Eating Disorders: Navigating Recovery

Hi Navigators! Well, it's been quite a journey together. With many emotions, we are signing off, providing insights and thoughts one last time. "Thank you" will never be enough to express the gratitude, love, joy, and embrace felt by those who listened, those who came on and shared their journey, and those we met in various capacities along the way. We will miss this space immensely, and hope it provided just a little bit of relief, education, vulnerability, and connectiveness along the way. Wishing everyone the support and love they deserve, and a meaningful beginning to the fall season. For the last time, be well!

Hi Navigators! Welcome to episode 105 with Dr. Christine Peat, an Associate Professor of Psychiatry in the Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she also serves as its Director. She completed her undergraduate training in Psychology at the University of Arizona and earned her Master's degree and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of North Dakota. Currently, Dr. Peat works as both a researcher and a clinician who focuses on eating pathology across the spectrum, but with a distinct focus on binge-eating disorder. In addition to her clinical and research responsibilities, Dr. Peat is a clinical supervisor for pre-doctoral psychology interns and psychiatry residents, and she mentors undergraduate students. During our discussion, she discusses what it's like to wear both a clinician researcher hat, how the research can help guide the clinical work she and other practitioners are doing with patients, and where the research in the eating disorder field is headed. She also discusses her work at NCEED, specifically a screening tool to help with assessment and early intervention. You can find the tool at www.NCEEDus.org. Please enjoy this conversation!CW: eating disorder behaviors, medical weight stigma, medical neglect, body image

Hi Navigators! Victoria Ying, a critically acclaimed author and artist living in Los Angeles, visits the podcast to talk about her new young adult graphic novel, "Hungry Ghost", which features a charactor who has experiencing an eating disorder. Victoria, having her own lived experience, talks about her recovery journey and how it influences the work she does today. From telling her mother about her eating disorder in a public space to learning what it means to have an eating disorder in a white, thin female cishetero space, Victoria shares the ups and downs of her journey. She started her career in the arts by falling in love with comic books, this eventually turned into a career working in animation and graphic novels. Her film credits include Tangled, Wreck it Ralph, Frozen, Paperman, Big Hero 6, and Moana. She is the illustrator on DC's “Diana Princess of the Amazons” and the author and illustrator of “City of Secrets,” and the sequel “City of Illusion” in stores everywhere! Her upcoming graphic novel projects include the sequel to “Diana Princess of the Amazons” and of course, a YA debut, “Hungry Ghost.” She loves Japanese Curry, putting things in her shopping cart online and taking them out again and hanging out with her husband and furry friends. CW: eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, brief mention of a plane crash, fatphobia and weight stigma

Hi Navigators! Welcome to episode 103, where we talk about shame, trauma, and healing with Ronni Robinson. Ronni joins the podcast with over 14 years of recovery from her eating disorder, and is an author, recovery coach, writer, empty nester, and a menopausal spin instructor. We discuss shame, trauma, and how community is a grounding force as one begins healing. It is her journey through healing that has ignited her passion for helping others find help and hope who are struggling with eating disorders. She recently completed her memoir, “Out of the Pantry”, to share her story and create more space for others to share theirs, and to continue to build communities for people to connect and feel heard. We thank Ronni for welcoming us into her world and are grateful for her time and energy. We hope you find a piece which resonates with you, and enjoy the listen! CW: eating disorders (binge eating, restriction), weight, emotional and physical abuse, trauma

Welcome Navigators! Catherine and Francis are thrilled to welcome Lindsey Wawrzyniak to the Navigating Recovery Podcast. Lindsey, a former pre-professional dancer and model, brings her story of perfectionism, body image struggles, anorexia nervosa, and full recovery to the platform, creating a space to talk about the hard stuff and be vulnerable. Lindsey is passionate about sharing this story with others, and helping people with their own struggles. She's currently working on opening a dancer mindset coaching business, and speaks at schools as a mental health advoate. Lindsey is currently studying psychology at Arizona State University, and tune into the end of the conversation for ways to connect with her. We're thankful for Lindsey's willingness to share, and we hope listeners resonate with her story. Enjoy the listen!

