Shows
Impossible BeautyEpisode 174: Eric Pothen- Food & Body Image Struggles Among MenMost often, this podcast focuses on struggles with beauty and body image among women. Today, however, I want to give us a glimpse into the widespread nature of struggles around food, exercise, and body image among men.Eric Pothen is a Certified Eating Disorder Recovery Coach who works primarily with men and knows firsthand the journey of eating disorder recovery. In particular, Eric works with clients navigating eating disorder recovery, disordered eating, and body image struggles, helping them break free from the grip of food rules, body shame, and self-doubt.In today’s conversation, Eric helps us...2025-06-2447 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 173: Kimberly Stuart-Letting Go of StrivingAmerican culture is full of striving: hustling at work, pushing ourselves in the gym, working to be beautiful or good enough. In today’s conversation, I have the gift of talking with Kimberly Stuart about the concept of grace; how to apply it amidst our culture and why it’s entirely miraculous and worth revisiting. Kim Stuart is the author of eight published novels, a speaker, a writing coach alongside author Bob Goff, co-leads writing retreats, and hosts two podcasts, For Real with Kimberly Stuart and The Writing Room. In today’s conversation, Kim shares about her latest book, St...2025-06-1051 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 172: Michelle Keener- When Life Isn't BeautifulWhen discussing the topic of true beauty, it’s also important to talk about the times when life isn’t so beautiful. In today’s discussion, with Michelle Keener, that’s exactly what we tackle. Michelle K. Keener (PhD, Liberty) is an adjunct professor of Christianity at Houston Christian University, as well as associate research fellow with the Kirby-Laing Centre for Public Theology. She is also the director of discipleship for a growing church in Las Vegas and an award-winning novelist and devotional author. In our time together, we discuss Michelle’s latest book, Comfort in the Ashes: E...2025-05-2837 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 171: Elise Hu- The Rise of Skin Care and AI in Beauty CultureAbout ten years ago, Elise Hu moved to Seoul, South Korea and took a deep dive into the world of K-Beauty culture. Elise is a journalist, podcaster, and the author of Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital. She is the host of TED Talks Daily, a co-host of Forever 35, a host-at-large for NPR, and the host of Accenture’s award-winning Built for Change podcast. She is also the co-founder of the podcast production company Reasonable Volume. In today’s conversation, Elise opens our eyes to South Korea’s intense appearance expectations and how some of those sa...2025-05-1342 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 170: Naeem Fazal- How Beauty Conquers FearDo you ever struggle with fear or anxiety? In today’s episode, author and pastor, Naeem Fazal shares how beauty can help us overcome fear in our lives.Naeem Fazal is the founding and lead pastor of Mosaic Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is a Pakistani, born and raised as a Muslim in Kuwait. He came to the United States shortly after the Gulf War and had a supernatural experience with Jesus that changed the course of his life. In our time together, Naeem shares about his unexpected and life-changing conversion experience, as well as abo...2025-04-2958 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 169: Bruce Herman- Made to Be MakersBruce Herman is a painter, writer, speaker, and the author of Makers by Nature: Letters from a Master Painter on Faith, Hope, and Art. Bruce also taught studio art for nearly four decades at Gordon College and his art has been exhibited internationally and is in public and private collections worldwide.In our time together, Bruce reminds us that, being made in the image of the Creator God, we have all been created to create. He also awakens us to the miracles all around us, discussing how God’s own being is revealed in the things He’s made...2025-04-1550 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 168: Trevor Hudson- Your Life Has Great PurposeHave you ever asked the question, “what is God’s will for my life?” or “does my life have purpose?” If so, today’s episode is for you. And, thankfully, I couldn’t think of a better conversation partner for these topics than Trevor Hudson. Trevor Hudson is an ordained minister in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. After spending fifty years doing pastoral ministry in a local congregation, he now gives his time to lecturing, teaching, and writing in the areas of spiritual formation and spiritual direction.In our time together, we discuss his latest book, In Search...2025-04-0145 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 167: Rasa Troup, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, OLY- Your Body Does Not Need to Be 'Fixed'Rasa Troup, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, OLY is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian with over 20 years of experience. She also owns Rasa Nutrition where she helps clients create a healthy relationship with food. Rasa also competed in the Beijing Olympics and has served as a trusted voice regarding nutrition for various communities, including The Minnesota Vikings, The Minnesota Twins, The University of Minnesota Athletics, The Emily Program, and TRia Orthopedic, among others.In our time together, Rasa shares about her own struggles with nutrition as a competitive athlete and Olympian. She also highlights common lies in the field o...2025-03-1854 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 166: Jennifer Tucker-Abiding in God's PresenceThe truth is that our soul is always being formed by something. In today’s inspiring interview with Jennifer Tucker, she shares how Christian meditation on Scripture has formed her soul in profound ways. Jennifer Tucker is a bestselling author, artist, graphic designer, follower of Jesus, and an advocate for mental health.In our time together, Jenn shares about her new book, Present in Prayer: A Guided Invitation to Peace Through Biblical Meditation. Specifically, she shares how mindfulness and Christian meditation have deeply shaped her, especially in recent seasons of struggle. She also helpfully reframes anxiety as an invita...2025-03-0550 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 165: Dr. Merry Lin- Rebecoming Your Essential SelfEach of us reflects a unique beauty in the world. In today’s episode, Dr. Merry Lin invites us into the process of embodying our truest essential self in the world. Dr. Merry is a clinical psychologist, author, and podcaster with over 30 years of clinical experience. She is also the Executive Director of Dr. Lin & Associates where she leads a team of psychotherapists, leadership and life coaches and HR Management consultants. In our time together, Dr. Merry shares about her latest book, Rebecoming: Come Out of Hiding to Live as Your God-Given Essential Self. She discusses what...2025-02-181h 00
Impossible BeautyEpisode 164: Melanie Penn- Reframing AgingMelanie Penn is a Nashville based songwriter at the crossroads of faith and culture. Melanie was a mainstay in the theatre scene in New York City for several years, most notably playing Sandy on the Broadway national tour of Grease! After Broadway, Melanie transitioned to songwriting and has collaborated with Nashville producer, Ben Shive, on five albums, including the Immanuel project, detailing Melanie’s songwriting journey through the Christmas story. In my time with Melanie, we discuss her transition from Broadway to songwriting, and the helpfulness of attending to our emotions in decision making and discernment. She also share...2024-12-2345 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 163: Amy Orr-Ewing- Remembering Your Unique BeautyBecause of our unique identities, passions, and gifts, each one of us embodies a unique beauty in the world. Each of us is a limited edition. In today’s episode, international speaker, theologian, apologist, and author, Amy Orr-Ewing unpacks the beauty of authenticity and encourages us to find our own unique voice. More specifically, Amy discusses her latest book, Lead Like the Real You: Wisdom for Women on Finding Your Voice, Pursuing God’s Calling, and Leading with Courage, sharing important insights on the uniqueness of leading as a woman at home, at work, or in ministry. She also...2024-12-1046 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 162: Dr. Charlotte Markey- Building Body Confidence Amidst Diet and Wellness CultureI am so grateful to be welcoming Dr. Charlotte Markey back to the podcast today. Dr. Markey is a body image expert, professor of psychology and director of the Health Sciences Center at Rutgers University-Camden. She has authored several books, including her latest release, Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life.Dr. Markey also writes monthly for U.S. News and World Report and Psychology Today, focusing on individuals’ eating behaviors, body image, and health. She has also been featured in and interviewed by The New York Times, The Economist, The Today Show, ABC News, Time Magazine, and Men...2024-11-2547 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 161: Alastair Sterne-Recovering JoyAlastair Sterne’s invitation to joy was an unexpected one. Ironically, it was while struggling with depression that he started to pay attention to the full array of his emotions, including joylessness.In this fascinating conversation with creative director turned pastor, Alastair Sterne, he discusses his latest book, Longing for Joy: An Invitation to the Goodness and Beauty of Life. Alastair is currently the associate pastor at Coastline Church in Victoria, British Columbia. In our time together, he talks about why joy can be so elusive, how we can hold joy alongside suffering, how joy connects us to Go...2024-11-121h 04
Impossible BeautyEpisode 160: Tara Beth Leach- Hope in Turbulent TimesIn a turbulent world filled with so much darkness, where and how can we find hope? Furthermore, what role might we play in embodying real hope in a very broken world. These are the kinds of questions I tackle on the podcast today with Tara Beth Leach.Tara Beth is an author, speaker, and the senior pastor at Good Shepherd Church in Naperville, Illinois. Her most recent publication is a six-week Bible study entitled, Live in the Light: Radiating the Hope of the Letters of John. In our time together, Tara Beth shares about the important role the ch...2024-10-2934 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 159: Dawn Mann Sanders- Rebuilding After LossAfter having two miscarriages, followed by the sudden loss of her husband, Dawn Mann Sanders felt like it was the end of her world as she knew it. Dawn is a Bible teacher and author of When Your World Ends: God’s Creative Process for Rebuilding a Life. In her book, and in today’s conversation, Dawn shares what she’s learned about rebuilding after significant loss, as well as what the creation story in the book of Genesis taught her about her own process of grief and rebuilding. If you’re looking for hope and purpose on the other...2024-10-1529 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 158: Michael Ulloa- Calling Out Nonsense in the Fitness IndustrySo often the fitness industry can feel intimidating, while messages around health and wellness can be confusing or fuel fear and anxiety. And that’s where Michael Ulloa comes in. Michael is an online personal trainer and performance nutritionist. In his online platforms, and in his work with clients, Michael is calling nonsense on unhelpful or ill-advised fitness and nutrition messages. With a background in occupational therapy, he takes a holistic approach to client care, bringing lightness, balance, and joy to the fitness, health, and wellness space. In my time with Michael, he talks about his own jo...2024-10-0143 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 157: Jodi Grubbs- Invitation to Slow LivingAfter leaving her childhood home on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean, author, slow-living guide, and podcaster, Jodi Grubbs, had assumed the rapid pace and hustle culture in the U.S. Soon, she realized that burnout had crept in, and God was inviting her to a return to the "island time" of her past.In her book, Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale, and in today’s conversation, Jodi invites us to grasp a more sustainable approach to life, anchored by the pauses of spiritual practices and an openhandedness before God. Jodi desires to give us al...2024-09-1641 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 156: Oona Hanson- Parenting Without Diet CultureAmidst the pressures and messages of diet and wellness culture, it can be hard to know how to help the next generation establish a healthy relationship with food. And that’s where Oona Hanson comes in. Oona Hanson is an educator and parenting coach. Through her writing, workshops, and private consultations, she supports families in raising kids who have a healthy relationship with food and their body. Oona also worked as a Family Mentor at Equip, where she was part of a multidisciplinary care team treating children with eating disorders. She has been featured in television programs, like Goo...2024-09-0454 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 155: Dieula Previlon- Does God See Me?Given the pain and suffering in the world, when life isn’t so beautiful, it can be hard to know how to interact and relate with God. In today’s episode, Dieula Previlon helps us see how leaning into our questions with God can bring about healing and transformation in our lives. Dieula is a licensed professional counselor, ordained minister, certified life purpose coach, and the founder of the non-profit, ElevateHer International Ministries. ElevateHer works to empower women around the world to heal from trauma and become instruments for healing, peace and hope through large and small group trauma...2024-08-2047 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 154: Micha Boyett- Living Into the Dream of GodWords have the power to form us. And that has indeed been the case for author, youth pastor, and podcaster, Micha Boyett. In today’s conversation with Micha, she explains how living with the beatitudes, while raising her son with Down syndrome and autism, has deeply formed her.In our time together, she talks about the Dream of God, a reality in which everything is defined by the love of God, and how that concept has shaped her. She also talks about a renewed understanding of what ‘blessing’ means and how we hold the tension of longing for the Dr...2024-06-2551 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 153: Molly LaCroix, LMFT- Love Lives in UsIn today’s conversation, I was blown away by how a popular therapy model demonstrates the image of God in each of us. More specifically, author and marriage and family therapist, Molly LaCroix helps us see the relevance of the Internal Family Systems therapy model on the journey to healing and wholeness. In our time together, we talk about her latest book, Journey to Shalom: Finding Healing, Wholeness, and Freedom in Sacred Stories. Molly helps us see the relevance of Biblical stories in our own lives, how our personal healing brings more wholeness in our relationships, and the God...2024-06-1046 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 152: Alice Baker, MSRD CEDS-C LMHC LPC LDN - Living Counter to Diet CultureSo often diet culture disconnects us from our bodies and from having a peaceful relationship with food. In today’s episode, I talk with registered dietitian and therapist, Alice Baker, MSRD CEDS-C LMHC LPC LDN, about shedding unhelpful beliefs from diet culture. Alice Baker has over 27 years’ experience in the field of eating disorders. She currently sees clients in private practice as a dietitian and/or therapist, facilitates support groups, presents locally and nationally, and supervises new dietitians in the eating disorder field. In my time with Alice, we talk about the normalization of disordered eating in our cultu...2024-05-2737 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 151: Dr. Jason Nagata- Why the Rise in Eating Disorders Among Boys and Men?Dr. Jason Nagata is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine at the University of California San Francisco, and is an expert in eating disorders, particularly in boys and men. He has published over 300 articles in academic journals and serves as Senior Editor for the Journal of Eating Disorders, on the International Advisory Board of The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, and the Editorial Board of the Journal of Adolescent Health. In my time with time with Dr. Nagata, we consider the damaging effects of societal body image ideals among boys and m...2024-05-1439 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 150: Joy Marie Clarkson- You Are Not a MachineJoy Marie Clarkson has learned the art of seeing goodness, truth, and beauty in our midst and she helps us do the same. In case you are new to Joy, she holds a PhD in theology from the University of St. Andrews and is the author of two books, Aggressively Happy and, most recently, You Are a Tree. She is also a research associate in theology and literature at King's College London and the books editor for Plough Quarterly. In our time together, Joy shares about how teaching a course on the idea of beauty in Wes...2024-04-2941 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 149: Heather Creekmore- Worshipping ThinnessHeather Creekmore is a podcaster, mom of four, body image coach, and author. In our time together, Heather describes what inspired her to write her latest book, The 40-Day Body Image Workbook, as well as why she’s so passionate about guiding women out of diet culture and into truth. Heather also describes what has helped her improve her own relationship with her body, she exposes lies associated with diet culture, and helps us reframe aging in a helpful way.If you have ever struggled with body image or beauty ideals, my hope is that Heather’s story and...2024-04-1645 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 148: Dr. Charlotte Markey-Social Media, Body Image, & Body Dissatisfaction Among BoysIn today’s episode I talk with Dr. Charlotte Markey about body image pressures impacting us and the next generation. Dr. Markey is a body image expert, professor of psychology and director of the Health Sciences Center at Rutgers University-Camden. She has authored several books, including The Body Image Book For Girls: Love Yourself and Grow Up Fearless, Being You: The Body Image Book for Boys, and the forthcoming Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life. Dr. Markey also writes monthly for U.S. News and World Report, Psychology Today, as well as other publications, focusing on individuals’ eatin...2024-04-0159 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 147: John Van Sloten- Knowing God Through CreationJohn Van Sloten is a Calgary-based writer, teacher, and pastor who is passionate about helping people engage God everywhere. Over the past ten years he has preached dozens of creation and Bible-based sermons on topics like radiation therapy, river hydrology, chemical catalysts, tree branches, human knees, and DNA repair mechanisms. John is a regular columnist with the Calgary Herald and his books include The Day Metallica Came to Church and Every Job a Parable. Over the past ten years, he has been awarded three John Templeton Foundation subgrants for preaching science, has been part of an Ambrose Seminary Science for Semina...2024-03-121h 07
Impossible BeautyEpisode 146: Diane Summers, MS, RDN, CD- Lent, Fasting, and Diet CultureDiane Summers, MS, RDN, CD is the founder of Hope Nutrition Therapy and a nationally registered and state certified dietitian. Diane has treated the full spectrum of eating disorders and concerns since 2004, has been supervising eating disorder dietitians since 2009, and works with clients and consultees around the world. She is also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and a Narrative Focused Trauma Care practitioner.In my time with Diane, we talk about what diet culture is and how it impacts our relationship with our bodies, how diet culture impacts societal beauty ideals, and the prevalence of disordered eating. Diane...2024-02-2652 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 145: Amy Baik Lee- “Everything Sad Will Come Untrue”In today’s episode, we consider how looking heavenward can breathe new life into the present. This consideration is not a practice of escapism, but an opportunity to take a step back to see the larger story of humanity, where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Thankfully, today’s guest is a gracious and thoughtful guide. Amy Baik Lee is the author of This Homeward Ache: How Our Yearning for the Life to Come Spurs on Our Life today, a literary member of the Anselm Society Arts Guild, and a contributing writer at Cultivating Magazine and the Rabb...2024-02-1248 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 144: Felicia Wu Song-How Technology Is Shaping Our SoulsFelicia Wu Song is a cultural sociologist, speaker, and author who studies how social media and digital devices alter the family, community, and organizational life. Felicia has studied History, Communication Studies and Sociology at Yale, Northwestern, and University of Virginia and her expertise has been sought by organizations such as BioLogos, The Vatican, Notre Dame University, and Fuller Theological Seminary.In my conversation with Felicia, we discuss her latest book, Restless Devices: Recovering Personhood, Presence and Place in the Digital Age. Felicia helps us better understand how social media is shaping our relationships, our understanding of beauty, and...2024-01-2956 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 143: Kimberly Wilkerson-The Power of WordsKimberly Wilkerson believes in the power of language; how it impacts us and those around us. Kimberly is a speech language pathologist, as well as the founder of Token Clothing Co. At Token Clothing Co., Kimberly has fused her passion for language with her interest in fashion, to give women an experience that helps them overcome limiting beliefs and negative self-talk. In our time together, Kimberly and I discuss the impact of our self-talk on our brains and bodies. Kimberly also shares about her process of discernment in starting Token Clothing Co., as well as what she learned...2024-01-1555 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 142: Lisa Diers, RDN, LD, E-RYT- Detoxing from Diet Culture: The Holiday EditionWith the start of the new year, we find ourselves in a season inundated with diet and fitness-related ads. We are being saturated with and sold the message that now is the time to change, reshape, or perfect our bodies or food intake. My hope is that today’s guest will help us all detox from the current flurry of diet culture messaging and be reminded of the goodness of food and of our bodies. Lisa Diers is a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified yoga teacher who specializes in supporting eating disorder and body image recovery. Lisa has a...2024-01-0153 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 141: Kristi McLelland- The Nearness of GodIn 2007, Kristi McLelland went to Israel and realized that God is better than she ever knew. After studying in Egypt and Israel in 2007, Kristi’s life took a turn, and she began leading biblical studies trips to Israel in 2008. Kristi is an author, professor at Williamson College, and a biblical culturalist who teaches the Bible in its historical, cultural context. Kristi’s most recent book is entitled, Rediscovering Israel: A Fresh Look at God’s Story in its Historical and Cultural Contexts. Kristi’s study trips to Israel, Italy, Turkey, and Greece, as well as her in-person and online resources position...2023-12-1143 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 140: Dana Sturtevant, MS, RD- "Reclaiming Body Trust"Registered dietitian and author, Dana Sturtevant, believes that society has ruptured our relationship with food, movement, and our bodies. Food has become something to restrict and our bodies a project to tweak and “perfect.” But Dana believes it doesn’t have to be this way. She has spent more than 15 years helping people let go of chronic patterns of dieting and disordered eating and move into a more authentic, sustainable way to occupy and nurture their bodies. Dana Sturtevant is the co-author of Reclaiming Body Trust: A Path to Healing and Liberation and the co-founder of the Center for Body T...2023-11-2856 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 139: Kendall Vanderslice- The Beauty of BreadAll too often these days, bread gets a bad rap. In many ways, diet culture has taught us to fear “carbs” in all forms. Today’s guest, however, helps us see bread in a new way. She not only invites us to see bread as a gift, but as a sacred reminder of God’s presence and provision. Kendall Vanderslice is a professionally trained baker, speaker, and author, including her most recent title, By Bread Alone: A Baker’s Reflections on Hunger, Longing, and the Goodness of God. Kendall is the founder of the Edible Theology Project, an educationa...2023-11-1336 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 138: Deb Benfield, MEd, RDN/LDN- Rethinking AgingDeb Benfield has helped hundreds of women heal their relationship with food, eating, and their bodies in her 35-year career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. In her own aging journey, she became frustrated by how difficult it was to find well-researched advice on aging with vitality that was not related to managing weight or youthful appearance. In her group and one-on-one coaching, Deb works with middle-aged women and beyond to help them feel vital and free of culture’s stifling diet and movement rules.In my time with Deb, she names and disproves unhelpful myths about the aging pr...2023-10-3053 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 137: Natalie Runion- Not Giving Up on the Beauty of the ChurchSeveral months ago, The Atlantic reported that forty million Americans have stopped attending church in the past 25 years, representing the largest concentrated change in church attendance in American history. In today’s episode, I talk with pastor’s kid turned pastor, Natalie Runion, about the trend of diminishing church attendance. Natalie Runion is the author of Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away, worship leader, and the former Pastor of Women and Creative Pastor of Family Ministry at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Natalie has also established the Rais...2023-10-1636 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 136: Donetta Floyd, MS, RDN, LDN- Misconceptions about Health, Body Image, & Type 2 DiabetesDonetta Floyd’s compassion and perspectives are so refreshing. When it comes to societal messages around food and our bodies, we can often be left with the feeling that we aren’t doing it right. In today’s episode, registered dietitian Donetta Floyd helps dispel unhelpful ideas and misconceptions regarding our relationship with food, our bodies, as well as Type 2 Diabetes. Donetta is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who works with clients to help them find freedom in their relationship with food, using a Health at Every Size®, Intuitive Eating, and non-diet approach. In our time together, we talk about h...2023-10-0343 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 135: Emmy Russell- Why the Song "Skinny" is Getting So Much AttentionEmmy Russell is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter who has been performing for the majority of her life. Touring on the road with her grandmother, country legend Loretta Lynn, Emmy started singing on stage at the age of two. Years later, Emmy sang with Willie Nelson’s son, Lukas, at her grandmother’s memorial. This special performance was nominated for Performance of the Year at the CMT Music Awards. Most recently, Emmy released the song, “Skinny” with The Song House, detailing her struggle with an eating disorder. The song has received a warm reception and has been widely shared, getting over 300...2023-09-1830 min
Impossible BeautyEpisode 134: Gaelynn Lea- Letting Go of Societal ScriptsGaelynn Lea is a professional musician and sought-after public speaker. She has opened for numerous artists including the Decembrists, composed the music for Macbeth on Broadway, starring Daniel Craig, and her perspectives have been shared on outlets such as On Being With Krista Tippett and PBS NewsHour.Having been born with Osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease, Gaelynn has had to navigate the world differently. Such life experiences have shaped her perspectives in important in meaningful ways, including becoming an advocate for Disability Rights and Accessibility. In our time together, Gaelynn shares about the beautiful insight that disability...2023-09-0549 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 133: Leslie Schilling, RDN, CSCS, CEDS-S-Diet Culture in Our Safe PlacesSocietal notions of “beauty” and our relationship with our bodies and food have been deeply influenced by diet culture. Author and registered dietitian Christy Harrison defines diet culture as: “a system of beliefs that equates thinness, muscularity, and particular body shapes with health and moral virtue; promotes weight loss and body reshaping as a means of attaining higher status; demonizes certain foods and food groups while elevating others; and oppresses people who don’t match its supposed picture of ‘health’…It masquerades as health, wellness, and fitness.” (Anti-Diet, Christy Harrison, p. 7).In today’s episode, I talk with registered dietiti...2023-08-2953 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 132: Grace Wabuke Klein-Finding Purpose in All SeasonsGrace Wabuke Klein has had her share of ups and downs. From fleeing Uganda under the reign of Idi Amin as a child to having her prayers to get married answered at the age of 42, Grace has had a full life. She has also learned, and now encourages others, that we can find purpose even in difficult days and seasons of waiting. In her new book Flourish: Finding Purpose in the Unknown and Unexpected Seasons of Life, Grace gives a fresh perspective on the winter seasons we all go through, as well as practical steps to not just...2023-08-2142 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 131: Lacy Finn Borgo- Faith Like a ChildSome of life’s greatest lessons come from unexpected teachers. For Lacy Finn Borgo, some of her greatest teachers have been children. In Lacy’s new book, Faith Like a Child: Embracing Our Lives as Children of God, Lacy invites us to consider what we might learn from children. Moreover, could welcoming our child selves draw us deeper into wholeness and our relationship with God?Lacy Finn Borgo teaches and provides spiritual direction through Renovaré, Mercy Center Burlingame, Companioning Center, and with children at Haven House, a transitional facility for families without homes. She holds a doctor of minis...2023-07-2540 min
I Dare You PodcastEpisode 75: Discovering Soul-Deep Beauty in a Flawless World with Melissa JohnsonMelissa L. Johnson is a licensed marriage and family therapist, adjunct instructor at Bethel University, and the founder of Impossible Beauty, a blog and podcast dedicated to redefining beauty as “the life of God at work in us and among us”.
Melissa’s writing and podcast interviews seek to uncover what true beauty is, what it is not, and how we go about finding beauty in a broken world. Melissa is releasing her debut book with Bethany House publishing in June, 2023, entitled Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless.
