This week, I’m joined by Bayada Mohamed Osman, a Sudanese-American advocate, public health professional, and poet with roots in the DMV. Bayada shares her journey navigating eating disorder recovery, the impact of culture and religion, and her advocacy for marginalised communities, including her work supporting Sudan during its ongoing crisis.

Key takeaways:

• Public health & advocacy: How Bayadir's background shaped her understanding of mental health
• Culture & eating disorders: The intersection of culture, religion, and disordered eating in Sudanese & Muslim communities
• Resonating with diagnosis: Why eating disorders don’t fit one mold & how they manifest differently
• Control, trauma & survivor’s guilt: How these factors play a role in disordered eating patterns
• Ramadan & recovery: Navigating fasting while prioritizing health
• Community & healing: Why connection, advocacy, and self-compassion are key in the recovery journey

Timestamps:

[00:34] – Bayadir’s background in public health and advocacy

[05:50] – Being diagnosed with ARFID & eating disorder unspecified

[15:30] – Cultural stigma around eating disorders & mental health

[24:10] – Survivor’s guilt, food security & balancing advocacy

[38:00] – How Bayadir shifted her mindset towards recovery

[44:50] – The role of religion in healing & navigating Ramadan

TW: This episode discusses eating disorders, famine, and war. Please listen with care. If you or someone you know needs support, contact a trusted professional or helpline.

Connect with Bayada:

📲 Instagram: @yourbaya | @bridges.co

🌐 Website: yourbaya | bridges.co

Connect with Us:

🎙️ Subscribe to the Full of Beans Podcast here

📲 Follow Full of Beans on Instagram here

✍🏻 Read our latest blog here

Thank you for listening and being part of this important conversation!

✨ Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who might need it! ✨

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Fiona Hollings (Fi), an autistic advocate who has nearly recovered from anorexia. Fi shares her journey of navigating an eating disorder while being undiagnosed autistic, the challenges of treatment that wasn't tailored to neurodivergent needs, and how understanding her autism helped her move toward recovery. Together, Han and Fi explore the crucial overlap between autism and eating disorders and discuss how treatment can be adapted to better support autistic individuals.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding the Autism-Anorexia Connection: Exploring why autistic individuals may be more susceptible to developing eating disorders.
• Challenges in Traditional Treatment: Why standard eating disorder treatment often fails autistic individuals and what needs to change.
• The Role of Routine and Sensory Considerations: How structure and sensory adaptations can make recovery more manageable.
• Managing Autism to Aid Recovery: How embracing autistic traits can support a sustainable recovery from an eating disorder.
• The Peace Pathway Approach: How this initiative is revolutionizing eating disorder treatment for autistic individuals.
• Taking Action: How listeners can advocate for better treatment adaptations and find support resources.

Timestamps:

• [03:36] - Fi introduces herself and her journey
• [09:33] - The struggles of being autistic in traditional eating disorder treatment
• [16:12] - The impact of an autism diagnosis on recovery
• [24:01] - Practical strategies for recovery while being autistic
• [35:56] - Understanding the Peace Pathway and its role in improving care
• [42:30] - The importance of individualized treatment for eating disorders
• [46:02] - Where to find Fi online and closing thoughts

Resources & Links:

• The Peace Pathway
• Follow Fi on Instagram (@finding_fi_)
• Connect with Fi on LinkedIn

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses eating disorders and neurodiversity. Please take care while listening. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to a trusted professional or helpline.

Connect with Us:

🎙️ Subscribe to the Full of Beans Podcast here

📲 Follow Full of Beans on Instagram here

✍🏻 Read our latest blog here

Thank you for listening and being part of this important conversation!

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).

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Livia Sara. Livia is the founder of Liv Label Free, where Liv works as a food freedom coach to support individuals with eating disorders to embrace their autistic characteristics in their recovery, rather than trying to change them.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• What is Liv Label Free, and what was Livia's journey?

• Labels and diagnoses, how they can affect our identity, and how this can vary for eating disorders and neurodiversity.