Hi Navigators! We're excited to welcome Courtney Gioia, CEO and founder of Loyobo, to the podcast! Loyobo (meaning Love Your Body), is a virtual wellness community dedicated to helping women ditch diet culture, find joy in movement and to finally figure out how to love their body. Courtney's own journey with health and struggles around body image and weight loss inspired her to become an ACE Certified Fitness Professional and Mindset Coach. Her mission is to help women use self-love to learn how to trust their bodies and take up space in their lives by living intentionally. This episode explores the complexities of uncomfortable conversations, change, and language, and how boundaries, empathy, and community are ways to promote an inclusive and educational environment for everyone, wherever they may be in their anti-diet culture journey. In the digest, Catherine opens up about what it was like to take the Implicit Association Test (IAT) about weight, and how to address our own biases in conversation with others and ourselves. This was a moving, educational, and valued conversation with Courtney, and we were so glad she joined us! Enjoy! UPDATE: Francis also completed the IAT about weight, which indicated a slight preference for thin bodies, a challenging result for him! CW: eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, weight loss, dieting, exercise

Hello, Navigators! And welcome to episode 100! Today, we have the privilege of sharing our conversation with Sara Gottfried, a licensed clinical social worker. Currently, Sara works as a school social worker and outpatient therapist, serving individuals in the commonwealth of Massachusetts. She graduated from Bridgewater State University with a BS and went on to complete the Advanced Standing Social Work program at Boston University, obtaining her Master of Social Work. Today, Catherine and Francis interview Sara as she opens up about her own history of an eating disorder, and the journey she took to find healing and recovery, including realizing FBT wasn't effective for her and that her hospitalization experience led to a unique outcome. Eventually, and proudly, Sara published Full: A Memoir of Overcoming an Eating disorder, a powerful and utterly raw story of her battle with anorexia and learning to share her story. Filled with humor, wisdom, and inspiration, Sara aims to empower readers to overcome their own experiences with disordered eating. We were thrilled she could join the podcast and share her story. CW: Eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, hospitalization stories, food rituals, exercise rituals, family relationships

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis are excited to welcome Heather Russo, LMFT, CEDS-S, Chief Clinical Officer at Alsana, an eating disorder recovery community and treatment proivder with programs in Alabama, California, and Missouri (as well as virtual services nation-wide). Heather is responsible for nurturing the growth and success of Alsana's clinical treatment teams and maintaining the integrity and efficacy of the Adaptive Care Model®'s Therapeutic Dimension. The discussion was very insightful, and covered topics about adaptable and different approaches to nutrition and movement in treatment spaces, with an ultimate mission of being more inclusive. We very much appreciated Heather's perspective and knowledge, and look forward to following all the great work she's doing in the eating disorder care and healing space. Thank you, Heather!CW: eating disorder behaviors, eating disorder treatment spaces, mention of trauma histories, clinical work, family dynamics

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis welcome Shira Charpentier and Tasha Golding to the podcast for a meaningful discussion about their lived experience, recovery, treatment, and the different paths that lead us to healing. Shira began her nonprofit, Beyond Rules Recovery, in 2019 as a way to support others who experience eating disorders and are looking for their own healing; and Tasha joined Shira in 2021 after her own recovery. Together they share the same desire to change the outcome of future generations and empower individuals worldwide, and focus on educating individuals about eating disorders and recovery. It was truly a wonderful, insightful conversation, and we hope those who listen are able to connect and take away pieces they can use moving forward in their own experiences. Enjoy!

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis are excited to welcome Angelo Thomas to the podcast. Angelo is a filmmaker and mental health advocate, and has directed, produced, and edited two feature films, The Incredible Jake Parker and DeRosa: Life, Love & Art in Transition. Currently, he serves as the Digital & Social Media Director with Mental Health America, where he oversees the organization's overall voice and messaging across all social media platforms. Previously, Angelo worked with the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) as the Associate Manager of Communications. In this episode, Angelo welcomes listeners into his recovery journey from anorexia nervosa, including how admitting to treatment, developing his ever-evolving story, and writing and film all played significant parts in his healing. Angelo's passion for mental health advocacy stems from his own lived experience. Since recovering in 2018, he has been proud to give a voice to men, Latin Americans, and LGBTQ+ folks affected by eating disorders and other mental health concerns. We were thrilled to have him and hope you have a chance to check out his work and advocacy. CW: eating disorder behaviors, strained parental relationships, eating disorder treatment, talk of weight

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis take some time to discuss perfectionism, and how it impacted their lives, its intersection with eating disorders, and what the research says about it. Have a topic you'd like to hear in a digest this season? Feel free to contact us at www.navigatingrecoverypodcast.com.

