The Pause and Fast Podcast

In this special episode, Erika Barnhart sits down with two experienced voices in the fasting community — Laurie Lewis and Jalene Weigand — for a powerful and honest conversation about what it really takes to maintain intermittent fasting for life.This isn’t about quick results. It’s about becoming the kind of person who can live this lifestyle long-term.Together, they explore:How motivation evolves over time (and why it matters less than you think)The surprising power of “being boring” with your habitsWhat “effortless effort” actually looks like in real lifeHow to feel confident living differently than the people around youOther ways we can “pause” in life beyond foodYou’ll also hear personal stories, mindset shifts, and practical tools that can help both beginners and experienced fasters stay consistent — without burnout.If you’ve ever wondered “How do I make this stick forever?” — this episode is for you.We referenced - The Hunger Habit - Judson Brewer, MD

In this episode of The Pause and Fast Podcast, Erika Barnhart talks with Alison Pizanie, a board-certified bariatric educator and author, about her journey through bariatric surgery, weight loss, and finding long-term success with intermittent fasting.Alison shares why bariatric surgery is a powerful tool—but not a complete solution—and how intermittent fasting helped her manage weight regain, improve her relationship with food, and build a sustainable lifestyle.They also discuss the importance of mindset, emotional health, proper nutrition, and community support for lasting results.In this episode:• Bariatric surgery and long-term weight management• Intermittent fasting after surgery• Mindset and emotional health• Nutrition and protein intake• Building sustainable habits✨ “Fasting is a lifestyle, not a diet.”https://youtu.be/SsPvl98ppsU

What if the simplest health shift is the one that actually sticks?In this powerful, no-nonsense conversation, Laurie Lewis shares her 9-year journey with intermittent fasting—and how it transformed her energy, mindset, and overall health when nothing else worked.This episode cuts through the noise. You’ll learn what a clean fast really is, how to find your ideal eating window, and why fasting is about so much more than weight loss.If you’re looking for a sustainable, realistic approach to better health, this is it.In this episode:• What actually makes intermittent fasting work• How to start (and stick with it)• The mindset shift that changes everything• Why “pausing” might be the missing pieceSimple. Practical. Transformational.Resources:Fast Forward Wellness: https://fastforwardwellness.comThe Obesity Code by Dr. Jason FungAtomic Habits by James ClearZero Fasting AppWatch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/uBJpbodKpLs

A quick life + podcast update 💬In this episode, I’m sharing a shift in the Pause and Fast Podcast schedule—from weekly episodes to a bi-weekly cadence (for now).This decision comes from a place of wanting to create more intentional, thoughtful conversations around intermittent fasting—without rushing the process or sacrificing quality. I talk a little about what this podcast stands for, what you can expect moving forward, and how I’m continuing to build this space for learning, curiosity, and real-life experiences.I’m also always looking for new guests, so if you’ve ever wanted to share your story, I’d love to hear from you.And stick around for a great nugget from my conversation with Amy Jo Holcomb!Email me at [email protected] to talk about being a guest!Please rate the show and leave a comment - It helps listeners find us and I appreciate it!

In this episode of The Pause and Fast Podcast, Erika Barnhart talks with April Hall, restaurant owner, mother of five, and known as the Alabama Chicken Queen. April shares how intermittent fasting helped her move beyond years of yo-yo dieting to build a sustainable lifestyle that improved her health, energy, and mindset.April explains how understanding hormones, practicing a clean fast, and reducing artificial sweeteners changed her relationship with food and helped reduce inflammation and digestive issues. She also discusses how fasting strategies can evolve through different life stages, including perimenopause, and why learning to listen to your body is key.Beyond weight loss, April shares the importance of self-care, community support, and mindset shifts when creating lasting lifestyle change.Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/2fgnb6VS8Fk

