Love This Food Thing

Azélie says, “During lockdown I was most of the time alone with my mother who was sick. It was stressful. Many people used social media to communicate and to share and there were many messages around diet culture. Although my mother’s cancer was unpredictable, my eating disorder wasn’t predictable either, but it was a way of controlling my body; choosing to be sick, even though you don’t choose but it’s you orchestrating your own symptoms, when it’s cancer it’s more the body who is sick.I don’t know how to formulate it without saying people with an eating disorder have a choice - I don’t think so! I just think that the control you think you have when you have an eating disorder was maybe for me, at the time, a response to the unpredictability of cancer.”Azélie developed anorexia in response to her Mother’s cancer but it was during lockdown that she had the space to “indulge” it and use social media. Her turning point came when joined a running club and felt her anxiety dissipate. In order to run well, she had to eat. Not just to fuel her body but also to align with her peers. What everyone was having for dinner was a regular and cheerful topic of conversation. Azelie is the youngest guest I’ve had the pleasure to host on the podcast. I was greatly moved by her story, insight and emotional intelligence as I’m sure you will be. Tune in!This episode is dedicated to Azélie’s Mum.PS. Azélie mentions the book Famished: Eating Disorders and Failed Care in America by Rebecca Lester toward the end of this episode, which I heard as Rubika! When I asked afterwards, who is Rubika, (should have asked during the recording) we ascertained she meant Rebecca Lester.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[03:34] - Food Friend or Foe[04:55] - Early Roots and Lockdown Triggers[08:16] - Relapse and Stress Abroad[09:44] - Control and Cancer Uncertainty[12:59] - Diet Culture and Social Media Spiral[21:00] - Recovery Is Not Linear[22:58] - Underlying Stress and Need for Control[24:49] - Exercise and Therapy[25:23] - Finding the Right Help[26:28] - Running Club Recovery[29:45] - Family Support and Loss[32:27] - Managing Relapse Risks[35:39] - Stigma and Stereotypes[40:12] - Beyond Diagnosis Labels[42:35] - Hope Through ResearchCONNECT WITH AZÉLIE:Azélie'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

Welcome back to our mini menopause series with nutritionist and health coach, Lisa G where we chat about some individual aspects of the menopause, or as we’re calling it ‘Four Short Dives from Two Short Divas’.In this fourth and final episode, we chat about sex, because it’s important, and no one needs to suffer in silence - plenty do - around libido/sex drive, vaginal dryness, ways to feel more sensual and to remind you that everyone’s sexual drive fluctuates during menopause.We discuss how hormonal changes can impact libido, body confidence, and vaginal comfort, and why women shouldn’t suffer in silence. Lisa shares practical insights around vaginal dryness, pain, UTIs, and the benefits of localised vaginal estrogen, probiotics, and pelvic health check-ups, alongside the importance of honest communication with partners.The conversation also expands beyond sex into sensuality and self-connection; exploring how touch, creativity, rest, scent, movement, and simple self-care rituals can help women reconnect with their bodies.Don't forget, Lisa is offering a free 20 min consultation, you can find her contact details on her website!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:40] - Sex Drive and Intimacy Issues[01:36] - Addressing Vaginal Dryness[03:05] - Importance of Communication with Your Partner[06:40] - Sensuality and Self-Care[08:38] - Embracing Change and Self-LoveCONNECT WITH LISA:Lisa's WebsiteLisa'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

Happy 2026!One of the reasons I created Love This Food Thing was to help people find their way to good health and well being which is why we’re excited to bring you this new year episode with amateur expert mycologist Anna Middleton.“The core reason I love mushrooms is to do with the health properties - physically, mentally and emotionally they are incredible - but they’re also great connectors. They help us connect to each other and ourselves. I have one foot in the science and one foot in the magic. Our relationship with funghi is old! I like to consider mushrooms as our ancestors.”A brief overview:Origins and history of FunghiMedicinal and functional aspects of: reishi, chaga, cordyceps and Lion’s Mane.Plus a psychedelic ending on Psilocybin and Flyer Garrick.Always do your own research and consult a medical practitioner where necessary. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:18] - Meet Anna Middleton: Health and Nutrition Coach[01:05] - The Healing Power of Mushrooms[02:45] - Understanding Fungi: The Ancient Organisms[07:48] - Mushrooms in History and Their Uses[14:29] - Reishi: The Meditation Mushroom[24:34] - Chaga: The King of Mushrooms[35:31] - Enhancing Fertility and Libido with Mushrooms[37:21] - Cordyceps: Energy and Performance Enhancer[42:22] - Lion's Mane: The Brain-Boosting Mushroom[58:35] - Exploring Psychedelic MushroomsCONNECT WITH ANNA:Anna's InstagramAnna's WebsiteFor the products we mention you can either go straight to the supplier: thebristolfungarian.co, londonootropics.com, hybridherbs.com and hifasdaterra.com or you can order from naturaldispensary.co.uk using Anna’s affiliate code AMNI15 for a 15% discount.Disclaimer: Anna receives a commission when you use this code.THANK 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

