Shows
Old School Food Freedom73: How to Raise a Body-Confident Daughter w/ Chantia SturmanTell us your story! From a young age, many girls are exposed to body image issues and eating habits that may not be the most uplifting. Years go by, and that young girl shows her daughter the very same habits. But it is possible to break the cycles passed down from generation to generation with God’s love, grace, and support.Chantia Sturman, licensed therapist and founder of Darling, Arise (which you’ll hear more about), joins Chrissy to share how moms can build body confidence in daughters, and even find healing in the...
2025-11-1842 min
Old School Food Freedom72: Find Freedom in Christ from Overexercise with Nicole SpeeneyTell us your story! “If you’re not intentionally giving your body the rest it needs, your body will rest when it's not convenient for you.”Wow! How much of a reality check is that? So once we recognize that drive to overexercise or avoid rest, what do we do about it? Registered Dietitian, Nicole Speeney, has walked this path both personally and professionally.In this episode, Nicole shares with us the behavioral, physiological, and emotional signs that can indicate excessive exercise, as well a...
2025-11-0441 min
Old School Food Freedom71: Declutter the House & the Shame with w/ Susan StewartTell us your story! Clutter is about so much more than just the stuff piled in corners and stuffed into closets.You may even read that and not want to listen, but the Lord put this message in your path for a reason.There are quite a few similarities between body image, eating disorders, and a cluttered home. But the truth is that your body is a good body. It’s honorable and worthy of respect. And so is your home.In this episode with professional organizer, Susan Stewart, we...
2025-10-2141 min
Old School Food Freedom70: Christ-Centered Somatic Eating Disorder Treatment with Tracy BrownTell us your story! The word “somatic” has been making its rounds on the internet in recent years. But what does it actually mean? And is there a way to incorporate somatic-based treatment ideas into a Christ-centered eating disorder recovery plan? This conversation was inspired by a listener who reached out to ask if we’d have Tracy back on the show. (We love hearing from you! If you have thoughts or questions for us while you’re listening, use the one-way text button above to share with us.)And the short ans...
2025-10-0744 min
Old School Food Freedom69: People-Pleasing, Codependency & Grace [Part 2] w/ Travis StewartTell us your story! What if you could recognize the parts of yourself that hold you back, and finally live fully loved?In this follow-up conversation, Chrissy and licensed professional counselor Travis Stewart discuss the Three Chairs Framework. You’ll learn how to identify and work with your Child Self, False Self, and Wise Self, process emotions with grace, and begin moving toward freedom from shame and people-pleasing through Christ.If you haven't yet listened to Part 1 of this conversation, you'll want to do that first. Part 1 sets the stage for understanding these pa...
2025-09-2327 min
Old School Food Freedom68: Understanding Your Habits & Behaviors [Part 1] w/ Travis StewartTell us your story! What if you had a way not only to understand but transform behaviors and habits you’re tired of struggling with? Because the truth is… You do have the freedom and the God-given right to live a full and happy life! This episode marks the start of Season 7 of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast!In the first part of a two-part conversation, listener favorite, Travis Stewart, a licensed professional counselor, returns to guide us through an easy way to understand ourselves, our struggles, and why we ex...
2025-09-0947 min
Old School Food FreedomWelcome to Old School Food FreedomTell us your story! Tired of food struggles, body shame, and cultural lies about your worth? Old School Food Freedom is a safe, hope-filled space where we laugh, cry, pray, and replace lies with Biblical truth. Join host Chrissy Kirkman as she shares real stories, Christ-centered encouragement, and the reminder that you were made for freedom, free from dieting, shame, and the pressure to measure up.Support the show FINDINGbalanceWebsite BlogFacebook InstagramSpeakPipe - send us a voice message CREDITS Interlude music by “Hotham” – Morning Thoughts Intro music by “MokkaMusic” – Old Jeans (Funk) Production & Editing by
2025-08-1202 min
Old School Food Freedom67: Unplugged & Uplifted: Chrissy’s Social Media Reset w/ Allie Marie SmithTell us your story! All or nothing thinking doesn’t just show up with food struggles and body image issues—it also shows up in our relationship with social media.The last time Allie Marie Smith was on the podcast, she invited Chrissy to try a social media reset. What started as a few days, has stretched out to months.“That experience reshaped my connection with Jesus, with myself, and the people around me!” -ChrissyIn this episode, you’ll discover how to recognize if you’re possibly experiencing social media...
2025-07-1545 min
Old School Food Freedom66: Guilt-Free, Christ-Centered Goal Setting with Amia FreemanTell us your story! The enemy is so sneaky with how he uses the pressures of diet culture and goal setting. But what if you were to learn that there’s a way to take back this territory the enemy has held hostage from you—things like food, movement, and gentle nutrition?Amia Freeman found Christ through fitness, and today she’s sharing how God helped her reclaim this territory in this throwback episode! With Amia, you’ll discover how God can support you in goal setting, how competition and fear impact your goal...
2025-07-0146 min
Old School Food Freedom65: Unburdened: Jesus' Invitation to a Better Way with Ruth HarperTell us your story! We’ve all heard the term in the Bible, but what exactly is a “yoke?” As it turns out, there are a few meanings for the word. And the concept ties in beautifully with attachment styles (or attachment theory).In today’s episode, Ruth Harper—a Registered Dietitian and longtime friend of FINDINGbalance—shares more on the subject. You’ll learn what attachment theory is all about, how a healthy attachment style with God helps soothe food and body image struggles, and steps to take to choose a supportive yoke.Jesus...
