'Biggest Loser' winner Danni Allen: How Jillian Michaels transformed my life

Danni Allen, the most recent winner of "The Biggest Loser" and Jillian Michaels' protégé, glowed from within when she discovered that she had triumphed on the finale. But what that lovely exterior didn't show: Just how challenging that journey had seemed when Danni first set foot on the ranch. In an exclusive interview with the Examiner, Danni revealed her experiences and her dreams for her future.

Life before: "I had a lot of body image insecurities. I would refuse to buy new clothes, I even started going out less," Danni confesses now. "I was just going through the motions of what I thought I was supposed to do." And then came Jillian and what Danni refers to as her "in your face approach." When Jillian bluntly demanded, "Why are you fat?", Danni "was forced to really look at myself and the reasons why I was in the position I was." But what seemed harsh "turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to me," Danni declares. (Tip: You can get Jillian's diet and fitness secrets by reading her newest book, "Slim for Life: My Insider Secrets to Simple, Fast, and Lasting Weight Loss" - click here for details.)

Best moment on the show: "When I heard Jillian call me a "workout buddy." Though she is a very busy woman, I still remain in contact with Jillian. She still makes sure I am in a good head space and truly cares. I am so grateful for my relationship with Jillian," says Danni. As for her future, she hopes to "pay it forward" by doing runs and inspiring others to join her, from Chicago to Nashville. In addition, Danni plans to debut her emcee skills and possibly sing in the future. And regardless of what happens, she plans "to count my calories, eat organic and gluten free and maintain an active lifestyle. I use my BodyMedia LINK armband daily to make it easy to count my calories." (Tip: Get help with your fitness by getting Jillian's newest exercise DVD, "Jillian Michaels Hard Body" - click here to order now.)