In this heartfelt episode of Transform Your Life, Teresa and Tonya sit down with Mannie Stewart—a powerhouse in the weight loss community whose incredible journey from 406 pounds to marathon runner is both raw and deeply inspiring. Mannie shares how childhood trauma shaped her relationship with food, how she found the courage to pursue bariatric surgery, and why her transformation has been far from linear.

With honesty and vulnerability, Mannie opens up about emotional eating, dealing with post-op complications, and navigating life as a mother, wife, and runner. She explains how movement became her therapy and running became her revolution—showing that healing isn’t just physical, but mental and emotional, too.

Mannie’s story is a powerful reminder that transformation isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. Whether you’re facing your first walk around the block or recovering from surgery, this episode will move you to take the next brave step.

Key Topics Covered:

• How childhood trauma can influence weight and self-worth
• The realities of weight loss surgery and the journey beyond the "honeymoon phase"
• What it’s like to run 50 miles a week—and how it became her mental health anchor
• Navigating complications and setbacks with plastic surgery
• Embracing vulnerability and finding purpose through community
• The difference between existing and truly living

Devotion Protein Powder - Use TONYA or Teresa to save on your order

American Dream Nut Butter - Use code TONYA10 or TransformingTeresaMarie to save on your order.

Follow Transform Your Life Podcast on Instagram @transformyourlifepodcast

Follow Tonya on Instagram @takingmylifebackat42

Follow Teresa on Instagram @transformingteresamarie and Tiktok @transformingteresamarie

Follow Mannie on Instagram @making_mannie and Tiktok @making_mannie

💖 Listener Discounts:

• Devotion Protein Powder – Use code TONYA or Teresa to save on your order
• American Dream Nut Butter – Use code TONYA10 or TransformingTeresaMarie to save

📲 Follow & Connect:

Follow Transform Your Life Podcast on Instagram: @transformyourlifepodcast
Follow Tonya: @takingmylifebackat42
Follow Teresa: @transformingteresamarie | TikTok: @transformingteresamarie