The Importance of Social Connections and Environment on Well-Being

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 talk01:00 – Steve’s transformation (381 lbs → 211 lbs)03:00 – The alcohol fight: fear, shame & honesty05:00 – A DM to Jeb Stuart Johnston that changed everything08:00 – What it means to truly be heard10:00 – My own journey with loneliness and alcohol culture14:00 – The sock moment that changed Steve’s life16:00 – Taking the leap into coaching18:00 – COVID isolation and mental health22:00 – Purpose, pain, and the people who help28:00 – How our jobs affect our health more than we think30:00 – Rebuilding community through jiu-jitsu & events34:00 – Friendship, new beginnings, and awkward kickball stories39:00 – Steve’s proudest solo decision47:00 – Leaving teaching to pursue coaching49:00 – 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.