Strong Beats Skinny—Every Time // Ashley Moroney

On this episode of Flex With Purpose, Schalee sits down with Ashley Maroney, whose story of faith, identity, strength, and calling has unfolded dramatically over the past two years. Ashley shares how her life shifted when she gave her life to Christ—reshaping her relationships, grounding her identity, and helping her break free from chasing external approval. She opens up about the messy, uncomfortable parts of change and how God’s steady presence has carried her through seasons of transition and growth.

Ashley also discusses her transformation as an athlete. Once driven by a competitive edge rooted in self-focus, she now channels that same grit into honoring her body, strengthening her faith, and preparing for her future roles as a wife and mom. She shares insights from her research on female athletes, bone density, energy availability, and the dangers of under-fueling—revealing why “common” isn’t the same as “normal.” Her work is not just academic; it’s personal, especially as she guides and encourages her younger sister.

The conversation deepens as Ashley describes learning to integrate her fitness life with her spiritual life—quiet workouts without music, prayer woven into movement, and the discipline that ripples into every part of her day. She talks candidly about burnout, identity, and how God has been calling her into a new career path that requires real trust, real surrender, and what she calls “10 seconds of insane courage.”

Together, Schalee and Ashley explore humility, spiritual grounding, and the freedom that comes from taking the next step even when you can’t see the whole path. Ashley’s story is a reminder that when God lays the stone in front of you, all you have to do is step on it—and He’ll place the next one in His time.

00:00 Introduction to Flex With Purpose

01:01 Ashley Moroney's Journey of Faith

02:38 The Impact of Change and Growth

04:25 Athletic Background and Its Influence

06:10 Competitiveness: From Selfishness to Purpose

07:10 Research on Female Athletes and Bone Health

11:11 Sharing Knowledge and Future Research

13:48 Navigating Trustworthy Information

16:16 Making Healthy Changes as an Athlete

17:56 Embracing Strength Over Appearance

19:33 The Connection Between Body, Mind, and Spirit

21:18 Quiet Time and Spiritual Connection

22:23 Finding Joy in Workouts

23:27 Listening to God's Call

25:27 Stepping into New Adventures

27:16 Confirmation and Encouragement

28:38 The Role of Humility in New Beginnings

30:26 Preparing for Marriage and Family Life

30:55 The Lifelong Journey of Humility

32:05 Final Encouragement: Courage to Act