2025-06-1748 min
Old School Food Freedom64: When Fertility, Food, and Movement Connect w/ Ashley SmithTell us your story! What if your “healthy habits” are actually causing harm? God created us with such attention to detail! But sometimes… we seek control amidst the chaos of life and cause confusion to this delicate inner world He’s created.This is especially true in the case of Hypothalamic Amenorrhea(HA). Today’s guest, Ashley Smith of The HA Society, has firsthand experience with.From missing periods and infertility to brain fog and hair loss, the signs and symptoms of HA are often mistaken for other issues. In today’s conversati...
2025-06-0345 min
Old School Food Freedom63: Christian Eating Disorder Treatment Options with Amie ShieldsTell us your story! It can be difficult to find treatment that fully integrates faith in Christ—especially in-person care. That’s why we’re excited to share this conversation with Amie Shields, founder of Charis Eating Disorder Care, a Christ-centered nonprofit treatment center in Florida.In this episode, Amie shares her powerful story of moving from bondage to breakthrough, the heart and mission behind Charis Eating Disorder Care, what Christian recovery can look like, and how to find help through Charis today.Know someone who needs Christ-centered care? This episode is for them.
2025-05-2037 min
Recover with God: Eating Disorder Recovery Stories, Body Image, Diet Culture, Christian Women#31. FINDINGbalance: Overcoming Shame & Diet Culture in Christian Community with Chrissy KirkmanChrissy Kirkman is the executive director of FINDINGbalance, a Christ-centered nonprofit organization that is dedicated to helping people find freedom from eating issues through a non-diet, intuitive eating approach. Chrissy also hosts the FINDINGbalance podcast, called Old School Food Freedom Podcast.Chrissy also shares her personal struggle with disordered eating that led her to seek help from FINDINGbalance before she became executive director. It’s such a God story!On this episode of the Recover with God Podcast, Chrissy and Jayme talk about:Taking time with Jesus th...
2025-05-0758 min
Old School Food Freedom62: Social Media Reset: Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy with Allie Marie SmithTell us your story! Every moment on social media matters. It shapes who we are and the women we will become. But even hearing that, it still feels impossible to break the habit of reaching for the phone to see what your friend has been up to, or what the latest trending Reel is, or even using these apps for work. So… what are you to do?Allie Marie Smith joins Chrissy to talk about this very thing! Her new book is called Social Media Reset. In this episode, you’ll hear messages she shares in h...
2025-05-0650 min
Old School Food Freedom61: Making & Breaking Agreements with Jordan & Marie FooteTell us your story! The voice of the enemy is loud and persuasive—and sometimes easier to hear than God’s tender, loving messages. Satan is sneaky with the agreements he lures us into. Once we realize the weight of all those lies we’ve believed, it can feel like a hopeless situation we can’t untangle from.But nothing could be further from the truth! Jordan and Marie Foote are back to help us understand how spiritual roots connect to agreements and how identifying and breaking those agreements with the enemy leads to freedom...
2025-04-1550 min
Old School Food Freedom60: Understanding Spiritual Roots with Jordan & Marie FooteTell us your story! Chrissy frequently references the concept of negative spiritual roots, but we've never spent an entire episode digging in to understanding how deep-seated emotions, beliefs, and experiences fuel harmful behaviors and perspectives. Often rooted in past hurts, trauma, or unaddressed sin, spiritual roots can hinder growth and distance us from God. Instead of avoiding the issue once it’s exposed, the Lord wants us to turn toward Him in our time of need. Today, Jordan and Marie Foote join Chrissy to dig into how roots of bitterness, unforgiveness, pride, fear, idol...
2025-04-0148 min
Old School Food Freedom59: Lessons to My Teenage Self with Amy ConnellTell us your story! No matter which generation you were born into, there are lessons we’d each love to go back and share with our teenage selves. While we can't change the past, we can certainly grow in the present with God's grace.Certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, and author Amy Connell joins Chrissy for this in-depth conversation. In this episode, Amy shares her top 5 lessons she has for her teenage self, staggering statistics about young women and body image, and one thing she’d encourage all teens to do now.This conv...
2025-03-1846 min
Old School Food Freedom58: Navigating Information Pollution with God’s Grace with Kirsten SchmidtTell us your story! Let’s say you find yourself scrolling for hours on social media. And when you’re able to pull yourself away, you go into intense shame mode. Is there possibly something more gentle and helpful that could be done in those moments? The answer is yes! God is there, and He’s waiting for us to turn to Him. Kirsten Schmidt returns to the podcast to discuss what information pollution is, how the enemy uses it to keep us stuck, how it prevents root-cause solutions, what to do when you firs...
2025-03-0445 min
Old School Food Freedom57: Supporting Your Significant Other Through an Eating Disorder with Amy OzierTell us your story! The role of supporter is delicate and demanding—even more so when you’re trying to figure out how to support your significant other through an eating disorder. You question if you’re actually seeing disordered eating behaviors, how to get help, what help to get, and the weight of trying to manage a romantic relationship, to name a few. But hope and help is available! Amy Ozier is back for a conversation with Chrissy around the unique challenges of navigating an eating disorder or body image issues within a romantic relatio...
2025-02-1852 min
Old School Food Freedom56: Supporting Your Child Through an Eating Disorder with Amy OzierTell us your story! Chrissy met Amy Ozier a year ago—and here they are now for a hope-filled discussion of helping a loved one through an eating disorder. It’s much harder than most people would know, and something no one is really ever ready for. But there are resources, support groups, and, of course, the Lord. The desire for this episode is to help anyone who is supporting someone they love through their journey to freedom from an eating disorder. That could include parents navigating the role as caregivers for their children, supporting a spo...
2025-02-0458 min
Old School Food Freedom55: Can God Really Make Me Whole Again? with Chrissy KirkmanTell us your story! Chrissy has firsthand experience of the struggles faced by those battling food issues, and the courage it takes to seek help. And while she’s still challenged by diet culture from time to time, she’s no longer held captive by it. Her mission is to help other women find Jesus in the middle of their struggles with food and body image, so they can know true freedom! In this episode, Chrissy shares key practices that have helped her strengthen her relationship with the Lord, turn to him in times of distress, and what...
2025-01-2143 min
Old School Food Freedom54: Make Mealtime Easier with Ann KentTell us your story! Doesn’t it sound lovely to be able to remove the influence of diet culture from mealtime? Well, that doesn’t need to remain a pipe dream! From being single and feeling mentally drained, to having a household of picky eaters, to recovering from an eating disorder—the challenges are real. But mealtime can be made easier! Ann Kent joins Chrissy to share a great tool that helps remove the burden of meal planning and get a quick, nourishing meal on the table in the most non-diet-culture-y way. She shares the difference between meal p...
2025-01-0751 min
Faith-Filled Food Freedom | Disordered Eating, Body Image, Weight Loss Obsession, Anxiety, Nutrition116. Is It Possible to Accept Your Body AND Still Want to Change It? HOT TAKE From A Food Freedom Dietitian & Christian Counselor with Freddie Amos, NCC, PLPCFor many women, the tension between body acceptance and the desire for change feels impossible to reconcile. Can you honor God’s creation while also working toward change? Or does wanting to change mean you aren’t truly content in your body? This episode dives into these questions with a fresh perspective grounded in faith and food freedom.
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Live Original’s counselor, Freddie Amos, and together, we’re breaking down what it means to accept your body as it is while addressing the nuanced and often misunderstood idea of pursuing phy...
2024-12-3145 minFaith-Filled Food Freedom | Disordered Eating, Body Image, Weight Loss Obsession, Anxiety, Nutrition115. Why Hasn’t God Helped Me Recover Yet? What to Do When You’re Still Struggling With Negative Body Image or Disordered EatingNegative body image can leave you feeling stuck in a cycle of shame, self-criticism, and frustration. But what if Scripture could offer you a new perspective? God’s Word provides truth that can replace lies, offering peace and freedom even when your body image feels like a constant battle.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into three specific Bible verses every woman needs to cling to when struggling with negative body image. These verses will remind you of your identity in Christ, reframe how you see your body, and offer hope for living free from self-doubt. Whethe...
2024-12-2415 minFaith-Filled Food Freedom | Disordered Eating, Body Image, Weight Loss Obsession, Anxiety, Nutrition114. ✨ BONUS Episode - 3 Bible Verses Every Woman Needs When Struggling With Negative Body ImageNegative body image can leave you feeling stuck in a cycle of shame, self-criticism, and frustration. But what if Scripture could offer you a new perspective? God’s Word provides truth that can replace lies, offering peace and freedom even when your body image feels like a constant battle.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into three specific Bible verses every Christian woman needs to cling to when struggling with negative body image. These verses will remind you of your identity in Christ, reframe how you see your body, and offer hope for living free from self-d...
2024-12-1921 min
Old School Food Freedom53: Building Secure Attachment in Online Spaces with Josi WahlertTell us your story! It can be incredibly challenging to feel comfortable and safe being seen—especially in online support groups. And yet… without comfort and safety, it’s impossible to even open ourselves up to allow for healing. So where do we go from here? Enter: Josi Wahlert. Josi and Chrissy have never met in person, but Chrissy has experienced true growth and healing because God brought her into Chrissy’s life. She’s not only a supportive person; she’s also a coach who deeply believes in “gentle curiosity.” We hope you enjoy this conversation...
2024-12-1757 min
Old School Food Freedom52: An Unfed Believer is An Easy Target with Leslie SchillingTell us your story! Today, Chrissy is talking with Leslie Schilling about how an unfed believer is easy prey, an easy target. There has been a trap set before us by the enemy who is the ringleader of the diet culture circus, and it’s gonna be talked about! They get into topics like The Weigh Down diet culture, weight-centric healthcare practices, and what Christ-centered agency looks like. Buckle up because they’re about to go there! GIVEAWAY! One listener will win a copy of Feed Yourself: Step Away from the Lies of Di...
2024-12-0357 min
Old School Food Freedom51: Preventing Holiday Body Image Meltdowns! with Rachael GilbertTell us your story! If you’re anything like me, you notice how body image struggles start to increase leading up to, during, and after the holidays. We’ve spent time in recent episodes talking specifically about food and the holidays, and this feels like a natural next step in the conversation. Thankfully, I have Rachael Gilbert here with me today! She’s sharing her story and why body image is such an important topic to her, tips on how to process old hurts, as well as some journal prompts to use during the holidays—and beyond! On a per...
2024-11-1943 min
Old School Food Freedom50: Preventing Holiday Food Freakouts! with Kristen WilliamsTell us your story! Somewhere in September, holiday foods begin appearing on store shelves. It starts with candy and rolls into Thanksgiving and then Christmas baked goods. Before you know it, the New Year is here and you’re feeling such shame and guilt. But this year can be different! Kristen Williams joins us today for our 50th episode—where we have lots to celebrate! She’s sharing how to navigate odd meal times, how intuitive eating can be helpful, and how to handle comments from family and friends. Stay tuned for the entire episode as we dish o...
2024-11-0542 min
Old School Food Freedom49: Finding Freedom from P*ornography & S3xual Shame, Part 2, with Dr. Joy SkarkaTell us your story! For many of us, the “sex talk” is a reminder that there’s shame around the topic of sex. And yet God has such a beautiful purpose for sex in a marriage! Men and women are living in such sexual shame—but that doesn’t have to be the case. You get to change the course of that story for your family! And there are plenty of resources available to you. Dr. Joy Skarka is back with me for Part 2 of this conversation (find Part 1 here) where we continue with the importance of talking ab...
2024-10-2231 min
Old School Food Freedom48: Finding Freedom from P*ornography & S3xual Shame, Part 1, with Dr. Joy SkarkaTell us your story! It is possible to find freedom in Christ from s3xual shame and struggles like p*rnography. (Ladies listen up, because this isn’t a topic that only applies to men.) Too many women are living with s3xual shame and guilt. And for many that spirals into eating issues and negative self-talk. Dr. Joy Skarka joins me for this 2-part conversation and we begin with her story. She also shares relevant eye-opening statistics, what parents need to know, and what we all need to hear about salvation in these struggles. Friends, I kn...
2024-10-0831 min
Old School Food Freedom47: 90s Diet Culture Time Capsule with Amy CarlsonTell us your story! The 90s had no shortage of messaging that revolved around diet (mostly all things no or low fat) and exercise. From NordicTrack to our trusty VHS tapes, there was no shortage of fitness trends! And this 1995 issue of Shape Magazine I found stored in my old closet reminds us of that. Amy Carlson joins me for the second half of our look at diet culture over the years. (Be sure to check out the 80s Diet Culture Time Capsule episode.) In this episode, we continue our journey down memory lane. We giggle about...
2024-09-2443 min
Old School Food Freedom46: 80s Diet Culture Time Capsule with Amy CarlsonTell us your story! 80s diet culture was confusing at best. And that’s from an adult woman’s perspective decades later! Imagine being a young girl and receiving messaging that tells you to both blend in and embrace your uniqueness. Good grief! Registered Dietitian, Amy Carlson, joins me for this episode. We’re taking a trip back in time—thanks to a pamphlet I was given at 10 years old that included diet, hair and skincare, and exercise tips so “you can, overall, look healthier, fitter, and prettier than ever before!” Oh yeah, it’s cringe! But what can we le...
2024-09-1054 min
Old School Food Freedom45. Are the Health at Every Size® Principles Biblical?Tell us your story! After listening to our Q&A Mix Tape conversation in Season 2, our friend Erin Todd from the "Intuitive Eating for Christian Women Podcast" reached out. Like us, she’s seen so many women wrestle with one question we covered, “Are the Health at Every Size® principles Biblical?” She encouraged us to create a stand-alone episode with this as the focus, so here we are! Dr. Alisa Shanks of Colorado Christian University and Amy Schaller of FINDINGbalance join me to answer this listener question. Dr. Alisa Shanks reveals the 5 principles of Health at Every Size® a...
2024-07-1521 min
Old School Food Freedom44. Body Shaming Ourselves & What the Bible Says with Travis StewartTell us your story! If you sit with God’s word and reflect on what is shared about body shame and image you may just change your perspective—and your life. And that’s exactly what my prayer is for you today. When you change your mind, you change your life, and that can change the world! Joining me is Travis Stewart. His work has helped me personally and I knew I wanted to have a conversation with him on this podcast. (Check out the full version of the episode here!) Tune in to hear what God actual...
2024-07-0123 min
Old School Food Freedom43. Aging Gratefully with Heather CreekmoreTell us your story! Aging is a journey filled with wisdom, beauty, and profound growth, and there's no need to fear or stigmatize it. In this enlightening episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman engages in a heartfelt conversation with Heather Creekmore about transforming our perceptions of aging. Join Chrissy and Heather as they attack the cultural messages and unrealistic expectations placed on women to maintain a youthful appearance, and how these pressures intersect with body image issues.Drawing from Heather's latest book, 'Aging Gratefully,' they discuss the importance of...
2024-06-1741 min
Old School Food Freedom42. Reclaim Your Summer with Heather CreekmoreTell us your story! Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy being with friends and family, and there's no need to continue waiting until you're a certain size to enjoy it. In this empowering episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman engages in an enlightening conversation with Heather Creekmore about transforming the way we see our bodies this summer. Join Chrissy and Heather as they discuss the pressures of altering our bodies for the season, the toxic messages of diet culture, and the benefits of improving the quality of the content you consume.Heather h...
2024-06-0341 min
Old School Food Freedom41. Somebody Testify! The Power of Authenticity in Community with Kaitlyn CeyTell us your story! In this episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman and guest Kaitlyn Cey talk all about the transformative power of personal testimonies. Kaitlyn courageously shares her journey of battling body image issues and chronic illness, revealing how God met her in her darkest moments. Through their conversation, they explore the profound connection between "calling" and "testimony," emphasizing how sharing our stories can foster authentic community and bring hope and transformation to others.Chrissy and Kaitlyn also discuss ways to overcome negative self-talk (lies from the enemy) and...
2024-05-2051 min
Old School Food Freedom40. Creating Space for Grace with Rebecca FeereTell us your story! In this new episode of the Old School Food Freedom podcast, Chrissy Kirkman and guest Rebecca Feere share a deeply personal conversation about Rebecca's journey of overcoming an eating disorder and finding freedom through God's grace. Rebecca's story will resonate with many, as she navigates through feelings of inadequacy, body image dissatisfaction, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Despite her achievements and outward success, Rebecca found herself trapped in a cycle of restrictive eating habits and internal turmoil. But by opening herself up to help and following the guidance of the Lord, she...
2024-05-0658 min
Old School Food Freedom39. Uprooting Diet Culture in The Church with Liesel MaddoxTell us your story! In this sweet episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman and guest Liesel Maddox, RDN, LD, tackle a topic that's close to their hearts: tearing down the lies of diet culture within the Church. As they dive into the intersection of faith and food, Liesel highlights the importance of aligning our understanding of food and nutrition with biblical principles and rejecting the harmful message of diet culture for the freedom of God's people.Knowing that our sanctification isn't tied to changing our bodies or pursuing weight loss...
