Is all that time on Instagram, TikTock or YouTube affecting your body image? Studies say, definitely. So, why do we still do it? Today, Heather interviews Allie Marie Smith, an author, podcast host, and director of an organization called Wonderfully Made. Allie has a brand new book out on the topic of social media and what she found may surprise or scare you. Today, Heather and Allie talk about the challenges that social media poses to our identity and the way we view ourselves. Allie encourages women to pay careful attention to how social media is affecting them and ask good questions about its usefulness in their lives.

Learn more about Allie Marie Smith here: https://alliemariesmith.com

Learn about Allie's brand-new book, Social Media Reset here: https://amzn.to/4382nX1

(Amazon affiliate link)

Learn more about Compared to Who? here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com

 

Is all that time on Instagram, TikTock or YouTube affecting your body image? Studies say, definitely. So, why do we still do it? Today, Heather interviews Allie Marie Smith, an author, podcast host, and director of an organization called Wonderfully Made. Allie has a brand new book out on the topic of social media and what she found may surprise or scare you. Today, Heather and Allie talk about the challenges that social media poses to our identity and the way we view ourselves. Allie encourages women to pay careful attention to how social media is affecting them and ask good questions about its usefulness in their lives.
Learn more about Allie Marie Smith here: <a href="https://alliemariesmith.com">https://alliemariesmith.com</a>
Learn about Allie's brand-new book, Social Media Reset here: <a href="https://amzn.to/4382nX1">https://amzn.to/4382nX1</a>
(Amazon affiliate link)
Learn more about Compared to Who? here: <a href="https://www.improvebodyimage.com">https://www.improvebodyimage.com</a>
&nbsp;

The go-to podcast for Christian women who want to grow stronger in their faith and stop living stuck in comparison!

Are you a Christian woman who’s tired of measuring yourself by the world’s standards? Have you tried to “fix yourself” with willpower, self-help, or even Christian clichés—but still feel like you’re falling short?Do you know the truth of God’s Word, yet struggle to believe it in your daily life?

Bonus: Have you ever wished you could just pray your struggles away in an instant? (Your secret’s safe here.)

If you answered yes, then Compared to Who? is the show for you!

Each week, we tackle the real issues Christian women face—comparison, body image issues, performance pressure, insecurity, identity, spiritual maturity, and more—through a practical, grace-filled, gospel-centered lens. You’ll find encouragement to trust God’s Spirit, rest in His promises, and grow deeper in your walk with Christ.

I’m Heather Creekmore—best-selling author, speaker, and follower of Jesus. After decades of chasing approval and perfection, I discovered that true freedom only comes through surrendering to Him. Now I help women like you exchange striving for peace, insecurity for identity, and comparison for confidence in Christ.

Every episode is packed with relatable stories, biblical truth, and honest encouragement to help you stop living stuck—and start living free in Jesus.

Find out more about me and the ministry of Compared to Who? at: https://www.improvebodyimage.com

Want to join our podcast community on Facebook? Visit us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/764271297116024

The go-to podcast for Christian women who want to grow stronger in their faith and stop living stuck in comparison!
Are you a Christian woman who&rsquo;s tired of measuring yourself by the world&rsquo;s standards? Have you tried to &ldquo;fix yourself&rdquo; with willpower, self-help, or even Christian clich&eacute;s&mdash;but still feel like you&rsquo;re falling short?Do you know the truth of God&rsquo;s Word, yet struggle to believe it in your daily life?
Bonus: Have you ever wished you could just pray your struggles away in an instant? (Your secret&rsquo;s safe here.)
If you answered yes, then&nbsp;Compared to Who?&nbsp;is the show for you!
Each week, we tackle the real issues Christian women face&mdash;comparison, body image issues, performance pressure, insecurity, identity, spiritual maturity, and more&mdash;through a practical, grace-filled, gospel-centered lens. You&rsquo;ll find encouragement to trust God&rsquo;s Spirit, rest in His promises, and grow deeper in your walk with Christ.
I&rsquo;m Heather Creekmore&mdash;best-selling author, speaker, and follower of Jesus. After decades of chasing approval and perfection, I discovered that true freedom only comes through surrendering to Him. Now I help women like you exchange striving for peace, insecurity for identity, and comparison for confidence in Christ.
Every episode is packed with relatable stories, biblical truth, and honest encouragement to help you stop living stuck&mdash;and start living free in Jesus.
Find out more about me and the ministry of&nbsp;Compared to Who?&nbsp;at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.improvebodyimage.com/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.improvebodyimage.com/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1758629449501000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0CbbfkEG9w0k4Z9QBqp5C5">https://www.improvebodyimage.com</a>
Want to join our podcast community on Facebook? Visit us here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/764271297116024" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.facebook.com/groups/764271297116024&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1758629449501000&amp;usg=AOvVaw08LV1DuGuu8Nv6oa8m3RKp">https://www.facebook.com/groups/764271297116024</a>

