erin Woods—known on-air as Bristol. Erin shares her inspiring 100-pound weight loss journey with the help of Shed It and weight loss injections. Tune in for real talk on medical weight loss, patient support, and reclaiming your health.

Wondering how to lose weight in menopause? My client Patty is dishing the secret to how she lost 20 pounds after 30 years of losing less than 5 pounds and never maintaining it. Patty is telling you what really works for midlife weight loss and what doesn't! Weight Loss Coaching for Midlife Women: https://skinnyfitalicious.com/weight-loss-coaching/ Client Testimonials: https://skinnyfitalicious.com/testimonials/

In this lively and relatable conversation, Brittany and Christina dive into everything from chemical peels and spicy skincare to decluttering your space (and your mind). They open up about the importance of social gatherings, the frustration of ties in sports, and how parenting styles shape confidence and competition in kids.The duo also gets real about trust and technology — how parents balance freedom and safety in a world where tracking apps, phones, and social media play such a huge role. With humor, honesty, and heart, they remind listeners that connection — both at home and within community — matters most. 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!

Now I know “enjoyable” is NOT a word often associated with weight loss.  Neither is fun, simple, easy, relaxed.  Part of it is because 99% of diets are super restrictive. You have to “miss out” on food, drinks AND events.  But the other issue is that we're in such a hurry to get “there,” because we typically withhold praise, validation, and feeling good about ourselves until we do.  No compliments, no feeling proud of yourself; just constant criticism until you've lost all the weight.  This is what makes weight loss hard.  This is what makes weight loss suck.  But there's a better way.  Keep listening for more on the secret to actually speeding up your weight loss journey.    And when you're ready to go all in on yourself, end emotional eating, lose weight, and create a life that lights you the f**k up…  I'll show you how.  Schedule your free consultation at www.bodyyoucrave.com/schedule.   Still looking for a resource that actually helps you decode your emotional eating habit? Download your free guide here: https://download.bodyyoucrave.com/feelings-wheel-sign-up Chapters (00:00:02) - Hungry for Love(00:00:26) - Warning! Adult Language in This Episode(00:01:26) - Enjoying Your Weight Loss Journey(00:07:08) - How to Love Your Body on a Weight Loss Journey(00:14:16) - Why You Have to Detach From Your Goal(00:18:28) - How to Love and Enjoy Your Life(00:22:36) - What Do You Love About The Holidays?(00:23:55) - How I Learned To Hike Mount Mitchell(00:26:51) - How to Love Dating While Single(00:30:09) - Letting the Hard Parts Of Parenting Be Hard(00:35:59) - Want to End Emotional Eating and Lose Weight?(00:38:53) - Binge Eating and Relationship Cycle Break the Cycle

152.

In this episode of the Next Level Podcast, I sit down with Ethan Benard — a young man who has quickly become an internet sensation by sharing his weight loss journey with the world. Ethan started at 660 pounds and is already down into the 400s. But what makes his story so powerful isn't just the weight he's lost — it's how raw, real, and vulnerable he's been in bringing all of us along for the ride. We dive into: What it's like to grow a massive following online almost overnight How he deals with the haters and outside noise that come with visibility Why he's failed in the past, and what feels different this time around The importance of staying locked in on your own plan instead of being distracted by everyone else's opinions Ethan is passionate, fiery, and destined for big things in his life. This conversation will inspire you, make you laugh, and most importantly, help you connect to your own journey through his. Whether you're chasing a health transformation or just need a shot of real talk and inspiration, this one's for you.   Next Level Links Nutrition Coaching - www.becomenextlevel.com Nutrition Coaching Free Consultations - Schedule Here Next Level Experience Waitlist - Join Here   Free Guides: Eating Out Guide - Get The Guide High-Protein Fast Food Orders - Get the Guide Macro Food Options Guide - Get The Guide   Join Us On Patreon - Join Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order Supplements From Transform Order from Cured Supplement Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Guest Ethan Benard - @ethanbenard Next Level Nutrition – @mynextlevelnutrition

Join us as we dive into Maureen's inspiring journey with Lumen. From battling weight gain and early perimenopause to discovering a sustainable lifestyle change, Maureen shares her challenges, triumphs, and the surprising lessons learned along the way. Discover how she embraced real food, overcame self-doubt, and found a supportive community that helped her lose 50 pounds and transform her life. Tune in for an empowering conversation about resilience, self-care, and the power of trusting the process.

What if that constant feeling that you're not doing enough is actually the very thing that's breaking you down?   Join me this week as I tackle the paradox of sufficiency and why your pursuit of “more" often backfires and leaves you with less.   You'll learn how we've been conditioned to believe that our worth equals our output, creating a cycle where rest feels dangerous and stopping feels like failure, and practical tools for defining what sufficiency looks like in your life, because here's the truth: you cannot out-hustle the belief that you're not enough.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/171   Follow me on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/carriehollandmd https://www.instagram.com/carriehollandmd/

I'm back from Disney and my brain feels like… pizza.