2024-04-1556 min
Old School Food Freedom38. Moving From Nutritional Discord to Hormonal Harmony, Part 2, with Wendie TaylorTell us your story! Here's another info-packed episode of the Old School Food Freedom podcast! In this second half of a two-part conversation about nutrition, hormonal balance, and freedom from food issues in the midst of perimenopause, host Chrissy Kirkman and special guest Wendie Taylor, MBA, RDN talk about how to better support your body with nourishment and self-compassion.You'll be equipped with ideas and knowledge that will help you focus on flexibility rather than rigid food rules and adding things in, rather than cutting things out. These concepts enable you to break free from...
2024-04-0146 min
The Joyful Health Show: A Non-Diet Wellness Podcast for ChristiansEpisode 67: Building a Non-Diet Referral Network with Chrissy Kirkman of FINDINGbalanceIn this episode of the Joyful Health Show Chrissy Kirkman of FINDINGbalance talks with Kasey about building a healthy referral network of non-diet, Christ-centered providers for yourself, your loved ones, and if you’re a practitioner, your clients. Chrissy shares her own experience finding peace with food through connecting with the body of Christ and helpful providers, and helps listeners learn how to build their own network of providers and support systems that will spur them on to greater freedom in Christ in their relationship with food, body and health.
In this episode we discuss:
What a...
2024-03-1947 min
Old School Food Freedom37. Moving From Nutritional Discord to Hormonal Harmony, Part 1 with Wendie TaylorTell us your story! Oh, we've got a good one for ya, gals! Old School Food Freedom Podcast host Chrissy Kirkman invited her personal dietitian, Wendie Taylor, MBA, RDN to talk through the variety of changes women face during the fabulous perimenopause phase of life when diet culture and food struggles can feel even more overwhelming to navigate. They also touch on topics like infertility, miscarriage, and grieving what might have been.By being intentional to nourish both the body, care for your mental and soul health, and turn to Jesus, you can thrive during...
2024-03-181h 00
Old School Food Freedom36. Breaking Free Through Healing Prayer with Kassandra BakerTell us your story! In this new episode of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman and special guest Kassandra Baker discuss the power of healing prayer and its impact on breaking free from the bondage of past negative experiences and trauma. As a certified health, life, and mental health coach, Kassandra has much to share on how our brains work when it comes to healing and how we can navigate our thoughts and emotions to "blaze new trails" that lead to freedom. This episode includes practical advice on how to try healing p...
2024-03-0445 min
Wonderfully MadeHope for Eating Disorders — with Chrissy Kirkman and Allie Marie SmithAre you or someone you love struggling with disordered eating? You are not alone. In this episode, Allie Marie Smith and Chrissy Kirkman give hope to the girls and women battling eating disorders. They discuss the different types of eating disorders and share Chrissy's personal journey of recovery. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the need for help and offer encouragement to those struggling with eating disorders. The conversation concludes with a prayer for freedom and healing. Allie and Chrissy discuss finding freedom and identity in Christ and the importance of seeking support in times of struggle. You can e...
2024-02-2041 min
Old School Food Freedom35. How to Reclaim Christ-Centered Agency Over Your Body with Tracy Brown, RD, LD/NTell us your story! In this episode of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman is joined by Tracy Brown, RD, LD/N to explore a recent and deeply personal experience Chrissy faced. Chrissy's story underscores the reality that regardless of our progress on the journey towards freedom from food and body image struggles, we all encounter challenges that test our boundaries and growth, even with the right tools at hand. None of us are exempt from these trials, but we don't have to give in to the deception and discouragement they bring. G...
2024-02-191h 03
Old School Food Freedom34. Overcoming Food and Body Shame Through Old School Story Work” with Kristen Bunger, MS, RDTell us your story! Embark on a transformative journey in this episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast with your host Chrissy Kirkman and special guest Kristen Bunger, MS, RD. In this episode, Kristen sheds light on how body image issues and the influence of diet culture are intricately tied to distorted perceptions. You'll discover the transformative potential of "story work" to gain insights that will empower you to see yourself with renewed accuracy and grace.Together, Kristen and Chrissy explore the power of processing emotions, unveiling deeply rooted beliefs, and replacing them with...
2024-02-0550 min
Old School Food Freedom33. My Health Condition Has Me Strugglin’ to Eat Well & Feel Free with Amanda ReynoldsTell us your story! At the beginning of each new year, there's an influx of societal pressures telling us what we should or should not be doing for our bodies. It can be challenging enough to navigate, but what if you're affected by a health condition or limitation on top of it all? Host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, discusses overcoming these challenges on the path to food freedom with guest Amanda Reynolds — an author and health coach with personal experience in movement and eating well despite being faced with difficult health circumstances. We believe you'll br...
2024-01-2252 min
Old School Food Freedom32. Territory Take-Back with Amia FreemanTell us your story! Okay y’all, we have another fired-up episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast to kick off 2024! Our enemy, Satan, has tried to steal WAY too much territory from us… and sometimes we forget that we have the power in Christ to take it back. In this conversation, host Chrissy Kirkman and guest Amia Freeman unravel the complexities of finding freedom in movement and explore the transformative journey of embracing “grace mode” over “beast mode”. (RED FLAG! We don’t want to do ANYTHING in his mode.)Be motivated in your own journ...
2024-01-081h 06
Old School Food Freedom31. Freedom Stories Mix Tape with Amy SchallerTell us your story! Join Chrissy Kirkman and Amy Schaller in a conversation on the transformative journey of healing and freedom from food and body image challenges. This special episode of the Old School Food Freedom podcast features compelling personal testimonies from listeners and members of the FINDINGbalance community.As a Christ-centered ministry, FINDINGbalance plays a crucial role in this journey by providing valuable resources, prayer groups, and unwavering support. We are here to help you explore the profound impact of embracing YOUR unique needs, and to help you break free from the constraints of...