In this episode of The Pause and Fast Podcast, Erika Barnhart sits down with Martin Sher, a 74-year-old retired CEO who lost 40 pounds and transformed his health through intermittent fasting. After years of following traditional dieting advice, Martin discovered intermittent fasting and committed to a sustainable lifestyle focused on nutrition, mindset, and long-term health.Martin shares how small changes—like gradually extending fasting windows, choosing whole foods, and practicing mindful eating—helped him achieve permanent weight loss and improved health markers. He also explains why community support, patience, and consistency are key to maintaining results over time.This conversation explores the deeper mindset behind successful weight loss, including why eating slowly enhances satisfaction, why exercise should be enjoyable, and how shifting your relationship with food can lead to lasting change. Martin also offers a preview of his upcoming book, where he shares lessons from his journey and practical strategies for others interested in intermittent fasting.If you're interested in intermittent fasting, weight loss, nutrition, mindset, and building sustainable healthy habits, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights for your own health journey.Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/i7rismWgPno

What if intermittent fasting isn’t just about weight loss — but about transforming your mindset, habits, and relationship with food?In this powerful episode, Erika Barnhart sits down with Raena Hawkins to explore her fasting journey that began in 2014 with the 5:2 method and evolved into a sustainable, empowering clean fasting lifestyle. Raena shares the struggles, breakthroughs, and mindset shifts that helped her move from white-knuckling hunger to experiencing calm, confidence, and clarity around food.Together, they discuss:How clean fasting simplifies the process and enhances resultsWhy mindset matters more than willpowerNavigating social situations with confidence (“No is a complete sentence.”)The connection between fasting, exercise, and strength trainingHormonal changes, aging gracefully, and fueling your future selfTools, routines, and practical advice for beginnersRaena reminds us that patience is key, community support is powerful, and embracing discomfort can lead to lasting transformation. This episode is filled with real-life wisdom for anyone exploring intermittent fasting, clean fasting, weight loss, nutrition, wellness, and sustainable health habits.If you’ve ever struggled with hunger, questioned your habits, or wondered how to make fasting fit your real life — this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and equipped.🎧 Tune in now and start building a fasting lifestyle that supports your health, your family, and your future self.

In this episode of The Pause and Fast Podcast, Erika Barnhart sits down with Graeme Currie, bestselling author of The Fasting Highway, to discuss his remarkable intermittent fasting journey.After reaching 360 pounds, Graeme made a life-changing decision that led to a 132-pound (60 kg) weight loss — and, more importantly, long-term weight maintenance.We talk about breaking sugar addiction, clean fasting, nutrition awareness, positive mindset, and why patience is essential for sustainable weight loss. Graeme shares how intermittent fasting became a lifestyle — not a diet — and the non-scale victories that transformed his health and personal growth.If you're seeking lasting change, freedom from food obsession, and a realistic approach to intermittent fasting, this conversation will both inspire and equip you.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QiNgTbF4mpAhttps://thefastinghighway.com/

In this episode of The Pause and Fast Podcast, Erika Barnhart sits down with Cheryl Land, RN, to explore how intermittent fasting transformed her health, mindset, and relationship with food.After years of being health-conscious but struggling with weight management following pregnancy, Cheryl began her intermittent fasting journey on May 13, 2021. What started as a simple shift in eating windows became a powerful lifestyle change. Over the past three years, she has maintained her weight within a four-pound range — something she had never experienced before.Cheryl shares the early challenges of fasting, the mindset shifts that made it sustainable, and the unexpected health benefits she discovered along the way — including improved energy, better sleep, smoother skin, and freedom from food obsession.This conversation goes beyond weight loss. It highlights the flexibility, freedom, and empowerment that can come from consistent fasting protocols and supportive community.In this episode, we discuss:• How Cheryl transitioned from dieting to intermittent fasting• Adjusting eating windows and maintaining weight long term• The role of mindset in sustainable health• Lifestyle changes that support success• Practical fasting tips for beginners• Health benefits beyond the scaleWhether you’re new to intermittent fasting or looking to strengthen your fasting journey, this episode offers encouragement, realistic insight, and practical guidance.If this episode resonates with you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may benefit from a fresh approach to health and wellness.Also available to watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/X1xGESduZ-I