Welcome back to our mini menopause series with nutritionist and health coach Lisa G, where we chat about some individual aspects of the menopause.In episode three of our four-part menopause mini-series, Jemma is joined again by Lisa to talk about one topic that comes up again and again for women in midlife: protein.If you’ve ever felt more fatigued, foggy, hungry, or noticed your body responding differently to food during perimenopause or menopause — this episode is for you. And if you have a complicated relationship with food, you’re especially not alone.This conversation gently explores why protein matters so much during menopause, without rules, pressure, or perfection.Don't forget, Lisa is offering a free 20 min consultation, you can find her contact details on her website!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:30] - The Importance of Protein During Menopause[01:26] - Challenges and Solutions for Protein Intake[05:59] - Protein Sources and Recommendations[08:56] - Practical Protein-Rich Meal IdeasCONNECT WITH LISA G:Lisa's WebsiteLisa'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

Welcome back to our mini menopause series with nutritionist and health coach, Lisa G where we chat about some individual aspects of the menopause, or as we’re calling it ‘Four Short Dives from Two Short Divas’.In this episode we chat about the impact of declining estrogen on neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline, and how this affects mood and stress. Lisa explains the importance of nutrients such as Vitamin C, B vitamins, L-Theanine, and magnesium for supporting adrenal health and mental well-being.We also discuss food sources like leafy greens, supplements suitable for various dietary needs, and emphasise the importance of self-care (hello, Epsom salt baths!), understanding body changes, and making small, sustainable dietary adjustments during menopause.Don't forget, Lisa is offering a free 20 min consultation, you can find her contact details on her website!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[00:55] - Food, Mood, and Menopause[01:43] - Understanding Neurotransmitters and Hormones[02:59] - Supporting Adrenal Health with Nutrients[04:36] - Magnesium and Its Benefits[07:56] - The Importance of Gut Health[09:33] - Small Sustainable Changes for Menopausal Health[10:17] - Adapting Exercise During MenopauseCONNECT WITH LISA:Lisa's WebsiteLisa'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

Welcome to our mini menopause series with nutritionist and health coach Lisa G where we chat about some individual aspects of the menopause. Or as we’re calling it Four Short Dives from Two Short Divas.First up: Body Image and Perimenopause.We discuss the mind**** nature of our bodies changing, when there’s nothing you can do about it. Hormonal fluctuations. Embracing the change. Ways to get in touch with your body. Seeing menopause as a wonderful opportunity for a new beginning. And there’s an extra add on where Lisa asks me some personal questions!Lisa is offering a free 20 min consultation, you can find her contact details on her website.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:01] - Understanding Perimenopause and Weight Gain[03:58] - Body Image Challenges During Menopause[06:12] - Embracing the Menopausal Journey[07:25] - Top Tips for Connecting with Your Body[09:44] - Recognising Perimenopause Symptoms[11:05] - Personal Experiences and Advice[11:36] - Q&A: Relationship with Food and Menstrual CycleCONNECT WITH LISA:Lisa's WebsiteLisa'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

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

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 Recovery Journey, Start or Accelerate Further with Our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ Virtual 1:1 Mentorship with Jemma

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

“I sometimes feel that the eating disorder has tried to trick me. To feel that we’re getting somewhere and then that door shuts. I feel it morphs itself into something different.”I have wanted to interview a mother with a child who has an eating disorder ever since I started this podcast.Lorraine’s daughter is now in her early 30’s. Her eating disorder behaviour began when she was 15. It’s been a long hard slog for the entire family, but today they are in a better place.This is an intimate and raw episode. Listening to Lorraine’s perspective is heartbreaking at times, but I think it’s essential for sufferers and supporters alike.Tune in.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:52] - Lorraine's Childhood and Family's Relationship with Food[06:08] - Lorraine's Daughter's Struggle with Anorexia[10:53] - The Impact of Anorexia on the Family[17:13] - Seeking Help and Navigating the Healthcare System[25:25] - Reflections on Parenting and Coping with a Child's Eating Disorder[27:20] - Dealing with Guilt and Emotional Struggles[28:11] - Finding Humour in Difficult Times[29:19] - Impact on Personal Relationships[30:34] - The Struggles of Parenting a Child with an Eating Disorder[31:52] - The Journey of Separating the Disorder from the Person[33:44] - The Power of Support Networks[34:34] - The Role of Therapy and Interventions[36:42] - The Struggles of Maintaining a Relationship Amidst the Disorder[45:14] - The Power of Hope and PersistenceTHANK 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 lovely to reconnect with Liv from the Liv Label Free Podcast for our autistic and neurodiversity chat. Liv has a unique and illuminating perspective and is very much about the lived experience helping others find their way without judgement or shame. This is a slightly random episode away from our normal fare. I was trialling new contact lenses to correct an astigmatism and they really affected my brain function (excuses, ahem). Spot the places where I struggle for words - I checked with my optician and she confirmed it’s tough on those neural pathways at first.Hahaha bad work people blame their tools.  Enjoy!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:59] - Understanding Autism and ADHD[04:19] - The Impact of Neurodivergence on Life[09:07] - Discussing Famous Neurodivergent Figures[12:28] - The Connection Between Neurodivergence and Creativity[14:45] - Reflecting on Personal Experiences[36:15] - Understanding the Role of Lived ExperienceCONNECT WITH LIVIA SARA:Liv’s WebsiteLiv’s InstagramLiv’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