Want the inside scoop on how to get glowing, youthful, “glass skin”? In this episode, skincare expert Rachel Sims joins Brittany and Christina to uncover the truth about chemical peels, microneedling, and advanced beauty treatments like Sculptra and Morpheus 8.We break down what really works, what's hype, and how to build a skincare routine that transforms your skin for the long haul. Rachel also shares the story behind her clean, results-driven line Miller Marsh, plus tips for choosing the right products and treatments at any age.If you've been wondering whether at-home peels are worth it, how to combine skincare ingredients for maximum results, or if “glass skin” is actually achievable — this episode is for you. 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!

Message me with comments or questionsHave you ever wondered if real, lasting change is possible after years of dieting, restriction, and shame?Meet Allison, a 48-year-old woman who lost over 50 pounds—not through another diet, but by finally breaking free from the cycle of emotional eating. Her story is raw, inspiring, and proof that freedom with food is possible at any age.After decades of yo-yo dieting and using food to cope with stress, grief, and disconnection, Allison stumbled upon the Breakthrough Emotional Eating Podcast. What started as casual listening turned into a lifeline: she devoured over 100 episodes in six months and began to rebuild her relationship with food from the inside out.With simple but powerful tools—like learning to ask herself “Am I really hungry?” before eating—Allison began to distinguish between emotional hunger and true physical needs. The result? She shed the weight and gained resilience to navigate profound personal losses without turning to food.Her story isn't about perfection. She's candid about ongoing challenges with urges to binge—but the difference now is compassion over criticism, progress over punishment. For anyone doubting whether food freedom is possible, Allison's journey is a powerful reminder: the path to transformation begins with understanding why you eat.Connect with me online:1. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinjonescoaching/2. You Tube channel, Kristin Jones Coaching: https://www.youtube.com/@KristinJonesCoaching44 3. You Tube channel, Breakthrough Emotional Eating Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@breakthroughpodcast-443 . Website: https://www.kristinjonescoaching.com If you want to learn more about how to stop overeating at meals and lose weight easily, get my How To Stop Overeating At Meals Guide: https://go.kristinjonescoaching.com/stop-overeating Needing more specific and direct support for your emotional eating and overeating? Check out my online course, Stop Dieting Start Feeling, and my personalized coaching program, Breakthrough To You. If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to leave a review on the platform you used to listen and share it with your friends on your Instagram stories. Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram...

The roller coaster of healthy habits is exhausting. You're either completely on track with your workouts, meal prep, and sleep schedule, or you're completely off: avoiding the scale, eating whatever's easiest, and telling yourself you'll deal with it later.   Most high achievers experience this pendulum swing because our brains are wired to chase immediate rewards. When work blows up or life gets messy, we default to what gives us the fastest payoff - answering emails at 10 p.m. instead of going to bed, or finishing projects instead of heading to the gym.   The good news is that breaking this cycle doesn't mean preventing every slip or creating stricter rules. Tune in this week to learn why you find yourself stuck in the on-again, off-again cycle with your healthy habits, how both extremes of the pendulum offer temporary comfort but keep you stuck, and tools that will keep you from abandoning yourself.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/170

After gaining 30 lbs over six years, my client Amy was feeling desperate and stuck. We talk about her decision to get coaching, how she handles indulgences on the weekends, and the specific keys to releasing the weight while feeling energetic and confident. Watch Build Momentum Video Series Instagram: @mindful_shape Free Self Coaching Resources Interested in getting coached by me? Go to my website mindfulshape.com

In this lively and thought-provoking conversation, Brittany and Christina cover a wide spectrum of modern life — from lighthearted fashion influences and shopping habits to deeper discussions on health, nutrition, and the state of our society.They dive into the popularity of protein drinks, the science and struggles of fasting, and the role supplements play in wellness routines. The episode takes a sharp turn into heavier territory with critiques of media sensationalism, society's desensitization to violence, and the importance of fostering civility in public discourse.Adding personal anecdotes, Brittany shares her fashion finds influenced by Instagram and her jury duty experience, while Christina reveals the unexpected legal consequences of small everyday actions. Together, they wrap up by looking at upcoming events and the importance of community engagement in times when connection matters most.Whether you're interested in fashion, nutrition, social commentary, or just love engaging conversations full of humor and honesty, this episode has something for you.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!

