From Catepillar to Butterfly

Why Do We Pretend Everything is Okay?

When the lights go off and the noise fades, the truth gets loud. You pray. You serve. You smile. But deep down… you feel unseen, unworthy, and tired of pretending you’re okay. This episode is a heart check. Because disobedience doesn’t just start with outward actions — it begins in unbelief. When we choose not to believe what God says about who we are, we reject His truth and align with a lie. In today’s conversation, we’re pulling back the layers and exposing how unbelief is the root of disobedience — and how true obedience starts with believing God’s Word about your identity. Join us on a journey of faith and discovery as we explore the profound impact of believing in God's truth. What happens when you surrender to God and trust in a divine plan? From finding comfort in times of uncertainty to experiencing transformative personal growth, we'll delve into the many ways that faith can shape our lives and our understanding of the world. Whether you're seeking spiritual guidance, looking for inspiration, or simply curious about the role of faith in modern life, this video invites you to reflect on the significance of believing in God's truth and how it can lead to a more meaningful, purpose-driven existence. Discover the power of faith and its potential to uplift, to heal, and to bring hope to those who believe.

Mirror Work & Identity in Christ | Discovering Your God-Given Worth and Purpose

In this soul-stirring episode of Real Talk Real Change, host Tonya Reese invites you to pause, reflect, and look deeper into the mirror of your soul. Through a faith-based lens, Tonya explores the powerful themes of identity, purpose, and self-reflection, reminding us that true healing begins when we stop rushing past the reflection. In this episode, we dive into the importance of self-reflection during life’s challenging moments. Join us as we explore how these experiences can lead to personal growth and greater self-awareness. Remember, every step you take is a step towards living a better life! When you finally slow down long enough to see yourself through God’s eyes, you’ll realize that you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Every flaw, every scar, and every season of pain carries the potential to become a testimony of hope — one that glorifies Jesus and helps others find freedom. This episode reminds us that understanding our identity in Christ is not just a belief — it’s the foundation for personal growth, confidence, and divine purpose. Scripture serves as our anchor, guiding us to embrace our worth, stand firm in faith, and walk boldly in the purpose we were created for.
Chapters:
00:00 Reflections and Self-Discovery
01:57 Igniting Purpose Through Podcasting
05:04 Understanding Our Identity in Christ
10:37 Transforming Pain into Purpose
13:27 The Launch of the Butterfly Tribe
14:54 The Importance of Knowing Your True Identity
17:26 Mirror Work and Self-Reflection
21:10 Living Purposefully and Overcoming Burdens
25:06 Encouragement to Inspire Others
Key Takeaways: True healing begins when you stop rushing past the reflection. You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Your identity in Christ anchors your confidence and growth. Pain can be transformed into a powerful testimony. You were created with a divine purpose to impact others. Mirror work and self-reflection are powerful tools for healing and spiritual growth. Believing in your worth allows you to live with purpose and power. If you’ve ever questioned your worth or wondered who you are in God’s eyes, this episode will remind you that your reflection is sacred and your purpose is divine.
Subscribe for more faith-based encouragement, Christian motivation, and purpose-driven inspiration every week!
Listen to the podcast: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-t2wbw-1980ac9
Join the Butterfly Tribe Community: https://www.skool.com/thebutterflytribe
Explore devotionals & digital journals: https://simplydigitalteekay.etsy.com
Download your free 10-day devotional from Caterpillar to Butterfly: www.realtalkrealchangepodcast.com
 

Overcoming Self-Doubt: Discovering Your Worth in Christ

Are you still struggling with feelings of unworthiness? You are not alone—but you don’t have to stay there. 
In this empowering episode, host Tonya Reese and guest Tera dive into the keys to overcoming self-doubt, healing from the past, and embracing your true worth in Christ.
Highlights include:
 How to stop letting insecurity control your life
The role of identity in Christ in building confidence
Why maturity, accountability, and compassion matter for growth
Practical mindset shifts to live as the best version of YOU
This is your breakthrough moment: no more waiting, no more doubting—your identity in Christ makes you worthy. 

Reflections of Faith: Discovering Self-Love & God’s Purpose Through Mirror Work

When you look in the mirror, do you see flaws or do you see the woman God created you to be? In this episode of Real Talk Real Change, Tonya Reese shares how mirror work and faith can transform your life, helping you move past shame, embrace healing, and walk boldly in God’s purpose for your life. Through personal stories and biblical truth, you’ll discover how to: Overcome negative self-talk and self-doubt, Embrace your true identity in Christ, Practice mirror work as a tool for self-love and confidence, Step into freedom and healing through faith.  This isn’t just about self-help, it’s about soul-deep change. If you’ve ever struggled with what you see in the mirror, this message will remind you that God’s reflection of you is full of purpose, beauty, and worth.

