Welcome back to The Speakeasy Podcast! In this episode, I'm joined by one of my closest friends—and one of my favorite people to learn from—Amy Bernhardt. I call her my "continuing education friend" because she's always learning, growing, and sharing wisdom that hits deep. Amy recently shared something online that stopped me in my tracks:

"What if your weight loss journey isn't about losing weight at all, but about God teaching you about yourself and preparing you for what's next?"

That idea launched one of the most honest and powerful conversations we've had—about what happens when we stop chasing perfection and start letting God use our health journey to heal our hearts, renew our minds, and strengthen our spirits.

Amy shares her story of going from extreme fitness culture and burnout to walking in balance, fasting, and freedom. She opens up about breaking cycles of self-sabotage, learning discipline through small daily choices, and discovering that getting healthy can be one of the holiest things you ever do.

We also talk about:

• The false identities that keep us stuck in shame and failure

• How fasting revealed spiritual strongholds, not just physical habits

• The connection between physical healing, emotional renewal, and obedience

• What it means to start before you "feel ready" and trust God with the process

This conversation is both real and redemptive, reminding us that God cares about every part of us—body, mind, and spirit—and He's in the details of your healing journey.

This episode is brought to you by:

PreBorn — Every $28 you give sponsors an ultrasound for a woman considering abortion. When she hears her baby's heartbeat, everything changes. You can be the voice of hope that helps save a life and support a mother in need. 💛 Give today at PreBorn.com/Speakeasy

CrowdHealth — It's open enrollment season, and if health insurance makes you want to scream into a pillow, you're not alone. CrowdHealth is the better way—no insurance, no hidden fees, just a community that helps cover medical costs together. Pay a low monthly fee, get transparent pricing, and take your power back. Get started for just $99 for your first three months with code SPEAKEASY at joincrowdhealth.com

Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that blend real life, healing, and hope: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtqJ8I4hmCH-w3Cw4XzFZoQ