This week on A Week In Her Wallet, we're diving deep into what it really means to spend with intention. Meet Amy, a 49-year-old higher education administrator living in Tennessee with her partner. She's in a season of transformation; focused on her health, reevaluating her habits, and redefining what “worth it” means when it comes to her wallet. From zero-spend weekdays and resisting fancy lattes to a boutique shopping spree that lifted her spirits, Amy's week is a powerful reminder that every purchase tells a story.

You've read the books, tracked the data, and analyzed your patterns. You can explain exactly why you eat when stressed, skip workouts, or stay up scrolling. Yet week after week, nothing changes.    That gap between your sharp awareness and your stuck behavior has a name: insight paralysis.    Tune in this week to learn why awareness alone keeps you stuck and concrete tools to bridge the gap between knowing and doing. Most importantly, you'll discover how to stop circling the same thoughts and start taking the tiny actions that actually create change.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/169

I'm leaving for my yearly Disney trip for the T1D conference, and y'all — nothing will humble you more than a three-way dressing-room mirror. I tried on one of those athletic dresses and BAM: back-fat in the mirror I'd never noticed before. Cue the body image vacation panic. But I refused to let bad lighting and spandex steal my trip. In this episode, I tell the whole embarrassing story, exactly how I knocked myself out of that spiral, and why you absolutely cannot put your life on hold until the scale says so.

In this episode, Brittany and Christina keep it real with an honest (and often hilarious) chat about the everyday struggles and surprising lessons that come with juggling life, beauty, money, and mental health.They cover everything from frustrating Wi-Fi issues to the complexity of skincare (hello, retinol and peels), and why minimalism might actually be the best beauty hack. They also dive into the importance of cash management, the challenges of travel planning, and the often-overlooked legal necessity of having power of attorney.The conversation takes a reflective turn when discussing celebrity news and the very real mental health challenges that high-profile figures face. With lighthearted banter and practical takeaways, this episode is equal parts relatable and eye-opening.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!

If you're wondering why you keep falling into the same patterns with your health and fitness goals, you're not alone.   After coaching countless physicians, lawyers, executives, and entrepreneurs, the same handful of recurring struggles comes up over and over again. That's why, this week, I'm sharing the top five struggles my clients face when they change their habits, plus the tools to overcome them.   Join me on the podcast today to learn concrete tools, actionable strategies, and mindset shifts you can practice immediately.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/168

I'm back from my summer break, and today we're talking about what it really means to come out of survival mode and step into a new season of life. When you're just trying to make it through, the world feels blurry. You don't even notice the little things piling up around you. But once you start to shift, it's like everything comes back into focus: the appointments you've been putting off, the house that suddenly needs cleaning, and most importantly, you.In this episode, I'm sharing a summer recap (including an upcoming Disney trip I didn't think would happen), how back-to-school season has me reflecting on my own routines, and why fall is the perfect reminder that change can be beautiful.

Regaining weight after weight loss surgery can feel devastating. The scale goes up, and suddenly the shame, the doubt, and the fear of failure all come rushing back. But here's the truth: regain does not mean failure. In this episode, I'm breaking down the four most common reasons women believe regain equals failure — unrealistic expectations, thinking there's a time limit, old shame stories, and expecting surgery to be the full fix. More importantly, I'll show you how to stop believing those lies and start seeing regain for what it really is: feedback, not failure. If you've ever felt stuck, hopeless, or like you've ruined your chance, this episode will help you see your journey in a whole new way. Ready to take the next step? Book a free clarity call here.

Have you ever caught yourself thinking that if you just had the right fitness tracker, the perfect app, or the latest gadget, your health and fitness goals would finally click into place?   I get it. Data feels safe. Numbers feel concrete. When everything about your body, health, fitness, and weight loss feels unpredictable, numbers might feel like a lifeline. But here's the truth: Your Oura ring won't get you to bed earlier. Your food tracking app won't put vegetables on your plate. And your CGM won't stop you from reaching for those M&Ms.   Tune in this week to learn about how you might be over-scientizing weight loss - a phenomenon I see repeatedly with clients who fill their homes with gadgets, but aren't using that information to guide or change their actions.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/167

 Epi 326This ONE mindset shift changed everything in their weight loss journey. In this powerful episode of the OSLP, we reveal the mental transformation that helped real people achieve sustainable weight loss after bariatric surgery. Whether you're exploring all complications that can happen and has happened to Stephanie - Bariatric Warrior.Join us as we share vulnerable, authentic stories from the bariatric community, and dig deep into what truly drives long-term weight loss success. From emotional eating and identity shifts to real strategies for staying motivated — it's all here.