• Understanding the difference between eating disorder behaviours and autism, and how they can be s destructive or supportive respectively.

• How treatment services can adapt their approach to support individuals for their individuality, promoting long term recovery.

To find out more about Livia and her work, you can find her on Instagram @livlabelfree or visit her website www.livlabelfree.com

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorder behaviours that some individuals make find challenging to hear. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way. Note: this podcast should not be used as a replacement for therapeutic support.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Emma Carter. Emma has personal experience of supporting her daughter with an eating disorder. Emma started to jot down a few notes about her experience, which has now led to her writing a book through the lens of a mother’s eye and the depths of a mother’s heart regarding the highs and lows of her daughter's battles with anorexia. By describing their journey, Emma hopes to help others on a similar path, which can sometimes feel lonely, isolating, and sometimes shameful.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• What to do if you notice potential signs of an eating disorder, or how to pick up on the signs that retrospectively seem "obvious".

• How to navigate your loved one's ambivalence and to get support.

• Emma's experience of supporting Poppy, and how this can change throughout someone's journey.

• How Emma supports herself in order to make sure she can support Poppy, and the reality that this isn't easy in the beginning.

• How Emma has supported her son and ensured his needs were met whilst his sister was ill.

• Why Emma started to write, and how this progressed into her book "Slaying Monsters Dodging Doughnuts".

• How Emma navigated the darkest, lowest moments and remained hopeful throughout Poppy's recovery.

• Tips Emma has for separating the eating disorder from her daughter, and how this has supported Poppy's recovery and brought them together.

Please note that this podcast discusses topics some individuals may find triggering such as eating disorder behaviours and recovery. Please tread lightly, check in with yourself, and remember this is not a replacement for clinical advice.

To find out more about Emma, and her book, head over to www.emmacarter.co.uk or follow Emma on Twtitter @Emma_Carter007.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Rachel Evans. Rachel is a bulimia recovery specialist and has created her practice to use her personal experience of recovering from an eating disorder to support clients as a chartered psychologist in their eating disorder recovery journey. Rachel specialises in bulimia recovery and joins us today to discuss navigating this recovery process from her personal and clinical experience.

This week we discuss:

• What is bulimia?

• How to navigate reducing bingeing and purging behaviours.

• How eating disorders thrive in isolation, and tips on navigating this so eating disorder behaviours don't take over.

• The motivation people may have behind engaging in behaviours, and how to work through these in recovery.

• The consequences of behaviours associated with bulimia, and how they may not always show up immediately.

• How to support someone else who is trying to recover from bulimia and reduce behaviours?

To find out more about Rachel, you can find her on Instagram @rachel.evans.phd or visit their website https://eatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/.

You can also find a summary of the book that Rachel recommends here: https://embodieddietitian.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Sick-Enough.pdf or find the full version by searching "Sick Enough: A Guide to the Medical Complications of Eating Disorders - Jennifer L. Gaudiani".

Please note that this podcast discusses behaviours associated with eating disorders, particularly bulimia nervosa, that may be challenging for some individuals. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way, and remember this should not be used as a replacement for clinical advice.

In this weeks episode, Has is joined by Adam Fare, Zoe Burnett, and Christina Taylor. Adam, Zoe and Christina are mental health campaigners who all have a range of mental health illnesses and neurodiversity lived experiences.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• The importance of friendship and community in recovery, particularly individuals who have been there and understand your difficulties.

• How we can work together to get all voices heard, rather than individual voices that may not share every experience?

• Stigmas that they have experienced, and how they support each other to navigate these challenges to ensure they continue with their activism and awareness-raising work.

• How you can navigate friendships with similar mental health conditions so you don't create a friendship around it, which encourages anti-recovery behaviours and an ED identity.

• Finding identity beyond an eating disorder.

• How to navigate support groups, making friends, and boundaries in sharing struggles with each other in mind.