What if the problem was never willpower—but insulin resistance?In this powerful and honest conversation, Erika Barnhart sits down with intermittent fasting coach and wellness educator Star McEuen to unpack how intermittent fasting evolved from a last-ditch weight loss effort into a sustainable, freeing lifestyle.After years of “doing everything right”—counting calories, tracking macros, and pushing her body through intense workouts—Star was at her wit’s end. Discovering clean intermittent fasting changed everything. By addressing insulin resistance and letting go of rigid diet rules, she lost 81 pounds naturally and has maintained her results for over six years—without tracking, dieting, or extreme exercise.Together, Erika and Star explore the health benefits of intermittent fasting, including improved cholesterol, reduced anxiety, mental clarity, and emotional stability. They talk about why fasting should be flexible, how what you break your fast with truly matters, and how fasting can deepen your understanding of your body and overall health.This episode also dives into self-care beyond food—movement, mindset, grace, and holistic wellness—and offers practical guidance for beginners looking to start a fasting lifestyle that actually lasts.If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed by diet culture, this conversation is a reminder that healing is possible—and freedom is closer than you think.✨ “Fasting is freeing.”✨ “Just give yourself grace.”Watch with video on YouTube - https://youtu.be/Ncs6A1r350E

💚 February is Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month 💚In this episode, Erika Barnhart sits down with Wendy Taquino, a professional singer, to explore her powerful health journey with intermittent fasting and emotional healing. Wendy shares how fasting became a freeing, sustainable tool — not just for weight loss, but for improving metabolic health, balancing hunger hormones, and supporting emotional well-being.The conversation also thoughtfully touches on Wendy’s experience navigating a cancer diagnosis, and how self-care, informed nutrition choices, and community support have played a vital role in her resilience. This episode is an honest, hopeful discussion about listening to your body, letting go of outcomes, and choosing wellness from a place of compassion rather than control.🎙️ About WendyWendy is a recovering recovering life-long emotional eater, food addict, and yo-yo dieter. IF was themissing tool she needed to gain control of her cravings, to help her dig in and deal with the rootissues of her bingeing — both biologically and emotionally.She was put on her first diet at 11. But what nobody knew at the time was that she had sometrauma that she was trying to bury with food. And that was going to be her coping mechanismfor the next 25 years. But she did every diet out there to try and manage it. Jenny Craig, WeightWatchers, Nutrisystem, and every other fad. She’s lost and gained thousands of pounds overher lifetime.In 2006, all the pain that she’d been trying to keep at bay came bubbling up, and she had anervous breakdown and struggled with major depression for 2 solid years. In a short amount oftime, she had binged her way up to 285 pounds.After years of therapy and emotional healing, she was finally ready to tackle the weight gain andbecome a whole, integrated, and healthy person — ready to heal her body after working to healher mind. Even though she doesn’t recommend it to anyone now, she had Weight Loss Surgeryin 2017 and lost 80 pounds in the first year. But then struggled to lose 20 more the next until shefound that doing a Keto diet worked for her. In 2019, she met and married her amazinghusband, who brought carbs back into her life and house — and regained 20 pounds.In 2020, she found IF and was determined not to put all the weight she’d worked hard to loseback on. What she didn’t know then was that it was also going to help her heal her metabolism.She went on to lose an additional 40 pounds and has been maintaining a 140-pound weightloss with IF for nearly four years.📺 Watch on YouTubeFull podcast episodes, clips, and additional conversations are available on the Pause and Fast YouTube channel.https://youtu.be/5pWfbNrmshE👉 Subscribe on YouTube to watch full episodes and supporting content.

What happens when you stop chasing weight loss and start listening to your body?In this episode of the Pause and Fast podcast, host Erika Barnhart sits down with Michelle Montone, a trainer from the Orlando, Florida area, mom of two, and longtime intermittent faster, to share her deeply honest and transformative journey with clean fasting.Michelle began intermittent fasting in January 2020 after decades of yo-yo dieting, diet culture burnout, emotional eating, and unresolved health issues. Over the next ten months, she released 50 pounds — but more importantly, she gained food freedom, mental clarity, and a sense of trust in her body she had never experienced before.Now 44, Michelle opens up about how fasting has supported her through hormonal shifts, mood changes, sleep disruptions, and changes in body composition. She explains how her fasting practice has evolved over time, why flexibility matters and how focusing on quality over quantity transformed her relationship with food.This conversation goes far beyond weight loss. Together, Erika and Michelle explore:Why fasting is a discipline — not a punishmentHow clean fasting supports hormonal and metabolic healthLetting go of the scale and diet mentalityMovement, strength training, and fasting in midlifeWhy fasting isn’t linear — and why that’s okayHow to start slow and build a sustainable fasting lifestyleMichelle also shares her current fasting rhythm, her “qualitarian” approach to eating, and why she believes intermittent fasting offers flexibility, empowerment, and long-term wellness — especially for women in midlife.If you’re curious about fasting, struggling through perimenopause, or ready to break free from diet culture once and for all, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom.🎧 Listen in for an honest conversation about resilience, discipline, and thriving at any age.www.tiktok,com/@mrsshelle0?