LISTEN TO THI...2023-07-0431 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 129: Don Pape & Melissa Johnson- The story behind my book, "Soul-Deep Beauty"In honor of the release of my new book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, I have a special episode in store for you. I recently sat down to have a conversation with my literary agent, Don Pape. Don has been a champion of my book and its message for years now and I can’t thank him enough.In our time together we talk about how Don ended up working in the publishing business, how he then became a literary agent, and the unique features of his company, Pape Commons. Also, in...2023-06-0638 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 51: Katherine Wolf- We Are All MiraclesKatherine Wolf is a survivor, communicator, and advocate. After giving birth to her first son in 2008, Katherine miraculously survived a catastrophic stroke. Since that day, Katherine and her husband, Jay, have committed their lives to champion the truth that suffering and joy can coexist in your good/hard story. In that pursuit, Katherine and Jay have written two best-selling books (Hope Heals and Suffer Strong), created a thriving online community, and founded Hope Heals Camp for families affected by disability. Katherine and Jay currently live in Atlanta, Georgia with their two sons.Today’s episode is one where I...2021-06-0745 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 50: Melanie Penn- Coming Out of QuarantineMelanie Penn is a gifted singer/songwriter who writes pop songs at the crossroads of faith and culture. Melanie began formal vocal training at a young age and eventually moved to New York City to pursue a career on Broadway. After years of being a mainstay in New York City’s theater scene, including a run of playing Sandy Dumbrowski in Grease for a Broadway touring company, Melanie decided to transition to song writing and pursue a career as a solo artist. Melanie has released several albums, including Wake Up, Hope Tonight, Immanuel, Immanuel: The Folk Sessions, and he...2021-05-3147 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 49: Christyna Johnson- Body Image and Beauty StandardsChristyna Johnson is a Dallas-based, Non-Diet Registered Dietician whose nutrition philosophy is rooted in the social justice framework of Health at Every Size (R) and seen through the lens of Intuitive Eating. After years of personally struggling with negative body image, disordered eating, and anxiety, Christyna is thankful that she has now come to find a flourishing relationship with her body and food. She now loves helping others find that same freedom in their bodies and with food. As Christyna puts it, “Life was not meant to revolve around food and thoughts about our bodies. It’s a big world out...2021-05-1733 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 48: Daron Babcock- Much More than a FarmDaron Babcock is the founder and executive director of Bonton Farms near Dallas, Texas. Starting as a garden in a small lot, Bonton Farms has grown into two fully functioning, organic farms, one in the Bonton community and a separate 40-acre farm south of Dalllas. Before the Farm’s presence Bonton was what was considered a food desert. The mission of Bonton Farms is “to restore lives, create jobs and ignite hope in a once forgotten and neglected neighborhood with some of the most marginalized people.” So many beautiful things are happening at Bonton Farms, with even more plans...2021-05-0352 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 47: Allen Arnold- Awakening to Who God Created You to BeMy time with Allen Arnold was such a gift. He totally breathed new life into the concepts of creativity and living life as a true adventure. Allen Arnold is an author (The Story of With and Chaos Can’t) and speaker. He is also the Executive Producer of Content for John and Stasi Eldredge’s ministry, Wild at Heart. In short, Allen’s passion is awakening people’s hearts to pursue their dreams and creativity with God. As Allen so poignantly says in our interview, when we bring something new into existence, we are “dancing with God to create goo...2021-04-261h 12Impossible BeautyEpisode 46: Why I'm So Passionate About Beauty, Part TwoToday’s episode is a little different. Back in Episode 18, I shared a little about my story and why I’m so passionate about beauty and why I even started Impossible Beauty in the first place. In today’s episode, I share a bit more about why I care so much about this topic and why I hope you’ll join me in redefining beauty and seeking after true beauty. So please sit back and I hope you enjoy part two of “Why I’m So Passionate about Beauty.”2021-04-1921 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 45: Ginny Owens- Beauty that Moves UsCan I just say that Ginny Owens is amazing?! For years, I have listened to and loved her music and in our time together, I experienced firsthand how very authentic and beautiful her heart and her faith are. For those of you who are new to Ginny Owens, she is a singer/songwriter and speaker, who was named the Gospel Music Association’s 2000 New Artist of the Year. Ginny has also won 3 Dove Awards, multiple ASCAP awards, sold over a million records, been a top performer on the Christian radio charts, and impacted mainstream audiences at Lilith Fair, The Sundance Fi...2021-04-1248 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 44: Bunmi Laditan- "Ridiculously Intense Love"My conversation with Bunmi Laditan was so refreshing. Bunmi is simultaneously hilarious and full of wisdom. She also has the invaluable gift of putting you completely at ease in her presence. Bunmi is a writer living in Quebec, Canada whose work ranges from the humorous to the poetic, including titles such as The Honest Toddler, Confessions of a Domestic Failure, Dear Mother, and her most recent book, Dear God: Honest Prayers to a God Who Listens. In my time with Bunmi, she shares about her fascinating journey of faith; a journey of exploration, hitting rock bottom, and coming...2021-03-3048 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 43: Ben Higgins- "Your One Wild and Precious Life"The work Ben Higgins is doing in the world is undoubtedly inspiring. While you may know him from ABC’s twentieth season of The Bachelor, Ben has gone on to use his platform to do beautiful things in the world. Alongside a couple of his friends, Ben founded Generous International, a for-profit company that invests 100% of its profits from coffee and apparel into life-changing partner organizations that improve education, create jobs, feed children, and empower communities to eliminate poverty.Ben also recently released his first book entitled Alone in Plain Sight: Searching for Connection. In his book, Ben sh...2021-03-1527 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 42: Javoni Cobb- Letting Go of ComparisonI absolutely loved my conversation with Javoni Cobb. Javoni is an eating disorder recovery coach at the Eating Disorder Center in Rockville, Maryland. She has her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and currently works with teens and adults struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and body image issues. In her work with clients, Javoni seeks to help them break free from disordered behaviors, to discover food freedom, body acceptance, and self-compassion.In our time together, Javoni and I cover so many important topics: how beauty standards impact our relationship with food and our bodies, the de...2021-03-0843 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 41: Kellie Haddock- Choosing HopeKellie Haddock inspires me. She has lived through tragedy and found hope on the other side and now inspires others to do the same. Kellie is a singer, songwriter, wife, and mom. She is a former widow whose music draws on real-life stories of beauty, heartache, hope, and the celebration of life. Kellie has performed in Iraq, Israel, China, and across the U.S. and her albums include Leave the Light On, Wild Love, and her Christmas album Peace on Earth. She has sung and spoken alongside Tim Keller, Christine Caine, Marianne Williamson and worked alongside Sara Groves and Sandra...2021-03-0342 min
The Emily ProgramEpisode 46: Redefining Beauty with Melissa Louise JohnsonEpisode description:
Melissa Louise Johnson is a Marriage and Family Therapist, adjunct professor at Bethel University, and the founder of the Impossible Beauty blog and podcast. Through her work at Impossible Beauty, Melissa is on a mission to expand and renew beauty, as she believes the American brand of beauty is divisive, destructive, and far too narrow.
Melissa explores the concept of beauty with us in this episode of Peace Meal. She describes how cultural beauty messages impacted her childhood, adolescence, and the development of her eating disorder, as well as how she r...2021-02-1728 min
Peace MealEpisode 46: Redefining Beauty with Melissa Louise JohnsonEpisode description:
Melissa Louise Johnson is a Marriage and Family Therapist, adjunct professor at Bethel University, and the founder of the Impossible Beauty blog and podcast. Through her work at Impossible Beauty, Melissa is on a mission to expand and renew beauty, as she believes the American brand of beauty is divisive, destructive, and far too narrow.
