Living Transformed

From Injury to Inspiration: A Physical Therapist’s Journey to Strength and Balance

Episode Summary
In this episode of The Living Transformed Podcast, Caroline welcomes her dear friend Ali Chapas, a wife, mom of three, and physical therapist who helps athletes and active women recover, rebuild, and thrive.
As a former UGA basketball player, Ali shares how faith has guided her through injury, motherhood, and her professional journey in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation. Together, Caroline and Ali talk about living with balance, strength, and gratitude, learning to move with purpose while anchoring every season in faith.
Ali opens up about her own journey of perseverance, from tearing her ACL in high school to walking on to the UGA basketball team, and how those lessons in discipline and endurance now shape her approach to motherhood and her work as a therapist. She also offers practical insight on how women can care for their bodies, prevent injury, and build daily rhythms that strengthen both faith and fitness.
Whether you’re a mom in the thick of it, an athlete pushing through recovery, or someone learning to slow down and give yourself grace, this episode will inspire you to move through life with joy, balance, and purpose.
About Ali Chapas
Ali Chapas is a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation. A former collegiate basketball player at the University of Georgia, Ali now works with athletes and active women at Piedmont Sports Medicine and Orthopedics and Finish Performance Health in Athens, GA. She’s married to her husband Sean and is mom to three young children—Hayden, Cami, and Foster. Ali is passionate about helping others live strong, healthy, and faith-filled lives in every season.
What to Expect in This Episode
How faith shapes Ali’s calling as a physical therapist
Lessons from her journey as a collegiate athlete and mom of three
Finding balance between career, motherhood, and spiritual growth
How to build daily rhythms that strengthen faith and family
Practical tips for preventing injury and improving posture
The truth about low back pain, shoulder issues, and core strength
Why strength training is essential for long-term health
How to give yourself grace and find gratitude in every season
Encouragement to see movement as worship and your body as a gift
The importance of community, consistency, and small daily habits
Scripture Anchors
Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
Ephesians 2:8 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Psalm 100:4 – “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
Connect with Ali Chapas
Instagram: @awattchapFinish Performance Health: Finish Performance Health, Athens GAPiedmont Sports Medicine & Orthopedics: Piedmont Orthopedics
Connect with Caroline!
Instagram: @carolineharrisward
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Website: www.transfitathens.com
App: TransFit Personal Training App
Train with me and the TransFit Team!We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. to learn more.
Let’s live transformed together, friend—this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple!

The Gift of Mentorship: How God Uses Relationships to Transform Us

Episode Summary:
In this heartfelt episode of The Living Transformed Podcast, Caroline sits down with her beloved friend, mentor, and Bible teacher Suzanne Chambers, the very first woman who ever led Caroline in a Bible study more than 20 years ago. Suzanne has spent decades writing and teaching the Word of God to countless women, and her wisdom, faith, and joyful endurance continue to inspire generations.
Together, Caroline and Suzanne talk about how to live with endurance, joy, and purpose in every season of life. Suzanne shares stories of her 39-year marriage, raising four children, and now delighting in her six grandchildren, as well as what it means to walk faithfully through seasons of caregiving, disappointment, and growth.
She offers practical wisdom on mentoring, motherhood, marriage, and spiritual rhythms that strengthen body, mind, and spirit. Listeners will be encouraged to prioritize faith, family, and fitness, to guard their hearts, and to live with consistency, commitment, and wholehearted devotion to God.
Through every word, Suzanne’s heart for Scripture and her steady example of godly living will remind you that transformation begins by knowing God deeply and walking with Him daily.
About Suzanne Chambers:
Suzanne Chambers is a gifted Bible teacher, writer, and mentor who has been leading women’s studies for decades. She is passionate about helping women know God’s Word and live it out with grace and strength. Married to her “tall, dark, and handsome prince” Paul for 39 years, Suzanne is the proud mom of four grown children and grandmother to six. Through every season, her joy, endurance, and unwavering faith have made her a beloved encourager to women of all ages.
What to Expect in this Episode:
- The life-changing power of mentoring and discipleship through all generations
- Suzanne’s journey of faith and the lessons she’s learned through motherhood and marriage
- How to find strength in God’s Word during life’s hardest seasons
- Practical rhythms for spiritual, physical, and mental endurance
- Why fitness and health are vital to serving God and others well
- The importance of guarding your heart and mind daily
- Encouragement for women in every season to live with discipline, joy, and purpose
- What it means to truly “live transformed” through faith, family, and fitness
- Encouragement to seek to please God rather than others
- Open your Bible with the intention of Knowing God.
Scripture Anchors:
- Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him…”
- Psalm 84:11 – “The Lord God is a sun and a shield; He gives grace and glory. No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
- Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
- 1 Thessalonians 2:13 – “And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.”
- Ecclesiastes 3:11 – “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
- Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Connect with Suzanne Chambers!
Website: www.suzannechambers.net
Connect with Caroline!
- Instagram: @carolineharrisward
- Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
- Website: www.transfitathens.com
- App: TransFit Personal Training App
Train with me and the TransFit Team!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information.
Let’s live transformed together, friend—this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple!

Redefining Success: Freedom Through Faithfulness

Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of The Living Transformed Podcast, Caroline sits down with her dear friend Brittany Thoms, co-founder of the thriving marketing agency See.Spark.Go, wife, mother, and faith-filled entrepreneur, to explore what it truly means to live a life of faithfulness over success.
Brittany shares how a quote from Ruth Chou Simmons, “Success is faithfulness,” reshaped the way she defines achievement in both business and life. Together, she and Caroline dive into her story of starting a PR firm with her husband six months into marriage, the lessons of “spousepreneurship,” and how her faith continues to anchor her through 18 years of business, motherhood, and leadership.
You’ll hear practical wisdom on creating rhythms that keep your heart centered, from Sunday planning meetings and “wedges” of margin in your calendar, to the role of fitness and journaling in staying grounded. Brittany’s joyful spirit and deep love for Jesus will remind you that living transformed starts with one simple act of obedience at a time.
About Brittany Thoms:
Brittany Thoms is the co-founder of See.Spark.Go, a purpose-driven marketing and PR agency based in Athens, Georgia. A passionate storyteller, strategist, and leader, Brittany has spent nearly two decades helping organizations amplify their mission through authentic communication. Alongside her husband Andy, she leads their team of 40+ with faith, enthusiasm, and heart.
Beyond her professional achievements, Brittany is a proud mom to two teenage boys, an advocate for balanced living, and a believer in community and calling. She’s known for her contagious energy, grounded wisdom, and unwavering commitment to glorifying God in every aspect of life.
What to Expect in this Episode:
How Ruth Chou Simmons’ definition of success,“Success is faithfulness,” shapes Brittney’s life
The mountaintop moment that inspired Brittney and Andy to launch See.Spark.Go
What “spousepreneurship” looks like in real life, and how to thrive in it
Lessons from 18 years of entrepreneurship and walking in obedience
How to build rhythms that protect your peace and family time
The power of fitness, journaling, and creating “wedges” of rest in your day
Finding joy in faithfulness rather than perfection
Encouragement for women balancing faith, family, fitness and calling 
Scripture Anchors:
Romans 12:12 - “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Colossians 3:23 - “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
Psalm 127:1 - “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.”
Proverbs 11:25 - “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”
Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Matthew 6:33 - “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
2 Peter 1:3 - “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.”
Connect with Brittany Thoms!
Instagram: @brittanythomsSee Spark Go: www.seesparkgo.com
Connect with Caroline!
Instagram: @carolineharrisward
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Website: www.transfitathens.com
App: TransFit Personal Training App
Train with me and the TransFit Team!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. to learn more.
Let’s live transformed together, friend—this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple!
 

A Heart-to-Heart with My Son: Living Out Faith in Real Life

In this heartfelt episode of The Living Transformed Podcast, Caroline welcomes a very special guest—her son, Porter Ward, a 19-year-old student at the University of Georgia. Together, they share an honest and inspiring conversation about faith, family, growth, and the lessons learned through the transition into adulthood.
Porter opens up about his faith journey, the importance of consistency, staying grounded in college, and learning that hard work truly pays off. Through stories of family traditions, funny college moments, and reflections on perseverance, Porter encourages young adults to live boldly in their faith and to be authentic in who God created them to be, and parents to encourage their children in their own faith journeys. 
This mother-son dialogue is filled with love, wisdom, and laughter—a beautiful reminder that faith is lived out not in perfection, but in purpose.
About Porter Ward:
Porter is a sophomore at the University of Georgia pursuing his passions for fitness, faith, and leadership. Through hard seasons, Porter values discipline, hard work, and living authentically. He believes in the power of surrounding yourself with positive, faith-filled friends and mentors. When he’s not studying or playing pickleball, you can find him at UGA football games, spending time with family, or enjoying Chipotle after a long day.
What to Expect in This Episode:
The story behind the phrase “This too shall pass” and how it shapes Porter’s outlook on life
How family influences faith and character development
The importance of independence and letting teens grow through challenges
Staying healthy, active, and disciplined as a college student
Finding mentors and being a mentor to others
Balancing faith and fun on a college campus
Living boldly and authentically in your faith
Encouragement for parents to love their kids through every stage
Scripture Anchor:
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
 
Connect with Caroline!
Instagram: @carolineharrisward
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Website: www.transfitathens.com
App: TransFit Personal Training App
Train with me and the TransFit Team!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. to learn more.
Let’s live transformed together, friend—this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple!
 

From Diets to Daily Grace: Finding Freedom in Faith-Filled Nutrition

In this powerful episode of The Living Transformed Podcast, Caroline sits down with Callie Davis, registered dietitian, personal trainer, yoga and pilates instructor, to explore how faith and nutrition intersect to help women live vibrant, balanced lives. Together, they discuss the importance of fueling your body with intention, shifting from restriction to nourishment, and viewing food as a gift from God.
You’ll hear Callie’s story of discovering her calling in nutrition, her faith-driven approach to health, and practical tips for sustainable wellness. This heartfelt conversation will leave you encouraged to pursue health that glorifies God - not perfection, but purpose.
About Callie Davis:
Callie is a registered dietitian with a master’s in clinical nutrition from UAB and a background in eating disorder recovery and mental health. She combines science and compassion to help clients simplify nutrition and restore balance in their bodies. Callie currently serves as the registered dietitian for Finish Performance Health. When she’s not coaching clients, you’ll find Callie on long walks, leading Bible studies, and soaking up community life with her dogs.
What to Expect in this Episode: 
How faith inspires a healthy relationship with food
Shifting from restriction to nourishment
The role of protein and essential nutrients for women
Practical meal planning for busy schedules
Gut health testing and why it matters
Encouraging families toward healthy eating
Sustainable, grace-filled changes in nutrition
Viewing food as a gift from God
Scripture Anchor: 
1 Corinthians 10:31 — “So whether you eat or drink, whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Connect with Callie!
Instagram: @callieadavis 
Finish Performance Health: www.finishperformancehealth.com 
Email: calliedavis00@gmail.com 
Connect with Caroline!
Instagram: @carolineharrisward
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Website: www.transfitathens.com
App: TransFit Personal Training App
Train with me and the TransFit Team!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. to learn more.
Let’s live transformed together, friend—this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple!
 

New Rhythms, New Season, Same God: Season 4 Premiere

Welcome to Season 4 of The Living Transformed Podcast! In this inspiring kickoff episode, Caroline Ward shares her heart for the new season and invites you to step into a fresh start this fall. October feels like a “mini January”- a time to reset, realign, and embrace God’s plan for our lives. Together, we’ll discover how to live transformed not just in theory, but in faith-filled, practical daily steps.
Caroline opens up about her own season of change, from family transitions to new beginnings,  and reflects on the beauty of God’s timing. Drawing from Romans 12:2, Romans 12:12, and Ecclesiastes 3, she reminds us that transformation doesn’t happen all at once, but one step, one choice, one habit at a time.
Through personal stories, practical encouragement, and three intentional action steps, Caroline helps us anchor our faith, prioritize family, and strengthen fitness habits as we head into the final stretch of 2025. This episode will encourage you to stay rooted in the season God has placed you in, to let go of comparison, and to step forward with joy and purpose.
Get ready to reset, refocus, and live transformed this fall!
What to Expect in this Episode: 
Welcome to Season 4!
Why October is the perfect time for a fresh start
Caroline’s family updates and what God is teaching her in this new season
3 action steps for transformation in the last bit of 2025
How to embrace change without comparison
Why habit stacking is the key to lasting transformation
Encouragement for balancing holidays, health, and spiritual growth
Quotes to Remember:
“Transformation happens one step, one choice, one habit at a time.”
“Because He lives in us, we can live transformed.”
“The goal is strength for living and serving - not perfection.”
“Every season is God’s invitation to reset and realign with His purpose.”
Scripture Anchors:
Ecclesiastes 3:1 - “There is a season for everything…”
Romans 12:2 - “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Romans 12:12 - “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” 
Connect with Caroline!
IG: @carolineharrisward
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Web: www.transfitathens.com
App: TransFit Personal Training App
Train with me and the TransFit Team!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information. to learn more.
Let’s live transformed together, friend—this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple!

Bonus Episode: Are you ready to Commit to Live Fully? An Introductory Conversation with Kelly Ward, Co-Founder of FINISH Performance Health

In this special bonus episode of the Living Transformed Podcast, host Caroline Ward sits down with her husband, Kelly Ward, to share an exciting new chapter for their family and community—FINISH Performance Health.
 
After 28 years as a Physician Assistant in orthopedics and sports medicine, Kelly Ward is stepping into a bold new chapter—blending his extensive clinical experience with a deep passion for preventative health, faith, and whole-person wellness. This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the why and how behind FINISH Performance Health, an innovative health practice designed to help individuals live fully and FINISH well.
 
In This Episode, You'll Hear:
The powerful story of how a hike across the Grand Canyon sparked the vision for FINISH Performance Health
How Kelly’s faith, medical background, and personal health journey have shaped this new endeavor
What the name “FINISH” really means—and how it ties into purpose, performance, and spiritual calling
The unique services offered at Finish Performance Health, including VO2 max testing, metabolic assessments, DEXA scans, and functional movement screenings, 
Meet the FINISH team: experts in strength training, physical therapy, nutrition, and spiritual wellness—united around one mission
How faith has anchored the Wards in launching a business rooted in purpose and impact
Encouragement for anyone feeling the nudge to start something new
 
Verse of the Episode:
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10
Kelly reflects on this verse as the foundation for FINISH, believing we are created to live fully and finish faithfully.
 
Favorite Quote:
“The glory of God is man fully alive in Christ.” – Saint Irenaeus (inspired by John 10:10)
 
Who Is FINISH Performance Health For?
Middle-aged adults, athletes, and anyone ready to take charge of their health. Whether you're trying to prevent chronic disease, enhance performance, or begin your health journey from the ground up—Finish is here to guide, equip, and walk with you.
 
Connect with FINISH Performance Health:
Visit finishperformancehealth.com to learn more, book a service, or reach out with questions.
IG: @finishperformancehealth 
Phone: 706-224-9951
Office Address: 394 S Milledge Ave., Suite 102 Athens, GA 30605
 
Connect with Caroline!
IG: @carolineharrisward 
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Web: www.transfitathens.com
App:  TransFit Personal Training App  
 
Train with me and my team at TransFit!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! So, if you’re ready to take it to the next level, reach out to me, and let’s get the conversation started. 
Ready to conquer your fitness and health goals - the time is now!

Uncovering Faith's Deepest Transforming Truth: Biblical Encouragement with Brooke Lovingood

Join us for an insightful and heartfelt conversation of the season 3 finale on the Living Transformed Podcast as Caroline welcomes back Brooke Lovingood, the Women's Ministry Director at Watkinsville First Baptist Church. Brooke is a wife to Tyler and a proud mother to ten-month-old Ella. Balancing the joys of motherhood with a deep passion for ministry, Brooke dedicates her time to supporting and equipping women within her local church. In this episode, Brooke and Caroline delve deep beyond the surface of our understanding of faith. They explore what it truly means to have faith that goes beyond routine and outward appearances, uncovering the often-underrated truths that hold immense power to transform our lives in profound and unseen ways. Get ready to have your perspective shifted as they discuss the heart of faith and its practical implications. 
We explore what it truly means to have faith beyond routine, appearances, and preconceived notions. Discover the unseen truths that have the power to transform our lives. 
In this Episode:
What faith truly is (it's more than just belief!).
The power of community and relationships in our faith journey.
Why biblical encouragement is so vital, yet often overlooked.
Practical ways to encourage others in your life.
How to cultivate a deeper awareness of encouragement in your faith.
The importance of abiding in Christ (John 15) for a thriving faith.
How our culture's focus on "self" contrasts with the Bible's emphasis on "one another".
Quotes from the Episode:
“Faith is more than a belief. It is trust. It is surrender, and it's a willingness to go deeper.”
“The culture is screaming, independence. Self, self, self... And I think the Bible's just so different than that. I think the Bible preaches a whole different message of truly living and knowing and bearing burdens with people.”“Thinking outside yourself is a way to push back against that [culture of independence] in a huge way.”
“Scripture's calling us to just care and not, not be independent, but to be dependent on God and and caring about one another.”
Scripture references:
Ephesians 4:29
Hebrews 10:24-25
John 15
Connect with Brooke!
IG: @brookelovingood_
Email: brooke@watkinsville.org 
 
Connect with Caroline!
IG: @carolineharrisward 
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Web: www.transfitathens.com
App:  TransFit Personal Training App  
 
Train with me and my team at TransFit!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! So, if you’re ready to take it to the next level, reach out to me, and let’s get the conversation started. 
Ready to conquer your fitness and health goals - the time is now!

Unlocking Your God-Given Potential: Faith, Business, and the Entrepreneurial Journey with Liz McShane

In this inspiring episode, Caroline welcomes Liz McShane, a dynamic wife, mother, and entrepreneur, to discuss the intersection of faith, business, and personal growth. Liz shares her journey of discovering her unique gifts, overcoming challenges, and building successful businesses while prioritizing faith and family. The conversation delves into the importance of trusting in God's plan, finding strength in faith, and the realities of balancing entrepreneurship with family life.  
Liz McShane is a multifaceted woman: a dedicated wife, a loving mother of three, and the owner of Repurpose Photography and On-Trend Creative Studio. Her entrepreneurial spirit is interwoven with her deep faith, which has been a guiding force throughout her personal and professional life. The name "Repurpose Photography" reflects a significant period of rededication and transformation in Liz's life. With On-Trend Creative Studio, Liz and her team provide comprehensive social media management for business owners. Liz's approach to business and life is characterized by her emphasis on service, her belief in trusting God's plan, and her commitment to continuous growth. She advocates for progress over perfection and encourages women to step into their potential, even amidst fear and hesitation.
Key Takeaways:
Discovering Your True Self: Liz discusses the importance of self-discovery through tools like the Enneagram test and how recognizing her unique, God-given skills has brought her fulfillment.  
The Entrepreneurial Spark: Liz shares what inspired her to become an entrepreneur, emphasizing the desire for flexibility and control over her schedule, especially as a mother.  
Faith as a Foundation: Liz shares personal stories of how her faith has influenced her business and personal life, including a powerful experience of trusting God during her journey to become a mother.  
Overcoming Challenges with Faith and Patience: The discussion addresses the challenges of entrepreneurship and balancing work with family, with Liz emphasizing the importance of patience and relying on faith to navigate difficulties.  
Integrating Faith into Daily Life: Liz shares how she integrates her faith into her daily routine through service, modeling her business in a way that honors God, and referencing the Bible for guidance.  
The Power of Proverbs 31: Liz offers a fresh perspective on the Proverbs 31 woman, viewing her as a strong and capable entrepreneur.  
Balancing Act: Liz shares her strategies for balancing entrepreneurship and family life, including involving her children in her business.  
Mindset Shifts for Success: Liz discusses the importance of letting go of the fear of failure, not taking things personally, and having grace for others. 
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Liz encourages hesitant or scared women to step into entrepreneurship, emphasizing that time will pass anyway and it's important to start and learn along the way.
Notable Quotes:
“Ultimately, I think what brings him joy is seeing us use our skills, which also brings us joy.”  
“Don't let time be your deterrent, because that time's gonna pass you by anyway.”  
“Progress over perfection.” 
Resources Mentioned:
Enneagram Test 
Strength Finder Test 
Proverbs 3:5  
Proverbs 31  
 
Connect with Liz!
IG: @ontrendcreativestudio and @repurposed_photography 
Website: ontrendcreativestudio.com 
 
Connect with Caroline!
IG: @carolineharrisward 
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Web: www.transfitathens.com
App:  TransFit Personal Training App  
 
Train with me and my team at TransFit!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! So, if you’re ready to take it to the next level, reach out to me, and let’s get the conversation started. 
Ready to conquer your fitness and health goals - the time is now!

Radiant & Ageless: A Woman’s Guide to Healthy Skin & Graceful Aging: Top Beauty Secrets from Specialist Kalen Ashford

Kalen Ashford is a Nationally Certified Physician Assistant and Expert Injector with extensive experience in clinical dermatology and aesthetic medicine. Trained by international leaders in the field, Kalen has touched the lives of thousands of patients and instructed numerous providers on the art and techniques of aesthetic medicine. Her career highlights include experience at prestigious dermatology practices in Washington, D.C., and Charleston, South Carolina. She is the founder of Ashford Aesthetics, a facial aesthetic boutique offering the latest non-invasive techniques to enhance your appearance. Kalen specializes in full-face rejuvenation with an emphasis on natural results, and finds great satisfaction in helping each patient achieve the most beautiful version of themselves.
In this episode, Caroline and expert guest Kalen Ashford explore how to maintain healthy, radiant skin and embrace graceful aging. Kalen shares her expertise on skincare routines, treatments, and lifestyle habits, empowering women to feel confident and vibrant at every stage of life. Drawing from her experience in clinical dermatology and aesthetic medicine, and her passion for helping patients achieve natural-looking results, Kalen provides practical advice on everything from daily skincare essentials to the latest non-invasive treatments. The conversation emphasizes that true beauty is found in Christ and that skincare is a way to honor the gift of our bodies.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of seeing ourselves as “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).
Basic skincare routine: washing your face and wearing sunscreen.
Common aging skin conditions include pigmentation and solar elastosis.
Key anti-aging skincare ingredients: retinoids, antioxidants (like vitamin C), and hydrating ingredients (like hyaluronic acid).
Factors that can disrupt the skin barrier: eczema, washing your face too much, using astringent products, and over-exfoliating.
Improving skin elasticity and firmness involves increasing collagen production (retinoids, sunscreen, microneedling, fractionated lasers) and potentially using topical estrogen.
Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher, applied daily and reapplied, including to the neck and hands.
Powdered sunscreen is good for reapplication, especially on the hairline and ears.
Proper skincare, internal hydration (drinking water), and certain products (topical estrogen, hyaluronic acid) help keep skin hydrated.
Diet affects skin health; avoid overly processed foods and sugar, and eat antioxidant-rich foods.
Non-invasive treatments for youthful skin: microneedling, lasers, red light therapy, neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport).
Sleep lines are vertical lines caused by side sleeping and are treated with skincare and minimally invasive procedures.
Red light therapy can be beneficial if using a professional-grade device with the right wavelengths.
“Balance” is difficult to achieve; life has ebbs and flows.
 
Featured Quotes:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” - Psalm 139:14
“Wash your face. That's the number one., And put on sunscreen, that's number two.”
“I love helping people feel their best in their skin.”
 
Resources: 
Guide to Reduce Inflammation in the Body 
Anti-Inflammatory Diet and Lifestyle Guide 
 
Connect with Kalen + Ashford Aesthetics!
IG: @the_cosmeticpa 
Website: ashfordaesthetics.com 
Connect with Caroline!
IG: @carolineharrisward 
Email: caroline@transfitathens.com
Web: www.transfitathens.com
App:  TransFit Personal Training App  
 
Train with me and my team at TransFit!
We offer personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and zoom training as well. Please email me at transfitathens@gmail.com for more information! So, if you’re ready to take it to the next level, reach out to me, and let’s get the conversation started. 
Ready to conquer your fitness and health goals - the time is now!