Love This Food Thing

Laura Casey is the Director of Services at the Lois Treatment Centre for Eating Disorders in Dublin.Laura says: “For the person to realise WHY… always helps their recovery because although they can’t change what happened, they can know why this happened. And then what their triggers are, which gets them to a point where they’re more resilient because they’ve done the work.”Laura is passionate about a multi pronged approach for eating disorder recovery.In this episode, we talk about the healthcare system, accessing treatment and how the lack of resources impedes a successful recovery.  And so much more!I loved my chat with Laura. She's a ray of sunshine. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:21] - Laura's Personal Relationship with Food[02:14] - Raising the Next Generation[06:31] - The Importance of Enjoying Food[08:08] - Laura's Career in Mental Health[09:31] - Understanding Eating Disorders and Trauma[20:12] - Challenges in the Healthcare System[28:43] - Challenges with Medication and Eating Disorders[31:55] - The Complexity of Eating Disorders[35:39] - Wellness Recovery Action Plan[38:12] - Support and Self-Compassion StrategiesCONNECT WITH LAURA CASEY:Lois Bridges Eating Disorder Treatment CentreCheck Out Lois Bridges’ InstagramLaura's LinkedInTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Lisa believes in using food as medicine.“The starting point for me with clients, if appropriate, is to balance out stress levels. I like to work holistically, it’s never ever just about the food you eat it’s all about small sustainable changes.”I met Lisa on a retreat. She hosted my welcome interview and instinctively knew I was on the edge of burn out. I was so comforted by her warmth and expertise that I  invited her onto the podcast. From a young age Lisa suffered with polycystic ovaries and severe hormonal imbalances. After an early surgical menopause she was left unsupported and alone.   Lisa is a menopausal hormone expert and because of her own experiences dedicated to supporting women through any “hormonal storm”. We talked about hormones and menopause but had so much to say that we may well record some more. Stay tuned!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:09] - Lisa's Personal Health Journey[02:30] - Understanding Polycystic Ovaries and Insulin Resistance[06:33] - Navigating Menopause: Lisa's Experience[12:58] - The Role of Hormones in Women's Health[18:28] - The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Mental and Physical Health[31:44] - Breaking the Silence on Women's Health[32:26] - Understanding the Microbiome[34:45] - The Role of Testosterone in Women's Health[36:42] - Navigating Menopause[37:28] - The Importance of Hormone Research and Testing[41:07] - Holistic Approaches to Health and Wellness[46:38] - The Power of Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes[54:01] - Embracing Menopause as a New BeginningCONNECT WITH LISA G:Lisa's InstagramLisa's WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“I found I wanted to stop time. If I could stay the same size as when my Mum was alive I could be closer to her. So I ended up restricting my food intake not because I wanted to be skinny but because I wanted to feel small and safe.”Mallary developed anorexia after the loss of her Mum. Some misguided nutritional education at school helped fuel her symptoms and OCD; a time consuming jumping habit. Young Mallary was determined to be perfect.Many years later when Mallary was teaching journalists how to write restorative narratives and include  the forgotten “messy middle/ middle place” she had a lightbulb moment. What if she explored her own “middle place?” Would this put the brakes on her quest for perfection and open the space up with her ongoing recovery? The answer can be found in Mallary’s book: SLIP: Life In The Middle Of Eating Disorder Recovery.I recorded this podcast with Mallary the morning after the launch of her debut book SLIP: Life In The Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery.What a pro!I really enjoyed our chat. It was full of insightful and lived experience wisdom. Mallary made me think about my own stuff, which is always a plus. Enjoy.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:00:27 - Mallary's Book and Its Themes01:42 - Mallary's Relationship with Food02:22 - Struggles with Anorexia02:50 - Impact of Mother's Death04:02 - Complications of Eating Disorders08:56 - Mallary's Teenage Years11:07 - College Challenges and Binge Eating18:47 - The Concept of the Middle Place26:44 - Struggles and Progress in Recovery32:29 - Mallory's Book, Slip33:06 - Motherhood and Recovery Challenges35:11 - Obsessive Behaviours Postpartum36:38 - Research and Awareness on Eating DisordersCONNECT WITH MALLARY TENORE TARPLEY:Connect with Mallary on InstagramPick Up a Copy of SlipMallary’s WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Sean says, “I always remember, one time, getting off the bike and just shivering, I think I’d even stopped sweating.  