Hi Navigators! We're back, and we're excited to kick off Season Three of Eating Disorders: Navigating Recovery Podcast with Amanda Campbell, lead designer at Sassy Jones, a fashion and lifestyle brand that offers audacious style solutions for statement-making women. Amanda joins the podcast to talk about her lived experience with anorexia nervosa and how finding motivation for healing and body acceptance through sewing and designing – a skill she learned at a young age – helped give her a sense a purpose. In recalling a moment when she made her first pair of pants, Amanda delivers a powerful message to all who seek healing from their own lived experience. Now, working in an industry she loves, Amanda wants to share that love by empowering others with clothing that makes them feel confident, strong, and beautiful in their own skin. It was really wonderful to have her on the show – we certainly felt empowered afterwards! Enjoy!

Hi Navigators! We're thrilled to be back behind the mics, connecting and sharing with our incredible listeners, with our amazing guests, and with each other. While we introducing a slightly different release schedule, we think this season's slate of guests bring the same insight, passion, vulnerability, and humanism to each conversation. In a new twist, if you have a specific topic you'd like the hosts to discuss during an episode, reach out - we want to hear from you and address topics important to our listeners directly! Thank you for being with us along this journey - we're so happy to be back with you!

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis are excited to welcome Dr. Breese Annable, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and owner of Living Balance Psychotherapy, a private practice based in Asheville, North Carolina (yes, this is yet another connection through the amazing Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders!). Breese specializes in working with clients who also have co-occurring Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. She is passionate about raising awareness on the damaging effects of diet culture and providing education on weight neutral approaches to health. In this episode, Breese talks about shame, why it's not necessarily a "bad" emotion to feel, and potential antidotes to help manage a typically distressing emotion. When it comes to diet culture, Breese takes an approach that we cannot unlearn what we've been sold our entire lives, so we must learn about diet culture for what it is, and not what we've been told. As she poignantly inquires, "what if there's nothing wrong with you...what if the solution you've been sold is the problem." We were so grateful for her time and energy! CW: eating disorders, diet culture, healing stories, disordered eating

Hi Navigators! Today, Catherine and Francis welcome Ari Pence to the podcast. Ari is a Family Medicine Physician, practicing full-spectrum family medicine, including obstetrical and delivery care. She is passionate about destigmatizing and providing excellent for patients struggling with eating disorders, prenatal and postpartum mood disorders, or addiction. She also has completed advanced training in Integrative Medicine through the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine. In this episode, Ari dissects how language, active listening, and provider education are critical means to closing the gap and stigma many patients with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns experience when visiting a medical provider. She outlines how physicians can more effectively talk about body image and disordered eating with patients, starting with creating an accountable space to address these topics, particularly with adolescents, and includes asking for consent to even begin the conversation. On the topic of weight, Dr. Pence argues that it is on the healthcare provider – not the patient – to address weight stigma and offer a space where weighing someone doesn't necessarily have to happen (there are certain circumstances where it may be needed). Ari brings a fresh, patient-centered perspective to medical practice, and speaks with passion, intellect, and care. We are so grateful for her time and energy – it was such a pleasure!

Hi Navigators! Catherine and Francis are excited to welcome Domenica Feraud, a first-generation Ecuadorian writer and actor from New York City, on the podcast to share her journey with disordered eating, body image dissatisfaction, and recovery. Pieces of that journey made its way into a play she wrote -- titled RINSE, REPEAT -- focusing on a family's experience after the daughter returns home from inpatient treatment. RINSE, REPEAT, which Domenica also starred in, premiered at the Signature Theatre in 2019 and was a New York Times Critic's Pick. Through her writing and her own lived experience, Domenica shares the experience of an immigrant trying to assimilate to unrealistic body standards of the United States, how misogyny teaches people to perceive women as "too much", and how her own mother continues to grow and change as Domenica's recovery continues. Currently, she is working on a collection of essays unpacking the role that popular culture plays in our conditioning. It was truly wonderful having this brilliant, vulnerable person on the podcast, and we hope you find connection as we did!CW: eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, conversations about race and gender, body image perception and dissatisfaction, food, weight, misogyny, diet culture, predation

June 1st is the podcast's two year anniversary! Catherine and Francis take a moment to reflect on what it's been like hosting this podcast, thanking guests and listeners, and sharing their thoughts on what's next. This podcast is a place to listen, learn, engage, connect, and relate, and none of it is possible without the vulnerability and courage of our guests and, of course, without the amazing Navigators who tune in regularly to be a part of this journey and bring forth their own vulnerable selves. Thank you a million times - we're incredibly grateful! Tune in for the rest of season two (continuing this Saturday with an incredible interview) and for what's next in season three!