What if your weight never affected your confidence again? Think about it… even when we've made peace with our bodies, weight has a sneaky way of creeping back in—through Instagram scrolls, offhand comments, or that tireless voice in our head. And suddenly, you're pulled back into the weight loss obsession you swore you'd left behind. If you've ever felt stuck on the scale, guilty around food, or wondered how to stop yo-yo dieting, this one's for you. TIMESTAMPS 00:02 – Why Your Weight Loss Journey Keeps You Running Circles06:45 – The Biggest Loser & What Actually Works Against You in Weight Loss14:20 – How to Stop Yo-Yo Dieting & Boost Mindful Eating22:05 – Building a Healthy Lifestyle Without Numbers or Shame Motivation30:40 – Building Confidence the Non-Diet Way This episode isn't about your weight loss journey. And it isn't about ignoring health—it's about shifting how we see weight, and how much it gets in the way of building a healthy lifestyle. In this health podcast episode: ·       Why shame never works for weight loss motivation: and how to rethink the way you talk about your body ·       How to stop yo-yo dieting: by healing your relationship with food instead of cutting more calories or avoiding your favourite foods. ·       Health without numbers: what it feels like to live in a body you care for—without letting the scale control your confidence. Build a body image that empowers you, not punishes you. Imagine a life where your worth is never measured in pounds or kilos. It starts now… Listen here!

In this episode, Brittany and Christina dive into the world of summer camp experiences, parenting in a busy world, and the ways camping—whether traditional or glamping—shapes our perspective on life. They explore the emotional weight many families are carrying this year, highlighting the importance of finding balance between plans and spontaneity while raising kids and pursuing personal growth.From cultural differences in sports culture (Canada vs. USA) to the chaos of traveling with hockey gear, the conversation weaves in humor, relatable stories, and practical reflections on the ups and downs of parenting.Key themes include the power of gratitude, how collective experiences shape our well-being, and why talking to yourself might actually be a sign of intelligence. With candid insights on navigating life challenges, this conversation reminds us to embrace both the good and the hard, finding growth and connection along the way.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!

Have you ever found yourself obsessing over every single bite of food you eat?   When you've imposed rigid rules around healthy eating, the very thing meant to make you feel better ends up making you miserable. The constant mental checklist and fear of messing up takes up way too much brain space, and that's why this week, I'm exploring why perfectionism around food backfires, especially for high-achievers who apply their usual excellence to every bite they take.   Listen in this week to discover why sometimes our pursuit of healthy eating can actually backfire – and more importantly, how to fix it.    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/166

In this engaging episode, Brittany and Christina dive into the many layers of modern life—parenthood, health, lifestyle choices, and the pursuit of purpose. From the emotional transitions that come with raising kids to the importance of maintaining health and wellness, they share personal stories and real-world insights that resonate with listeners navigating similar journeys.They also open up about hair care routines, the Amazon shopping dilemma every family knows too well, and the sweet nostalgia of childhood treats. Travel escapes, the challenges of the health industry, and the power of living with purpose all weave together in this conversation filled with authenticity, laughter, and practical wisdom.This episode is a reminder that health is wealth, purpose gives direction, and the choices we make every day shape the lives we live.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!

That old photo where you looked amazing might be lying to you. You know the one - where your arms looked defined, your waist looked tiny, and you got compliments everywhere you went. The photo that makes you think, “I want that body back,” while forgetting that you were actually exhausted, hungry, and missing out on life just to maintain it.   This disconnect between looking good and feeling terrible is something I see constantly in my coaching practice.    Tune in this week to discover why your brain tricks you into wanting a body that made you miserable, and more importantly, how to create a version of yourself that both looks good and feels amazing.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://carriehollandmd.com/165

In this episode of the Rachel Hollis podcast, Rachel shares insights on her journey through perimenopause and its impact on her weight and health. She discusses the importance of adopting new habits and experimenting with nutrition to find what works for your changing body.Get your copy of Rachel's New Book Here: Audible, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Millon, Bookshop.org, or wherever books are sold!01:03 Welcome and Podcast Subscription Request02:01 Introduction to Today's Topic: Perimenopause and Weight Loss04:23 Personal Weight Loss Journey and Challenges06:15 Understanding Hormonal Changes and Weight Gain10:36 Frustrations and Realizations in Health Journey18:51 Experimenting with Diet and Nutrition27:41 The Frustration That Leads to Change29:58 Starting the Slow Carb Diet31:32 Morning Protein Routine34:52 Adjusting to Calorie Counting37:13 The Impact of Age on Diet38:29 Experimenting with Nutrition41:53 The Role of Feast Day43:31 Food as Fuel49:52 The Importance of Consistency53:15 Final Thoughts and EncouragementSign up for Rachel's weekly email: https://msrachelhollis.com/insider/Call the podcast hotline and leave a voicemail! Call (737) 400-4626Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RachelHollisMotivation/videosFollow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MsRachelHollis To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices.