Biggest Loser Castoff Sounds Off on Shocking Showdown in the Gym and More

TVGuide.com: Were you surprised when you and your partner Carla were voted out over the other team up for elimination?
Joelle Gwynn: Not in the least. Ever since the second week, following Bob's outburst, I was identified as the "weak link" to get rid of as soon as possible. Carla came back refreshed and on fire. I was proud I brought her back on the ranch and that the Silver Team was successful in making it past the thirty days. I was still physically taxed from the last week and was barely walking, but still worked out. [My last week] on the ranch was a special week, the presidential election. I made a decision to return home to vote, which was not well-received by the cast. There are times you have to make tough choices that may not be understood, nevertheless you must hold on to your conviction. Unfortunately, I had no weight loss at the weigh-in. I was upset that my lack of weight-loss adversely impacted Carla. When I lost zero pounds it was a devastating blow.

TVGuide.com: You were often negatively portrayed, yet you stood by the belief that you were giving it your all. Looking back, do you still believe that you gave it 100 percent on the ranch?
Gwynn: The edited footage is not a true reflection of the work effort I exuded on the ranch. If I were really "walking around in a fog," trust me there would be footage of Bob going into a tirade again like he did during the second week. 

TVGuide.com: Aubrey had some harsh words for you during the last weigh-in and elimination ceremony, how did it feel to hear what she had to say?
Gwynn: Aubrey had just returned to the ranch and had no clue as to what I had endured. She only felt sympathy for Carla. I understood and didn't receive her words as personal. One day Aubrey will be below the yellow line too. I will be there understanding, empathizing and supporting her in her darkest hour.

TVGuide.com: Do you keep in touch with Bob?
Gwynn: Bob sent me a phone text the week of the second episode and stated "That was some good TV, huh!!" I didn't respond. I thought I was past Bob's outburst but I don't think he knows how badly he humiliated me and how disrespectful and insulting he was, in my opinion. I did appreciate the fact that he found a better way to coach me that was far more conducive for my productivity on the ranch.

TVGuide.com: What's the greatest lesson he taught you?
Gwynn: A quote: "Believe in yourself; Trust the process, Change Forever!"

TVGuide.com: What's your greatest accomplishment from this experience?
Gwynn: Staying positive, never speaking negatively about others, losing sixty pounds, learning to swim in deep water, no longer having diabetes, lowering my high blood pressure, developing physical endurance and growing overall as person. My victories may not have been as grand as others but they are my accomplishments and I walk away proud knowing I made them, not allowing anyone to define my success.

TVGuide.com: You and Carla came on the show as best friends yet there was quite a lot of tension between you two throughout. How is your friendship with her today?
Gwynn: Carla and I were actually more acquaintances, we have known each other for two years, and she did suggest for the marketing purposes that we put best friends. [We] certainly had our challenges, it was rocky, but overall we both really benefited from being on the show. We continue to be acquaintances while striving for our goals independently.

TVGuide.com: How many pounds have you lost to date and how have you been able to continue your weight-loss at home?
Gwynn: Over 60 pounds, sustained through a healthy diet, cardio, strength-training, a personal trainer and a variety of exercise classes. It is obvious that my experience on The Biggest Loser, albeit a wonderful opportunity, became very stressful for me. Early on, I stated that my biggest competition on the show was myself and I still hold true to that. Returning home affirmed the genuine support I have from my family, true friends and community.

TVGuide.com: Which is easier to keep up, the diet or the exercise?
Gwynn: The diet is easier to maintain. Exercise involves more coordination of the schedule outside the home. On cold winter mornings it's still a battle to get up and be active.

TVGuide.com: What's your favorite healthy recipe or go-to meal?
Gwynn: Grilled chicken Greek salad!

TVGuide.com: Any good alternatives/healthy snacks to turn to instead of those Valentine's Day chocolates coming up?
Gwynn: Take your mate to the gym for a great cardio workout, whirlpool, and sauna and massage treatment! Followed by some delicious frozen yogurt or Good Karma Rice Cream that is wonderful for a sweet tooth.