Finding Freedom with Food, Eating, and Body Image

Revelation Within On the Go!

#Self-Improvement #Heidi Bylsma-Epperson and Christina Motley #Christina Motley #Heidi Bylsma-Epperson #Weight Loss #Diet #Bible Study #Intuitive Eating #Fitness #Alternative Health #Religion #Christianity #Podcasting Education #The NonDiet #Mind

37:03

“I could be walking in Central Park and come up on one of these horse and buggies. I don't think twice about it because I see it as part of the New York attraction. You know, you have the Statue of Liberty, you have Times Square, and you have these romantic horse and buggy things where people get married in the park and they ride these carriages. And tourists, they take these rides in Central Park. It's romantic, it's something beautiful to see. But I never thought for one second that these horses are abused.” – Tracy Winston, juror from Ryder’s trial New York City has a big, visible animal cruelty issue: horses forced to pull carriages, carrying heavy loads for long hours in all types of weather in the middle of chaotic traffic. Three years ago, a carriage horse named Ryder was a victim of this cruelty. He collapsed on a Manhattan street after being worked for hours in the summer heat. Two months later, he was euthanized. His story sparked global outrage. Ryder’s driver, Ian McKeever, was charged with animal cruelty The trial took place a few weeks ago, but McKeever was ultimately acquitted. This conversation is with Edita Birnkrant, the Executive Director of NYCLASS and Tracy Winston, one of the jurors from Ryder's trial. New York’s weak and outdated animal protection laws have not changed since Ryder died— and because of this, another avoidable death that occurred just a week after we recorded this interview. On August 5th, a horse named Lady died while pulling a carriage in Manhattan. This conversation is about accountability, about corruption and about what happens when justice fails the most vulnerable. It's too late for Ryder and Lady. But it is not too late to act. If you live in New York, please call your City Council members and tell them it’s time to bring Ryder’s Law, Intro 967, up for a vote and pass this vital bill to protect carriage horses from suffering and death on the city’s streets. To find your council member, go to: https://www.speciesunite.com/ny-horse-carriage-petition NYCLASS: https://nyclass.org/…

about a year ago 43:44

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What if societal pressures have been masking the true roots of your struggles with food, eating, and body image? Join us as we uncover the hidden emotional and spiritual burdens often mislabeled as weight or diet issues, especially during the New Year resolution craze. Through personal stories and insights from our Revelation Within community, discover the life-changing journey of renewing your mind with God's truth. Learn practical tools, like personalizing scripture and practicing gratitude, to anchor your life in God's Word. Experience the peace and freedom that come from aligning your mindset with spiritual truth, supported by a welcoming community ready to help you transform your relationship with food, body image, and self-worth.

Support the show

Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Chapters

1. Finding Freedom with Food, Eating, and Body Image (00:00:00)

2. Finding Peace With Food and Eating (00:00:01)

3. Breaking Free From Dieting Mindsets (00:09:41)

4. Renewing the Mind With God's Truth (00:21:34)

5. Overcoming Food and Body Struggles (00:28:40)

6. Embracing Community Support (00:42:57)

188 episodes

Finding Freedom with Food, Eating, and Body Image

Revelation Within On the Go!

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Support the show

Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

Chapters

1. Finding Freedom with Food, Eating, and Body Image (00:00:00)

2. Finding Peace With Food and Eating (00:00:01)

3. Breaking Free From Dieting Mindsets (00:09:41)

4. Renewing the Mind With God's Truth (00:21:34)

5. Overcoming Food and Body Struggles (00:28:40)

6. Embracing Community Support (00:42:57)

188 episodes

All episodes

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
The Great Gratitude Reset: Thankful, Not Stressful 36:07

