Love This Food Thing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“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...

“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™

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