Sabrina’s pivotal moment around her disordered eating and orthorexia happened when she became an aunt for the first time.“It should've been the happiest day of my life and all I remember is the food. I spent the entire day around the buffet table because my Mom had caterers and we had all this food I didn’t allow myself to eat.I kept filling my plate up and then going back for more to a point that I felt so sick… that night I sat in my parent’s basement, I felt so miserable, cold and unhappy and I asked myself, ‘do I want to keep living this way when I’m 50, 60, 70-years old?’”.Today, Sabrina is on a mission to dismantle diet culture.Her food and body issues started when Sabrina was a young girl training in synchronised swimming - a judged sport where image dictates success. Her disordered thinking and behaviour around food and her body continued post university until a wake up call, which motivated Sabrina to embrace her fears and move to Italy for a life changing experience. This is an empowering, feel good episode due to Sabrina’s vulnerability and candid storytelling that will resonate with all of our listeners. It’s always good to hear when someone has saved themselves and is loving life. Tune in!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:46] - Impact of Body Image in Synchronised Swimming[03:22] - Sabrina's Struggle with Body Image[08:42] - Transition from Swimming to University[16:26] - Battle with Orthorexia[21:50] - Reflections on Diet Culture[26:17] - The Illusion of Control and Happiness[27:07] - The Impact of Food Obsession on Social Life[28:40] - Struggling with Eating Disorders[28:58] - A Wake-Up Call in the Basement[30:24] - The Life-Changing Trip to Italy[39:48] - The Transition from Weight Loss Coach to Intuitive Eating Advocate[53:01] - The Mission to Dismantle Diet CultureCONNECT WITH SABRINA:Sabrina’s WebsiteSabrina’s InstagramSabrina’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

“It’s not uncommon for people to try out their own DIY cosmetic surgery by cutting their faces or stomachs to squeeze out fat or super glue their ears or deliberately break their own noses so they can do their own rhinoplasty.When people become desperate and have BDD the only vehicle -  in their minds  - for any chance of future happiness is some form of physical change in their appearance.”Dr. Rob Willson PhD is a cognitive behaviour therapist (CBT), with a special interest in Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). He is currently the chair of Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation, which is the world’s first charity exclusively devoted to the condition. Interestingly, research shows that although eating disorders and BDD share similarities regarding body image issues, BDD is a very separate condition. The most effective treatment to date is CBT.The Body Dysmorphic Foundation is a one stop shop for anything related to BDD packed full of resources, therapists and support. Rob would like to see a support group in every town and city as BDD often flies under the radar or is masked by another condition.Rob has co-authored several books, including ‘Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Dummies’, ‘Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder’ and ‘Overcoming Body Image Problems including Body Dysmorphic Disorder’.Here at Love This Food Thing, we are big supporters of the BDDF and it was my absolute pleasure to chat with Rob and find out more. If you are suffering please reach out there is help available and research continues. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:41] - Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder[02:27] - Dr. Rob Willson's Personal Relationship with Food[02:59] - Impact of Competitive Powerlifting on Body Image[14:29] - Understanding Cognitive Behavioural Therapy[24:02] - The Role of Mindfulness in Therapy[27:11] - Effectiveness of CBT for Body Dysmorphic Disorder[29:03] - Early Experiences with BDD Patients[30:36] - Understanding the Severity of Body Dysmorphic Disorder[31:17] - The Impact on Daily Life[33:58] - Differentiating Between BDD and Body Image Issues[36:40] - The Challenge of Diagnosing BDD[38:53] - The Role of Social Media[40:44] - The Struggle of Living with BDD[43:38] - Approaching BDD as a Psychological ProblemCONNECT WITH THE BODY DYSMORPHIC DISORDER FOUNDATION:Body Dysmorphic Disorder FoundationBDD’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

“Within my first few weeks of practicing people were coming in to see me who wanted a restrictive diet. It didn't make sense. I was concerned about people’s relationship with food… I decided what I wanted to do from the beginning was speak above that noise. I didn’t see it working for people all I saw was it making people more unwell and feeling anxious and fearful around food and that troubled me.”Growing up food was functional and Nicola didn’t look forward to eating due to some underlying digestive issues. Everything changed when she started her nutritional studies at Patrick Holford’s Optimum School of Nutrition and later went into private practice.  Nicola embraces both the psychology and physiology of food and believes you cannot have one without the other. This approach helps her clients develop an easy and joyful relationship with food and eating.  Nicola is a trailblazer in her field and keen for the nutritional industry to take responsibility for, sometimes, perpetuating the very problems that people are trying to solve. Tune in for a fascinating discussion related to food and nutrition and slightly away from the norm.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:30] - Nicola's Personal Relationship with Food[08:20] - Nicola's Journey into Nutritional Therapy[21:09] - The Impact of Diet Culture and Social Media[25:20] - Approach to Helping Clients with Rigid Food Beliefs[28:20]- Cognitive Reframing and Food Perception[30:28] - Understanding Emotions and Hunger[30:58] - The Role of Food in Our Lives[31:54] - The Destructive Force of Willpower[32:42] - Eating for Your Microbiome[33:36] - The Efficacy of Diet Plans[38:17] - The Role of Nutrition Professionals[42:00] - The Perceived Perfectionism in the Nutrition Industry[46:05] - The Importance of Self-Love and BalanceCONNECT WITH NICOLA:Nicola’s InstagramNicola’s FacebookNicola’s WebsiteNicola’s 12-Week Program: LiberateTHANK 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