Hi Navigators! We have a remarkable guest to introduce to you all today. Jillian Rigert, DMD, MD, joins Catherine and Francis to explore an array of topics, including Jillian's experience with an eating disorder and her recovery. She shares her relationship with anorexia nervosa as it relates to her identity, and how psychological and cognitive distortions and conditions like arrival fallacy, imposter syndrome, confirmation bias, and burnout all impacted her journey – both in difficult and uplifting ways. Jillian is a current trainee in Martha Beck's Wayfinder Life Coach Program, and has formal training in dentistry, medicine, and oral medicine. She is an Air Force Veteran, research fellow in Radiation Oncology, blogger and buddying activist on topics including anti-diet culture and eating disorder recovery. She brings these experiences to this platform in profound and insightful ways. And as a bonus, she introduces us all to her dog Reece! We hope there are pieces in this conversation which feel relatable and comforting, and of course, we thank Jillian for her time, energy, and intellect. Enjoy!CW: eating disorders, eating disorder recovery, eating disorder behaviors, suicidal ideation, discussion about weight-stigma and BMI, weight bias, military culture, medical bias and culture

Hi Navigators! Welcome to episode 91, a conversation with Kimberly Spencer, an award-winning author, high performance coach, Amazon best-selling author, international motivation speaker, and owner of Crown Yourself. She is also in recovery from an eating disorder. Kimberly joins Catherine and Francis to discuss how a challenging household growing up and a history of trauma led to the development of an eating disorder, and through physical movement and challenging the normative negative talk about body image, she shaped her recovery path. Towards the end of the discussion -- with immense vulnerability -- Kim reminds listeners that what has happened to someone does not have to be their entire life story, and people can create their narratives; and that reaching out can save lives. We were so grateful for her time and energy, and hope you give this conversation a listen. CW: eating disorders, eating disorders behaviors, alcohol and substance use, body image dissatisfaction, dieting, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, suicidal ideationListener's note: in the digest, Francis recalls a story about author Mark Sullivan, who wrote “Beneath the Scarlett Sky”. Francis admittedly got some of the details incorrect, and you can learn more about Mark's story here: https://jessicasreadingroom.com/a-conversation-with-mark-sullivan/

Hi Navigators! The co-hosts are excited for you to hear from Christy Maloney, RD, LDN, CEDS-S, CPT, a dietitian who focuses her work on nutritional support and therapy for those experiencing eating disorders and disordered eating. This conversation covered topics ranging from the work a dietitian does as part of an eating disorder treatment team; to discovering what body and food neutrality is and how they can be applied in recovery; to understanding and utilizing joyful movement. Christy's approach in our conversation was gentle, neutral, humorous, and nonjudgemental, and made us feel comfortable from the beginning. We were privileged to gain her insights and receive her energy. Have a listen and let us know what you think!CW: eating disorder behaviors, eating disorder treatment and recovery, weight and weight stigma

Hi Navigators! We're joined today by Molly Fennig, the author of the award winning novel "Starvation", a story about a wrestler with an eating disorder - a topic close to Francis' heart! Molly, a Minnesota native, is also pursuing her PhD in clinical psychology at Washington University in St. Louis with a specialization in eating disorders. In this episode, Molly unpacks the intersection of anxiety and eating disorders, how she developed and inspired the character in her book, and what the future of clinical research holds. Outside of her passion for writing and mental health, Molly enjoys eating large quantities of chocolate and spending time with her mini goldendoodle, and trained therapy dog, Peach. Find out more about Molly at her website (mollyfennig.com), on Twitter (@mollyfennig) or on Facebook (mollyfennigauthor). Have a listen! CW: eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, maladaptive behaviors, eating disorder story telling