To find out more about Zoe, Adam, and Christina, you can find them at:

• Zoe - @barefootrebel1 or @firststepsed

• Adam - @adamfare1996

• Christina - @chtaylor_ or @beated

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Dewald Louw. Dewald is a Counselling Psychologist based in Cape Town, South Africa, and currently works as a remote therapist at Orri, a private eating disorder clinic in London. Dewald has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults in inpatient and private settings and has observed the unique mental health challenges that often go unnoticed in boys and men which make it difficult for them to embrace therapeutic environments.

This year, Eating Disorder Awareness Week (2023) focuses on eating disorders in boys and men. In this weeks podcast, we discuss:

• The prevalence of eating disorders in men and why this may be higher than expected.

• The signs and symptoms in boys & men compared with girls & women.

• Muscle dysmorphia and its presence in men, and how to distinguish a disorder from a healthy relationship with exercise.

• The idea that, similar to women and girls, eating disorders are a form of protection and ability to survive, not just a food and body issue.

• How masculinity impacts the development of eating disorders.

• The role of group therapy in male eating disorder recovery.

• How to make eating disorder treatment centres more accessible for boys and men, allowing them to access the treatment they require.

• The need for male-appropriate screening tools and assessments.

• How ORRI are supporting boys and men with eating disorders and what's behind their #RememberYourBROS.

To find out more about ORRI you can visit www.orri-uk.com, or find @ORRI_UK on Instagram or Twitter.

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorder behaviours that some individuals may find triggering. Please check in with yourself along the way, and remember that this is not a replacement for therapeutic support.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by H Coakley. H is a queer, non-binary registered nutritionist dietitian, who works with individuals with eating disorders and disordered eating. H works with folks from a range of identities and experiences, including queer, trans and gender non-conforming individuals.

.In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• H's personal experience of an eating disorder and how this has led to their work as a dietitian with queer, trans, non-gender confirming, individuals with eating disorders or disordered eating.

• The unique experiences that trans and non-gender conforming individuals may experience, and how this may contribute to an eating disorder including gender dysphoria and dysmorphia.

• H's approach to unpacking an individual's unique experiences, and how to work through this to move away from an eating disorder and build new coping mechanisms that are more supportive.

• H's experience of working with clients on hormonal replacement therapy, and how this has impacted clients.

• The importance of developing alternative coping mechanisms, and understanding that just changing your body may not provide the relief from the eating disorder individuals expect.

• How H's recovery aligns with their work as a dietitian.

• How healthcare systems can work with trans, queer, and gender non-conforming clients to ensure their unique experiences are acknowledged and respected.

To find out more about H, you can find them on Instagram @pandowellness or visit their website https://www.pandowellness.org/.

You can also find out more about the FedUp Collective where H works to support trans+, intersex, and gender-diverse people who are experiencing eating disorders to get the support they require and deserve. You can find them on Instagram @fedupcollective or visit https://fedupcollective.org/.

Please note that this podcast episode discusses topics such as eating disorders, gender dysphoria and dysmorphia, and other topics that individuals may find difficult. Please tread lightly, check in with yourself, and remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapeutic advice.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Jennifer Danby for a Valentine's Day special; taking a deep dive into our relationship with ourselves and others, and an eating disorder. Jennifer is a Clinical Lead and Family Therapist in a specialist lifespan eating disorder service in London and specialises in emotion-focused family therapy. Jennifer joins us today for a valentine’s special, to talk about our relationship with self and how this is affected by an eating disorder. Jennifer is also conducting a research study at Imperial College London, which involves providing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy to individuals with an anorexia nervosa diagnosis to determine whether this could be an alternative, effective, treatment for people in the future.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• Jennifer's work in eating disorders, and how this has led her to work in emotion-focused family therapy.

• How eating disorders affect the relationship with self and others, as well as how an eating disorder relationship exists.

• The characteristics that may lead to eating disorder development, and how they may predispose you to an eating disorder, but don't need to be abolished.