This episode is kindly sponsored by Nell+Lola (delicious) Natural Dog Treats. Nell+Lola offer 100% natural treats and are supplied direct to you in a sustainable, plastic-free packaging – they’re good for your pet, and the planet! Use the code: LTFT15 to get 15% off your purchase. This is our festive gift to you all as we know how much (like us) you love your dogs!  Laura Doherty is a dog trainer and behaviourist who uses force free and reward based methods only. Our dog Bella thinks Laura is her Mum even though I’ve told Bella her Mum is a  spaniel.We had great fun recording; hyped on coffee with the sun beating through the windows on a cold winter’s morning and Bella lying at Laura’s feet saying, ‘please take me with you!’.We covered dogs and food, dogs barking at the table, dog calming methods, learning dog language, how to teach your dog new behaviours and tons more. We hope you have a fantastic festive break and spend some quality downtime with your loved ones. We’ll be back with another episode on January 2nd, 2024!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:25] - Understanding Human-Dog Relationships[02:04] - Exploring Laura's Relationship with Food[04:57] - Dog's Eating Habits[08:14] - The Role of Food in Dog's Behaviour[11:29] - The Impact of Human Food Habits on Dogs[20:46] - The Importance of Natural Chews for Dogs[25:33] - Understanding Dog's Behaviour and Reinforcement[49:10] - Recognising Signs of Discomfort in Dogs[50:12] - The Importance of Safety for Dogs[53:41] - Favourite Foods: A Fun DiscussionCONNECT WITH LAURA:Laura’s InstagramLaura’s FacebookLaura’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

Welcome to Season Seven.Our first guest, Livia Sara, is an autism advocate, writer and creator of the Liv Label Free Podcast. Liv says: “I like to compare the autism spectrum to the Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS)We have all these different rays, x-rays, gamma rays… what I love about the EMS there are so many rays we cannot perceive with the human eye but that doesn’t make these rays less powerful. We can’t always see autism, autism does not have a look but autistic people are incredibly powerful.”Liv found out she was autistic when she was 20, after years of treatment for what health care professionals assumed was anorexia. But when Liv read Asper Girls by Rudy  Simone and met with an early coaching client, her world fell into place. This is a must listen for anyone with autistic loved ones struggling with food or needing insight or just with a curiosity about autism. Liv brings light to what is a pretty gruelling early life with her gorgeous humour, insight and candour. Liv returns later in the season for an all things autistic chat.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:08] - Understanding autism and Liv’s personal experience[04:04] - Childhood eating habits and relationship with food[08:42] - Eating disorder, treatment and diagnosis[28:16] - The turning point and getting help[28:36] - Treatment in the United States[29:32] - The importance of self-decision in recovery[33:07] - Starting a coaching business[38:10] - Understanding the link between autism and eating disorders[40:27] - The Future: Plans for a new book[41:52] - Changing the conversation about eating disorders[44:34] - Reflecting on the journeyCONNECT WITH LIV SARAH: Liv’s WebsiteLiv’s InstagramLiv’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