2023-12-1857 min
Old School Food Freedom30. The Enemy Lies About Body Size, But God’s Truth Leads To Freedom! with Chrissy KirkmanTell us your story! In this exclusive solo episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, our host, Chrissy Kirkman, steps into the spotlight to share profound insights drawn from her personal journey. Diving into ten pervasive lies perpetuated by the enemy, Chrissy counters each with transformative truths anchored in scripture. This episode unravels the misconception of tying body size to happiness, emphasizing the peace found in embracing God's flawless design for our lives and bodies. BONUS: Don't miss out on the incredible resource shared in this episode—the free Freedom Prayer Jou...
2023-12-0439 min
Old School Food Freedom29. Jesus Showed UP at the Holy & Whole Conference! with the FINDINGbalance TeamTell us your story! Oh this is a fun one, y'all! In this episode of the Old School Food Freedom podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman and her team share their transformative experiences from the 2023 Holy and Whole Women’s Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. They discuss the powerful moments of worship, the freedom of chains breaking, and the genuine sense of community that emerged. The team also shares touching stories of connections made with attendees and the impact of the event, highlighting the importance of faith in the process of recovery from eating disorders and disordered eating. This ep...
2023-11-2049 min
Old School Food Freedom28. Setting Pride Aside to Walk In True Freedom with Gina Izbicki, RDNTell us your story! Join host Chrissy Kirkman in a heartfelt conversation with Gina Izbicki, RDN, exploring the transformative power of faith in attaining personal freedom and recovery. Gina shares from her journey of battling body image issues and pride to embracing true freedom through faith and biblical truth. She also discusses the importance of helping the next generation fight societal pressures. This episode is an inspiring testament to the liberating feeling of being unapologetically authentic and confident in our bodies. _LINKS + RESOURCES:oldschoolfoodfreedom.comDonate to FINDINGbalanceWe love hearing from you...
2023-11-0655 min
Old School Food Freedom27. Have You Been Misinformed About Gluttony? with Char-Lee CasselTell us your story! Welcome to a brand new episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast! Join in as host Chrissy Kirkman engages in a captivating conversation with Char-Lee Cassel, MS, RDN, ACSM-CEP, to explore a thought-provoking question: Have you been misled about gluttony? Listen as Char-Lee and Chrissy hash out the cultural and Biblical subtleties surrounding the concept of gluttony, highlighting instances where our perceptions might not align with the truth. Allow God to renew your mind and heart as you gain insights into these heart issues and break free from the bondage associated with...
2023-10-2352 min
Old School Food Freedom26. Finding Healing and Freedom From Body Objectification with Kirsten Schmidt, Part 2Tell us your story! In this episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman reunites with certified health and nutrition coach, Kirsten Schmidt, for the second part of their engaging conversation. This time, they dive deeper into crucial topics like body image and self-worth. Kirsten shares profound insights on how our perception of our bodies relates to broader cultural issues. Join Chrissy and Kirsten as they explore how to become better stewards of our bodies and play a role in helping others recognize God's original and beautiful design for our bodies, free from shame.
2023-10-0944 min
Old School Food Freedom25. Finding Healing and Freedom From Body Objectification with Kirsten Schmidt, Part 1Tell us your story! In the next two episodes of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, host Chrissy Kirkman teams up with certified health and nutrition coach, Kirsten Schmidt. In this first part, they're on a journey to unmask the impact of body objectification in today's culture. Kirsten talks about the dangers of elevating "being healthly" to an idol, and helps us understand how shame can destroy our ability to see our bodies as gifts. Join Chrissy and Kirsten as they dig into these profound ideas and guide you toward a more balanced way of looking at...
2023-09-2535 min
Old School Food Freedom24. A Grace-Rooted Approach to Navigating Diet Culture as Christians with Megan BeckerTell us your story! Season 3 of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast is here! In our first episode, FINDINGbalance Executive Director and host Chrissy Kirkman chats with Megan Becker, MS, RD who highlights how seemingly small life experiences and innocuous comments, often referred to as "micro-shame moments," can significantly impact our self-perception. Megan emphasizes the importance of breaking free from the body-image fixation passed down through generations and discusses how grace is the key to overcoming guilt and shame narratives.Acknowledging that everyone is at a different stage in their awareness of diet culture's impact and the...
2023-09-1151 min
Old School Food Freedom23. Hello, Freedom! A Look Inside Eating Disorder Treatment & Recovery with Grace McCreadyTell us your story! In the final installment of our "Hello, Freedom! Summer Road Trip" series, author and blogger Grace McCready, shares how she overcame her battle with anorexia, with the support of her family and treatment team, on a journey that wasn't easy.Hear how God awakened Grace to a deeper level of healing and spiritual recovery as He illuminated His truth to cancel out the lies she was believing about her body and herself. Tune in to hear what real recovery looks like and be inspired to know that every small step in...
2023-07-3151 min
Old School Food Freedom22. Hello, Freedom! How Taylor Coote Broke Free from OSFEDTell us your story! In another moving installment of our "Hello, Freedom! Summer Road Trip" series, FINDINGbalance Grant Writer, Taylor Coote, shares how God led her to freedom from the bondage of 'Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorder' (OSFED), a clinical category used to describe a variety of disordered eating behaviors that do not meet all the diagnostic criteria for a specific eating disorder.In this episode, Taylor describes how dysfunctional childhood experiences created an opening for the enemy to sneak in with lies about her worth and identity as a daughter of the King...
2023-07-1755 min
Old School Food Freedom21. Hello, Freedom! Liesl Dunlap’s Journey to Freedom from Disordered Eating BondageTell us your story! In the first episode of our "Hello, Freedom! Summer Road Trip" series, you heard Rece and Liesl Dunlap share their family's story of how God helped Rece overcome Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). It was during this journey that Liesl recognized the grip that food and negative body image had on her life, moving her to seek help.In this episode, Liesl shares with FINDINGbalance Executive Director and Old School Food Freedom host Chrissy Kirkman how the Lord illuminated hope for freedom from disordered eating bondage, the challenges she faced...