I remember falling onto my bed. I have this memory of a long tunnel and there’s two silhouettes at the end of it. I don’t know where it came from. I blacked out. I went in to my wife and I said I need help. I think I’ve got a problem with food.I’d get up at 5am every morning to run. I’d run if it was raining, snowing, if I was injured. One time I was out running and I started crying because I didn’t like doing it. It was so hard but I knew I couldn’t give up. I lived to run. I’d wake up anxious because I wanted to get out that door and run.”As a kid Sean didn’t like to eat. He felt constantly anxious.During his teenage years Sean drank. Later he swapped alcohol for the gym and quickly became obsessed. He gave up the gym and started running. He ran and ate as little as possible. It was the only way he could manage his feelings of self hate and anxiety, But neither worked so he ran more and ate even less. One day he fell apart. Join me to hear Sean’s remarkable story and ongoing recovery. Sean is one of life’s natural storytellers; his openness and desire to spread the word make his episode a must listen.  Here’s to you, Sean.We need more voices like you.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:39] - Early Struggles with Food and Anxiety[05:05] - Teenage Years: Coping Mechanisms and Alcohol[07:16] - The Impact of Anorexia on Daily Life[21:18] - Family and Relationships Amidst Struggles[24:32] - Reaching Rock Bottom and Seeking Help[28:48] - Seeking Help and Initial Diagnosis[29:16] - Therapy and Realisation[29:44] - Hospitalisation and Treatment[32:27] - Inpatient Experience[37:08] - Compassion Therapy and Recovery[41:14] - Reflections and Advice[51:03] - Final Thoughts and Favourite FoodsCONNECT WITH SEAN BLAKE:Follow Sean on InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING:If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“Katie Beecher is… eerily accurate. Her readings… have a heavy dose of spiritual insight, too, which goes straight to what’s going on in your emotional life.”Katie Beecher, MS, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Medical and Emotional Intuitive with over thirty five years of experience. Katie is featured in over 200 media outlets including Goop, Kourtney Kardashian’s website Poosh and Miranda Kerr’s Kora Organics Blog.Katie says, “when I was 10 years old I went through early puberty. I was bullied relentlessly for what I looked like. For having breasts. For having hair. For being a little bit different. That took me to a place of intense shame; wanting to hide, hating being female and hating my body.”Join me to hear Katie describe the routine that keeps both her body and mind healthy (clue; pole dancing) while helping others recover from eating disorders by treating the root causes and healing from within. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:19] - Meet Katie Beecher: Medical and Spiritual Intuitive[01:05] - Katie's Unique Process and Intuitive Soul Painting[03:45] - Katie's Relationship with Food and Recovery Journey[08:22] - Early Life Challenges and Eating Disorder Onset[14:11] - Therapy and Self-Discovery[26:06] - Expressing Through Movement[26:41] - Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)[27:22] - Challenges and Symptoms of EDS[29:18] - Diagnosis and Support for EDS[32:32] - Empowerment Through Physical Strength[36:36] - Root Causes of Eating Disorders[39:49] - Spiritual and Emotional HealingCONNECT WITH KATIE BEECHER:Pick Up a Copy of Katie’s Book: Heal From WithinFollow Katie on InstagramFollow Katie on FacebookKatie’s WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“I completely understand the pull (of weight loss drugs) why many people see it as a solution but I’m concerned about the fact that we don't have long term data or studies re the health effects and for people with eating disorders it can be a disaster and potentially create/contribute to disordered eating.”Our first podcast guest for 2025 is Marcelle Rose, an Emotional and Disordered Eating Specialist and registered dietician. We cover weight loss drugs,  fear around food, appetite and Marcelle’s best selling book The Binge Freedom Method with her four pillar system to help you back on track.