Life After Diets

Sarah Dosanjh / Stefanie Michele
Life After Diets

Many people are waking up to the fact that diets don't work, but if we're not dieting, now what? How are we supposed to find balance with food and reach intuitive eating? Join Sarah and Stef, a psychotherapist and a health coach, as they talk about all things related to disordered eating, bad body image and creating a life that's free from food and body obsession. The hosts draw on their own eating struggles and openly share the highs and lows of pursuing food freedom over weight loss.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    179. Exploring the Emotion of Sadness in a Healthy Relationship with Food

    In this insightful episode, Sarah and Stef delve into the complex interplay of emotions like sadness, anger, and disconnection. They explore how sadness is often a front for deeper emotional experiences and how it contrasts with the energizing force of anger. Stef shares her struggles with collapsing into sadness and explains how food was a coping mechanism for her during emotionally trying times. Sarah discusses the nuanced responses to sadness and the importance of grieving effectively. The episode touches on topics like childhood conditioning, parental responses to emotions, and the societal expectations around gender and emotional expression. Listeners will find valuable insights into the therapeutic handling of sadness, the distinction between true emotional experiences and conditioned responses, and the importance of making space for emotions like grief and loss. The hosts also offer personal anecdotes and practical tips for moving towards and processing these difficult feelings in a healthy way. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Stef's Binge Recovery Course -- www.iamstefaniemichele.com/iamstefaniemichelecourse Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    46 min
  2. DEC 11

    178. But How Does Alcohol Affect My Eating?

    In this episode, the hosts delve into the complex relationship between alcohol and eating disorders, particularly binge eating. They start the discussion by sharing personal anecdotes about how alcohol influences their social interactions and how different cultures toast and drink. The conversation then shifts to how alcohol can trigger binge eating and decreases inhibitions, leading to loss of control around food, and sometimes serves as a substitute for food-related restrictions. Various facets of this relationship are explored, such as the cultural and emotional reasons behind drinking, the physical effects of alcohol on the body and appetite, and the psychological impacts like guilt and self-disgust. They also touch upon the concept of "drunkorexia," where individuals skip meals to save calories for drinking, and discuss strategies some use to avoid drinking or manage its effects. The episode offers insights on addressing these issues, such as giving up alcohol in a non-restrictive way, setting boundaries, and understanding the underlying emotional needs that lead to drinking or binge eating. If you're struggling with the intersection of alcohol and disordered eating, this episode provides a thoughtful exploration and practical advice. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Stef's Binge Recovery Course -- www.iamstefaniemichele.com/iamstefaniemichelecourse Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    37 min
  3. DEC 4

    177. Trauma Informed Exercise and Binge Eating Recovery with Laura Khoudari

    In this week’s episode, Sarah and Stef welcome Laura Khoudari, a trauma-informed personal trainer, writer, and the author of "Lifting Heavy Things." Laura shares her unique approach to strength training, which prioritizes the nervous system and emotional well-being over traditional fitness goals. Throughout the interview, Laura opens up about her personal journey from dealing with chronic pain and binge eating disorder to finding empowerment through strength training. She also discusses what it means to be a trauma-informed personal trainer and how this differs from conventional personal training methods. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for exercise, recognizing the signs of hyperarousal and hypoarousal, and the role of mindfulness in physical training. Laura offers practical tips for individuals seeking empowerment and safety through movement. The episode also explores Laura’s relationship with food and body image, her recovery process, and how she finds joy and safety in cooking by breaking down food-related rules and finding balance in wellness. Finally, Laura talks about her Substack newsletter, "A Tender at the Desk and Stove," where she shares personal essays and wellness tips. She encourages listeners to find nourishment and well-being in ways that feel right for them. Whether you’re looking to transform your approach to fitness or gain a deeper understanding of trauma-informed practices, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories. Laura Khoudari is a writer and speaker. Her work as a leader in trauma-informed weight lifting and her book, Lifting Heavy Things: Healing Trauma One Rep at Time, have been recognized across the fitness and mental health industries as well as by NPR and The New York Times. She was a runner-up in Roxane Gay’s Audacious Book Club Essay Writing Contest and her personal essays have appeared in Archetype and Human Shift.  Learn more about her and her work at laurakhoudari.com, on Instagram @laurakhoudari, and through her newsletter Tender at The Desk and Stove. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Stef's Binge Recovery Course -- www.iamstefaniemichele.com/iamstefaniemichelecourse Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    45 min
  4. NOV 27

    176. But Getting Sick Increases My Appetite!

    In Episode 176 of our podcast, titled "Sickness and Appetite," hosts Stef and Sarah delve into the intricate relationship between illness and appetite. They share personal stories and theories on how sickness affects hunger, exploring varied reactions ranging from increased appetite to the desire for comfort food. Stef discusses a potential connection between eating disorders and an increased appetite during illness, while Sarah reflects on emotional responses to being sick. The conversation also touches on the psychological impacts of illness, orthorexia, and strategies for managing fluctuating appetites during and after sickness. This episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for listeners navigating their eating habits in the context of illness, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in recovery from food issues. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Stef's Binge Recovery Course -- www.iamstefaniemichele.com/iamstefaniemichelecourse Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    36 min
  5. NOV 20

    175. But I Can't Stop Snacking After Dinner

    In this episode, we dove deep into the topic of evening snacking (and how complicated it can be). We explored various reasons why people might snack at night, from emotional triggers (like seeking comfort or reward) to biological factors (like needing a full stomach to sleep better). We also talked about personal experiences with nighttime eating habits and how different strategies can help, such as being more intentional with snacks or considering the role of movement. This episode really highlighted the importance of understanding one's own needs and habits without judgment, and how difficult, yet crucial, it is to find what truly works on an individual level. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Stef's Binge Recovery Course -- www.iamstefaniemichele.com/iamstefaniemichelecourse Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    39 min
  6. NOV 13

    174. But I Eat to Manage Stress

    In this episode, Sarah and Stef dive into the complex relationship between stress and eating habits. They share personal anecdotes (starting with Sarah's recent Domino's Pizza ordering experience) about how stress impacts their food choices and delve into the psychological and physiological reasons behind these patterns. Topics discussed include the challenges of stress-induced cravings, the role of carbohydrates and comfort foods, and practical strategies for managing stress. The episode also explores the benefits of somatic and cognitive approaches to stress.  Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Stef's Binge Recovery Course -- www.iamstefaniemichele.com/iamstefaniemichelecourse Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    45 min
  7. NOV 6

    173. But Is It All-In Recovery or All-Or-Nothing Thinking?

    In this live episode, hosts Sarah and Stef explain the concepts of "All-In Recovery" versus "All or Nothing Thinking," particularly in the context of the nondiet approach to overeating and restriction cycles.  Stef explains that "All-In Recovery" involves abandoning restrictive eating behaviors entirely, which actually IS a quite all-or-nothing experience. She also explains how it worked to find enough inner quiet to actually find intuitive eating authentically. Throughout the episode, they highlight the distinctions between intentional eating without shame and unchecked binge eating, stressing the importance of presence and self-compassion in recovery. The hosts also address audience questions about how to identify if All-In Recovery is right for someone and the interplay between allowing binges and maintaining a helpful mindset. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the nuanced differences between these approaches, offering practical advice for individuals navigating their own recovery journeys. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Work with Stefanie - www.iamstefaniemichele.com/application Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    44 min
  8. OCT 30

    172. But How Do I Deal with Being Triggered?

    In this episode, we delve into the concept of "triggers" and how they affect our emotions and behaviors (including how they impact binge eating and restricting and body image). Our hosts, Sarah and Stef, share personal anecdotes about feedback on social media (like when people make comments about our clothes or teeth or how we are only in this for ourselves), the psychological and physical responses to being triggered, coping mechanisms, and practical tools. They differentiate between being triggered and being activated, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and time to process intense emotions. The conversation touches on the role of community in managing these reactions and the importance of compassion and presence when dealing with emotional triggers. Join us for an honest discussion on how to navigate the complexities of emotional triggers and find healthier ways to cope. Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – hello@lifeafterdietspod.com Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Work with Stefanie - www.iamstefaniemichele.com/application Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.

    46 min
4.9
out of 5
209 Ratings

About

Many people are waking up to the fact that diets don't work, but if we're not dieting, now what? How are we supposed to find balance with food and reach intuitive eating? Join Sarah and Stef, a psychotherapist and a health coach, as they talk about all things related to disordered eating, bad body image and creating a life that's free from food and body obsession. The hosts draw on their own eating struggles and openly share the highs and lows of pursuing food freedom over weight loss.

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