What happens when someone who has experienced organized crime, homelessness, addiction, professional success, and complete emptiness encounters the transforming power of Jesus?

In this week's episode of the Anchored by the Sword Podcast, I sit down with JT Tapias, coach, speaker, and founder of the Empty Bucket Nutrition Plan.

JT shares how he grew up in a third-generation Colombian mafia family, spent over a year homeless on the streets of New York as a teenager, fulfilled his dream of playing professional soccer in Europe and Mexico, built a thriving seven-figure fitness business, and still found himself battling addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Then everything changed.

One invitation to church became the turning point that completely transformed his life. Today, JT is passionate about helping others experience not only physical transformation but spiritual renewal by viewing health through the lens of biblical stewardship.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• JT's incredible testimony of God's redemption

• How Jesus rescued him from addiction and hopelessness

• Why worldly success never fills the emptiness only Christ can satisfy

• The biblical foundation for caring for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit

• Why lasting health begins with renewing our minds (Romans 12:1-2)

• The connection between trauma, identity, habits, and healing

• How food can quietly become an idol without us realizing it

• The difference between temporary weight loss and lifelong transformation

• Why accountability and community matter in creating lasting change

• Practical encouragement for anyone struggling with health, motivation, or spiritual disciplines

  
  

One of my favorite reminders from this conversation is that God isn't only interested in saving our souls—He's interested in transforming every area of our lives. Our physical health, emotional health, relationships, finances, and spiritual lives all matter to Him.

If you've ever struggled with unhealthy habits, emotional eating, shame, or simply wondering if God can redeem your past, I pray this episode reminds you that no story is beyond His reach.

Bio:

JT Tapias is a clinical pastoral counselor, nutrition sociologist, and founder of the Empty Your Bucket Nutrition Plan, a high-impact coaching program that has transformed thousands of lives through practical, faith-centered health strategies. With over 24 years in fitness, nutrition, and behavioral change, JT blends biblical wisdom with evidence-based nutrition to help people renew their minds, overcome emotional eating, and steward their bodies as temples. He lives in Florida with his wife and two daughters.

Anchor Verses:

1 Corinthians 6:19

Romans 12: 1-2

Connect with JT:

Website: https://coachjttapias.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/coachjttapias

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