“There is always an opportunity to overcome an eating disorder and reclaim your life.”EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:28] - Marcelle's Personal Journey with Food[04:18] - The Impact of Weight Loss Medication[06:57] - Understanding Emotional Eating[15:00] - Marcelle's Training and Approach to Nutrition[19:31] - Navigating Food Choices and Flexibility[27:58] - Struggles with Orthorexia[28:54] - Impact of Training on Food Relationship[30:19] - Emotions After Binge Eating[31:55] - Introduction to Marcelle's Book[36:00] - The Four Pillars of Binge FreedomCONNECT WITH MARCELLE ROSE:The Binge Freedom Method™ Book Follow Marcelle on InstagramCheck Out Marcelle's WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Season 8 concludes with Lisa Marie who recently returned to day treatment for anorexia.“I’ll be trying to get a meal deal in my half hour lunch break and half an hour will go by because I’m stood there, staring at everyone else watching them pick out the first sandwich they see.I’m like, should I have this one, should I have that one, what’s got less in, what’s got more in, should I get something else, should I not have anything. Shall I just have a coffee.It’s truly exhausting.”Lisa is on a mission to move on from her eating disorders and get her life back. She says this is her last chance.Lisa was doing really well until after the pandemic and she went back to the gym. Then her best friend died from anorexia.This is a must listen for anyone caught up in the eating disorder zone.Lisa is a candid and vulnerable guest. Her description about the battle to get well is pitch perfect.This episode is dedicated to Lisa’s best friend, Nikki Grahame. *Trigger warning: Binge Foods at 21:11.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:31] - Lisa's Relationship with Food[02:11] - The Voice Inside: Struggles and Challenges[04:46] - Navigating Treatment and Daily Life[08:08] - Perfectionism and Its Roots[12:16] - The Dance Career and Its Impact[15:50] - Binge-Purge Cycle: The Hidden Struggle[24:07] - Coping with Overwhelm and Eating Disorders[24:43] - Meeting Nikki: A Bond Over Shared Struggles[28:01] - Lockdown Challenges and Nikki's Decline[32:56] - Personal Struggles and Seeking Treatment[35:59] - The Role of Therapy in Recovery[39:48] - Expressing Emotions Through Art[46:18] - Final Thoughts and Advice for OthersCONNECT WITH LISA MARIE:Lisa’s Personal InstagramLisa’s ED Recovery InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“I can really remember that the relationship with self was difficult. If I trace back to that growing, lovely young girl at 7/8/9 there was a little shift in body shape. I could see she wasn’t happy with herself….I noticed a lot of self loathing creeping in. I used to really worry. I remember going into her room once and she was hitting her stomach.”Emma didn’t notice her daughter had developed anorexia until they were about to board a plane for a family holiday. Emma’s been on a steep learning curve ever since.Her warm and compassionate take on recent events will help anyone in a similar situation. There is always hope.Emma wishes to remain anonymous.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:13] - Emma's Relationship with Food[02:42] - Family Dynamics and Food[05:39] - Early Signs of Trouble[14:54] - Bullying and Its Impact[17:49] - The Skipping Rope Obsession[24:36] - The Role of Social Media[28:56] - The Impact of Loss and Eating Restrictions[31:11] - Escalating Worries and Medical Intervention[40:20] - Support Systems and Family Involvement[45:19] - Road to Recovery and Ongoing Challenges[49:21] - A Positive Turn and Future HopesTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“Initially it didn’t look like a relapse. My frame of mind was, I exercise a lot, I’m in a place where I’m eating well. I feel a lot stronger, physically and mentally. I felt in such a good place I thought I would really like to lose some weight. I just wanted to feel I had some control over my body and the way it looked!”Welcome back to Prue Part 2, for another intimate and candid chat.Prue wishes to remain anonymous.Prue first spoke on the Love This Food Thing Podcast in Season 6 (Ep 55) about the impact of being sent  to boarding school aged 11 and the link between her diabetes and anorexia. No one came to her rescue.This episode is a super helpful insight for anyone going through similar issues. Join me to hear Prue’s thoughts on recovery, relapsing and how you can rescue yourself.“Nothing ever stays the same. Everything passes.”EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:58] - Reflecting on Past Episodes and Personal Struggles[01:36] - The Impact of Boarding School and Family Dynamics[04:00] - Exploring the Emotions Behind Eating Disorders[06:00] - The Role of Control and Anger in Eating Disorders[08:26] - Coping Mechanisms and Family Influence[12:50] - The Concept of Embodiment and Control[18:26] - Relapse and Recovery: A Personal Account[28:32] - Reliving Childhood Anorexia[29:20] - Struggles with Weight Maintenance[31:51] - Binge Eating and Self-Realisation[38:07] - Setting Boundaries and Emotional Healing[44:07] - Reflections on RecoveryTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“We’re not just a product of our parents, but all our ancestors who came before us and what happened to them. We get an inheritance when we’re born into a family, the difficulties, events and patterns of how these people felt. What doesn’t get resolved in a family in the generation it happens is then passed onto the next generation that comes into the family."Jonny is an Inherited Trauma Release Therapist whose life was forever changed after his first trauma release session for hoarding (previously food) and sneaker addiction.Jonny’s rational and scientific mind was officially blown when he discovered these patterns had belonged to an ancestor and he left the session, finally free.I met Jonny at a friend’s BBQ and within the hour I’d invited him onto the podcast. Now I’ve experienced this life changing technique myself I am going to say, BEYOND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED… especially for those things you just can’t shift. This is a brilliant, must listen episode. Jonny offers a free 15 minute consultation to anyone who is interested in finding out more. Check out the links below!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:10] - Understanding Ancestral Trauma[04:26] - Jonathan's Personal Struggles with Food[05:29] - Exploring the Roots of Food Issues[10:40] - From Food to Sneakers: A New Addiction[12:09] - The Turning Point: Seeking Help for Sneaker Addiction[15:04] - The Breakthrough: Ancestral Trauma Therapy[18:53] - The Aftermath: Life Post-Therapy[23:28] - The Subtle Yet Profound Changes[25:37] - Energetic Inheritance and Ancestral Patterns[27:51] - Family Dynamics and Emotional Resonance[31:53] - Releasing Trauma and Healing Modalities[37:30] - The Process of Healing and Resolution[42:45] - Ethics and Personal ExperiencesCONNECT WITH JONATHAN MEENAGH:Visit the Inherited Trauma Center WebsiteFollow Jonathan on InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Amanda never imagined that she’d ever recover after 25 years of eating disorders and exercise bulimia.“The final turning point was when I had a huge binge one day and was extremely underweight. I went to exercise for four hours. My son was in daycare. I felt so much shame and guilt for eating so much I thought I’m going to make myself throw up. I’d tried before, but thankfully it never worked, but I tried until my throat was bleeding. I just lay on the bathroom floor and thought I cannot live with this desperation in my life. I’m going to try one more time to recover and if it doesn’t work I’ll let the eating disorders take me.”Amanda is a stay at home Mum who tried to recover several times, but it was only when she discovered The Law of Attraction via a podcast that she was finally able to challenge her thoughts and beliefs and get her life back.Amanda’s story is another example of turning the prevailing narrative that you can’t recover from an eating disorder on its head. She describes her experience as going from “broken to soaring.”Be uplifted by Amanda’s story. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:50] - Amanda's Relationship with Food[04:07] - The Cycle of Binging and Exercising[08:31] - Early Signs and Teenage Struggles[13:36] - Attempts at Recovery and Setbacks[18:32] - Marriage, Motherhood, and Postpartum Depression[26:33] - Discovering the Law of Attraction[27:34] - The Role of a Coach in Recovery[29:25] - Shifting Perspectives on Exercise[33:24] - The Power of Sitting with Discomfort[34:43] - Finding Joy and Energy Post-Recovery[39:47] - A Mission to Help Others RecoverCONNECT WITH AMANDA DIXON:Visit Amanda’s WebsiteFollow Amanda on InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Alix was punished with starvation and isolation by some of the nuns at her Catholic Boarding School.“I remember being locked in the attic looking out the window and one of the girls said, there’s Alix. I shouted down, I’ve had no food and these girls who weren’t normally nice to me - they used to call me orphan - opened up their lunch boxes and threw their food up trying to get it through the window.  I remember chocolate digestives flying through the air and hitting the floor. I was so grateful.”Alix binges to soothe her fear. Sometimes, she feels guilty, but she’s learning to let herself off the hook. Alix hails from a mediumistic family and was aligned with the laws of Buddhism long before she established her chanting practice. Alix’s belief that she came into this life to learn compassion helps her deal with the extreme nature of her experiences.  Alix works as a psychic, intuitive tarot reader with a gift for seeing the circumstances of someone’s life, reading their karma and helping them get to a happier place. If there was ever an example of releasing trauma and the past with love and understanding then Alix is it!Must listen. Tune in!P.S. Alix is the best tarot reader I’ve ever seen.