Compared to Who? Body Image for Christian Women

This deeply moving episode of Compared to Who? features Anne Beiler, the original creator of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, as she shares her powerful personal story of trauma, loss, and ultimately, healing. Host Heather Creekmore guides a vulnerable discussion on the profound role confession plays in emotional and spiritual recovery, especially after devastating events. What’s Inside: Anne's humble beginnings growing up Amish and lessons on hard work that later inspired Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. The tragic loss of her young daughter and how this event marked the beginning of her struggle with spiritual confusion, grief, and “the life of pretense.” Anne Beiler honestly recounts the pain and consequences of being taken advantage of by a pastor, the isolation of living with secrets, and the burden of shame and guilt. The breaking point: how years of carrying trauma and secrecy led her to the brink, and how her journey shifted the moment she bravely confessed the truth to her husband. Practical steps and biblical wisdom around confession, including Anne Beiler's “new view of confession” based on James 5:16—confessing faults to one another as a path toward true healing. The three types of confession: Anne identifies as keys to lasting freedom: private (bedside) with God, journaling, and verbal confession to another trusted person. Encouragement and actionable advice for anyone carrying burdens, trauma, or secrets: You are not meant to walk alone. Key Takeaways: Confession is not just about admitting wrongdoing; it’s about reclaiming connection, authenticity, and health—spiritually, mentally, and physically. Secrets and shame fester in isolation, but openness (even when terrifying) is the beginning of transformation and hope. Healing from trauma often requires courage to take responsibility, to stop blaming others, and to believe you’re worthy of freedom and forgiveness. The body truly does “keep score”—emotional pain can manifest physically, but light begins to pierce the darkness the moment you step into honesty and connection. Resources Mentioned: James 5:16 and 1 John’s call to “walk in the light as He is in the light” Book recommendation: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk (Amazon affiliate link) Connect & Learn More: Find more about Anne Beiler, one of the WeShare ambassadors, and her advocacy for healing and wholeness. Looking for an alternative to traditional health insurance? Visit weshare.org/heather for a free quote and exclusive enrollment benefits. Final Encouragement: If you are struggling with secrets, shame, or trauma, let today be the day you take a courageous step. Find someone to connect with, be brutally honest about your pain, and embrace the freedom that comes from confession and community. **This episode was part of a paid partnership with WeShare: Healthcare by UHSM. Visit: weshare.org/heather for a free quote or to learn more about this Christian healthshare company. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you tired of letting fears—big or small—shape how you live and see yourself? In this powerful wrap-up to our "Fear Free Fall" series, Heather Creekmore tackles one of the most common (and sneaky) fears: the fear of gaining weight. But that's just the beginning. This episode goes deep, unearthing all the little day-to-day worries that seem so normal… until you realize they’re holding you back. Heather asks tough questions: Where do our fears about weight really come from? Are our fears about gainign weight about health…or worth? What does the Bible actually teach about bodies, value, and holiness—and are we prioritizing “taking care of our temple” over what God specifically asks of us? Heather shares surprising biblical truths, eye-opening cultural stories, and practical steps to trade fear for faith—even if your fear is “just how I am.” Whether you find yourself obsessing over the scale, or caught in smaller worries that never seem to quit, you’ll walk away with a fresh perspective and actionable advice. Don't miss Heather’s candid encouragement and the very real invitation to find freedom, trust, and joyful expectancy… starting today. 🔗 Referenced Episodes: What Is Gluttony (And What Isn’t)? The Daniel Fast: Surprising Truths ✨ If you’re interested in further steps, check out Heather’s 40 Day Body Image Workbook, or join an upcoming group for community encouragement. Ready for less comparison and more joy? Hit play and start living free from fear! For more helpful resources and to join Heather’s weekly email, visit improvebodyimage.com. And if this episode helps you, leave a review and share it with a friend—it makes all the difference! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What is gluttony really? If you’ve ever worried about overeating, obsessing about food, or wondered whether enjoying that extra slice of cake is a spiritual failure, this episode is for you. Best-selling author and host Heather Creekmore dives deep into the true heart behind gluttony—exploring why our modern definitions miss the mark and how diet culture and church culture have distorted our understanding. Heather reframes gluttony, drawing on biblical insight, church history, and thought-provoking examples from C.S. Lewis and Tim Keller. She challenges the idea that gluttony is simply about having seconds or what’s on your plate and asks powerful questions about cravings, control, and where we derive our satisfaction. Plus, Heather explores how misplaced fears about food can keep us stuck and why true freedom comes from surrender—not self-denial. Whether food has become a source of stress or you’re striving for perfect control, this conversation will open your eyes to new ways of understanding your desires and finding satisfaction. Ready to rethink gluttony and experience food freedom? Listen now for practical encouragement, spiritual wisdom, and a fresh take you won’t want to miss! Episodes Mentioned: What Does the Bible Actually Say About Gluttony? (Heather references this episode where she goes through the whole Bible on this topic) Craving Jesus vs. Craving Food (with Erin Todd) More on body image: The 40 Day Body Image Workbook Tim Keller's sermon on Gluttony: The Case of Achan For links and more resources, visit improvebodyimage.com or find Heather’s books on Amazon! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this encouraging episode of the Compared to Who? podcast, host Heather Creekmore delves deep into the ever-present fear of missing out—aka FOMO. As part of the “Fear Free Fall” series, Heather unpacks the spiritual roots of FOMO, exploring how it impacts our faith, contentment, and even our relationship with God. Heather explains that FOMO isn’t just a modern phenomenon brought on by social media; it goes back as far as the Garden of Eden. Through honest reflection and biblical truth, she challenges listeners to consider whether FOMO is really about doubting God’s goodness and wondering if He’s holding out on us. You’ll learn: Why FOMO can reveal a lack of “little faith” in your daily life The connection between social media envy and spiritual insecurity How the story of Adam and Eve perfectly illustrates our struggle with FOMO Why God’s timing isn’t the same as God’s favor, and what that means for you The myth of competition and the futility of trying to “win” at life through comparison How to stop chasing others’ dreams and dig into your unique, God-given calling What true abundance and blessing really look like—and how it differs from what social media promises Heather encourages listeners to stop focusing on someone else’s life and instead trust that God’s plan for YOU is personal, intentional, and truly satisfying. If comparison has kept you feeling “less than,” this episode offers authentic hope and practical gospel wisdom to help you stop comparing and truly start living. Resources & Links: Heather Creekmore’s Website & 10 Days of Encouragement The Book: The Comparison Free Life Coaching with Heather Creekmore Connect with Heather: Instagram Facebook If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and help others find gospel-based encouragement! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Struggling with the fear of suffering, control, and uncertainty? In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore dives deep into why so many women wrestle with the need to avoid pain—especially when it comes to body image, health, and the quest for comfort. Discover the spiritual roots that drive our desire for control and comfort, learn how suffering can actually point us to God rather than away from Him, and hear the inspiring true story of how suffering transformed Tara’s life. Heather doesn’t shy away from tough questions: Are we trusting in our own ability to avoid discomfort, or are we open to what God can do through seasons of pain? With honest reflection, practical encouragement, and biblical wisdom, this episode explores how surrender can play a vital role in your faith journey—and how God can use suffering for a greater purpose. Plus, Heather shares resources to support you, details about the upcoming In His Image conference in Dallas, and ways to connect for ongoing encouragement. Ready to find hope in unexpected places and finally stop fearing suffering? Hit play and discover the freedom that comes with faith beyond your circumstances. Mentioned in this episode: Improve Body Image resources In His Image conference (Dallas, Texas) Previous episodes about the fear of rejection and body image. Connect with Heather and the team by visiting: www.improvebodyimage.com and find out how you can get coaching, join one of our courses or groups, check out Heather's books and Bible reading plans, and so much more. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever feel like nothing in your life will ever be good enough? In today’s honest and insightful episode, Heather Creekmore opens up about her struggles with CDD or “Chronic Disappointment Disorder”—a feeling that no achievement or special day is ever truly satisfying. She explores the root of this persistent discontent and uncovers how fear, envy, and comparison play into our longing for "enough." Heather dives deep into the heart-level issues fueling our dissatisfaction and shares practical wisdom on searching for true contentment in Christ. Drawing lessons from Tim Keller’s teachings on envy, Heather reveals how comparison, restlessness, and selfish ambition point us toward deeper spiritual problems, including idolatry. The episode is packed with personal stories, scriptural references, and actionable advice for anyone weighed down by the fear of never measuring up. If you struggle with body image, success, or just feeling like you’re perpetually missing out, Heather walks you through how to identify envy, repent, and redirect your heart toward worship and gratitude. Ultimately, this episode is filled with hope—reminding us that our deepest satisfaction can only be found in Jesus and in the coming kingdom. Episode Highlights: Personal stories of disappointment, from vacations to Mother's Day Discontent, envy, and their spiritual dangers How reslessness and comparison are more than just “bad habits”—they're rooted in envy The connection between body image, identity, and idolatry Scripture references: James 3:16, Galatians 5:19-21, 1 Corinthians 13:4, Proverbs 14:30 Tim Keller’s