In this episode, Rebecca shares her personal journey with intermittent fasting, emphasizing the importance of clean fasting and how it transformed her mindset, emotional well-being, and relationship with stress.In this thoughtful conversation, we explore what motivated her to begin intermittent fasting, how clean fasting and food choices support metabolic flexibility, and why mindset plays such a powerful role in sustainable health. Rebecca also shares insights on eating seasonally, exploring new foods, balancing carbohydrates, exercise, and the unexpected parallels between fasting and learning a new language.This episode is a reminder that intermittent fasting isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about creating space, building awareness, and embracing the power of a pause.✨ In this episode, we discuss:Why clean fasting is essential for effective intermittent fastingThe impact of fasting on mindset, emotional well-being, and stressMetabolic flexibility and long-term health benefitsEating seasonally and expanding food choicesMotivation, weight loss, and starting intermittent fastingExercise, balance, and sustainable habitsWhether you’re new to intermittent fasting or looking to deepen your understanding, this conversation offers grounded insights and encouragement for a healthier, more intentional approach to wellness.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this episode resonates with you.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Comfort Zone11:01 Clean Fasting and Food Choices19:13 Mindset and Emotional Well-being27:59 Exploring New Foods and Eating Seasonally34:10 Balancing Carbs and Snacking Habits39:42 Motivation for Fasting and Learning a New Language46:17 Bar Classes and Short, Effective Workouts51:28 Starting Intermittent Fasting and the Power of a Pause

In this Pause and Fast episode, Erika Barnhart sits down with Lisa Glick—certified intermittent fasting coach, long-distance runner, and fitness instructor—to talk about fasting beyond weight loss.Lisa shares her 10+ year journey with intermittent fasting and the keto diet, and how fasting supported her health, emotional well-being, and mindset through menopause. As someone who teaches fitness classes and prefers to exercise while fasted, Lisa explains why fasted workouts work for her and how movement and fasting can support metabolic health.Together, Erika and Lisa address common misconceptions around intermittent fasting, cholesterol, and exercise, while highlighting the importance of self-advocacy in women’s health. Lisa also offers practical, beginner-friendly tips for starting intermittent fasting, reminding listeners to start small, give themselves grace, and focus on mindset over perfection.Whether you’re navigating menopause, curious about fasted workouts, or looking for a more empowering approach to wellness, this episode will leave you informed, encouraged, and confident in your Pause and Fast journey.https://youtu.be/QvT6r4haJksLisa reccomended Dr. Georgit Ede https://a.co/d/co8WsBe

In this heartfelt Episode 6, Erika Barnhart sits down with her 22-year-old daughter, Kiana Barnhart, for an honest mother-daughter conversation about motherhood, health, and personal transformation. Kiana shares her journey as a young mom—navigating postpartum challenges, reshaping her relationship with food, and discovering the powerful impact of intermittent fasting. From weight loss and confidence to mental clarity, digestion, skin health, and mindful eating, this episode explores how small, sustainable changes can lead to lasting wellness. Whether you’re a new parent, curious about fasting, or looking to reconnect with your body and priorities, this conversation offers real-life insight, encouragement, and inspiration. 💚 Topics include: • Postpartum health & self-care • Intermittent fasting for beginners • Mindful eating & food quality • Mental clarity, ADHD & digestion • Healthy habits for kids & families • Navigating social eating & vacations • Listening to your body without guilt 🎧 Sound Disclaimer: This episode was recorded in person with a guest for the first time. While the audio quality may vary slightly, the conversation and message remain the heart of this episode. Thank you for your grace as we continue to grow and improve! ⏱️ Chapters included for easy listening If this episode resonates, please like, subscribe, and share—it helps support the podcast and this growing wellness community. 💚🎙️Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/3ZOrulQYTUgTakeawaysFasting as a LifestylePostpartum Challenges Nutrition and Snack ChoicesMeal Planning for ChildrenImpact of Fasting on HealthSkin and Hair Health Improved health through fastingEnhanced self-care and body awareness Intermittent fasting has led to a change in food preferences and choicesEase into intermittent fasting and ensure the right mindset and support systemListen to your body and pay attention to cravings for better food choicesChapters00:00 New Year's Day Reflections and Changes06:09 Weight Management and Water Retention11:09 Fasting and Physical Activity16:10 Snacking Habits and Fasting Misconceptions31:05 Skin and Hair Health37:44 Managing Allergies and Health43:03 Fasting and Mental Clarity50:30 Fasting and Intuitive Eating01:15:27 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement for Fasting Beginners