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:37] - Alix's Early Struggles with Food[01:39] - Exploring Fear and Its Impact on Eating[07:50] - Punishments and Isolation at Boarding School[14:00] - Acts of Kindness Amidst Hardship[16:10] - Confronting the Nuns and Seeking Justice[20:17] - Life After Boarding School[25:08] - Embracing Mediumship and Tarot[27:44] - Healing Through Spiritual Practices[31:44] - Challenges of Modern Youth[38:54] - The Power of Tarot Readings[46:11] - Food, Fear, and FamilyCONNECT WITH ALIX:Visit Alix’s WebsiteFollow Alix on InstagramSend Alix an EmailTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“It was just a sense of not being good enough. Not good enough because I’m a girl and boys are better. At school I wasn’t good enough. I had everything I needed but my house wasn’t good enough. I lived in quite a messy house. A bit dirty really…I remember watching a film about a little girl doing ballet, and I did ballet and she ended up with an eating disorder. I remember thinking, wouldn’t it be great to have anorexia.”Anne’s home life was chaotic due, mostly, to her unpredictable father who wished that Anne had been a boy.Consequently, she never felt good enough.Anne’s anorexia kicked in from the ages of 16 - 21. She knew she’d never recover at home so she packed her bags and moved to London where she rebuilt her life. In this episode, we explore Anne’s relationship with her father and how his absence still resonates.  Anne is warm and, exceptionally, candid. Enjoy.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:38] - Anne's Early Life and Relationship with Food[08:30] - Family Dynamics and Personal Challenges[17:21] - Coping Mechanisms and the Path to Recovery[25:41] - Moving Forward: Life Changes and Reflections[29:13] - Reflecting on a Challenging Relationship with Dad[30:13] - Healing and Acceptance[33:47] - Understanding Eating Disorders[34:52] - Body Image and Self-Perception[35:54] - Journey to Recovery[38:39] - Career Shift to Nutrition[43:18] - Core Beliefs and TherapyCONNECT WITH ANNE RICHARDSON: Follow Anne on InstagramVisit Anne’s WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

During the 1980’s Ross grew up in, “quite a chaotic household and bulimia was my bit of privacy. I’d go and lock myself in the bathroom - there was a big ritual around it, eating, feeling overly full and horrible, and then wanting to be sick. But I had the secrecy of the bathroom, like this is my little secret, which fed into the shame.”She felt particularly susceptible to the ideal body type of the day.At University Ross discovered alcohol and when she bought her first flat, at age 24, her eating disorders spiralled out of control. Ross had a stressful yet successful career and seemed to have it all but she nearly lost everything. Today, Ross hosts yoga and juicing retreats with her husband in the South of France at Maison de Lunel and in the UK, and is also currently working on her new brand.Join me for another inspiring episode where Ross explores the link between her bulimia and alcoholism and what it took to turn her life around. NOTE: Bear with us with the sound for the initial 5-minutes of the episode. The sound gremlins took over!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[04:00] - The Healing Power of Food[05:15] - Struggles with Bulimia[08:10] - The Secrecy and Shame of Eating Disorders[18:10] - University Life and the Onset of Alcoholism[25:38] - Turning Point: Embracing Recovery[26:01] - Struggles and Epiphanies[27:04] - Finding Clarity and Higher Power[27:31] - Addressing Emotions and Relationships[34:27] - The Power of Honesty and Self-Acceptance[42:18] - Retreats and Holistic Wellness[48:37] - New Beginnings: Naturally RossCONNECT WITH ROSS BECKLEY:Follow Ross on InstagramVisit the Maison de Lunel WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Kerrie is a leading Psychotherapist in the treatment of eating disorders and the founder and CEO of Orri, the Eating Disorder Treatment Clinic.“I think I knew from the age of twelve or thirteen that I would do something to help people. It felt really, really important to me and I know it’s a bit of a cliché but I always felt like I was somebody people would come and talk to and I liked being that person.A lot of my early training was looking at that. and understanding what it was about because you’re not there to rescue and save everybody as a therapist,  you’re there to create a space for someone to ultimately do that themselves.”Kerrie’s love of dance started at a young age and despite being in an atypical dancer’s body she thrived during her performing career.The skills she learnt as a performer, writing, directing and then PR stood her in good stead during her psychotherapy training.  