Identity Theft: Take Back the Name God Gave You

Summary In this episode of Real Talk Real Change, Tonya Reese explores the theme of identity in Christ, emphasizing the importance of understanding who we are beyond societal labels. She discusses the journey of self-discovery, the biblical truths that affirm our worth, and the process of eradicating negative labels. Tonya encourages listeners to embrace their true identity, declare God's promises, and recognize the ongoing nature of transformation in their lives.
Website: www.RealTalkRealChangepodcast.com Get Girl P.U.S.H.: www.realtalkrealchangepodcast.com/faith-resources
Follow on Instagram: @RealTalkRealChangepodcast

Breaking False Labels: Replace Lies with God’s Truth

When someone asks “Who are you?” do you list roles or identity? Today we lay down false labels and agree with who God says we are. In this episode, Tonya contrasts roles vs. identity, asks “Who told you that?” (Gen 3:11), and walks through a simple two-column Identity Audit to replace lies with Scripture. New episodes every Thursday at Noon.
Scriptures mentioned: Gen 3:11; Rom 12:2; 2 Cor 10:3–5; Jer 31:3; John 1:12; 2 Cor 5:17; Eph 2:10; 1 Pet 2:9; Rom 8:1; Gal 5:1; Ps 139:13–16
Today we’re shedding labels and agreeing with heaven: I am who God says I am. 🙌
 

Who Are You (Really)? 7 Identity Truths to Live By

Tonya shares in this Real Talk Real Change episode how God provides the keys to the kingdom through His Word, offering viewers a message of hope. Understanding who I am in Christ is crucial for accessing available blessings through faith. Remember to seek guidance through prayer and scripture. When you’re asked, “Who are you?” do you list roles—or reveal identity? In this episode, we unpack 7 biblical truths that anchor who you are in Christ and a simple exercise to replace old labels with God’s Word. Stay to the end for powerful “I Am” declarations and a prayer over your week.

The Transformative Power of Affirmations

When you experience hindrances or challenges in life, rely on faith and know that God's word is there to help you overcome adversity. Embrace God's promises and know that you can persevere. Do you know the power of speaking God’s Word over your life? In this episode of Real Talk Real Change with Tonya Reese, you’ll discover life-changing biblical affirmations to strengthen your faith, defeat fear, and walk in your God-given purpose. Through scripture and spoken declarations, you’ll be reminded that: • You are valuable, worthy, and significant in God’s eyes. • You are strong, courageous, and more than a conqueror. • You are healed, whole, and free from anxiety and fear. • You are walking in purpose, destiny, and divine alignment. These affirmations are rooted in the Word of God, providing you with the strength, peace, joy, and confidence to rise above every challenge. Whether you’re battling negative thoughts, seeking healing, or longing for encouragement, this message will help you renew your mind, restore your soul, and embrace the truth of who you are in Christ. Speak these affirmations daily and watch as God transforms your heart, mindset, and life.

Mirror Work & Faith: How I Found Healing, Self-Love, and God’s Purpose

Are you ready to see yourself the way God sees you? In this episode of Real Talk Real Change, I share my personal journey of healing through mirror work is a powerful self-love practice that helped me break free from past pain, rediscover my identity, and embrace God’s purpose for my life. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, past trauma, or feeling “not enough,” this message is for you. Together, we’ll explore biblical truth, practical affirmations, and the power of seeing yourself as fearfully and wonderfully made. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How mirror work can help you heal and transform. The truth about self-love and God’s design for you. Scriptures that anchor your identity in Christ: Why you are NOT what was done to you
Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 3:18, James 1:23–25, Genesis 1:27, Psalm 139:14, Proverbs 23:7, Romans 12:2.
Don’t just listen, run, grab a mirror, and join me in this life-changing practice. Drop a comment and share your experience with mirror work! Don't forget to go back and watch episode 11: https://youtu.be/zqBRqyU9o3w
New episodes every Thursday at Noon. Subscribe today and be part of the Real Talk Real Change community!

Why Are you Still Playing Small

In this episode of the Real Talk Real Change Podcast, Tonya Reese discusses stewarding your potential and why growth is your God given responsibility. As well as the significance of personal growth and development, it emphasizes the responsibility we each have to nurture our God given gifts. She shares insights from her transformative experience at the 2025 Podcast Summit, the value of “getting in the room” with experts, and the biblical foundations that support ongoing growth. Through transparent storytelling and powerful scriptures like Proverbs 1:5, Romans 12:2, and Joshua 1:8, Tonya encourages listeners to: Invest in themselves spiritually, personally, and professionally Be present in learning environments that sharpen their skills and mindset Commit to excellence and always strive to be their best self in every role Break free from limiting beliefs and embrace God’s vision for their life Steward their gifts in a way that glorifies God and impacts others Whether you’re leading in ministry, building a business, raising a family, or stepping into a new season, this episode will challenge and inspire you to grow intentionally, because when you invest in yourself, you invest in the Kingdom. Scripture References: Proverbs 1:5, Proverbs 4:7, 2 Peter 3:18, Joshua 1:8, Romans 12:2, Philippians 1:6, Colossians 3:23-24, Proverbs 16:3, and more.