8 hours ago36:07

36:07

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into what we call The Great Gratitude Reset . We talk about how gratitude isn’t just a nice feeling—it’s a daily practice that changes our minds, our health, and our spiritual outlook. Science is finally confirming what the Bible has been saying all along: gratitude reduces anxiety, strengthens our bodies, helps us rest better, and gives us resilience during tough seasons. We’ve both seen this in our own lives. Christina shares how gratitude keeps her grounded throughout her cancer journey, while Heidi shares how practicing thankfulness sustains her as she walks alongside a close friend in illness. Gratitude has become more than a concept for us—it’s been a lifeline. We also share some very practical ways to begin, even if gratitude feels out of reach. One of our favorites is the “Lord I love” exercise, which is as simple as naming small things—like trees, a gentle touch, or even probiotic gummies—and letting those small steps open the door to bigger ones. This isn’t about shallow positivity or empty affirmations. It’s about anchoring ourselves in God’s goodness and allowing His perspective to shape ours. Romans 12 reminds us that our minds are renewed in Him, and gratitude is a key part of that renewal. We invite you to try these practices with us and see how even the smallest acts of thankfulness can reset your heart and perspective. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
From Shame To Shalom: Pt 4 33:34

7 days ago33:34

33:34

Send us a text In this final episode of our Shame to Shalom series, we share a freeing truth—you are not a project to fix, but a masterpiece in progress, fully loved right where you are. We talk about the difference between “project thinking” and surrender, and how God isn’t our impatient project manager but a loving Father who completes His work in His timing. Through breath prayers, visualizations, and personal stories, we invite you to replace shame’s critical voice with the joy-filled song God sings over you, as promised in Zephaniah 3:17. We also unpack the richness of “shalom”—wholeness where nothing is missing and nothing is broken—and how it offers rest when shame tries to push us into striving. This journey isn’t about quick fixes, but deep renewal through God’s truth. If you’re ready to keep going deeper, we’d love for you to join our From Shame to Shalom 8-week class starting September 8th. Register now at revelationwithin.org/shalom and continue walking in the peace and freedom God delights to give. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
From Shame To Shalom: Pt 3 33:32

14 days ago33:32

33:32

Send us a text In this third episode of our Shame to Shalom series, we’re looking at failure through a new lens—what if it’s not the end of your story, but the soil where growth begins? We know how shame loves to twist our stumbles into statements about our worth. But there’s another voice—the voice of grace—that says, “Let’s start again. I still trust you.” We share how our own mess-ups have become moments of mercy, and how Jesus, like He did with Peter, meets us not with rejection, but restoration. We also talk about boundaries—not as punishment, but as protection for what matters. From Proverbs 4:23, we uncover the idea of guarding what’s precious, and how setting limits can help us walk in freedom. Whether it’s resting, resisting unhealthy comforts, or filtering what voices we allow in, boundaries help create space for peace. And when we stumble, our “Look and Learn” tool helps us ask the right questions, process with God, and move forward with honesty and hope. We’re not striving for perfection—we’re learning to walk with Him, right in the middle of the mess. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
From Shame To Shalom: Pt 2 29:16

21 days ago29:16

29:16

Send us a text In this second episode of our Shame to Shalom series, we’re digging into those nagging whispers—“you’re too much” or “you’re not enough”—that have shaped so much of how we see ourselves. But what if those labels never came from God? Starting with His question in Genesis 3:11, “Who told you that…?” we invite you to reflect with us on the origin of shame and how to gently dismantle it. Through our own stories and Scripture, we discover that we’re not broken projects—we’re God’s poema from Ephesians 2:10: His intentional, beautiful workmanship. We also introduce practical tools like breath prayers, guided exercises, and we bring back a tried and true approach called “Look and Learn”—a five-question framework that helps us respond to failure with grace, not guilt. Instead of spiraling into shame, we’re learning to get curious, notice our thoughts, and bring in truth. If the voice inside sounds more like a bully than our Shepherd, it’s time to challenge it. Join us as we continue the journey of replacing old lies with God’s words of peace and purpose. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
From Shame To Shalom: Pt 1 38:08

28 days ago38:08

38:08

Send us a text In this first episode of our four-part series, we open up about the quiet yet powerful voice of shame that often whispers when we look in the mirror. From body image struggles to deeply rooted family messages, we share our own stories and trace the roots of shame all the way back to the Garden of Eden. But we don’t stop there—together, we explore the hope that comes when we realize Jesus carried not just our sin, but our shame too. This episode isn’t just about identifying the problem—it’s about offering real tools for healing. We walk through practices like The God List, Praise Fests, and breath prayers that have helped us trade shame-filled lies for truth-filled peace. You’ll hear the difference between conviction and shame, and we’ll help you reclaim your reflection as a sacred space. Join us on this journey toward peace, purpose, and seeing yourself through God’s eyes. Be sure to grab the free “Who I Am in Christ” resource at teamlifeisgood.com/identity. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
Beyond Feelings: Finding True Motivation 44:24