I’ve said in the past that not all therapists are created equal but I would happily sit in Kerrie’s consulting room and share my psyche.In this episode we talk about mental health parlance, the nature of eating disorders and how the prevailing narrative, that you can’t recover,  just…  isn’t….  true. You can. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:17] - The Meaning Behind Orri[04:39] - Growing Up and Body Image[08:18] - Dancing and Body Perception[12:46] - Transition to Psychotherapy[16:35] - The World of Eating Disorders Today[26:23] - Challenging the Narrative of Eating Disorders[28:36] - The Role of Identity in Eating Disorders[29:55] - The Importance of Individualised Care[31:25] - The Complexity of Eating Disorders[33:33] - The Therapeutic Journey[37:54] - The Hope for Recovery[43:10] - Final Thoughts and ReflectionsCONNECT WITH ORRI:Orri's WebsiteFollow Orri on InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Victoria is an award-winning Certified Reiki Master Teacher & Practitioner, Coach, Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, Guide & Moonologer. “I would stop at the garage on the way back from work and buy sandwiches and crisps and chocolate and eat those in the car on my way home. I was in a very destructive relationship at the time. I got bigger and bigger and bigger.” Victoria opted for surgical intervention to help with her binge-eating, quit drinking in 2010 and then had her daughter in 2015. During this time her spirituality blossomed, but some old food issues reappeared.After many years Victoria overcame her food and alcohol addiction. She absolutely believes in taking responsibility for her life and behaviours, and it's this teaching she passes onto her clients. Join me and be uplifted by Victoria’s story of how she overcame some serious challenges and transformed her life. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:09] - Victoria's Personal Journey with Food[06:56] - Childhood Bullying and Its Impact[11:29] - Struggles with Weight and Turning Points[15:18] - The Decision for Weight Loss Surgery[21:12] - Post-Surgery Challenges and Alcoholism[24:43] - The Role of Spirituality in Recovery[26:01] - First Steps Towards Recovery[28:56] - Challenges and Relapses[32:08] - Body Image and Self-Acceptance[35:26] - Emotional Healing and Spiritual Practices[43:52] - Responsibility and Personal GrowthCONNECT WITH VICTORIA PALMER:Follow Victoria on InstagramVisit Victoria's WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Dr Fiona Vera-Gray is one of the UK’S leading feminist academics working on violence against women and girls. She is also the author of Women On Porn, her first book for a mainstream audience. “There’s research that’s been done about how girls' bodily capacity starts to change at around twelve, it’s not to do with puberty, they start to learn to restrict themselves… … a fantastic paper Throwing Like a Girl by Iris Marion Young talks about the idea of inhabited intentionality, you get to a point where if you throw a ball at a boy when he’s eleven or twelve, he will reach out to get the ball because he experiences his body as being in the world; it’s safe for him to be in the world, the world and his body is one. If you throw it at a girl she will stand there and wait for the ball to come to her body because she doesn’t have that expansiveness - ‘ontological expansiveness,’ where you feel your being is expansive, you can take up space.”Fiona speaks with a fluent and light touch and decades of experience combined with her natural warmth and humanity. We talk about what it is to be in your body, why so many women struggle and crucially the lack of conversation around the effects of sexual violence from the male gaze to rape.  We also talk about porn, our compare and contrast culture and a host of other things.Disclaimer: This is an essential listen for all of us but best to listen when little people are not in the room. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:08] - Journey into Feminist Philosophy[02:23] - The Rewarding Work in Violence Prevention[05:09] - Exploring Relationship with Food[07:09] - Impact of Societal Expectations on Body Image[20:34] - The Complexities of Eating Disorders[30:49] - The Power of Choice in Recovery and Violence[31:49] - Societal Attitudes Towards Violence[34:08] - Impact of the Internet on Society[36:01] - Men's Choices and Masculinity[37:17] - Therapist Insights on Domestic Violence[37:52] - Fiona's Book: Women on Porn[52:08] - The Importance of Discussing Sexuality and PornographyCONNECT WITH DR FIONA VERA-GRAY:Follow Dr Fiona on InstagramFollow Dr Fiona on X(Twitter)Visit Fiona’s WebsiteTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your...