Compared to Who? Body Image for Christian Women

Is Social Media Affecting My Body Image?

Are AI images fooling you? They're everywhere. Perhaps you saw all those cute "candy cane" body suit photos and thought, "That looks fun." Or, maybe you posted one yourself! In this thought-provoking episode, Heather Creekmore unpacks the rise of AI-generated photos and their profound impact on how we see ourselves—and each other. What started years ago as a debate over Photoshop has now exploded into a world where anyone can create altered, “flawless” images of themselves in a matter of seconds. But the effects go far beyond just looking different in pictures. These doctored images are changing our brains, our body image, and even our spiritual health. Heather shares what happened when she created a bunch of AI photos of herself, including her hilarious results. 

What You’ll Hear


The Evolution from Photoshop to AI:
Heather Creekmore reminisces about early discussions on Photoshop and magazine covers—and how AI has made “perfect” images accessible to everyone, not just celebrities and models.


Personal Experiment with AI Headshots:
Hear about Heather’s own journey using an AI headshot generator, the surprising (and sometimes hilarious) results, and the unsettling emotional triggers that come with seeing an altered version of yourself.


The Science Behind How Images Affect Us:
Learn how the brain processes images, why filtered photos are so convincing (even when we know they're fake), and how repeated exposure to “perfect” bodies rewires our brains to set unrealistic standards.


Real Dangers: Snapchat Dysmorphia and Beyond:
Explore the rise in people seeking cosmetic procedures to look like their filtered selfies, and understand why AI-generated “ideal images” up the stakes for comparison, perfectionism, and dissatisfaction.


Spiritual Implications:
Heather dives deep into the spiritual cost of chasing AI perfection, discussing body image idolatry, why you were purposefully designed by a loving Creator, and the difference between being designed vs. manufactured.


Practical Tips to Beat Comparison:
Walk away with actionable advice, from mindful scrolling to curating your social media feed, setting screen time limits, and turning to prayer when you're tempted by those idealized images.

Memorable Quotes


“Now you can actually have an image of yourself to worship.”


“Our brains know these images are fake, but our hearts still hurt as if they’re real.”


“You’re not a red Solo cup. You’re not manufactured. You’re uniquely designed.”
"Are you worshipping a perfect image, or are you worshipping a perfect God?"

Helpful Links


40-Day Body Image Journey:
Feeling stuck in comparison and body obsession? Join Heather Creekmore’s quarterly 40-day journey for Christian women at improvebodyimage.com (look for the “40 Day Journey” tab).


Related Resources:
See the photos! Find this episode on YouTube or visit the blog, here.


Listen to more episodes on faith and body image


Find the 40-Day Body Image Workbook * (Amazon affiliate link. Tiny portion of your purchase goes to support this ministry.)

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram and felt “less than,” or if you’re curious about how AI might be affecting your mental—and spiritual—health, this episode is for you. Heather Creekmore reminds us that our value isn’t found in a perfectly curated image, but in the unique design given to us by God.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave a review.

Thanks for listening! Remember: Stop comparing and start living.

Follow Heather Creekmore on Instagram and YouTube for more encouragement on faith, body image, and comparison-free living.