5 weeks ago44:24

44:24

Send us a text Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I just don’t feel like it,” even when something really matters? We have too. In this episode, Heidi shares a game-changing realization: if we wait for motivation to magically show up, we might stay stuck. But when we make choices based on our values—especially our identity in Christ—something shifts. We explore what it means to stop letting feelings drive the bus and start acting from a place that’s rooted and true. This conversation gets real as we share honest struggles and simple tools that help us move forward, even when emotions push back. From the “first thought, second thought” approach to a quick values-check practice, we offer a framework that helps you pause, reflect, and take action that aligns with who you really are. It’s not about forcing yourself through life—it’s about recognizing that motivation often follows movement, especially when that movement starts from your core values. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
The Real Thing: Pt.3 32:01

6 weeks ago32:01

32:01

Send us a text In this final episode of our three-part series The Real Thing , we talk about something we often resist—God’s holy disruptions. Using the story of Zacchaeus, we explore how Jesus didn’t just stop by for a visit, but invited him into something lasting. The word used is meno —to abide—and it changes everything. This wasn’t about tweaking a few behaviors; it was an invitation to step out of hiding and into real relationship. This was a difficult conversation to have. We share honestly about the struggle of letting go of control and embracing God’s interruptions, including a tender story about a dog named Sevy. From the bleeding woman to Saul’s blinding light, we reflect on how Jesus often disrupts before He restores. With breath prayers and practical tools, we invite you to consider where He might be gently disrupting your own “almost” life. If you're craving support in that process, join our private online community at revelationwithin.org . Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
The Real Thing: Pt.2 24:47

7 weeks ago24:47

24:47

Send us a text In Part 2 of our three-part series The Real Thing , we talk about the "almosts"—those things we turn to for comfort that feel close to peace but never quite satisfy. Whether it’s late-night snacks, comparison, or performance, we’ve both reached for substitutes that ultimately leave us thirsty. Drawing from Jeremiah 2:13 and Isaiah 44, we unpack the imagery of broken cisterns and burned-out ashes, asking: Why do we keep trying to feed on what no longer gives life? This conversation isn’t just about recognizing what’s not working—it’s about learning to receive what is . We share stories from our own lives and invite you into a reflective process using breath prayers and simple journaling prompts. What are the places in your life that feel like “almosts”? What would it look like to trade those in for the living water Jesus offers? Join us on this honest journey towards something real—because you weren’t made to settle for almost. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
The Real Thing: Pt.1 34:06

8 weeks ago34:06

34:06

Send us a text In this first episode of our new series, The Real Thing , we confront a subtle but powerful lie many of us have believed: that following Jesus means managing our lives better. From color-coded binders to constant striving, we’ve both fallen into the trap of believing that more control equals more freedom. But Jesus didn’t come to help us manage our sin—He came to give us life to the full . That doesn’t mean a perfect life, but a deep, soul-satisfying connection with Him that begins now. We share personal stories of how “management mode” drained us—Heidi in her struggles with fear-driven weight control, and Christina in the midst of her mom’s Alzheimer's journey, where surrender brought surprising peace. We’re learning that true freedom comes not through tighter grip, but through trust. We close with simple breath prayers and practical steps to help you move from self-reliance to relationship. You were made for more than managing—you were made for real life with God. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
What Are You Really Thirsting For? 25:35

9 weeks ago25:35

25:35

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the question, “What am I truly thirsting for?” We open a new series focused on caring for our bodies as sacred spaces, not problems to fix. Shifting our mindset in this way reshapes how we respond to emotional eating, self-image, and daily struggles. Drawing from Scripture, we reflect on the Hebrew idea of "thirst"—a deep, soul-level longing—and how only God's presence can satisfy that ache. Like the deer in Psalm 42, our hearts chase after true refreshment, yet we often settle for broken substitutes like food, performance, or approval. Christina shares a recent personal moment of emotional craving, where she realized her deeper need wasn’t food—it was God’s comfort in a hard place. We talk about how God meets us in our dry, weary spaces, just as seasonal rains bring new life to parched hills. We also offer a journaling prompt to help you name your own "dry places" and a breath prayer to connect with God in those moments. This episode is an invitation to see your body as already beloved and to tend to it with grace—because Jesus is present, even in your thirst. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
Trusting the Unfolding 28:30