two directions for overcoming envy: upward (fear of the Lord) and forward (hope in Christ for the future) The crucial role of repentance and confession—not just positive thinking Surrendering goals and desires to God for genuine change Turning discontent into worship and gratitude Resources & Links: The Comparison Free Life by Heather Creekmore* 40 Day Body Image Workbook* Tim Keller’s Sermons on Envy (Listen here) Connect with Heather: Compared to Who? Website Instagram Facebook Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Description:In this episode of the Compared to Who? podcast, Heather Creekmore continues her Fear Free Fall series with a deep dive into the fear of failure. Heather unpacks the difference between perfectionism and fear of failure, revealing how each shows up in the ways we approach life, our goals, and our body image struggles. She explores how our definitions of success can become idols and how God’s grace redefines our worth. Heather shares personal experiences, practical examples from her coaching, and biblical encouragement to help listeners break free from the grip of performance-based living and find freedom in Christ. Key Topics: Difference between perfectionism and fear of failure Identity issues at the root of both struggles How fear of failure shows up as avoidance, hesitation, and "analysis paralysis" The role of “success” as an idol and how it influences body image Processing where personal standards and God’s standards diverge God’s grace as the answer to our endless striving for worth Practical encouragement for stepping out in faith, even when failure feels likely Encouragement:Heather challenges listeners to reflect on where fear of failure might be holding them back and offers gospel-centered strategies to reframe their thinking and experience freedom in Christ. Resources & Links Listen to Previous Episodes: Compared to Who? Podcast Fear Free Fall Series: Kickoff Episode: Faith Over Fear (October 7th) Episode on Fear of Rejection, Perfectionism, and People Pleasing 40 Day Body Image Journey:Join the next round in January or start now and catch up!➡️ improvebodyimage.com — 40 Day Journey Heather Creekmore’s Books:Find all of Heather’s books on body image and Christian living.➡️ improvebodyimage.com/books 10 Days of Encouragement:Free daily scripture-based encouragement sent to your inbox.➡️ Sign up here In His Image ConferenceNovember 15th, Dallas, Texas. Drop Heather a note if you’re coming! ➡️ In His Image Conference Info (Check for upcoming dates and details!) Body Image Coaching and Workbook:Want practical help? Try the 40 Day Body Image Workbook Connect With Heather & Show Website: improvebodyimage.com Podcast Network: Life Audio If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, discuss it together, and leave a review to help others find gospel-based body image encouragement! P.S. Want to stop comparing and start living? Dive into more encouragement at improvebodyimage.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore continues October’s "Fear Free Fall” series by digging deep into the often-hidden fear of rejection and how it influences our lives. She unpacks how perfectionism and people-pleasing are tightly related to our need to feel accepted and loved. Through personal stories, relatable examples, and biblical truth, Heather unravels the underlying self-protective strategies we adopt—and how the gospel offers real freedom and grace. Key Topics Covered: What is the Fear of Rejection?Heather explores how this fear drives us and manifests as perfectionism and people-pleasing. She explains that these are self-protective strategies formed by our desire for secure love, belonging, and worth. Perfectionism:Often, we think, “If I get it right, then I’ll be enough.” Heather shares a personal story from college when a single missed typo made her feel immense shame, showing how perfectionism can lead to exhaustion and shame rather than peace. People-Pleasing:The fear that “If I make everyone happy, I’ll be safe.” Heather discusses how people-pleasing is not true peacekeeping or biblical peacemaking and how it can even impact our ability to follow God’s call if the opinions of others control us. Where Does This Come From?Heather highlights how these tendencies usually aren’t intentional—they’re often formed in childhood, at school, or through life experiences that taught us we’d be safer if we kept everyone happy or never made mistakes. How It Affects Others:Unchecked, perfectionism and people-pleasing can also lead us to have unrealistic expectations of others, continuing the cycle for those around us. The Gospel’s Answer:True freedom is found not in earning love and acceptance from people (or God), but in embracing grace. Heather reminds us that Jesus took on ultimate rejection so we can be fully accepted by God, no matter how we perform. A Challenge to Listeners:Heather encourages us to check our motives—are we striving for approval from people or resting in God’s approval? She challenges listeners to shift their perspective from a “people-big, God-small” view to a “God-big, people-small” mindset for greater confidence and peace. Memorable Quotes: “Perfectionism is a fear of inadequacy dressed up as excellence.” “People pleasing is not biblical peacemaking—it’s a form of self-protection.” “You can never be perfect or please everyone, but you are already fully accepted in Jesus.” “Freedom comes when you realize you can’t earn grace—it's a gift.” Resources & Next Steps: Visit heathercreekmore.com for free resources, courses, coaching, and Heather’s books Sign up for the free 10-day encouragement email series! Learn more about the In His Image Conference in Dallas, TX (November 15th) — details in show notes If you struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, or fear of rejection, this episode is for you. Learn how to find freedom and confidence in who God says you are—not in what you do or how others respond. Thanks for listening to Compared to Who? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this special "No Fear Fall" series kickoff episode, Heather Creekmore digs deep into the connection between faith and fear—two powerful forces that shape our daily lives. Have you ever wondered why “faith over fear” doesn’t always seem to work in real life? Are you struggling to connect your big beliefs about God to your everyday worries and anxieties? This episode is for you. What This Episode Covers: Faith vs. Fear: Heather challenges the widely held belief that faith and fear are simply opposites in a tug-of-war. She explores why this dichotomy might not be the most helpful way for Christians to approach their struggles. Micro Fears and Mosquito Bites: From perfectionism and the fear of failure to tiny, everyday anxieties (like being the “fattest person in the room” or just being late), Heather shares how these micro-fears sap our joy and confidence. Applying Faith to Real Life: Learn why just telling yourself to "have more faith" doesn't always solve the problem—and what true, biblical faith actually looks like in the face of daily struggles. The Object of Your Faith: Is your faith in God’s character and goodness, or just in Him delivering the results you want? Heather unpacks the difference and warns against letting new age manifesting ideas creep into our beliefs. Practical Biblical Encouragement: Heather references Philippians 4 and the life of Abraham to illustrate that faith can be messy, imperfect, and still deeply meaningful. She offers encouragement to keep trusting, even when God’s answers aren’t what you hoped for. Takeaways: Real, life-changing faith is rooted in the character of God—not in specific outcomes or your own plans. It's okay to bring your desires to God, but hold them with open hands, trusting His greater wisdom and love for you. Even imperfect faith holds value; God honors hearts that keep coming back to Him. Resources & Next Steps: Join the 40-Day Journey: Struggling with body image or insecurity? Sign up for Heather’s 40-Day Journey at improvebodyimage.com for six weeks of biblical encouragement. Free Email Challenges: Grab the “10 Days of Encouragement” or the “5 Day Body Image Challenge” at the same link! Connect: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review—your feedback encourages us and helps others find hope! Listener Questions:What fear are you wrestling with right now? Where have you been disappointed with “faith not working”? Reflect on the true object of your faith and consider how you can trust Jesus with your big and small anxieties this week. Subscribe & Share:Don’t miss the rest of the "No Fear Fall" series! Subscribe and follow Compared to Who? on your favorite podcast player. Share this episode with a friend who could use some real hope. Related Episode:Last Friday’s episode with Erin Kerry on overthinking and spiraling micro-fears. Check it out for even more ways to process daily anxieties. For more Christ-centered encouragement, visit lifeaudio.com. Keywords: faith and fear, biblical faith, anxiety, Christian women, overcoming worry, perfectionism, body image, Heather Creekmore, No Fear Fall, faith over fear, daily encouragement, trust God, manifesting vs. faith Thank you for listening! Heather hopes today’s episode helps you stop comparing and start living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you an overthinker? Do you find yourself replaying conversations from weeks ago, worrying about every possible outcome, or getting stuck in endless thought spirals? You’re not alone—and this episode is for you. Join host Heather Creekmore and special guest Erin Kerry—health coach, mental health advocate, and original friend of the show—for an honest, hope-filled conversation about overthinking and how to break free. Erin shares insights from her new book, "Live Beyond Your Label," diving deep into why we overthink, how our bodies and minds respond to stress, and what true relief looks like from both a scientific and biblical perspective. What you’ll hear in this episode: How to recognize if you’re an overthinker—and why it’s more common than you think The physical and emotional roots of overthinking Why “just take your thoughts captive” isn’t always enough (and what’s missing from that advice) The body’s built-in responses to stress and fear, and how you can work with your physiology instead of against it Simple, practical strategies to calm your mind, address anxiety, and ground yourself in truth Encouragement for Christians who feel stuck, powerless, or alone in their mental battles How to move forward when labels, diagnoses, or past trauma have left you feeling “broken” Plus: Erin and Heather talk about slowing down, why true rest matters, and how to build daily habits that soothe both body and soul. You’ll discover you’re not the only one wrestling with these thoughts—and there is real hope for change! Ready to stop overthinking and start living free? Listen now and be encouraged, empowered, and equipped—with both biblical truth and holistic mental health wisdom. Resources and Next Steps: Find Erin Kerry’s book: Live Beyond Your Label (Amazon and wherever books are sold) *Amazon affiliate link. Join Heather’s 40-Day Journey group coaching experience at improvebodyimage.com – scholarships available! Get Erin’s free Food is Mood guide and Mood Reset Assessment at erinbkerry.com Follow Erin on Instagram: @sparkingwholeness Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.