2023-07-0356 min
Old School Food Freedom20. Hello, Freedom! How Rece Dunlap Overcame ARFIDTell us your story! We're excited to share the first episode in our "Hello, Freedom! Summer Road Trip" series! Rece Dunlap, a student at Lee University and son of FINDINGbalance Bookkeeper and Board Treasurer, Liesl Dunlap, shares what it was like living with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and how God helped the Dunlap family find freedom from its bondage.This mother and son duo share the highs and lows of their family's story in a transparent, relatable way. Tune in to learn about ARFID, hear Rece's treatment story, have a few laughs, and...
2023-06-1954 min
Old School Food Freedom19. Processing Grief with God Instead of Food with Brittany Wilson, RDN, LNTell us your story! If you've ever turned to food instead of God for comfort, you're not alone. Join host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman in her conversation with Brittany Wilson, RDN, LN (formerly Bauer) as they explore the challenges of processing grief and trauma, overcoming triggers, and shifting focus towards positive experiences and memories instead of negative cycles.With a strong emphasis on trusting God to walk with us on the path of healing, you'll gain insight and practical strategies for moving closer wholeness. Tune in to discover how to process grief, lean...
2023-06-0554 min
Old School Food Freedom18. Escaping the Cycle of Shame in Recovery with Travis Stewart, MA, LPC, NCTell us your story! Join host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, as she chats with Travis Stewart, MA, LPC, NCC, on the challenges of breaking free from the vicious cycle of disordered eating. As Chrissy and Travis discuss the ways in which shame, negative body image, and binging behaviors can perpetuate a cycle of disordered eating, Travis shares his insights on how to break free from these patterns and develop a healthier relationship with food and your body. Through methods like telling ourselves the truth, finding life-giving support, and focusing on how God sees you, you c...
2023-05-1550 min
Old School Food Freedom17. Q&A Mix Tape with Dr. Alisa Shanks & Amy SchallerTell us your story! Here on The Old School Food Freedom Podcast, our heart’s desire is to help you find the truth and know freedom in Christ, so we’ve put together another Q&A Mix Tape episode to answer listener questions from a Christ-centered, biblical perspective. In this episode with Chrissy Kirkman, Amy Schaller, and Dr. Alisa Shanks, we answer questions like “Why do some people struggle significantly with food and body image and others don’t?”, ”I struggle to believe Health At Every Size is acceptable and good for my health. Can you help?”, “How can I stop c...
2023-05-0155 min
Old School Food Freedom16. Live Free from ED and The Gang with Kassandra BakerTell us your story! Join host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, for a conversation with Kassandra Baker on a new episode of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast. Kassandra is a certified health, life, and mental health coach who specializes in helping people break free from the negative cycle of disordered eating. In this episode, Chrissy and Kassandra discuss the challenges of living with and overcoming an eating disorder– and the many negative thoughts and behaviors that often accompany disordered eating. This conversation is sure to provide practical advice and inspiration for anyone looking to "live fr...
2023-04-1751 min
Old School Food Freedom15. 3 Mistakes Most People Make in Recovery and What To Do Instead with Brittany Braswell, MS, RDN, LDTell us your story! Join host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, as she interviews Brittany Braswell, MS, RDN, LD, on a new episode of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast. In their time together, they dive into the topic of recovery from disordered eating and discuss three common mistakes people make during the process. As a registered dietitian nutritionist specializing in eating disorders, Brittany shares her insights on how to overcome these obstacles and find a path to sustainable recovery. Whether you're just starting out or have been in recovery for a while, this conversation is...
2023-04-0354 min
Old School Food Freedom14. Guiding Our Kids Through Diet Culture with Dr. Megan OsborneTell us your story! Join host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman and Dr. Megan Osborne, as they discuss the topic of raising emotionally healthy kids in a culture that promotes dieting and disordered eating. Dr. Osborne offers insight from her vast array of experience in research, clinical practice, and most recently, the publishing of children's books. She shares how you can navigate teaching kids about food and body image, including tips for fostering a positive relationship with food and promoting healthy body acceptance. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this conversation is a must-listen for...
2023-03-2045 min
Old School Food Freedom13. When Food, Body, and Trauma Connect, with Tracy Brown, RD, LD/NTell us your story! Join us on the latest episode of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast, where host, and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, interviews Tracy Brown, RD, LD/N, a somatic nutrition therapist specializing in trauma.In this episode, Chrissy and Tracy dive into the topic of trauma and its impact on our lives, discussing how everyday experiences can accumulate to create trauma responses, even from pre-verbal ages. Tracy shares her expertise on the adaptive strategies of behaviors like eating disorders and the importance of acknowledging and addressing our past experiences. We pray t...
2023-03-0650 min
Old School Food Freedom12. Moving From Shame to Freedom In Christ with Laurel TaylorTell us your story! Join us on another episode of The Old School Food Freedom Podcast as host and FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, interviews Nashville singer-songwriter and artist, Laurel Taylor. You'll be on the edge of your seat both crying and laughing along as you listen!In this conversation, Chrissy and Laurel discuss pursuing God's calling over very real struggles– including body image issues, comparison, and shame. You'll hear Laurel's incredibly touching and hope-filled testimony, the stories behind her music and her new song "Old House", and be encouraged that you, too, can have vi...
2023-02-2042 min
Old School Food Freedom11. Moving With Joy (When the Thought Alone Feels Daunting) with Kasey ShulerTell us your story! Join host Chrissy Kirkman and special guest Kasey Shuler, ACSM and CPT, as they explore the transformative power of movement, revealing how it can bring joy into our lives. Kasey and Chrissy discuss overcoming movement burnout, ways to break down the mental barriers keeping us unmotivated, and small steps to help us move toward an active lifestyle for the pure joy of living in God's design – no matter where you're starting from. Tune in for this inspiring conversation as they challenge the restrictions of modern diet culture and replace them with the freedom th...
2023-02-0642 min
Old School Food Freedom10. Protecting Your Heart Against January Diet Frenzy, Pt. 2 with Dr. Alisa ShanksTell us your story! On this episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, FINDINGbalance Executive Director and host Chrissy Kirkman continues the conversation from episode 9 with special guest, Dr. Alisa Shanks.In this episode, Dr. Shanks further explores the topic, providing more actionable strategies for staying true to your values and goals while navigating the often-overwhelming diet culture. Gain practical advice on how to set intentions and make mindful choices that honor both your body and your faith.Whether you're just starting your food freedom journey, or you've been on it for...
2023-01-1646 min
Old School Food Freedom9. Protecting Your Heart Against January Diet Frenzy, Pt. 1 with Dr. Alisa ShanksTell us your story! On this episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, FINDINGbalance Executive Director and host Chrissy Kirkman is joined by special guest Dr. Alisa Shanks to discuss the importance of protecting your heart during January diet frenzy. This is PART 1 of a two-episode discussion on this topic!As the new year begins, it's common for people to set weight loss goals and start restrictive diets, but we're here to help you flip the script with a focus on nourishing and caring for your body rather than trying to conform to societal...
2023-01-0248 min
Old School Food Freedom8. Diversity in The Kingdom of God with Jessica-Lauren NewbyTell us your story! How do you practice nourishing yourself in a way that honors God and cares for your body? Have you considered that more than one body type reflects His image?On this episode of the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, along with private practitioner and speaker, Jessica-Lauren Newby, MA, RDN, LD, CEDRD, IBCLC, drive home what the Bible says about caring for our bodies– and celebrating them according to His perfect and diverse design.Listen and learn to shift your mindset on what it really me...
2022-11-1446 min
Old School Food Freedom7. Q&A Mix Tape with Dr. Alisa Shanks & Amy SchallerTell us your story! You're not alone in your struggles with food and body image. On the Old School Food Freedom Podcast, we're here to help you find the truth and know freedom in Christ. So we've put together this Q&A Mix Tape episode to answer your questions from a Christ-centered, biblical, and authentic perspective.Some great questions have been submitted, so get ready to jump in and kick it old school with FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, and her two awesome guests, Amy Schaller and Dr. Alisa Shanks.-
2022-11-0746 min
Old School Food Freedom6. Back to the Table with Amy CarlsonTell us your story! Advertising and culture tells us we should all try to fit into one body image. But Christ's image of perfection is entirely different, and it's only through Him and through His original design that we are perfected.In this episode, FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, has an inspiring discussion with registered/licensed dietitian and co-founder of the Peace With Food app, Amy Carlson. Listen in to discover new knowledge and ways of thinking that will help equip you to become who God wants you to be– no matter where you are in...
2022-10-3137 min
Old School Food Freedom5. Back to Eden with Angelica GonzalezTell us your story! Trauma impacts our hearts. The plan of the enemy is to use our response to keep us in bondage, many times in the form of an eating disorder. But Jesus wants to break those chains so we can live with freedom and purpose.In this episode, FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, talks with the founder of Eden Therapy Co, Angelica Gonzalez, about her experiences and several practical tools we can use to recover from trauma and learn how to hear God's voice in our journey to freedom.Subscribe to...
2022-10-2446 min
Old School Food Freedom4. Chasing Better with Heather CreekmoreTell us your story! How many times a day do you wish you were better at something or compare yourself to someone else? When you learn to uncover the spiritual root of body image issues, you will find freedom.In this episode, FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, chats with author and podcaster, Heather Creekmore, about the reasons we naturally compare ourselves to others and how we can break out of the endless cycle of comparison. Listen to this encouraging conversation and be inspired to stop comparing and start living!Subscribe to the Old...
2022-10-1736 min
Old School Food Freedom3. Diet Culture Soup with Dr. Alisa ShanksTell us your story! Full eating disorder recovery is possible! Even in the midst of an eating disorder, God is the God of hope, healing, and restoration. Be encouraged today as FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, chats with Dr. Alisa Shanks, a clinical psychologist and FINDINGbalance board chair.A marinade infuses flavor. Unfortunately, we live in a diet culture infused with toxic messages about size, shape, body image, worth, value, what is and isn't "okay" to eat, how our bodies are "supposed" to look, and other lies from the enemy. Be filled with hope as...
2022-10-1039 min
Old School Food Freedom2. Food, Body, and Freedom in Christ with Travis StewartTell us your story! What does it mean to embrace a live-body experience by expressing gratitude for how your body functions? Find out in today’s episode as FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, chats with counselor, recovery coach, and FINDINGbalance board member, Travis Stewart.Listen and learn as Travis takes us through a journey of exploring how we use food and bodies in our culture, what the Bible teaches us about the body, and finding TRUE freedom and healing in Christ.Subscribe to the Old School Food Freedom Podcast! We have so many in...
2022-10-1045 min
Old School Food Freedom1. The Legacy of Freedom with Constance Rhodes & Amy SchallerTell us your story! Welcome to the Old School Food Freedom Podcast! In today’s diet-culture society, food issues and body hatred have become the norm. But you were created to be FREE.Join FINDINGbalance Executive Director, Chrissy Kirkman, as she interviews Biblically-sound experts, thought-leaders, artists, and everyday people who will inspire you to get back to the old-school basics of God’s original design for our relationship with food and our bodies.Today, Chrissy chats with FINDINGbalance founder, Constance Rhodes, and Outreach Coordinator, Amy Schaller. Listen as they share food freedom stories, insp...
2022-10-1050 min