10 weeks ago28:30

28:30

Send us a text In this episode, we talk about what it really means to trust the unfolding of life when things don’t go according to plan. We’ve both longed for the blueprint—the full picture—but God often asks us to take just the next step without knowing what’s around the corner. Releasing control is tough, but we’ve learned that peace doesn’t come from having all the answers. Heidi shares how something as inconvenient as a flat tire turned into a sacred moment with her mom—reminding us that what feels like an interruption may actually be part of God’s gentle redirection. We lean into scriptures like Psalm 37:5 and Proverbs 16:9 and explore how to practice trusting the unfolding through simple breath prayers, journaling, and asking God to help us loosen our grip on control. For us, trusting the unfolding means choosing to believe that God is present and active, even when the path feels uncertain. If you're in a season of waiting, change, or unknowns, we invite you to join us and remember: your life is not random, and the One writing your story is trustworthy. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
Unmasking Our Counterfeit Comforts-Part 2 43:27

11 weeks ago43:27

43:27

Send us a text Have you ever felt like you're sitting on an emotional trash can, afraid that lifting the lid will make everything spill out? We’ve both been there. In this episode, we talk about how we've tried to hold it all together—telling ourselves to “move on” or “just get over it”—because that’s what we heard from others and from our own inner critic. But we’ve found that real healing doesn’t come from avoidance. It comes when we let God into the mess, one honest moment at a time. We share personal stories—like digging through old journals and clothes tied to body image struggles—and how counterfeit comforts only gave temporary relief. The real shift started when we stopped numbing the pain and started facing it with God. Psalm 23 reminds us He walks with us through the darkest valleys, not around them. This isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about trusting the One who holds us even in our weakness. We hope you’ll join us in exploring what it means to find lasting comfort, not in escape, but in Christ. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
Unmasking Our Counterfeit Comforts-Part 1 39:38

12 weeks ago39:38

39:38

Send us a text In this episode, we get real about the counterfeit comforts we each reach for when life feels too heavy—whether that’s emotional eating, perfectionism, scrolling, or even throwing ourselves into ministry. We open up about how our personal stories shaped these patterns. Heidi shares how growing up with alcoholic parents taught her to cope through control and performance, while Christina talks about how her mom’s trauma from WWII in Germany created a legacy of anxiety and over-functioning in her own life. These habits may look harmless, but they often mask a deeper ache we’re trying to numb. We also talk about how family history and cultural messages feed these false comforts and how even “good” things—like spiritual routines—can become a way to avoid real connection with God. But there’s hope. Scripture invites us to bring our struggles into the light and let God meet us in the very places we tend to hide. Instead of running from discomfort, we’re learning to pause and invite God in—right in the middle of our mess. Tune in and join us as we unpack the beginning of this healing journey. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
Right Here, Right Now: You're on Holy Ground 24:22

13 weeks ago24:22

24:22

Send us a text Have you ever wondered where God is in the ordinary moments of your day? We explore that very question in this heart-level conversation about how every moment—yes, even the mundane ones—can become a sacred encounter. Together, we reflect on stories like the woman who touched Jesus' robe and the thief on the cross to reveal how God's presence often meets us not in grand events but in the smallest, most unexpected places. We talk about how every step can be a “thin place,” where heaven brushes earth, and how God can transform even a single second into a life-changing moment. We also dive into the difference between "Chronos" time—our packed, scheduled lives—and "Kairos" time, those divine appointments where God breaks through. Through gentle practices like breath prayers, sacred space scans, and pausing before reacting, we offer ways to recognize God's presence in your day. This episode is for anyone feeling rushed, scattered, or spiritually distant. You don’t have to wait for perfect circumstances to experience God. Right here, right now—this very moment—you’re already standing on holy ground. Support the show Learn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org…

Revelation Within On the Go!

1
Sacred Moments, Simple Yes 24:33

14 weeks ago24:33