Today’s episode is one of the most powerful I’ve recorded—because it’s so real.
Meet Steve Lutz—first-time podcast guest, fitness coach, and someone who’s walked through fire. At one point, Steve was 381 pounds, drinking heavily every day, and living abroad in deep isolation during the pandemic. Now? He’s a coach helping others change their lives—and living proof that it’s never too late to take your power back.
We talk about:
The silent struggles no one sees when you’re “functioning”
Why reaching out to Jeb Stuart Johnston changed Steve’s life
What a simple act of kindness or listening can do
How environments shape us—and how to break free
And the emotional moment that made me realize this is why I do this podcast
Whether you're struggling silently or supporting others, Steve's story will leave a mark.
⏱️ Episode Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & name talk
01:00 – Steve’s transformation (381 lbs → 211 lbs)
03:00 – The alcohol fight: fear, shame & honesty
05:00 – A DM to Jeb Stuart Johnston that changed everything
08:00 – What it means to truly be heard
10:00 – My own journey with loneliness and alcohol culture
14:00 – The sock moment that changed Steve’s life
16:00 – Taking the leap into coaching
18:00 – COVID isolation and mental health
22:00 – Purpose, pain, and the people who help
28:00 – How our jobs affect our health more than we think
30:00 – Rebuilding community through jiu-jitsu & events
34:00 – Friendship, new beginnings, and awkward kickball stories
39:00 – Steve’s proudest solo decision
47:00 – Leaving teaching to pursue coaching
49:00 – Final reflections: vulnerability, connection, and impact
🔗 Links Mentioned:
Steve Lutz IG: @lutz.fitness
Jeb Stuart Johnston IG: @jebstuartjohnston
Alex McBrairty IG: @_ateamfit_
Real Coaches Summit:
https://realcoachessummit.com
📬 Want more episodes like this?
Subscribe, reply, or forward this to someone who needs a reminder: you are not alone—and your next chapter can begin today.
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