Colourful People: Top Model Shannon Stewart
Hey guys! I’ve decided to start a new feature where I interview inspirational people who have motivated me with my faith, health, or fitness!
I’m beyond excited to welcome Shannon Stewart (Ratliff) as my first guest! Some of you might have heard of her from her appearance on America’s Next Top Model (season 1) or have seen some of her modeling work. Although she is a successful model, it was her vibrant walk with God that caught my attention. I actually “met” Shannon through Twitter and was so encouraged by her joyful, uplifting messages she sent to her fans. I’m so glad that Shannon made the time to answer some fun questions about beauty secrets, her fitness, and her faith.
1.Best snack?
I love almonds. I normally always have some with me. They travel well, are good for you, and are delicious! I also always pack some sort of bar…maybe a Clif protein bar (my favorite is White Chocolate Macadamia Nut) or a Kind bar.
2. Your favourite to-go meal?
I love eggs! I can eat them all of the time and never get tired of them! I also love grilled chicken with veggies. Call me crazy, but I am one that actually really loves vegetables! My favorite is the big bag from Costco that has broccoli, cauliflower, squash, and carrots.
3. What’s your typical workout routine look like?
It varies, especially when I travel. When I am in California I love to go on hikes! If I am stuck in a hotel room with no gym, I will try and do some sit-ups/push-ups. I try to walk/jog a few times a week. I am not a runner, but I can now jog! Haha I grew up playing sports, so I am a girl that likes to sweat! :)
4. Do you have a favourite beauty secret?
I would say to always wash your make-up off before you go to bed. We need to allow our skin to breath! Drinking lots of water helps to.
5. How do you keep yourself motivated to be fit?
Being in modeling, it is apart of my job to be fit, so if I want to get booked, I have to take care of myself. I would still work-out even if I wasn’t modeling, because I like to release those endorphins, sweat, and I just love the feeling after! My grandma actually never worked out and lived to be in her 90’s! I think playing sports when I was younger has helped me say motivated because I like to be “active.”
6. What’s your secret to living a happy and fulfilled life?
I know that each day is a gift from the Lord Jesus. No one is guaranteed the next day, or even the next hour. My faith gives me joy, not just happiness which goes up and down with our emotions. I live my life with gratitude and thanksgiving, because I am so thankful for what He did…He gave His life for me, so why shouldn’t I lay my life down for Him?! It doesn’t take much to make me happy, for I have learned to be thankful for the “small things,” or for things that we often take for granted–running water, heat, blanket, clothes, shoes, washer/dryer…There are lots of celebrities, that have millions of dollars, live in the biggest mansions, drive the most amazing cars, yet they are empty inside. They have no peace. Why do so many run to drugs, or alcohol if they have in our eyes “so much?!” I believe only the Lord can fill that void. I am so glad that I know Him and my Lord and Savior because it has changed my life! I wouldn’t live my life any other way than for Him :)
7. What’s it like being a Christian in the modeling world?
It is EXTREMELY hard! I am in a business where “sex sells,” and I am not willing to do anything for fame or fortune. My soul does not have a price tag. There are certain “non-negotiables” that I have no matter what. If you start doing some things, you could end up going down a slippery slope and before you know it, you might become the person you said you would never be. I also know that I am not to please people. If the Lord is placing me in modeling, then I have to believe that He will provide me with good, clean jobs! He won’t be placing me in an industry to destroy me! He has allowed tests to come, to see if I will sell-out, but I have shown Him I have no desire to do so. I have made mistakes, for no one is perfect, but I always try to not make the same mistake twice! And, I know that in the end, He will do more than I could have ever dreamt of, because I chose to keep Him first and not compromise just to become a “supermodel.” I would rather be a role-model.
Thank you Shannon so much for hanging out on Colourful Palate and for sharing such an awesome message! If you want to follow her career, check our her Facebook page or her Twitter! And as always, if you want to keep updated with Colourful Palate, simply subscribe here!
Category: Colourful People | Tags: getting to know shannon stewart, interview with shannon stewart, models beauty secrets, shannon stewart, shannon stewart beauty secrets, shannon stewart christina, shannon stewart faith, shannon stewart favourite food, shannon stewart interview, top model shannon stewart, what do models eat, who was on season one of top model 7 comments »
Great post! It’s refreshing to hear Shannon stand up for what she believes in and stay strong in a industry where sex sells. She’s beautiful, smart, strong, and talented and doesn’t sacrifice herself for fame – I love that! It’s also refreshing to hear her speak about living joyfully and with gratitude. Very uplifting post!
Thanks for an inspiring and motivating interview. I wish Shannon well in her career.
I think she’s succeeded in being a role model. :) Great post!
Such an awesome post! I definitely remember Shannon from ANTM Season 1! Loved being able to hear from her now.
This is such a great idea! I will look forward to more Colourful People posts. I loved Shannon’s post and it is so wonderful to see people who stand up for their faith in God, and can inspire others so well. Bless you, Shannon!
Charissa, I’m so glad you did an interview on this inspiring woman and what a refreshing post Shannon! It is encouraging that there are models out there like you who are standing up for what is right in this difficult field. Keep on letting your light shine!
I remember Shannon from America’s Next Top Model. I wanted her to win partly because her name is Shannon and since she had good morals. I think I recall her not posing for a particular shoot due to her strong Christian beliefs. That is being a good role model. Thanks for doing this interview.