Eating Disorders are a broad church. We all have our stories to tell and unique perspectives to share.I believe that eating disorders are physical symptoms of internal distress with notable exceptions - sufferers with ARFID, varying shades of autism and ADHD, there are probably more - but mostly from my own experience and what I hear from others, it’s about manifesting stuff, “out there” because of an inability to deal with, for whatever reason, what is, “in here.” I also believe in everyone’s potential to recover and that recovery is not for the faint hearted - meaning it takes work, commitment and courage to embrace and explore our, “shadow lands and selves.”I loved making this episode. It felt like a real privilege to answer some of your questions. I had much more to say, especially around shame and secrecy - maybe we can explore that next time. Thank you for listening and for your continued support!DISCLAIMER: Jemma is not a therapist or ED counsellor. The opinions and views shared within this episode are based on Jemma’s personal experience suffering with Eating Disorders/ behaviours for over two decades.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:30] - Jemma’s Personal Journey with Eating Disorders[05:16] - The Impact of Eating Disorders on Relationships[15:54] - Exploring the Connection Between Eating Disorders and Veganism[24:25] - Overcoming the Fear of Recovery[26:20] - Building New Neural Pathways for Recovery[27:33] - Understanding the Force Behind Eating Disorders[29:22] - Exploring the Fear of Being 'Bigger'[30:09] - Dealing with Life's Challenges Beyond Eating Disorders[32:32] - The Power of Breathing and Grounding Techniques[33:33] - Practising Flexibility and Relinquishing Control[34:54] - Writing a Positive Counter Story[37:01] - Understanding the Concept of Quasi Recovery[42:26] - Recognizing Full Recovery[45:03] - Final Thoughts and Wrap UpTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

Steve is a nutritionist and owner of the Mind Muscle Clinic.“Trying to educate people that it isn’t as difficult as it may seem, a lot of people who have come to me as a client dread it… but once they see the benefits it becomes a new habit. A new way of life."On one level, the “it” Steve talks about is health and fitness but on another, he’s alluding to the courage and motivation it takes to change what no longer serves you. Steve transformed his life.He gave up a stressful non-stop business, retrained and went from 24 stone to 18 stone in 12-months. Motivated by his desire to be a “great Dad”, gave him focus but Steve is also one of those people who just gets on with what needs to be done. I found his no nonsense approach inspiring. He now helps others, who share a similar story, transform.DISCLAIMER: We talk about fat loss and diet, albeit in a benign way, but only in relation to Steve’s story and not as a prescription for anyone else. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[03:26] - Steve's Childhood and Early Relationship with Food[14:03] - Steve's Wake Up Call and Decision to Change[15:46] - Steve's Journey to Becoming a Personal Trainer[21:10] - Steve's Diet Transformation and New Relationship with Food[24:11] - Transitioning from Processed Foods to Whole Foods[30:18] - The Impact of Fitness on Personal Confidence and Life[33:29] - The Journey from Alcoholism to Sobriety[40:35] - Breaking Bad Habits and Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle[42:36] - Body Image and Fitness Culture Among Men[43:37] - Nourishing the Next Generation: Teaching Kids about Healthy EatingCONNECT WITH STEVE:Mind Muscle Clinic WebsiteSteve’s InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

“I always said I’m recovering from eating difficulties and eating disorders. When I realised it’s much less about recovering, but about uncovering I started to call my journey the uncovering journey.” Flurina is an osteopath, dancer and creator of The Breathing Body Podcast.When Flurina was eleven she had an idea that being thin would make her happier. This random thought caused years of disordered eating and exercise.  As time passed Flurina’s double life proved exhausting - bright and sunny on the outside, but internally, sad and depressed. She sought treatment/support but nothing changed until she read Dr Anita Johnston’s book Eating in the LIght of the Moon. Finally, she began to heal as she reconnected with her “miraculous’ physical body.  Flurina believes, as we do at Love This Food Thing, that eating disorders and behaviours when properly understood and explored can be powerful healing tools.P.S. Apologies for a technical issue regarding sound quality until 15.31 — all good after that! EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:12] - Flurina's Journey with Eating Disorders[02:10] - The Turning Point: Uncovering vs Recovering[14:58] - The Double Life of an Eating Disorder[20:46] - The Struggle with Self-Worth[21:30] - The Triggering Environment of Dance[22:39] - The Start of Self-Healing[26:05] - Embracing the Embodied Approach to Recovery[26:58] - The Realisation: It's Not About the Food[27:17] - Entering the Creative Process[28:19] - The Grief Phase of Healing[32:23] - The Role of Support in Recovery[34:15] - The Transition from Dance to Osteopathy[36:16] - The Power of Saying 'Yes' to LifeCONNECT WITH FLURINA:Flurina’s WebsiteFlurina’s PodcastTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show - we’d be extremely grateful.WAYS WE CAN HELP YOU: 6 Things to Help You on Your Road to Recovery [Free Download] The Guide You Need to Help You Recover and Live an Extraordinary Life!Stay on Track with Your Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma