The Full of Beans Podcast

Hannah Hickinbotham
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Full of Beans Podcast

Full of Beans is on a mission to reduce eating disorder stigma and increase ED awareness by drawing in on collective experiences and the importance of shared conversations. Listen weekly for inspiring conversations with Han and her guests, ranging from those with lived experiences to researchers, clinicians and charities, all with one aim: to increase society's understanding of eating disorders and end the stigma associated with them. By integrating personal stories with research and clinical insights, Full of Beans fosters a compassionate space for exploring eating disorders. We believe in the power of mutual support, so our mission is to amplify as many voices as possible, creating a network where individuals find strength and understanding together. Please note that these podcast episodes should not be used as a replacement for therapeutic support. For more support please visit the BEAT or First Steps ED website, or visit your local GP. For more information, check out The Full of Beans Website or follow the Full of Beans podcast at @thefobpodcast.

  1. Exploring the Link Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome & Disordered Eating with Georgia Spence

    10 HRS AGO

    Exploring the Link Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome & Disordered Eating with Georgia Spence

    In this week's episode, Han is joined by Georgia Spence. Georgia is an Associate Nutritionist registered with the Association for Nutrition, and specialises in women’s health. Georgia works 1 day a week for her Nutrition Business (Georgia Spence Nutrition) and works 4 days in the NHS. Georgia has been working with patients 1:1 over the last 3 years and aims to empower women's health through nourishment and balance; using evidence-based methods designed to create long-lasting positive results in a calm and supportive environment. This week, we discuss: The impact of nutritional misinformation, in particular involving women's health.The truth behind painful periods and when to seek help.Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and what symptoms may women experience.The impact that PCOS can have on fertility.The link between eating disorders and PCOS. The impact of weight loss recommendations on PCOS support.Supportive approaches to navigating PCOS without restrictive eating. Holistic approaches to nutrition and exercise to find joy in movement and self-care.To learn more about Georgia, you can visit her website or follow her on Instagram (@gspence_nutrition). Please note that this podcast explores topics some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to contact your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    39 min
  2. A Mother’s Mission: Speaking Up for ARFID Support with Michelle Jacques

    FEB 24

    A Mother’s Mission: Speaking Up for ARFID Support with Michelle Jacques

    In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Michelle Jacques. Michelle is a devoted mum of two who has lived with ARFID since her son started weaning. Through her own experience of supporting her son with ARFID, she has become a passionate advocate, working tirelessly to raise awareness and support others navigating life with this complex food intake disorder. ARFID is often misunderstood, yet its impact extends far beyond the dinner plates. It shapes daily life, family dynamics, and emotional wellbeing. Michelle’s journey sheds light on the challenges children and their families face, offering insight, understanding, and hope to those struggling in silence. This week, we discuss: Michelle’s personal experience of supporting her son with ARFID.The challenges Michelle has faced in getting an ARFID diagnosis for her son.The role of connection and support from other parents supporting children with ARFID.The challenge of facing fear foods for Michelle’s son.Navigating the social aspects of food with ARFID.The importance of recognising small wins and not just focusing on food in ARFID recovery.The impact on family life and dynamics when navigating ARFID.The reality of ARFID recovery and the importance focuses. To learn more about Michelle, you can follow her on Instagram @arfid_life_uk, or follow Michelle's new podcast @3mums1missionarfid/, Please note that this podcast explores topics (including eating disorders including ARFID) that some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to contact your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    39 min
  3. A Coexistence Between Past Illness & Current Wellness to Inspire & Improve Treatment Outcomes with Eleanor Wilkinson

    FEB 17

    A Coexistence Between Past Illness & Current Wellness to Inspire & Improve Treatment Outcomes with Eleanor Wilkinson

    Eleanor is a Psychology student and Lived Experience Professional working as a Peer Support Worker on a CAMHS ward and a Patient Representative for the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Eleanor is passionate about using her lived experience of neurodivergence, mental illness and iatrogenic harm to improve service development and provision, particularly concerning the use of restrictive practice and ‘positive risk-taking’ on psychiatric wards. Eleanor's journey through mental illness.Understanding the difference between mental health and mental illness.The impact of misdiagnosis - in Eleanor's case, Autism and ADHD, which were misdiagnosed as Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD).The role of neurodiversity in Eleanor's experience.Navigating mental health practices including restrictive practice and positive risk-taking and how this needs to be managed to avoid neglect.Eleanor's reflections on her care and how this impacted her recovery. The importance of healthcare professionals understanding the difference between their own and their illnesses' voices. The current challenges in mental health care including limited resources, funding, staff numbers and education.The role of lived experience and co-production in mental health care improvements. To learn more about Eleanor, you can follow Eleanor on Twitter (@goodmorningels) or connect with her on LinkedIn. Please note that this podcast explores topics (including eating disorders, self-harm and restrictive practice) that some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to contact your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    40 min
  4. Navigating ARFID with Compassion: Kindsight, Communication & Support with Julie White

    FEB 10

    Navigating ARFID with Compassion: Kindsight, Communication & Support with Julie White

    In this week's episode, Han is joined by Julie White. Julie is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Neurodiversity Coach, and peer support facilitator, raising awareness of mental health and neurodiversity. Diagnosed with ADHD in her 40s, she reflects with ‘kindsight’ on her own challenges with executive functioning and disordered eating. With both personal and professional experience, she supports individuals and organisations in fostering inclusive environments. Julie also recognises and navigates ARFID and disordered eating in her partner, offering compassionate support and understanding. This week, we discuss: Julie's experience of supporting a loved one with ARFID.The role of neurodiversity in Julie's experience of disordered eating. The signs of symptoms of ARFID Julie recognises in her partner.The impact of ARFID on her relationship.The misconceptions associated with ARFID Julie has faced. The importance of communication in navigating food challenges with ARFID.Educating others on ARFID with compassionate curiosity.The role of self compassion and kindsight when supporting a loved one with ARFID.To learn more about Julie, you can visit her website or follow connect with her on LinkedIn. Please note that this podcast explores topics some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to contact your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    39 min
  5. The Impact of Eating Disorders on Sexual Health with Bethany Ashley Smith

    FEB 3

    The Impact of Eating Disorders on Sexual Health with Bethany Ashley Smith

    In this week's episode, Han is joined by Bethany Ashley Smith. Bethany is a psychotherapist who is on a to help people feel more confident and independent in their healing journey. Bethany has spent 20 years combining her own lived experiences, working as a mental health nurse and her professional expertise in trauma, addiction, ADHD, and relationships. As a neurodiverse, mixed-race woman who’s walked her own recovery path, Bethany brings empathy and understanding to her work. This week, we discuss: The similarities and differences between eating disorders and addiction.The impact of eating disorders on sexuality. How eating disorders impact relationships and intimacy,The role of education in sexual health and healthy intimacy.Changes in sexual desire post-recovery in a new body.Managing sexual desire in a healthy, choice-based way.Therapist-client dynamics in exploring sexual health. The importance of normalising conversations around sex. To learn more about Bethany, you can visit her website at https://bethanyashleysmith.co.uk/ or follow her on Instagram @bethany_ashley_smith. Please note that this podcast explores topics some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to reach out to your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    46 min
  6. APPG Report "The Right to Health: People with Eating Disorders are being failed" with Nicky Smith

    JAN 22

    APPG Report "The Right to Health: People with Eating Disorders are being failed" with Nicky Smith

    In this week's episode, we speak with eating disorder advocate, Nicky Smith, about report released by The All-Party Parliamentary Group, “The Right To Health: People with eating disorders failed”. The report shares the experiences of those impacted by eating disorders and the inaccessible care for those who need it. As part of the report, we are calling on the Government to: 🪧Develop a National Strategy for Eating Disorders 🪧Additional Funding for Eating Disorder Services This funding should address the demand for both adult and children’s services 🪧Confidential Inquiry into All Eating Disorder Deaths 🪧Increased Research Funding for Eating Disorders: The aim is to enhance treatment outcomes and ultimately discover a cure for eating disorders 🪧 Non-Executive Director Oversight for both adult and children Eating Disorder Services. This oversight and accountability should be implemented in all NHS Trusts and Health Boards in the UK Nicky is a member of FEAST and works closely with other family members and carers to advocate for current and emerging eating disorder issues in the UK. Nicky’s daughter has had anorexia for 12 years, so unfortunately Nicky has developed extensive experience from adolescent and adult eating disorder services including inpatient, community, out-of-area placements, sectioning under the Mental Health Act, nasogastric feeding, SEDU, acute mental health and general hospital admissions, hence her passion for support with the End Eating Disorders Campaign. This week, we discuss: Nicky's personal experience of supporting her daughter with an eating disorder.The APPG Report on Eating Disorders.Recommendations for change in eating disorder services.The complexity of recovery and treatment of eating disorders.The importance of long-term support and hope.To read the full report, follow this link. If you would like to get involved, head over to the End Eating Disorders Website Please visit our website to find out more or search #dumpthescales on social media. You can also find out more about the APPG and its members on the End Eating Disorders Website. Additionally, we have drafted an open letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, asking them to consider our recommendations and take immediate action to end eating disorders. You can keep the pressure up by emailing your MP with our template letter, tweeting your support or sharing our graphics on social media or making a donation to further our campaigning work in this area. We will also be marching for the End Eating Disorders Campaign on Saturday 7th June 2025, so please come along to show your support! Find out more by following the campaign on... Bluesky - @dumpthescales.bsky.social Twitter/X - DumpTheScales Instagram - @dump_the_scales LinkedIn - Dump The Scales Facebook - Dump the Scales

    41 min
  7. The Implication of GLP-1 Medications on Eating Disorders with Zuzanna Gajowiec

    JAN 13

    The Implication of GLP-1 Medications on Eating Disorders with Zuzanna Gajowiec

    In this week's episode, Han is joined by Zuzanna Gajowiec. Zuzanna is a Clinical Psychologist, Family Therapist, and Ireland’s first Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant (CEDS-C). With over a decade of experience, Zuzanna is dedicated to supporting individuals and families on their journey to recovery, focusing on physical healing, body image, and family connections. As the IAEDP Chapter Chair of Ireland and Clinical Lead at a Residential Eating Disorder Treatment Centre, Zuzanna also teaches, consults, and supervises other therapists, sharing her expertise to advance the understanding of eating disorders. This week, we discuss: The science behind GLP-1 and how they work in the body.The impact of GLP-1s being presented as a safe, miracle drug.The difference in dosage and use for diabetes and weight loss, and the lack of research.The side effects of misuse of GLP-1 medications.How GLP-1 medications can implicate ED treatment and impact recovery.The importance of health care professionals understanding GLP-1 medications.The attraction of quick fixes as opposed to difficult therapy and how we navigate this.Zuzanna mentioned a few resources in the podcast, and you can find them here: GLP-1 research in ED populationsRagen Chastain's narrative on GLP-1 medicationsRagen Chastain's Substack To find out more about Zuzanna, you can connect with her in the following places: Instagram - @supported_familiesWebsite - https://supportedfamilies.ie/LinkedIn – Zuzanna GajowiecPlease note that this podcast explores topics some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to reach out to your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    43 min
  8. Reframing Your Relationship with Fitness with Sam Bowen

    JAN 6

    Reframing Your Relationship with Fitness with Sam Bowen

    In this week's episode, Han is joined by Sam Bowen. Han met Sam at the gym, and they instantly clicked. Sam's happy-go-lucky, supportive attitude stood out as so different from the rest of the fitness industry. Sam has been incredible in supporting Han's recovery—not just physically, but mentally too—helping Han feel confident and empowered. Sam focuses on balance, fun, and finding what works for his clients lifestyle, avoiding the restriction and negativity so common in fitness culture. With Sam, fitness is about building strength, confidence, and happiness in a way that truly fits you. This week, we discuss: Reframing fitness from aesthetic goals to performance goals that improve your life. Making exercise a part of someone's life rather than an obsession or self-sabotage.The importance of getting to know clients and being flexible in your approach to fitness.How to encourage others to get into the gym if they're concerned or anxious.A balanced approach to nutrition rather than the restrictive, strict diets. The truth behind diets, quick fixes and a different perspective to Ozempic. Eating to fuel your life, not just your training.To learn more about Sam, follow him on Instagram @sambowenpt or visit his website https://www.coachingbysb.co.uk/. Please note that this podcast explores topics some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone you trust. You may also wish to reach out to your GP or mental health professional. We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them: Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123. FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk. Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

    40 min
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About

Full of Beans is on a mission to reduce eating disorder stigma and increase ED awareness by drawing in on collective experiences and the importance of shared conversations. Listen weekly for inspiring conversations with Han and her guests, ranging from those with lived experiences to researchers, clinicians and charities, all with one aim: to increase society's understanding of eating disorders and end the stigma associated with them. By integrating personal stories with research and clinical insights, Full of Beans fosters a compassionate space for exploring eating disorders. We believe in the power of mutual support, so our mission is to amplify as many voices as possible, creating a network where individuals find strength and understanding together. Please note that these podcast episodes should not be used as a replacement for therapeutic support. For more support please visit the BEAT or First Steps ED website, or visit your local GP. For more information, check out The Full of Beans Website or follow the Full of Beans podcast at @thefobpodcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Hannah Hickinbotham
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    207
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Full of Beans Podcast 2021
  • Show Website
    The Full of Beans Podcast

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