Melissa explores the concept of beauty with us in this episode of Peace Meal. She describes how cultural beauty messages impacted her childhood, adolescence, and the development of her eating disorder, as well as how she recognized and reckoned with these messages in r...2021-02-1728 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 40: Kristy Cambron- "Remember This"Kristy Cambron is a vintage-inspired storyteller, writing from the space where art, history, and faith intersect. She’s a Christy Award-winning author of historical fiction, including her bestselling debut, The Butterfly and the Violin, and nonfiction, including the Verse Mapping series of Bibles and Bible studies. A self-proclaimed history nerd, she loves to chase all things research, going behind the scenes at a Ringling Bros. Sarasota mansion, touring a former TB sanitarium, and exploring the backroads of Ireland.Kristy holds a degree in Art History/Research Writing and spent 15 years in education and leadership development for a Fortune-100 co...2021-02-1548 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 39: Whitney Otto- Exercise, Athletics, and Body ImageToday on the podcast, I have a very important conversation with Whitney Otto. In our time together, Whitney talks about her experience as an endurance athlete, particularly as a world champion rower. Whitney was a member of the national rowing team and an alternate in the 2000 Olympics. She has also worked with Women’s Sports Foundation to help bring sport to girls in the inner city. Following her full-time rowing career, Whitney went on to get her masters degree in Counseling Psychology and work in the eating disorder field. She currently resides with her family in Cambridge, Massachusetts and runs Li...2021-02-0838 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 38: Jonathan Self- Cultivating WonderJonathan is an incredibly gifted England-based photographer, the creator of a photography course for children called “Cultivating Wonder,” and is a copyrighter for Penguin Random House publishing. In his photography work, Jonathan largely specializes in photographing families and children, in addition to providing portraits for branding and start-ups, headshots, engagements and weddings.In my time with Jonathan, he describes his photography work in the most profound and beautiful ways. He helped me see that his portrait work and in his cultivating course, he is doing something so much deeper than taking photos or teaching about photography. Rather, both of t...2021-02-0140 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 37: Shawna Boren- How Love Transforms UsShawna Boren is the Engagement Pastor at Woodland Hills. She has served in various pastoral staff roles in both Texas and Minnesota for over 20 years, but it is at Woodland Hills where Shawna is passionate about helping people find their place of belonging within the larger congregation. She is married to her husband, Scott, and they are parents to four children, three boys and one girl. In my time with Shawna, she shares her powerful story of how love has transformed her life, her own struggles with beauty, and how her view on authentic beauty has been formed over the...2021-01-2542 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 36: Nicole Zasowski, MS, LMFT- Broken Open to BeautyNicole Zasowski is a licensed marriage and family therapist, writer, and speaker. She is also the author of From Lost to Found: Giving Up What You Think You Want for What Will Set You Free. In her book, Nicole reveals her own story of how challenges such as unwanted transition, multiple miscarriages, and crippling anxiety gave way to a deepened faith and connection with Jesus. In addition to maintaining a private therapy practice, her professional work includes leading marriage intensives at The Hideaway Experience in Atlanta, GA, facilitating support and enrichment groups at several local churches in the...2021-01-1933 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 35: Dr. Jillian Lampert- Beauty, Body Image, and Eating DisordersDr. Jillian Lampert is a Registered Dietician, adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Minnesota and is the Chief Strategy Officer at The Emily Program, a treatment program for those struggling with eating disorders. Dr. Lampert is also the Co-founder and President of the Residential Eating Disorders Consortium and the Treasurer of the Eating Disorders Coalition, a DC-based national organization for eating disorders policy and advocacy. She is the author of numerous book chapters and articles addressing nutritional treatment of body image, eating disorders, sports participation, adolescent health and disordered eating and...2021-01-1145 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 34: Adam Weber- Noticing the Voice of LoveI absolutely loved my conversation with Adam Weber. Adam is the founder and lead pastor of Embrace, a multi-site church based out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota and the author of Talking With God, a book on prayer, and his most recent book, Love Has A Name. He also hosts a podcast called The Conversation. Adam’s home life is also very full; he and his wife, Becky, are busy raising their four kids, seven chickens, two dogs, and three fish. I laughed a lot in my time with Adam. He has a way of talking about really im...2020-12-2147 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 33: Dr. Curt Thompson-Beauty, Shame, and NeuroscienceDr. Thompson is a Washington D.C. based psychiatrist, author, and speaker who integrates interpersonal neurobiology and a Christian view of what it means to be human. He seeks to educate and encourage others as they seek to fulfill their intrinsic desire to feel known, valued and connected. Curt’s insights about how the brain affects and processes relationships help people discover a fresh perspective and practical applications to foster healthy and vibrant lives, allowing them to get unstuck and move toward the next beautiful thing they’re being called to make.Dr. Thompson’s work has been greatl...2020-12-0149 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 32: Stephanie Williams O'Brien- Strengthening the "Beauty Muscle"Stephanie Williams O'Brien is a pastor at Mill City Church in Minneapolis, she teaches at Bethel Seminary, and is the executive producer and co-host of Lead Stories Podcast with Jo Saxton. Stephanie has also authored two books, Stay Curious: How Questions and Doubts Can Save Your Faith and Make a Move: How to Stop Wavering and Make Decisions in a Disorienting World. I am so grateful to have known Stephanie for a couple of decades now. What has always stood out to me is Stephanie’s vibrant and steadfast faith. Her life and her words always remind me th...2020-11-1643 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 31: Arielle Estoria- Remembering Who We Are“Words not for the ears, but for the soul.” That is how Arielle Estoria describes her work. Arielle is a Spoken Word Poet, author, and speaker. She has shared her work in keynote talks with companies such as Google, Lululemon, and Tedx and has emceed events such as Anchored in Love for teenage girls, featuring surfer Bethany Hamilton. Arielle has also lead writing, social media and self-acceptance workshops in various settings ranging from students to professional development spaces. She is the Co-Author of two self-published collections of poetry: Vagabonds and Zealots (2014) and Write Bloody Spill Pretty (2017). In 2016 she rele...2020-10-3032 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 30: Morgan and Cherie Snyder-Becoming Wholehearted in a Broken WorldMorgan Snyder is a strategist, entrepreneur, teacher, speaker and the author of Becoming a King: The Path to Restoring the Heart of a Man. Morgan’s passion is to shape the men and women who are shaping the kingdom of God. In 2010, he established BecomeGoodSoil.com, a fellowship of leaders whose global reach offers guidance for becoming the kind of person to whom God can entrust the care of his kingdom. Morgan serves on the executive leadership team at Wild at Heart and Ransomed Heart Ministries, where he and his wife Cherie have worked with John and Stasi Eldredge for mo...2020-10-0750 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 29: Evelyn Tribole-Reconnecting With Our BodiesEvelyn Tribole’s message is a breath of fresh air. She is a wise and compassionate voice, teaching people around the world how to reconnect with their bodies and make peace with food. Evelyn is a registered dietician, the author of 9 books, and co-author of the best-selling book: Intuitive Eating: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach, which has been the basis of over 125 studies to date. Evelyn enjoys public speaking around the world and trains health professionals on how to help their clients cultivate a healthy relationship with food, mind, and body through the process of Intuitive Eating. The me...2020-09-1641 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 28: Miles Adcox- The Power of Healing HospitalityMiles Adcox is the Owner and CEO of Onsite, an internationally known emotional wellness lifestyle brand that delivers life-changing personal growth workshops, inspiring content, leadership retreats, and emotional treatment. Miles is also a speaker, podcast host, business leader, coach, and works with and consults several NGO’s. His work at Onsite has been featured on 20/20, Good Morning America, New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Dr. Phil Show, and The Doctors. Miles Adcox has devoted his life to living into these three concepts: Empathy over action, love over agenda, and grace over advice.On paper, Miles Adcox is...2020-08-2447 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 27: Melody Miles-Calling All People Pleasers and PerfectionistsMelody Miles is a writer, coach, founder of the company Soulcation, and formerly an international expert at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. There she helped launch the global campaign to eradicate malaria.After working in 25 African countries by the age of 30, Melody found herself hyperventilating, in the midst of a panic attack, utterly confused why she felt so stressed, exhausted, and unhappy inside the life she always thought she wanted. In the wake of her pain, she quit her dream job, sold her belongings, and traveled solo around the world to forge a new way...2020-08-1234 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 26: Natasha Ngindi- The Truth About Diet CultureNatasha Ngindi is an anti-diet nutritionist and the founder of The Thick Nutritionist brand. She is also a certified Zumba instructor and advocate for promoting enjoyable movement for all bodies in a non-judgmental, body-positive environment. In short, Natasha is passionate about spreading the word about the anti-diet message, body acceptance, health at every size, and intuitive eating. She believes that we all deserve to live a fulfilling life, free of the pressures of diet culture.2020-08-0526 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 25: Stasi Eldredge-How God Sees MeStasi Eldredge is a New York Times bestselling author whose books have sold nearly three million copies. She is a teacher, conference speaker and the director of women’s ministry at Ransomed Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God, recover their own hearts in God’s love, and learn to live in God’s kingdom. Stasi founded this ministry with her husband, John, and it has been used by God to change the hearts of men and women all over the world. In short, Stasi’s passion is to see lives transformed by the beau...2020-07-2931 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 24: Aundi Kolber- Believing We're BelovedAundi Kolber is a licensed professional counselor from Castle Rock, Colorado and is the author of the book, Try Softer: A Fresh Approach to Move Us out of Anxiety, Stress, and Survival Mode-and into a Life of Connection and Joy. I absolutely loved my conversation with Aundi. In our time together, she taught me all how when we pay compassionate attention to ourselves and stay curious, we are more able to heal and notice true beauty in our lives. If you are ever hard on yourself or struggle to believe in your own belovedness, this episode is for...2020-07-2237 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 23: Jean Kilbourne-The Power of AdvertisingJean Kilbourne is a renowned activist, speaker, and author. She is internationally recognized for her pioneering work on the image of women in advertising, in addition to her critical studies of alcohol and tobacco advertising. Beginning in the 1960’s, she began to explore the connection between advertising and various public health issues, such as eating disorders, violence against women, and addiction. She wondered how messaging in advertising contributes to these issues.To counteract the harmful messages in advertising, Kilbourne launched a movement to promote media literacy to help prevent these public health issues. Jean is also the creator of...2020-07-1428 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 22: Christy Harrison- Diet Culture, Racism, and the Thin IdealIf you have ever struggled with body image or your relationship with food, this episode is for you. Christy Harrison is an anti-diet registered dietician, certified intuitive eating counselor, an accomplished journalist, and the author of Anti-Diet: Reclaim Your Time, Money, Well-Being, and Happiness Through Intuitive Eating. She also hosts a weekly podcast called Food Psych, which is one of Apple’s top 100 health podcasts, with tens of thousands of listeners worldwide. In Christy’s words, her mission is to “help you recognize diet culture for the life thief that it is, and tune back into your body’s inner...2020-07-0845 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 21: Carlos Whittaker-Dad Dates and DaughtersCarlos Whittaker is an author, speaker, and, according to his wife, a hope dealer. Carlos is a father of three and documents his family’s life, struggles, and adventures in front of a large social media following. As he addresses topics ranging from bird watching to racism on social media, he demonstrates vulnerability, curiosity, and grace.Carlos has authored three books: Moment Maker, Kill the Spider, and his latest title, Enter Wild. In short, Carlos is a master at showing what it looks like to live out a fervent and adventurous faith in the midst of real life.2020-06-3020 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 20: Lacy Finn Borgo- Beauty in the MessLacy is an author, teacher, and spiritual director. She provides spiritual direction and teaches at the Renovaré Institute, for the Doctor of Ministry program in Spiritual Direction at Fuller Theological Seminary and at Portland Seminary. Lacy also provides spiritual direction for adults through GoodDirtMinistries.org and for children at Haven House. She also recently released her latest book "Spiritual Conversations with Children: Listening to God Together."So, if God is the source of beauty, it seems important to know more about how we might draw near to that Source. Thankfully that is, in fact, Lacy’s specialty.2020-06-2334 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 19: Melody Olson- Beauty That Brings LifeI will forever be grateful for Melody Olson. For years, I was a bit skittish about how distant the characters and culture of the Bible felt. However, after studying passages from the Old Testament with Melody for a few years now, I am steadily seeing that the gracious heart of God is very much alive and well in the entirety of the Bible; yes, even in the Old Testament, that felt so dusty and removed to me before.In addition to leading Scripture Circles in the rabbinical tradition, Melody Olson is a gifted singer/songwriter and Director of...2020-05-2241 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 18- Why I'm So Passionate About BeautyThis week's episode is a little different. I realized that after 17 episodes I haven't told you much about who I am, my story, and how I got to be so passionate about beauty. So, this week I take some time to tell you about my own experience of beauty: what's brought me life, what's been toxic, and how I'd love for you to join the Impossible Beauty movement.2020-05-1515 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 17: Steve Wiens- Waking UpSteve Wiens is a spiritual teacher, writer, and pastor who has authored three books, entitled "Beginnings," "Whole," and most recently "Shining Like the Sun: Seven Mindful Practices for Rekindling Your Faith." Steve also hosts a weekly podcast called This Good Word. Wiens is a gentle companion in the journey of spiritual development and loves coming alongside people in reconstructing their faith when old theological foundations have fallen apart. Because of Steve’s thoughtful approach to faith, my conversation with him around authentic beauty is fascinating. In our time together, we talk about what it means to awaken to Go...2020-04-221h 11Impossible BeautyEpisode 16: Artist, Hannah Rose Thomas-A Voice for the VoicelessHannah Rose Thomas is a gifted English artist, who has found a way to integrate her art and humanitarian work, largely painting portraits of those whom have been persecuted. She desires to use art as a tool for advocacy, bringing a voice to the voiceless into places of influence in theWest. She has organized art projects in Jordan with Syrian refuges, with Yezidi women in Northern Iraq who had escaped ISIS captivity, with Rohingya children in refugee camps on the Myanmar border, and with survivors of Boko Haram and Fulani violence in Northern Nigeria.As a...2020-04-0734 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 15: Marissa Knox- Self-Compassion and BeautyMarissa Knox is a PhD candidate in Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. She also works as a research assistant to Kristin Neff. In her work, Marissa focuses on exploring how self-compassion acts as a source of resilience for healthy body image and stress management. Her dissertation, in particular, examines whether or not a self-compassion writing intervention helps college students reduce body image concerns.Marissa offers so much wisdom here: how to relate to our bodies, others, and ourselves from a place of compassion and kindness. Her words and insights are such a strong and...2020-03-1930 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 14: Rob Bell- The Secret to the Whole ThingRob Bell has authored ten books, including the New York Times bestselling titles, "What We Talk About When We Talk About God," "The Zimzum of Love," "Love Wins," and "What Is The Bible?" Rob also hosts a weekly podcast called The Robcast. He has also toured with Oprah, has been profiled in the New Yorker, and in 2011, was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World in Time Magazine. Needless to say, I am so honored that Rob took the time to talk with me about authentic beauty. As I had predicted, in my time with...2020-02-2744 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 13: Lisa Gungor- Beauty In All ThingsFor years I have connected with the heart, beauty, and honesty of the Grammy-nominated band, Gungor. I recently had the chance to speak with Lisa Gungor of the musical duo. Lisa is a gifted singer/songwriter who now writes music for her solo career, “Isa Ma.” Lisa also recently released her first book entitled "The Most Beautiful Thing I’ve Seen: Opening Your Eyes to Wonder."In her book, Lisa details formational events in her family life; the beautiful, the painful, and how all of it has transformed her. In my time with Lisa, she vulnerably speaks about seeing...2020-02-1238 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 12: Dr. Julia Attalla- The Bright Side of HopeJulia Attalla, D. Min, is the Executive Director of After Hours Ministry in south Los Angeles, California. Julia also serves as the Director of Ministry Program at Fuller Theological Seminary. Above all, I see Julia as an advocate for hope. In our time together, Julia taught me the pivotal role of hope and bravery in the midst of life’s brokenness. And how when we persevere in hope and bravery, beauty can grow exponentially. In our lives and in the lives of others.2020-01-2126 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 11: Dr. Donna Harris- Beauty In CommunityA leader sets the tone for the culture of a community. A leader models the ethos of a place and of a community. This could certainly be said of Dr. Donna Harris, president of Minnehaha Academy, a private K-12 Christian school in Minneapolis, Minnesota. On August 2, 2017, unexpected tragedy befell the over century-old school when an explosion leveled the middle portion of the Academy’s high school. In the midst of losing two beloved employees and the ensuing grief and uncertainty, Dr. Harris forged ahead in wisdom, fortitude, and faith. That same steadfast faith characterized my time with Dr. Ha...2020-01-1539 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 10: Allison Fallon- Beauty Does Not Equal PerfectionAllison Fallon is a gifted writing coach, author, and founder of Find Your Voice. She has written over a dozen books, including her most recent title "Indestructible: Leveraging Your Broken Heart to Become a Force of Love and Change in the World." I met Ally at a writer’s conference she was hosting in Nashville, Tennessee. There, she brought back to life some pivotal things within me. She reminded me of the power of story and the power of creativity.In my interview with Ally, she shares a bit about her own story: her experience with heartbreak, surrender, an...2020-01-0132 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 9: Becca Stevens- "Love Heals" and That is Truly BeautifulBecca Stevens is an Episcopal priest, speaker, author, social entrepreneur, and founder and president of Thistle Farms. Simply put, Thistle Farms makes natural bath, body, and home products. But this beautiful initiative does so much more than that. Thistle Farms employs and empowers female survivors of trafficking, violence, and addiction. The organization provides free housing, medical care, therapy, and education for two years, while women earn an income through one of three social enterprises.Becca inspires me to see that true beauty is revealed in loving acts. And Becca’s beauty shines so brightly as she continues to pr...2019-12-0524 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 8: Erin Gruwell, Freedom Writers- "When diverse worlds come together, beauty is inevitable"I was 23-years-old when I was first introduced to Erin Gruwell’s story in the 2007 feature film Freedom Writers. I remember being enamored with Erin’s story; how she used writing as a tool for healing and bridge building in a Long Beach, California English classroom filled with at-risk youth and racial tensions in light of the Rodney King riots. Not only did 100% of Erin’s students go on to graduate from high school, but they also became co-authors of the New York Times bestselling book, The Freedom Writers Diary. Following the film, Erin went on to found the Freedom Writer...2019-11-0541 min
This Good Word With Steve WiensEpisode 204 | Impossible Beauty with Melissa Louise JohnsonMelissa Louise Johnson is a writer, a Marriage and Family Therapist, and a gifted Spiritual Director. She advocates for embracing authentic beauty in the world through her podcast and her blog, both called Impossible Beauty. We talked about her journey with body image and food issues, as well as how she's writing and revealing a counter-narrative about beauty in a world that still praises thinness at all costs.
Check out Melissa's podcast and blog, and follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
Resources mentioned on the episode:
The Illusionist (documentary)
The Emily Pro...2019-10-2452 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 7: Makoto and Lydia Fujimura- Brokenness as a Starting Point for BeautyMako is a leading contemporary artist. His art has been featured in galleries and museums around the world and is represented by Waterfall Mansion in New York City and Artrue International in Asia. Fujimura is also an arts advocate, speaker, and has written several books, including Refractions, Culture Care, and Silence and Beauty. He is recognized worldwide as a cultural influencer and currently serves as the Director of Culture Care Initiative at Fuller Theological Seminary.Lydia Fujimura, Mako's daughter, is a human resources professional and a lifelong student of human psychology and behavior. She holds a Masters degree...2019-10-2443 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 6: Hillary McBride-Beauty and Body ImageI had so many “aha” moments interviewing Hillary McBride, it’s hard to know where to begin summarizing our time together. Hillary is a Vancouver-based researcher, therapist, and doctoral candidate. She is also the author of Mothers, Daughters, and Body Image: Learning to Love Ourselves As We Are and is featured on “The Liturgists” podcast and the CBC podcast “Other People’s Problems.” If you have ever struggled with body image or are a mom wanting to pass along positive messages around body image to your daughter, this one is for you.2019-10-1137 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 5: Jennifer Moore- Let's Call Out the Beauty in Each OtherJennifer Moore comes alongside women in crises at Tandem in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Tandem is an organization that provides a community of hope and practical help for women undergoing a variety of struggles. The work Jennifer does is so important, coming alongside women during some of the most vulnerable seasons of their lives. What's even more amazing is how Jennifer does her work, the heart she has for the women she works with and the steadfast hope she carries for them, and with them.Join me in learning from Jennifer. Her words are dynamic, and she speaks from a...2019-09-1944 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 4: Bob Goff- Behold the Beauty In YouBob Goff is a self-proclaimed “recovering lawyer” and author of two New York Times best selling books: "Love Does" and "Everybody Always." He also hosts conferences worldwide to encourage people to find and follow their dreams and has established Love Does the organization, dedicated to helping change the lives of women and children around the world. Bob enacts the kind of beauty I’m talking about in so many ways. The kind of beauty that brings about wholeness, and freedom, and flourishing. He believes that love isn’t just a concept, but an action, and he makes that apparent...2019-08-2912 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 3: Katelyn Beaty- Beauty and IdentityKatelyn Beaty is an advocate for women, helping them take hold of their true identity. She is the author of "A Woman’s Place: A Christian Vision for Your Calling in the Office, the Home, and the World", she was Christianity Today’s youngest and first female managing editor, and Katelyn launched a website for the magazine called Her.meneutics, created for female writers. Katelyn’s voice is articulate and powerful, speaking to the intersection of faith and culture in publications such as The New Yorker, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and The New York Times. Her insigh...2019-08-2336 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 2: Sara Groves- The Generative LifeSarah Groves is an extremely gifted singer, songwriter, and recording artist who has been nominated for 7 Dove Awards. Sarah also works alongside International Justice Mission, advocating for victims of human trafficking. Sarah's beautiful voice has this amazing way of speaking to the soul's deepest longings, struggles, and hopes. In this episode I talk with Sarah Groves about beauty and what it means to search for and understand beauty in the midst of the sometimes very broken human experience.For more on Impossible Beauty's mission to re-define and re-discover true beauty, go to:impossible-beauty.com2019-08-0837 minImpossible BeautyEpisode 1: Greg Boyd- New Eyes to See BeautyGreg is a recognized theologian, teacher, pastor and co-founder of Woodland Hills Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, and has authored or co-authored 22 books. While Greg’s credentials are impressive, what has most impacted me is his belief in and teaching on the unconditional and incomprehensible love of God. So, if beauty truly is “the life of God at work in us and around us,” it makes all the difference if the character of that God is entirely good and loving. Greg’s teaching on that kind of love has changed my faith and, so, my life.2019-07-2038 min