Are AI images fooling you? They're everywhere. Perhaps you saw all those cute "candy cane" body suit photos and thought, "That looks fun." Or, maybe you posted one yourself! In this thought-provoking episode, Heather Creekmore unpacks the rise of AI-generated photos and their profound impact on how we see ourselves&mdash;and each other. What started years ago as a debate over Photoshop has now exploded into a world where anyone can create altered, &ldquo;flawless&rdquo; images of themselves in a matter of seconds. But the effects go far beyond just looking different in pictures. These doctored images are changing our brains, our body image, and even our spiritual health. Heather shares what happened when she created a bunch of AI photos of herself, including her hilarious results.&nbsp;
<hr>
What You&rsquo;ll Hear
<ul>
<li>
The Evolution from Photoshop to AI: Heather Creekmore reminisces about early discussions on Photoshop and magazine covers&mdash;and how AI has made &ldquo;perfect&rdquo; images accessible to everyone, not just celebrities and models.
</li>
<li>
Personal Experiment with AI Headshots: Hear about Heather&rsquo;s own journey using an AI headshot generator, the surprising (and sometimes hilarious) results, and the unsettling emotional triggers that come with seeing an altered version of yourself.
</li>
<li>
The Science Behind How Images Affect Us: Learn how the brain processes images, why filtered photos are so convincing (even when we know they're fake), and how repeated exposure to &ldquo;perfect&rdquo; bodies rewires our brains to set unrealistic standards.
</li>
<li>
Real Dangers: Snapchat Dysmorphia and Beyond: Explore the rise in people seeking cosmetic procedures to look like their filtered selfies, and understand why AI-generated &ldquo;ideal images&rdquo; up the stakes for comparison, perfectionism, and dissatisfaction.
</li>
<li>
Spiritual Implications: Heather dives deep into the spiritual cost of chasing AI perfection, discussing body image idolatry, why you were purposefully designed by a loving Creator, and the difference between being designed vs. manufactured.
</li>
<li>
Practical Tips to Beat Comparison: Walk away with actionable advice, from mindful scrolling to curating your social media feed, setting screen time limits, and turning to prayer when you're tempted by those idealized images.
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Memorable Quotes
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;Now you can actually have an image of yourself to worship.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Our brains know these images are fake, but our hearts still hurt as if they&rsquo;re real.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re not a red Solo cup. You&rsquo;re not manufactured. You&rsquo;re uniquely designed.&rdquo;
</li>
<li>"Are you worshipping a perfect image, or are you worshipping a perfect God?"</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Helpful Links
<ul>
<li>
40-Day Body Image Journey: Feeling stuck in comparison and body obsession? Join Heather Creekmore&rsquo;s quarterly 40-day journey for Christian women at <a href="https://improvebodyimage.com/">improvebodyimage.com</a> (look for the &ldquo;40 Day Journey&rdquo; tab).
</li>
<li>
Related Resources:
<ul>
<li>See the photos! Find this episode on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ComparedtoWho">YouTube</a> or <a href="https://www.improvebodyimage.com/blog/how-ai-generated-photos-are-impacting-our-self-image-mental-health-and-faith">visit the blog, here.</a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://improvebodyimage.com/podcast">Listen to more episodes on faith and body image</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://amzn.to/3NCbrPQ">Find the 40-Day Body Image Workbook *</a> (Amazon affiliate link. Tiny portion of your purchase goes to support this ministry.)
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
Final Thoughts
If you&rsquo;ve ever scrolled through Instagram and felt &ldquo;less than,&rdquo; or if you&rsquo;re curious about how AI might be affecting your mental&mdash;and spiritual&mdash;health, this episode is for you. Heather Creekmore reminds us that our value isn&rsquo;t found in a perfectly curated image, but in the unique design given to us by God.
Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave a review.
<hr>
Thanks for listening! Remember: Stop comparing and start living.
<hr>
Follow Heather Creekmore on Instagram and YouTube for more encouragement on faith, body image, and comparison-free living.

How AI-Generated Photos Impact Body Image, Comparison, and Faith: Understanding the Dangers of Altered Images

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/bf485ad8-3c27-44bb-a2a8-b3d7014c5e43/transcript

Are you ready to kick off your year by finally pursuing health goals—without sacrificing your spiritual well-being in the process? In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore shares her two most effective coaching tips to help you transform your journey toward better health. If you sometimes feel stuck between your desire to improve physically and the need to stay spiritually rooted, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

You’ll also hear Heather unpack the difference between coaching and counseling, and why the approach she uses at Compared to Who? is so unique—especially when it comes to body image, food, and faith. She explains how her biblically grounded, practical coaching can change how you approach your goals, your mindset, and your motivation.

Tune in to discover:


The questions that can radically shift your motivation for pursuing health goals


The truth about accountability—and who you’re really listening to on your journey


The practical, grace-filled approach that can help you break free from shame and comparison

Don’t miss these tips—they could change everything about the way you set and chase after health goals this year! Listen now and be inspired to seek true wellness that includes your whole self.

Ready for a new perspective? Press play, and get ready to stop comparing and start living!

Learn more about the40-Day Body Image Journey and find resources mentioned in the episode at improvebodyimage.com

If this is the year you’re longing for real breakthrough, this episode is a must-listen!

Are you ready to kick off your year by finally pursuing health goals&mdash;without sacrificing your spiritual well-being in the process? In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore shares her two most effective coaching tips to help you transform your journey toward better health. If you sometimes feel stuck between your desire to improve physically and the need to stay spiritually rooted, this episode will speak directly to your heart.
You&rsquo;ll also hear Heather unpack the difference between coaching and counseling, and why the approach she uses at Compared to Who? is so unique&mdash;especially when it comes to body image, food, and faith. She explains how her biblically grounded, practical coaching can change how you approach your goals, your mindset, and your motivation.
Tune in to discover:
<ul>
<li>
The questions that can radically shift your motivation for pursuing health goals
</li>
<li>
The truth about accountability&mdash;and who you&rsquo;re really listening to on your journey
</li>
<li>
The practical, grace-filled approach that can help you break free from shame and comparison
</li>
</ul>
Don&rsquo;t miss these tips&mdash;they could change everything about the way you set and chase after health goals this year! Listen now and be inspired to seek true wellness that includes your whole self.
Ready for a new perspective? Press play, and get ready to stop comparing and start living!
Learn more about the<a href="https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-day-challenge"> 40-Day Body Image Journey</a> and find resources mentioned in the episode at <a href="https://improvebodyimage.com/">improvebodyimage.com</a>
<hr>
If this is the year you&rsquo;re longing for real breakthrough, this episode is a must-listen!

Faith-Based Coaching: 2 Essential Tips for Achieving Health Goals Without Sacrificing Spiritual Wellness

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/38153170-4fd7-4f4d-8bf1-b3d100f97d82/transcript

We have so much information about health, our bodies, and what will make us feel better, coming at us from every direction. If you're ready to finally hear the truth, this episode is for you. Today, host Heather Creekmore welcomes coaching client Tephanie, and Compared to Who? team member, Christian body image coach, Tara, for a moving conversation about finding real freedom from body image struggles. This episode dives into what it’s really like to join the 40-day Body Image Journey, take the next step into group coaching, and experience transformative, Christ-centered growth alongside women in all stages of life.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:


Tephanie’s Story: Tephanie courageously shares how body image issues impacted her life for years—from feeling like the “heavier friend” as a child, to trying diets after marriage, and always believing thinness was the key to worth and happiness.


The Power of Community: Listen as Tephanie describes overcoming her fears about group coaching, opening up in a safe space, and discovering that she wasn’t alone in her struggles.


What Coaching Looks Like: Coach Tara explains how every woman shows up nervous, but together they create a sacred, honest place where transformation happens.


Lasting Change: Tephanie reflects on how the journey shifted her mindset—from constant comparison and shame, to living with gratitude and serving as a positive role model for her family.


Behind the Scenes: You’ll also get a peek into the structure of the coaching programs (the 40-day journey, Body Image Freedom Framework, Attunement Reset), how each builds on the last, and the real “magic” that’s only possible through Christ-centered community.

Key Takeaways:


There is no “magic formula” for body image freedom—true peace comes from seeing yourself as God sees you.


You’re not alone; women of every age and stage struggle with body image, but healing happens in safe, supportive community.


Change is possible, even if you’ve felt stuck for years—the journey may be ongoing, but God’s freedom is real and available for you, too.

Ready for Your Own Journey?
Visit improvebodyimage.com to join the next 40-Day Body Image Journey or try the free “Obsessed to Blessed” mini course here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/obsessed-to-blessed

Connect with Us:


Subscribe and leave a review if this episode encouraged you.


For more episodes and resources, visit Compared to Who? Podcast or visit the Compared to Who? website at: www.improvebodyimage.com

Special Thanks:
Thank you to Tephanie for bravely sharing her story and to Tara for her wisdom and compassion.

Are you ready to stop comparing and start living? Hit play and be encouraged—real women find real freedom here.

We have so much information about health, our bodies, and what will make us feel better, coming at us from every direction. If you're ready to finally hear the truth, this episode is for you. Today, host Heather Creekmore welcomes coaching client Tephanie, and Compared to Who? team member, Christian body image coach, Tara, for a moving conversation about finding real freedom from body image struggles. This episode dives into what it&rsquo;s really like to join the <a href="https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-day-challenge">40-day Body Image Journey</a>, take the next step into group coaching, and experience transformative, Christ-centered growth alongside women in all stages of life.
What You&rsquo;ll Hear in This Episode:
<ul>
<li>
Tephanie&rsquo;s Story: Tephanie courageously shares how body image issues impacted her life for years&mdash;from feeling like the &ldquo;heavier friend&rdquo; as a child, to trying diets after marriage, and always believing thinness was the key to worth and happiness.
</li>
<li>
The Power of Community: Listen as Tephanie describes overcoming her fears about group coaching, opening up in a safe space, and discovering that she wasn&rsquo;t alone in her struggles.
</li>
<li>
What Coaching Looks Like: Coach Tara explains how every woman shows up nervous, but together they create a sacred, honest place where transformation happens.
</li>
<li>
Lasting Change: Tephanie reflects on how the journey shifted her mindset&mdash;from constant comparison and shame, to living with gratitude and serving as a positive role model for her family.
</li>
<li>
Behind the Scenes: You&rsquo;ll also get a peek into the structure of the coaching programs (the 40-day journey, Body Image Freedom Framework, Attunement Reset), how each builds on the last, and the real &ldquo;magic&rdquo; that&rsquo;s only possible through Christ-centered community.
</li>
</ul>
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>
There is no &ldquo;magic formula&rdquo; for body image freedom&mdash;true peace comes from seeing yourself as God sees you.
</li>
<li>
You&rsquo;re not alone; women of every age and stage struggle with body image, but healing happens in safe, supportive community.
</li>
<li>
Change is possible, even if you&rsquo;ve felt stuck for years&mdash;the journey may be ongoing, but God&rsquo;s freedom is real and available for you, too.
</li>
</ul>
Ready for Your Own Journey? Visit <a href="https://improvebodyimage.com/">improvebodyimage.com</a> to join the next 40-Day Body Image Journey or try the free &ldquo;Obsessed to Blessed&rdquo; mini course here: <a href="https://www.improvebodyimage.com/obsessed-to-blessed">https://www.improvebodyimage.com/obsessed-to-blessed</a>
Connect with Us:
<ul>
<li>
Subscribe and leave a review if this episode encouraged you.
</li>
<li>
For more episodes and resources, visit <a href="https://improvebodyimage.com/podcast">Compared to Who? Podcast&nbsp;</a>or visit the Compared to Who? website at: www.improvebodyimage.com
</li>
</ul>
Special Thanks: Thank you to Tephanie for bravely sharing her story and to Tara for her wisdom and compassion.
<hr>
Are you ready to stop comparing and start living? Hit play and be encouraged&mdash;real women find real freedom here.

I Finally Heard the Truth About My Body Struggles: Tephanie's Story (Real Women, Real Stories)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/4be65d25-ce9d-4894-b8d9-b3c6010a4391/transcript

Is Social Media Affecting My Body Image?

In 1 playlist(s)

Compared to Who? Body Image for Christian Women

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips