🎙️ Episode 138 - From 25st 4lb to Target in 41 Weeks: Stephen’s Slimming World Story.

After a nasty fall in the garden and a looming operation with added risk due to weight, sleep apnoea and breathing issues, Stephen made a decision. With a nudge from his wife, he walked into our local Slimming World group at 25st 4lb—and everything started to shift. In this chat we cover the real stuff: losing identity after giving up rugby, the stop–start attempts, the “still think fat” moments even as the clothes sizes drop, and the power of a room that claps for your wins (and your wobbles). This is a first for Slimming Stories, I met Stephen at my local Slimming World Group that Wray Annabel had inherited from Sue Redfern, both amazing Slimming World Consultants. Stephen talks about the support he’s felt and why weekly accountability beat “I’ll do it myself” plans. If you've tried to get back on plan before, drifted, and need a simple proof that consistency + community works. If you’ve ever felt “I still look the same” while everyone else notices your progress—this one’s for you. Timestamps: 00:01:10 The fall that changed everything: shattered shoulder & surgery risks 00:02:20 Sleep apnoea, anaesthetic concerns & his wife’s life-saving nudge 00:03:30 Walking into Slimming World for the first time 00:04:15 Starting weight: 25st 4lb — and why it didn’t scare him 00:05:10 Early mobility struggles & realising things had to change 00:06:00 Past attempts, shift work & why accountability finally clicked 00:07:15 The moment group support made the journey “stick” 00:08:30 Seeing change vs feeling change — the “still think fat” phase 00:09:40 Clothes sizes dropping: 3XL to 2XL and the mind catching up 00:10:30 All-or-nothing beginnings: no Syns, full focus 00:11:45 Learning balance: reintroducing treats without spiralling 00:12:40 Rugby days, injuries & losing a big part of his identity 00:14:00 Life after sport: stoma, mini-stroke & stepping away for good 00:15:30 Food habits during care work & long days with no meals 00:16:45 The power of routine & regular eating 00:17:30 The Slimming World spark: stickers, shinies & friendly competition 00:18:45 First gains on the scales — and bouncing back stronger 00:20:00 Breaking the old “I’ve blown it, so I’ll binge” pattern 00:21:10 New rules: sad = apple, happy = strawberries 00:22:00 Weight loss milestones month by month 00:23:15 Hitting target in 41 weeks — with holidays included 00:24:10 The freedom of staying in control & losing the fear Wrays Slimming World Groups Mansfield: If you are local to Mansfield and would be interested in attending one of Wrays Slimming World Classes feel free to contact Wray on the following link. https://www.facebook.com/groups/704401220014053 🌐 Connect with Me & Slimming Stories 💫 Try Hypnosis for Free I’ve unlocked the first 3 parts of my course just for you. 👉 bit.ly/FREE-Hypnosis 🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist Be the first to know when the next event is live — designed for anyone whose sugar cravings return after stopping Mounjaro or during a weight-loss journey. 👉 bit.ly/SugarCravingReset 💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help Hypnotherapy can help you achieve lasting results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you’re following Slimming World, Weight Watchers, calorie tracking, or coming off Mounjaro, it’s not just about losing physical weight — it’s about changing habits, quieting cravings, and feeling calm in your choices.   🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube See real results from live sessions and learn how it all works. 👉 bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy 💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation 👉 claireoldhamwest.com/contact 🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis 🎵 TikTok – Claire Oldham West Hypnosis 📸 Instagram – @claire.oldhamwest.hypnosis