The conversation covers Daniela's fasting journey, the discovery of intermittent fasting, the importance of community support, the significance of consistency and mindful eating, the fasting routine and food quality, the role of carbohydrates and the influence of Blue Zones on eating habits and lifestyle. The conversation covers the impact of physical activity and lifestyle on weight management, the role of intermittent fasting in weight loss and health, and the influence of mindset and emotional well-being during intermittent fasting. The discussion delves into the differences in physical activity and walking habits in different countries, the effects of intermittent fasting on hormones and insulin resistance, and the positive impact of intermittent fasting on emotional well-being and mindset. The conversation covers various aspects of intermittent fasting, including the role of accountability and tools, the use of apps and resources, recommendations for plant-based nutrition, challenges and support in intermittent fasting, advice for beginners, surprising benefits, and the impact of age on intermittent fasting. Key takeaways include the improvement of memory and cognitive function, the importance of community support, and the sustainable and free nature of intermittent fasting.TakeawaysIntermittent fasting for healthQuality of food mattersCommunity support and inspiration Walking and physical activity in different countriesImpact of intermittent fasting on weight loss and healthMindset and emotional well-being during intermittent fasting Intermittent fasting can improve memory and cognitive function.Community support and like-minded individuals play a crucial role in the success of intermittent fasting.Intermittent fasting is a sustainable and free approach to improving health and well-being.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Fasting Journey05:53 Support and Community12:01 Fasting Routine and Food Quality18:00 Eating Habits and Lifestyle32:25 Diet and Nutrition38:43 Mindset and Emotional Well-being44:23 Recommendations and Resources50:47 Advice for Beginners and Long-Term Benefits59:30 Age and Intermittent FastingWatch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/vnL3cp_Sf2E

Intermittent fasting isn’t about starving—it’s about freedom, clarity, and healing.In this episode, Erika Barnhart sits down with fasting coach Lisa Evers to talk clean fasting, mental health, hormonal balance, and how flexibility makes fasting sustainable. Like so many of us, Lisa faced some real struggles. Diet brain, body image and digestive issues as well as hypothyroidism? Yep, they had her caught up in a whirlwind of food and exercise obsessions. Then came the game-changer: Intermittent Fasting (IF). This powerful shift didn't just transform her health; it flipped her mindset upside down! Suddenly, she was free from the grip of diet culture and body image worries. But Lisa didn't stop there. She's launched her own digital business to help you find your food freedom! It hasn't always been easy, but she's not just getting by; she's thriving, thanks to the benefits of IF! Her passion for helping others shines bright as she lifts people up to embrace their own freedom.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:Why intermittent fasting is about when you eat, not starving What clean fasting really means and why it mattersHow fasting can positively impact mental healthWhy flexibility leads to long-term success How to listen to hunger signals without fear The role of hormonal health in fasting Simple food choices that support fasting How community and resources support lasting change🧠 Fasting is a tool for health—not just weight loss.Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/U28Vorz4oT8 #IntermittentFasting #CleanFasting #HormonalHealth #MentalHealth #FastingJourney