Hi Navigators! We're excited to welcome back to the podcast Andrew Walen, a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, mental health advocate, author, and public speaker. Andrew is an expert in the field of treating males with eating disorders, and recently opened a private practice called D.U.D.E. Mental Health, focused on supporting men break down the barriers which make seeking treatment scary. In this conversation, he discusses the latest research on muscle dysmorphia, the increase in performance enhancing drugs as a means to manipulate body aesthetic, how social media may influence perspective on body and self, and what surprised him the most about facilitating an all-male support group. We were grateful to have his expertise, insights, and vulnerability on the podcast. Enjoy the listen!CW: eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, body image dissatisfaction, difficult emotions

Hi Navigators! We are joined today by Judy Krasna, Executive Director of F.E.A.S.T, a global community of parents, and those who support parents of individuals experiencing eating disorders. Judy Krasna is the mother of four, mother-in-law of two, and grandmother of three. She is a writer and an eating disorders parent advocate in Israel, where she lives. Judy has been an active volunteer in F.E.A.S.T. and in the Academy for Eating Disorders and is passionate about helping families of people with eating disorders, especially after her daughter Gavriella took her own life after a fierce and prolonged battle with anorexia. In this interview, Judy shares what it's like to advocate for better treatment and care and describes ways caretakers can be an active part of the treatment team. She creates space to normalize the challenges, pain, and often negative thinking which caregivers and parents can experience with a child or dependent with an eating disorder, and exclaims that is okay to be afraid, nervous, angry, and hurt; and that there are resources -- like F.E.A.S.T. -- available to help manage these emotions and thoughts, and navigate the complex and often overwhelming eating disorder treatment space. We are grateful for her time, energy, vulnerability, and knowledge. Have a listen!CW: suicidal ideation, suicide, eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, self-harm behaviors, eating disorder treatment experiences

In this episode, Catherine and Francis were joined by Simone Seitz, Executive Director of the Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders (CRCED), and Anna Lutz, MPH, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S and CRCED board member. The discussion focused on the state of eating disorder care and accessing care, what barriers remain or have been created by the pandemic, and how to move forward as a community oriented towards helping those in need of support for their eating disorder experience. Simone shares what it has been like to navigate assisting and connecting resources to individuals and families seeking care for a loved one the last two years, and how the pandemic has changed the day-to-day operations for eating disorder non-profits. Anna speaks from the clinician's perspective of areas of growth in treating individuals during a pandemic (telehealth!) and the barriers and limitations that remain. The message was clear, however: while there are still mountains to climb in terms of access to care, understanding bias within the medical community, combating fatphobia and weight-stigma, and creating more resources for individuals seeking care, there is a lot of progress being made and a lot of hope to improve upon the services that already exists. We were – and continue to be – so appreciative of the work Simone and Anna are doing in the eating disorder care space. If you live in or around North Carolina, reach out to CRCED. And if you live elsewhere, your state may have a similar resource center, or reach out to the National Eating Disorders Association for resources and a person to speak with. You deserve the care you feel you need!CW: eating disorder behaviors, mention of suicidal ideation, mention of loss of life related to an eating disorder

Monday, February 21 marks the first day of 2022's National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Lauren Smolar, National Eating Disorders Association's (NEDA) Senior Director of Programs, joins Catherine and Francis to discuss the mission of awareness week, ways in which folx can get involved, provides resources for anyone wanting to learn more about eating disorders, and shares the hoped outcomes of raising awareness around eating disorders treatment, access to treatment, and recovery. We were quite thankful for her time, and hope you find yourselves learning, serving, and connecting this awareness week (and always)!CW: eating disorders, eating disorder recovery, eating disorder treatment

Catherine and Francis are thrilled to welcome Adina Kelman to the podcast. Adina brings a wealth of insight and knowledge to the platform, discussing everything from the language of diet culture and how to approach managing it through an educational lens, to understanding motivation as a complex spectrum rather than a generalization. She also shares pieces of her personal narrative, including her relationship with yoga, which ultimately sent her down a path in recovery. It took Adina years to build the confidence and tools she needed to begin this journey. Since then, Adina has founded A Life In Balance, focused on her deep commitment to and passion for anyone who finds themselves in a constant battle with food. She strives to help individuals find food freedom and harness the tools needed to find liberation from the oppressive nature of diet culture. We really appreciated her vulnerability, sense of humor, and insight during this conversation. We hope you enjoy!CW: discussions about eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, eating disorder recovery, diet culture, body image.

Welcome to Episode 84, Navigators! Today, Catherine and Francis dive deep into diet culture, wellness culture, and all the other names of this insidious culture with Dr. Lara Zibarras, a psychologist and food freedom coach, specializing in mindset and behavior change. Lara, who herself is recovered from an eating disorder, shares her experience with orthorexia after her first efforts in recovery, and how diet culture – often guised as wellness culture or other diets like Noom or WW – is terrific at manipulating people back into the throws of disordered eating. As Dr. Zibarrass says, “it can be so alluring”. Please join us as we unpack an area in our society which impacts everyone, often in unconscious or subvert ways, and how best to change our mindsets around food and our bodies. CW: diet talk*, body image talk, eating disorder behaviors*this episode goes into great detail about specific diets and their ill effects, so please note that if talking about dieting is challenging, this may not be the best episode to dive into.

Co-hosts Catherine and Francis were joined by Liz Toland, RDN (bio below), at Ellwood Thompson's grocer in Richmond, Virginia for a live podcast! Acting as emcee, Catherine facilitated a poignant discussion about eating disorder treatment, recovery, body image, nutrition, and finding space to heal. The audience was able to interact and ask questions (unfortunately the internet wasn't on our side and we missed most of those questions!), and Catherine, Francis, and Liz were able to interact and respond directly with folx. It was a room full of energy and vulnerability, and an evening of important discussion. We were so thankful for Liz's participation, and for all those who were present to listen, learn, provide their insights and ask questions. Liz Toland Bio: Liz is a graduate of Virginia Tech and holds degrees in Psychology and Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise. She completed the VCU Health System Dietetic Internship where she specialized in Clinical Nutrition and completed rotations at an eating disorder treatment center. Liz later worked at this same facility, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders. Liz's passion for nutrition counseling began during her undergraduate studies when she counseled individuals as part of her dietetic course work. Liz's food philosophy is that all foods fit into a balanced lifestyle, and finding the right path to health is unique for each individual. She aims to help clients achieve balance through intuitive eating and eating competence principles.Liz received her Masters of Science in Dietetics from Kansas University Medical Center and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). Liz is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the International Federation of Eating Disorder Dietitians, and the International Association for Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). Liz sees clients in the Richmond, VA office.

As a Certified Trauma Specialist, Emily Walton believes how important a trauma lens can be within the therapeutic relationship. In this episode, Emily shares how her relationship with her therapist and her dietitian were important in her recovery from an eating disorder, and specifically how Internal Family Systems and somatic-oriented modalities played a vital role in discovering parts of herself that needed healing. Emily also discusses the pros and cons of self-disclosure on the side of the therapist in the healing process. She is a passionate and purpose-driven graduate student on the way to becoming a therapist who has a desire to work with others in eating disorder recovery. It was wonderful to have her on the podcast!CW: eating disorder behaviors, eating disorder recovery, specific Western therapeutic modalities, family dynamics, shared lived experiences, trauma

Catherine and Francis were thrilled to be a part of TEDxYouth@RVA's production in Richmond, Virginia. The theme this year was "You, Me, Us, We." Every speaker's story provided a platform to connect, and the co-hosts were honored to be a part of a meaningful evening. In this special digest, Catherine and Francis share what it was like to prepare and do a TEDxTalk, and process their thoughts and feelings afterwards. It's hard telling one's own story, especially when literally the entire world has access to it. So while the experience was certainly exhilarating and rewarding, the co-hosts get vulnerable talking about how their own cognitive distortions about body image played a mental role in the days leading up to and after giving the talk. It's an important reminder that even in recovery, parts of the eating disorder may rear its head from time to time, challenging you to lean on your supports and maintain recovery. To view the talk -- entitled Diet Culture: Healing Through Storytelling -- please visit our website at www.navigatingrecoverypodcast.com or watch on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlZjRbZbHNsCW: eating disorders, eating disorder symptoms, body image dissatisfaction, self-doubt

Emma Manis -- founder of EVOLVE -- is back with Catherine and Francis to explore the complexities of working in the fashion industry as an anti-fatphobic, anti-diet culture advocate, and what she's doing to help ensure her own emotional wellbeing as well as tearing down barriers for others. Emma also recounts what helped her stay in recovery during a significant life transition, words with which many individuals can relate. More than anything, Emma wants to remind all of us that Beauty Has No Limits. If you or anyone you know is struggling with body image concerns right now, don't miss this conversation! CW: body image dissatisfaction, fatphobia, diet-culture, eating disorders

We spoke with Kelly Clark, an author and advocate for mental health awareness, whose compelling story of struggle, pain, hope and recovery resonated with us deeply. Kelly has been diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder, which at a young age collided head on with disordered eating and body image concerns, leading to a deep need for perfection and all or nothing thinking. Her own recovery story has led her to become an advocate for others, and her professional endeavors include writing a book and creating a business dedicated to helping people smash the system that keeps them punishing themselves so they can find out who they are without disordered eating. CW: eating disorder behaviors, OCD behaviors, trauma experiences, talk about food and dieting

Catherine and Francis welcome Faith Elicia, author and advocate for those experiencing eating disorder, to the podcast to discuss her journey of recovery and her book, Do You See What I See? Faith developed an eating disorder as a coping mechanism while growing up with an alcoholic parent. She discusses ways in which her eating disorder experience was not unlike having an addiction, what it was like developing eating disorder behaviors later in adulthood, and how shame intersected with her experience. Faith addresses that while treatment was helpful, buying into her own recovery is what ultimately created a more sustainable path. Her goal in writing, creating YouTube videos about her experience, and advocating for those struggling with their own eating disorder behaviors is to invite readers and listeners to rewrite their own stories in a way that allows them to have a happy ending. The co-hosts were thankful for her time and energy, and hope you enjoy!CW: eating disorder behaviors, alcohol use in the home, trauma experiences, difficult familial relationships and experiences

Catherine and Francis are excited to speak with Kim Machado, a psychotherapist and trained trauma expert, about the complex intersection of eating disorders and trauma. Kim shares how the subjective experiences of trauma impact individuals in various ways, and that many use maladaptive behaviors to tell a story of their trauma. Her approach in working with those who experience trauma is empathetic, compassionate, and can be described by one of her favorite quotes from Alice in Wonderland, "when you can't look on the bright side I will sit with you in the dark." We are so appreciative of Kim's time, energy, and expertise. We hope you enjoy!CW: trauma experiences, eating disorder behaviors, mention of abuse, mention of complex trauma, self-harm behaviors

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and in recognition of this we invited Kimberly O'Brien, Ph.D., LICSW to have a conversation about teens and suicide. Dr. O'Brien is a clinical social worker whose research focuses on the development and testing of brief interventions for suicidal teens with and without substance use and their families. An often-stigmatized topic, Dr. O'Brien helps break down walls around having conversations with young people about suicide. There are so many contributing factors which can lead young people to have thoughts of killing themselves – depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sexual identity, trauma, gender identity – and being able to have an open and honest conversation with a trusted individual is an important and vital part of making people feel heard and supported. CW: suicidal ideation, suicide among teens and lgbtqia community, eating disorder behaviors, trauma histories, mention of substance use, mention of family interventions and dynamics

Catherine and Francis were excited to speak with diet culture rebel and eating disorder campaigner, Zoe Burnett. Zoe is an Amazon best selling author of "inside my ed" and an international public and TEDx speaker. She brings all of that experience -- as well as her lived experience recovery from an eating disorder -- to this interview. Filled with energy, knowledge, and passion, Zoe recalls her own journey experiencing an eating disorder, being diagnosed with atypical anorexia, having the support of her husband, bashes the BMI, and gives her insights on how government policies contribute to development of poor body image and eating disorders. Zoe's goal is to try to inspire, with empathy, to embrace the notion of body acceptance, whilst exposing the harms of diet culture, encouraging us to count the memories, not the calories. And she did just that! CW: eating disorder behaviors, recalling of suicidal ideation and physical abuse, trauma

Catherine and Francis were thrilled to speak with Maris Degener, Manager of Peer Mentorship with Equip, a virtual eating disorder treatment for individual six to 24 years old. After recovering from anorexia nervosa as a teenager, Maris became passionate about harnessing her lived experience to support others experiencing eating disorders. Maris shared her story in the documentary “I Am Maris,” to spread the message that full recovery is possible and destigmatize talking openly about mental health experiences. In this conversation, Maris walks the co-hosts what it was like to receive Family Based Treatment as a teenager for her eating disorder, including the sometimes-difficult experiences with her parents, whom ultimately, she credits for being an important piece of her recovery. Maris shares how yoga became a vital component to her ongoing recovery efforts and provides listeners with other skills she found helpful. Maris talks about her work with Equip, and how mentorship -- both for the individual and for the family -- is an important part of the recovery process often left out of the equation. We thank Maris for her continued work with and advocacy for those experiencing eating disorders, and are incredibly grateful for her time, energy, and vulnerability. CW: eating disorder behaviors, familial relationships, eating disorder treatment

Catherine and Francis welcome Dr. Gemma Sharp, Senior Research Fellow at Monash University and clinical phycologist, to the podcast. Her research focuses on understanding the causes of and developing novel treatments for body image issues and related disorders. In this conversation, Dr. Sharp shares what drove her to this important work and what about body image issues keeps her coming back to do more research, including around genital body image concerns across the gender spectrum, a fascinating topic that deepens the understanding of what influences self-perspectives. She also introduces us to KIT, an online chatbox which is designed to educate and provide information about body image issues for those seeking help. Dr. Sharp's expertise in this field of study is much needed and feels validating, especially for those who have experienced negative body image throughout their lives. We are so grateful for her time and energy, and we hope you enjoy!CW: eating disorder behaviors, pandemic related anxiety, body image conversation, genital body image concerns

In this emotional and inspiring episode, Dianna Goodman -- mother of Vance Goodman who joined EDNR in episode 63 -- shares her experience as a mother, caretaker, and human watching a loved one struggle with an eating disorder for years. Dianna shares her pain, frustration, and joy as she recalls navigating her daughter's physical and emotional symptoms, accessing treatment (an even more daunting task 20 years ago), being told her daughter would not recover by medical professionals, her own sense of loneliness, and Vance's full recovery. This journey eventually led to Dianna opening the Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders, a non-profit dedicated to supporting and helping those impacted by eating disorders -- individuals and support systems alike. Her message of hope is powerful, and we were so grateful for Dianna's time, energy, emotion, and grace. We hope you enjoy!CW: eating disorder behaviors

On this episode, Catherine and Francis interview Amy Minh Hanh Corey, public speaker, writer, ambassador, entrepreneur, and advocate for individuals experiencing mental health problems who feel misunderstood. Amy demonstrates such strength and passion in her story, sharing with the co-hosts what it was like being someone experiencing mental health problems and an eating disorder in the entertainment industry and how she was able to find recovery in a world that didn't want her to recover. Through her recovery journey, Amy has connected with her culture, practicing Buddhism to remain grounded, and helping to educate individuals across the globe – including Vietnam through her Goodwill Ambassadorship – about the impacts of mental health experiences and how to seek and access treatment. We feel so grateful for Amy's time, energy, and vulnerability, and hope you can find your own connection in the words she shares. CW: eating disorder behaviors, suicide, trauma, self-harm, depression, gas-lighting behaviors,alcohol use, body size commentary, food scarcity

In this episode, Francis and Catherine talk to Jasmyn Cornelle, Miss Fayette County, Georgia, 2020-21. Jasmyn talks about her experience with body dissatisfaction and her motivation for creating "I am S.P.A.R.K.L.E," an initiative focused on promoting body positivity, challenging beauty standards, and spreading awareness of eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder. Jasmyn also shares her experience of participating in the Miss America organization and working as a journalist, and she explores ways in which people can become intelligent media consumers. She also shares her experiences volunteering for several different eating disorder organizations. Jasmyn currently serves as an advocacy volunteer for the Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness and Miss Fayette County under the Miss America Organization. Additionally, she is working alongside medical providers, the National Eating Disorders Association, and The Body Positive to provide support to those impacted by body image concerns and shift the conversation on food, weight, and health. She hopes to inspire individuals around the globe and leave a body positive legacy for generations to come.We're thankful Jasmyn took the time to talk to us today, and we appreciate the effort and energy she is putting towards changing the way we all think about beauty and bodies.

In this episode of the Navigating Recovery Podcast, Catherine and Francis speak with Carrie Rossiter, an eating disorder recovery and LGBTQ+ advocate. Carrie vulnerably recalls the beginnings of her eating disorder, and how a trip to Italy and previous trauma and family dynamics contributed. She works through the painful parts of her story, continually reminding us that recovery is neither linear nor perfect, and that there is always hope for recovery. She talks about her book, Diet Pills and Broke Dream – Stories I Could Not Tell, a brutally honest memoir which is comprised of pieces of her journals. Carrie's contribution to the podcast is an important one, and we were so appreciated of her time and energy. CW: eating disorders, eating disorder behaviors, trauma, strained family dynamcis