“The human condition seems to bob along pretty well in the same place…. Trust is such an issue… I’ve seen very young babies who are already cut off, who’ve already decided that it ain’t going to happen so I might as well cope myself.That coping stance can become belligerent but it can also simply be a desperate sense of being absolutely adrift, cut off from your spaceship and just out there and then how you come back from that into safety and trust.”Reina has been a practising astrologer for over 30 years and likes to focus on the client’s early life to explore later patterns in relationships, career choices and wellbeing. There’s always time to explore future events and choices too.She is also a musician and award winning novelist. I have known Reina for well over two decades. Her wisdom and insight opened up my heart and helped me back onto my feet. She is an integral part of the village that raised me from a twenty-something mess into a happy and healthy human being by illuminating that we are spiritual beings having a human experience. This is a very personal podcast episode for me. Reina lobbed a couple of curveball questions my way too (you shoulda seen my face!). Everyone needs a Reina. I hope you enjoy the final episode of Season 6! EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[10:00] - Understanding the basics of astrology [15:00] - Early years and mothering[23:40] - Psychology and planets[28:40] - Mother and the Moon CONNECT WITH REINA: If you’d like to book in with Reina and don’t mind waiting, DM us directly on Instagram or send an email to us here: [email protected] 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Trigger Warning: This episode has mentions of understanding calories in regards to units of energy.“The body doesn’t know the difference between chemical, physical and emotional stress.”Patrick is a top level Muscle Activation Techniques RX practitioner and trainer with over 20 years experience across the globe. He is also the author of Health and Fitness Perspective. MAT is relatively new but certain countries have realised its value  and are sending their doctors, physiotherapists and colleagues to the USA for accreditation. It’s that good!I was very excited to be introduced to Patrick and MAT and the fact that he has a clinic on my doorstep is a win-win. “If you think about those primitive states when we needed to be in fight, flight or freeze today we’re in these situations with emotions and stresses eliciting these responses. We’re living life like we’re running from a sabre toothed tiger when we’re not, and our body and brain are saying, "Oh my gosh, this is what is upon us!”MAT deals with trauma and how the body holds the score. If you exercise, overexercise, live with pain, want to lower inflammation, find ease and strength where there is none and wish to inhabit your body in a healthy nourished way which so many of us  do then this episode is for you. Or if you just want to listen to an awesome, entertaining and highly interesting chat with Patrick and myself  tune in too. Like I said in the episode MAT needs to be available for everyone. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[10:00] - What does MAT address?[19:17] - Pursuit of physical transformations[27:00] - Effects on musculature and the body when deprived of food or over-exercised[34:00] - Deep dive into MAT CONNECT WITH PATRICK: Patrick’s InstagramIntrinsic Resistance TrainingTHANK 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Trigger Warning: This episode has mentions of sexual assault. “V-Land is an all inclusive platform. Everybody and every body is welcome at V-Land. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, we will accept you for who you are. .. We say on V-Land you don’t need a passport…. We try to make veganism accessible for as many people as possible. This week I am joined by founder Will and CEO El, from V-Land, an online vegan magazine/platform in the UK and New York. If you are vegan or even remotely plant based or you just want to live a more compassionate life then V-Land is for you. Will left a highly successful PR career suffering from burnout brought about in part when he became vegan and desired a life with deeper meaning. Will loves food but he suffers from anxiety and depression and more recently he is learning to manage both without overeating. El grew up with binge eating disorders and food poverty. Sexual assault added to her trauma and El decided to eat so she could disappear and regain control over her body.  When El worked for the NHS she was bullied about her size and health problems led her down the path of bariatric surgery - a decision she now deeply regrets. I’ve wanted to invite Will onto the podcast for some time but as ever timing prevails and the bonus is the delightful El. We had a great time together despite some serious content. Will and El are a dynamic duo. Articulate, funny and like the proverbial peas in a pod. Love ‘em.P.S. El will be returning to LTFT to discuss her bariatric surgery in depth and to help anyone else in a similar situation.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:50] - El’s relationship with food[08:25] - Will’s relationship with food[16:10] - Bariatric surgery[36:00] - The world that is V-Land CONNECT WITH WILL & EIWill’s InstagramEI’s InstagramVlanduk InstagramVlandnyc 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Esther Cohen is an intuitive wisdom keeper, eating psychologist and guide for embodied wellbeing. Her work delves into the root cause of illness..."I think we can trace our disordered eating back to our ancestry and the past few 100 years where women in particular were put in the role that the thinner you were the more godlike or angelic you were. Numerous religious organisations had young women as altar angels and they were starved to death.’... and explores ancestral and familial trauma and importantly the voice behind the symptom.“So much of our alternative thinking goes back to our origins. It’s our intuitive wisdom and knowing this that we have as our inheritance which has been sublimated by scientific research which is now looking at all the natural processes and realising they do make us healthier and happier.’Tune in to hear Esther’s enlightening perspective on trauma, eating disorder behaviours and how to reclaim our innate wisdom for self healing to nourish ourselves with loving kindness.We had a fascinating chat. I loved it!I concur that loving kindness is the way and way out from ED and addictive behaviours.DATE CHANGES FROM THIS EPISODE:Esther will now be at the Silver Bells Conference at The Falcon, Northampton (UK) on 22nd-23rd July, 2023 presenting on the panel and running a workshop.She returns to The Falcon to host her Wild Contemplation Retreat from October 6th - 12th, 2023.See The Falcon here for details! EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[08:30] - Ancestral Trauma[20:15] - Voice behind the symptom[35:00] - Trauma in the system[40:00] - Exercise: in pausing CONNECT WITH ESTHER:Esther’s WebsiteEsther’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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“The therapists are identifying themselves as male, choosing  this career as a second career, and they want to create spaces for other males to say, let’s talk about what’s going on with your relationship with food, your body, how you embody yourself in this world. Let’s talk about vulnerability and how fragile you feel when you see this “perfect” male body.”Practitioner and educator Maria returns to discuss her doctoral thesis and pilot study on the embodied lived experience of male therapists working with male clients with eating disorder behaviours.The societal, cultural and historical lenses with which we use to view and objectify men and women differ hugely along with our expectations.Most of our knowledge and understanding around ED behaviours comes via female therapists and their female clients. 34 % of people who experience ED disorders/behaviours are male.Tune in and find out how Maria’s “hermeneutic and phenomenological exploration” is shedding light on previously under researched and considered ways of being in the therapy room and what exactly is going on for male therapists and male clients struggling with ED behaviours.This is needed and important research that offers invaluable insight in support of men. You can also catch Maria in Season 2 Episode 13, The Homebody.  EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[04:46] - Maria explains origins of her research[11:00] - Research project through a philosophical lens[28:00] - Research initial findings[34:15] - Embodiment of male therapists with their male clients CONNECT WITH MARIA: Maria’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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“The things that we do (and the behaviours that we take on) to cover our wound and our shadow can be complete masks. Sometimes when you ask someone how are you they will say, I’m fine. I have to go by their colour, sound, odour, emotion and pulses to understand what’s going on.”Sarah takes great pleasure in food, although in the past IBS caused her enough stress to render daily living unbearable. But when she encountered acupuncture for the first time, her life changed for the better.Sarah describes her initial experience as “magic” which propelled her onto a new career path as a Five Element Acupuncturist and later Herbalist.  Today, Sarah runs her acupuncture practice in London, UK. Her work is informed by her studies in contemplative psychology and she believes in treating the individual rather than chasing symptoms.Sarah also acts as a regional group coordinator for the British Acupuncture Council.During this episode Sarah explains Five Element Acupuncture and offers us her unique view regarding the self and our relationship with the mind, body and spirit in modern life. She is one of life’s natural healers.If you’re able to see Sarah in person then do. Or tune into this episode with your favourite brew.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[10:55] - Microbiome and the Brain[18:40] - Five Element Acupuncture[23:45] - The body keeps the score[32:44] - Semantics around mental health and addiction CONNECT WITH SARAH:Sarah’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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Sarah Roberts and Phoebe Dale are trainee clinical psychologists completing their Doctorate of Clinical Psychology at Lancaster University.Sarah and Phoebe's area of research is around the “eating disorder voice” - that critical inner voice particular to eating disorders and often missed by eating disorder support services in favour of traditional ‘weight restoring’ methods. It has only recently, in the last decade, even been considered as valid.Sarah and Phoebe want this to change and for the eating disorder voice to be heard, listened to and expressed creatively, be it a story, a song or a picture and to play a key part in the recovery of anyone suffering with eating disorders/behaviours.We think this episode is particularly helpful if you are a young person suffering with an ED or for a parent or carer of someone with an ED. Get involved with their research because it’s important and valid.Hats off to you Sarah and Phoebe!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[04:12] - Narratives around eating and the body [22:25] - The eating disorder voice (EDV)[14:50] - Comparisons[33:45] - Phoebe and Sarah’s researchSARAH & PHOEBE’S RESEARCH: Sarah and Phoebe are completing research that explores voice hearing with young women who have or had an eating disorder and they’d love to hear YOUR story!They’re hosting a webinar on Zoom on 4th July, 2023 - 7pm-8:30pm (GMT). Emma Paxton, a live illustrator will be joining the webinar to capture the discussions of the group in a visual creative piece which will be shared with attendees after the webinar. You can take part if:You identify as a womanYou are aged 16-25 years oldYou have experienced hearing voices during an eating disorder Email [email protected] to book a place onto the webinar.They are also gathering individual stories – so if you prefer to share your story through creative means, e.g. artwork, poetry, written or spoken piece, without attending the webinar. You can submit your piece via this link. CONNECT WITH SARAH AND PHOEBE: EDV Study Instagram PageTHANK 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“Thinking of a comparison between psychological profiles of athletes and those with eating disorders... perfectionism, black and white thinking, high levels of self control, self expectations, competitiveness, compulsiveness, repetitive exercise routines...”There are so many parallels.“I don’t think you can be excellent at something without an element of obsessiveness.”Ex-athlete Allie Outram makes a welcome return and we deep dive into exercise when dealing with eating disorders, recovery and Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome (RED-S).Allie explains RED-S in detail:Who’s at risk?What causes it?And whether weight loss/ED behaviours are a factor?Allie ran competitively at world class level while suffering with an eating disorder.During this time she was captain of the Junior Great British Team, which consisted of six athletes, “shockingly four of us had an eating disorder.”Find out much more about exercise with Allie, why we need to move and how setting the right intention alongside eating disorder behaviours, is key to a healthy life and recovery.Allie really knows her stuff! EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[02:00] - What exercise means to Allie  [11:58] - Supporting bone density[19:20] - Supporting osteoporosis[21:40] - Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome (RED-S)CONNECT WITH ALLIE:Allie’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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“I was a little girl really struggling. I would ring home in tears, I would end every phone call with my mother saying, Mum I love you. And I couldn’t end the phone call until she’d said it back.”Prue was sent to boarding school at age 10 and she was lonely, sad and desperate to return home. Age 12 she became anorexic and was diagnosed as a Type 1 diabetic.“In my mind I thought this is it. This will be the end of this misery but that was not the case. I came home only to be sent back again. I hit rock bottom. I'd lost all control. I think eating disorders are heavily linked with control. I felt like I was in chaos.Prue has spent many years dealing with her eating disorder behaviours and diabetes, manipulating one to hide the other but her discomfort has eased with age  and motherhood.Prue has never spoken about her eating disorders before and she is keen to share how eating disorder behaviours can impact one’s life while juggling a long term health condition. Prue wishes to remain anonymous.I described Prue as brave, and courageous but she preferred,  truthful. She is more than the sum of all these. This is a must listen. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[05:00] - Anorexia age 12[14:00] - Diabetes presentation[28:30] - ED’S lessen[36:40] - Over ExercisingTHANK 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“One day I had to go to the trading floor. I walked down... I was like a size 6, as I was walking down the spiral staircase half the trading floor looked up and checked me out. At that moment I felt attractive but... my body was exhausted, I was barely eating anything, when I wasn’t working I was hitting the gym really hard, I wasn’t sleeping, but...I was like yep, this is it.”Athena grew up in Hong Kong with her Mum cooking fresh food until age thirteen when she went to boarding school in the UK where attitudes were very different. ED behaviours amongst her peers were rife and normalised but Athena stayed, relatively, unaffected.It was the competitive cultures at Oxford and Harvard followed by the establishment of her financial career in the City that really took its toll.She barely ate, over-exercised and suffered from constant exhaustion.During gardening leave Athena would travel the world to meet spiritual teachers and coaches. Their wisdom changed the trajectory of her life but the most important change was motherhood.Today, Athena teaches Meditation in the psychiatric wards of the Nightingale Hospital, London. She is one of London’s leading Gong and Meditation teachers and listed on Tatler’s Best in Wellness, 2020 and 2023.Athena is known as The Gong Girl.Tune in, and listen because we had an absolute blast!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[04:10] - Boarding School ED behaviours[20:00] - Pressures within banking to “look good”[36:40] - Motherhood changes everything[48:00] - Putting skills togetherCONNECT WITH ATHENA:Athena’s InstagramBook a Restorative Gong Bath Session with AthenaTHANK 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Jeannette Maw is a Master Certified Coach, founder of Good Vibe Coaching and the Good Vibe University and is a self described “manifesting geek.”“I didn’t turn this power (on) to myself until last, and that feels really irresponsible, I didn’t understand the importance of self-love, I thought I’d just manifest some cool stuff.The key to all of this (conscious manifestation) is a return to love, when I recognised that many of the thoughts I was thinking about food and my body were creating what I didn’t want, I learned how to change those thoughts.”Jeannette was raised in a conservative/Christian family who were relaxed around food; it was societal messages concerning diet and “the female body” that riled her.When Jeannette discovered and started using conscious manifestation techniques with great success she left her corporate career and retrained as a coach and made peace with food and her body.If you’re familiar with conscious manifestation, choosing your thoughts and living a conscious life then this episode will delight you.If this topic is new to you then tune in because Jeannette is the real deal and an expert at sharing practical real world methods for practicing conscious manifestation.Plus we had a blast!EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[12:59] - When you’re in a dark place[18:40] - Letting go of fear[30:00] - Jack Canfield - self love[32:40] - Turning negative and critical thoughts positiveCONNECT WITH JEANNETTE MAW:The Good Vibe BlogThe Good Vibe 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“No one is saying if you take some psilocybin mushrooms or some LSD then you’re healed, no, it’s more like these substances help you go into your internal gold mine, where everything of importance is being and you get to see what’s inside and then after the experience in the days, weeks, months and years that follow you get to examine the nuggets of gold that you took out of that mine and shine them up. That’s when the work on impulse disorders takes place.”Dr Richard Louis Miller – Clinical Psychologist, broadcaster and host of the Mind Body Health and Politics radio programme talks about his relationship with food, impulse control disorders and laudatory work concerning psychedelic/plant medicine and healing.This is our first episode around psychedelic/plant medicine. I believe it is an important and exciting area of research in relation to trauma: ED behaviours and mental health dis-ease. There will be more.Richard makes an excellent starting point! Tune in.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[03:54] - Impulse Control Disorders (ICD)[20:50] - Relationship betweeN psychedelics and ICD[26:55] - Potential for healing[39:30] - Moving forward with LSD treatmentsCONNECT WITH DR RICHARD:Mind Body Health & Politics WebsiteMind Body Health & Politics InstagramMind Body Health & Politics FacebookDr. Richard’s TwitterTHANK 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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

“I think eating disorders are one of the most powerful forms of nonverbal communication…”Allie is a former world-class athlete.At thirteen she won at the English School Championships.Motivated by talent, and the desire to make her Dad proud, Allie's athletic career blossomed, alongside a life threatening eating disorder."I guess in running it’s not surprising that traits of great athletes and characteristics of anorexia nervosa are similar.”So the scene was set for the next few years.Allie describes getting well as a long miracle – great friends, therapy and finding her faith all played their part.Tune in and hear about Allie’s inspirational recovery, her work as a psychotherapist and how she stays on track.Allie returns later in Season 6 for a deep dive into sport and exercise during recovery and much more.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[05:30] - Fitness training starts[17:05] - The Addiction Tree[27:10] - Starts to recover[39:05] - Guilt and shameCONNECT WITH ALLIE:Allie’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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Danielle is a ‘root cause’ enthusiast.As a practitioner, Belief Coding® has been the missing link with regard to getting to the root cause of why someone has the discomfort they do…During her 20-year career in the wellbeing industry, Danielle has reached a point of clarity that pain management, be it physical, emotional or spiritual, will only get you so far unless the root cause of the pain is identified and healed.Danielle does this through Belief Coding® a method that upgrades peoples beliefs to support optimal wellbeing.Tune in to hear Danielle’s take on wellness via the ancient Mayan Arvigo technique for abdominal and reproductive healing and the exciting new healing method that is Belief Coding. Plus we have  a giggle. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[09:27] - Tummy troubles early teens[18:00] - Mayan Arvigo Technique[31:35] - Belief Coding[47:40] - Body Gratitude ProgrammeSPECIAL OFFER FOR LOVE THIS FOOD THING LISTENERS:For our first come, first lucky-serve listeners Danielle is offering a fabulous 50 % saving on the full price for her 7 week Body Gratitude Experience with four 1-2-1 Belief Coding sessions included. Spaces are limited and run out fast, the deadline to register is  May the 5th. Plus Danielle is offering 30% off your first individual Belief Coding session. Booking must be made and paid for by April 30th but your appointment can be booked at any time in the month of May, 2023. Register via email here and remember to mention that you’ve come from Love This Food Thing!CONNECT WITH DANIELLE:Danielle’s WebsiteDanielle’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. We also just opened the doors to our Creative Recovery Accelerator™ course. If you’re interested in hearing more about how you can combat your ED and addictive behaviours and stay on track with your recovery journey, start or accelerate further…. Head here to check out all of the details: lovethisfoodthing.com/accelerator

Our finale to Season Five introduces Luzolo Ntima, founder of The Heavenly Cake Company and finalist in the 2022 Free From Awards.Luzolo creates, bakes and then sends plant based cakes and cookies in the post like a “hug in a box.”She says,“I have always believed that everybody deserves to eat cake, regardless of dietary preferences, whether it’s necessary or not, or if you’re diabetic, nobody should be cake-less.”Thought you couldn’t eat cake? Well, think again because with Luzolo – you can.. and it’s delicious!This is a gentle wind-down episode – our nod to Bake Off. Tune into the full episode and find out how Luzolo overcame her food intolerances, learnt to bake free-from (not easy) and founded her heavenly bakery run from her new Cloud kitchen.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[09:15] - Food Intolerances[17:40] - Sets up bakery[23:28] - Cake business booming[31:00] - My burning question!CONNECT WITH LUZOLO NTIMALuzolo's Heavenly Cake CompanyHeavenly Cake Company's InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let me know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show on iTunes. I'd be extremely grateful. Don’t forget to also subscribe to the show at the top of this page! We are currently running a Crowdfunder to help fund the podcast and those unable to afford 1:1 therapy. You can check it out here, we’d love any donations and please spread the word.

Chrissy Sundt is an ex ballerina, movement expert and founder of Silver Linings Well Being.Brought up as a strict vegetarian by her father. At home they were, “a weird Norwegian family living in this mad old house” who became “some of the forerunners of the organic farming movement” in the UK.At ballet school Chrissy learnt to internalise her emotional and physical struggles in the name and pursuit of balletic perfection.“Everyone thinks of ballet as this beautiful, elegant thing and actually it’s full of effort. We make it look effortless but it is effort-full. Really, physically demanding, as demanding as any Olympic sport, yet we put on this veneer of perfection – then we tend to carry that over into our real lives. We don’t share when the internal voices are going and the perfectionism is at its peak and things are hard, we don’t voice it because we are taught to make it look effortless.”But when Chrissy injured her ankle it turned out to be the best silver lining ever!This is a powerful episode with the effervescent, funny and infectious Chrissy Sundt. Don’t miss it.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[04:20] - Dad, organic farm, vegetarian[11:25] - Ballet School[29:05] - Pilates Method[39:40] - Silver Linings WellbeingCONNECT WITH CHRISSY SUNDT:Silver Linings WellbeingSilver Linings at HomeSilver Linings Wellbeing Instagram THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let me know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show on iTunes. I'd be extremely grateful. Don’t forget to also subscribe to the show at the top of this page! We are currently running a Crowdfunder to help fund the podcast and those unable to afford 1:1 therapy. You can check it out here, we’d love any donations and please spread the word.

Lisa Marley is a plant-based chef, presenter and Chef Trainer for Pro Veg.At school she, “Felt the odd one out. I didn’t have a good time at school and I wasn’t a happy child. Food was my friend but also the cause of quite a lot of unhappiness.”And at home her parents could be judgmental, “Oh, you’ve lost weight or you've put on weight. That was their theme and became my theme as well.”During her 20’s, Lisa worked in the fitness industry and then as a TV presenter.But when she retrained as a chocolatier and went into therapy her life was transformed.Tune in to hear Lisa’s empowering story, her love for a plant based diet and essential cooking tips.SPECIAL OFFER: Lisa is giving away 16 tickets for the Ideal Home Show Christmas on 23-27 November 22 at Olympia, London. If you would like to grab one of them, send us an email here and we’ll get it sorted for you. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[01:45] - Unhappy early years[19:50] - Falls back in love with food through chocolate[25:00] - Veganism[33:00] - Protein and FibreCONNECT WITH LISA MARLEY:Lisa’s WebsiteLisa’s InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let me know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show on iTunes. I'd be extremely grateful. Don’t forget to also subscribe to the show at the top of this page! We are currently running a Crowdfunder to help fund the podcast and those unable to afford 1:1 therapy. You can check it out here, we’d love any donations and please spread the word.

Caroline Drummond Smith battled with Anorexia for thirty-five years, which literally became her identity. During this time she brought up three children and stayed married. Now fully recovered, her familial relationships have not only survived, but thrived.“It’s never too late and it’s never too long. I am proof of that. If there is a part of you that truly wants to recover you can do it.”Today Caroline works as an Eating Disorder Coach utilising her experiences, warmth, and innate understanding to support her clients. Tune in for another brilliantly candid episode from yet another fabulous guest - thank you Caroline Drummond Smith.EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:[05:00] - ED’s are genetic[10:00] - Reappearance of Anorexia[23:50] - Controlling kids food[32:00] - Effects of Caroline’s ED on her childrenCONNECT WITH CAROLINE DRUMMOND SMITH:Zest Health CoachingCaroline’s InstagramTHANK YOU FOR LISTENING!If you enjoyed this episode, please let me know your thoughts on Instagram @lovethisfoodthing and consider leaving an honest review and rating for the show on iTunes. I'd be extremely grateful. Don’t forget to also subscribe to the show at the top of this page! We are currently running a Crowdfunder to help fund the podcast and those unable to afford 1:1 therapy. You can check it out here, we’d love any donations and please spread the word.