Amy Jo is a wife, mother, small business owner, health coach,and college English professor. She and her husband Rush, have been married 28 years and are enjoying being empty nesters since their son married three years ago. Six years ago, enjoying life and keeping up with her many responsibilitieswas overwhelming. She was ballooning back up to her all-time highest weight of 300 pounds and suffering from debilitating nerve pain from a hip injury that led to labral repair surgery in December of 2016. Morbidly obese her entire adult life, she gave IF a try in January of 2020 after two coworkers had been doing a version of it through a program sponsored by their school’s insurance. The rest, as they say, is history. Since IF day one on January 6, 2020, Amy Jo has lost about 90 pounds and is no longer in chronic pain or taking the strong meds that helped her merely function daily. She is also finding balance after losing her Mom and entering menopause in 2023. Even with a bit of weight gainsince, the clean fast remains her one non-negotiable ingredient for maintaining a healthy intermittent fasting lifestyle.

Mike Saunders: Sometime around December of 2023 I topped out at 365 pounds.I’m 6’1” so that put my BMI at 48.2. My A1C was hovering around 7, which is toohigh. At the time I was 71 years young so that is a huge amount to be carryingaround for a fellow of that age. Add to that a track injury to my left knee in HighSchool and my knees would simply not take any more. I saw an Ortho surgeon whowas highly recommended and of course the first thing he said was I had to loseweight, or the hospital and insurance would not allow surgery until I did. Mygoal weight was 331 pounds to be able to have surgery. The holidays came andpassed and I had lost only a few pounds. I went to weigh in again and of courseI was told to continue and just ‘call us when you are down to 331’. I had a FBfriend and I knew that she had lost a ton of weight so I contacted her andlearned about IF. On 2/28/24 I began to fast with a vengeance. Many people sayto ease in to it. That’s just not my personality so I ripped off the Band-aidand started in with 20:4 or 18:6, depending on the day and how I felt. Iordered Gin Stephens book Fast Feast Repeat and started learning. I joined 4 FBgroups for fasting and learned. I talked with my FB friend Kortney and learned.And I fasted.

My name is Erika Barnhart. I have lost nearly 90 lbs by using clean fasting and healthy eating. I was so excited to have a conversation with Jalene Weigand, an experienced Intermittent faster of 4 years. I hope you enjoy it!​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AoBkkDTvU/​Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pause_and_fast/​TikTok: @pause.and.fastOr, reach out to me at [email protected] to join the fun and be a guest on the show.Jalene: I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t focused on my body image. Growing up in Southern California in the 80s, image was everything. MTV, thin models, and constant pressure made me hyper-aware of my curves from a young age. After puberty, with friends moving away and emotions running high, I discovered that food could numb my feelings—and that started a cycle of overeating, bingeing, and purging that followed me through high school and into my early 20s.After a painful breakup, my eating disorder spiraled, and I reached my lowest weight—sadly unnoticed in a culture that praised being waif thin. My family didn’t mean harm; they were simply repeating the generational message that thinness meant control and worth. Eventually, I hit a breaking point.A blind date changed everything. The man who would become my husband was the first to lovingly tell me I needed help. At 23, I recovered from the binge/purge cycle, but the obsession with my body stayed. For decades I cycled through diets, calorie counting, intense workouts, and every trend—from vegetarianism to Atkins, Weight Watchers, and Pure Barre. Later, hormone issues and food sensitivities pushed me into more research, leading me to a grain-free lifestyle that worked—until 2020 hit.As a preschool teacher navigating remote teaching during the pandemic, everything unraveled. Despite trying to stay healthy, I eventually gained 30+ pounds without realizing it—thank you, stretchy clothes! A photo posted online and a few concerned friends finally made me face it. Their honesty stung, but it pushed me back into research mode, where I stumbled on insulin resistance and intermittent fasting. A podcast with Laurie Lewis moved me to tears, and that day—November 2021—I started clean fasting.I lost 20 pounds quickly with 16:8 fasting, but ongoing health issues led me to a new endocrinologist who discovered I had no hormones, thyroid antibodies, and had unknowingly gone through menopause years earlier. With fasting and HRT, my health finally clicked into place. I’ve lost the weight, stabilized my hormones, and now live a lifestyle that feels sustainable and peaceful.I’m deeply grateful—for the medical professionals who truly listened, for those who shared their own healing stories, and for everyone who supported me along the way. This journey has been long, emotional, and transformative, but I’m finally living in a body and life that feel like home.