From Barriers to Freedom: How One Man's Wake Up Call Changed His Life

What happens when you find yourself unable to climb a fence while hunting, handing your rifle and pack to your friend because your weight makes simple outdoor activities impossible? For Brad Taysom, this humbling moment became the catalyst for an extraordinary transformation. Brad shares his powerful journey of losing approximately 70 pounds and completely reshaping his health metrics in ways that extend far beyond the scale. His visceral fat dropped from dangerously high levels to well within healthy range, body fat percentage plummeted from an obese 39.8% to a lean 14.3%, and he shed 73 pounds of actual body fat while maintaining muscle mass. The conversation explores Brad"s first successful weight loss journey years ago when he lost over 100 pounds and became immersed in CrossFit, achieving 10% body fat. However, as life grew complicated with home renovations, growing family responsibilities, and the pandemic, his health gradually took a back seat. The weight returned, bringing with it diminished energy and capability. What makes this episode particularly valuable is Brad"s vulnerability about the pride that kept him from seeking help sooner and the mindset shifts that have made his current transformation more sustainable. He offers practical wisdom about creating lasting health habits despite rotating work shifts, family obligations, and major home projects. As he eloquently puts it, "You choose the right, you"re going to feel good... I find a lot of similarities between health and fitness journeys and spiritual journeys." For anyone who has achieved health goals only to see them slip away, or who feels too busy to prioritize their wellbeing, Brad"s experience offers both inspiration and practical strategies. His story reminds us that reclaiming our health isn"t just about looking better—it"s about living fully and being present for the people and passions that matter most. Ready to transform your own health? Learn about the Optavia program that helped Brad achieve his remarkable results and receive a special discount when you mention this episode. If you haven’t already had a conversation with an Optavia coach and are interested in learning more, you can go to bekandkev.com, or go directly to bekandkev.com/get-healthy for the link to our quick health assessment that will help you start the conversation with us or one of our qualified coaches. Anyone who signs up for a full month on our program (minimum of $350) and references this podcast with Brad Taysom will get a $50 credit from us to help them get started at even bigger savings! Subscribe and tell a friend! Get my book "The Seven Disciplines of Uncommon Freedom" on Amazon! Visit bekandkev.com today to sign up for our email newsletter. Access our Free health assessment HERE