The Hidden Addiction in Fitness Culture That No One Talks About

Most people don’t even know men can have eating disorders. In this powerful episode of The Chris Stefanick Show, I sit down with former college football player Patrick Devenny, who opens up about a hidden battle that nearly destroyed his life. From chasing NFL dreams to spiraling into obsession with food, fitness, and control, Patrick shares how what looked like “discipline” on the outside was actually deep pain, shame, and addiction on the inside. We talk about: -Why eating disorders in men go unnoticed-How fitness culture can mask serious struggles-The role of identity, loss, and control in addiction-The turning point that changed everything-How Jesus, community, and truth led him toward healing If you’ve ever struggled with body image, shame, or feeling trapped in your own mind—this episode is for you. Jesus came for the broken. And healing starts when we stop hiding. Highlights:0:00 Intro3:40 Can men have eating disorders?5:10 Patrick’s football journey & identity9:30 Losing everything—and hitting rock bottom12:45 Can Jesus actually heal something like this?17:50 The hidden world of male eating disorders22:00 When “discipline” becomes obsession27:30 The breaking point31:00 The moment everything changed34:00 Finding identity beyond performance38:30 Practical steps toward healing46:00 Why men must speak up ........ Sign up for The Daily Anchor to get Chris Stefanick's bite-sized reflections every morning: https://bit.ly/4tQCXtP........ Support the creation of this content by becoming a Missionary of Joy with a monthly gift to Real Life Catholic and get free access to 9 transformative courses: https://bit.ly/4nTHbN0........ Join Chris Stefanick on pilgrimage: https://www.reallifecatholic.com/pilgrimages Chapters (00:00:00) - Fooled by Eating Disorders(00:01:30) - Real Life Catholic: Talking About Eating Disorders(00:04:06) - Adam Levine on His Conversion(00:09:43) - Marriage of the Immaculate Conception(00:11:13) - Mission: Living Joy(00:12:36) - How Jesus Helped Me With My Eating Disorder(00:17:48) - Tyler on His Slide Into An Eating Disorder(00:24:32) - Ex-Football Star on His Eating Disorders(00:30:41) - An Eating Disorder Coach's Message(00:32:59) - Mental Health for Male Athletes(00:35:32) - Former NFL Player on The Brain Injuries(00:40:27) - What's The Biggest Challenge in Your Faith Life?(00:45:01) - Come out of the Shame: Male Suicides(00:48:29) - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(00:52:56) - CBT For Recovering From Addiction(00:57:01) - Prayer for Eating Disorders