• The study Jennifer is conducting using Psilocybin to provide psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for women with an anorexia nervosa diagnosis when treatment hasn't been accepted in a successful way.

  • The research behind the use of Psilocybin in mental health treatment and how this can help individuals to tap into emotions and feelings suppressed by the eating disorder.

  • The addictive nature associated with eating disorders and if this is affected by using psychedelics in trials.

  • The hopes for the study going forward, and overall for the treatment of anorexia nervosa.

Please note that this podcast discusses the relationship with eating disorders which some individuals may find challenging. Please check in with yourself and tread lightly, and remember this episode should not be replaced for clinical advice. Please note that this podcast is not encouraging illegal drug use.

To find out more about Jennifer and her research, you can read more here:

https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/about-eating-disorders/research/eating-disorder-research/psilocybin-as-a-treatment-for-anorexia-nervosa-a-pilot-study/

https://www.mentalhealthfoundations.ca

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/psychedelic-research-centre/trials/panorexia/

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.735523/full?&utm_source=Email_to_authors_&utm_medium=Email&utm_content=T1_11.5e1_author&utm_campaign=Email_publication&field=&journalName=Frontiers_in_Psychiatry&id=735523

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Dr Helen Startup and Dr Nicky Gilbert. Helen and Nicky join Han to discuss Schema Therapy from both a clinical and personal perspective.

This week, we discuss:

• What is schema therapy, where did it develop from, and what's the theory behind it?

• The parts that make us who we are, and how we work through Schema Therapy to adapt the intensity of these roles e.g. growing the healthy adult and shrinking the critic a bit.

• The society we live in, and how more critical and perfectionistic traits are favoured over self-care and compassion for self.

• Nicky's personal and Helen's professional experience of Schema Therapy.

• What is the Schema Therapy school, and how you can get involved.

To find out more about Helen and Nicky, or the Schema Therapy School, you can find them at:

• Twitter: @SchemaSchool @NickyGilbert14

• Instagram: @schematherapyschool @drnickygilbert

Helen is a teacher and trainer of schema therapy. Along with her colleague Janis Briedis she co-directs Schema Therapy School UK which offers a complete training course in Schema Therapy as well as briefer specialist workshops. She co-authored, 'Creative Methods in Schema Therapy: Advances and Innovation in Clinical Practice', which was published in 2020. She used to work as an NHS consultant psychologist in an eating disorders service but now works mainly in the private sector.

Nicky is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience in Specialist eating disorder teams. She currently works freelance, providing supervision to clinicians working in the NHS and private sector, and therapy to individuals with eating disorders and other difficulties. Her love of schema therapy began after her own experience of receiving it. It is an approach that often informs her work even when she is not using it in a formal sense.

Please note that this podcast discusses various therapeutic models and challenges that may be faced. Please tread lightly, check in with yourself, and note this podcast should not be a replacement for therapeutic support.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Emily from We Are Mind Body.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• Emily's experience of having an eating disorder and her recovery, and how that led to her starting We Are Mind Body.

• Other coping mechanisms that can be used in recovery, particularly turning to alcohol and how this is normalised within society.

• What EFT is, how it originated, and the current research surrounding it.

• We speak specifically about the research surrounding EFT in eating disorders, and the current focus on craving work and weight loss strategies.

• How Emily sees EFT being used in eating disorders, such as anxiety e.g. fear foods or binge eating, trauma, memories, and core beliefs.

• We end with a live EFT session for you to try along to! Check out Instagram if you would like to watch this snippet.

To find out more about Emily and her EFT work, you can find her on Instagram @wearemindbody, or find links to all Emily's work here: https://linktr.ee/wearemindbody.

Please note that this topic discusses eating disorder behaviours and a reliance on alcohol that some listeners may find challenging. Please check in with yourself along the way and note that this podcast should not be replaced with therapeutic support.

In this weeks very special 100th episode, Han is joined by her bestie George Mycock, the founder of MyoMinds. George joins Han to discuss what 100 episodes of Full of Beans have taught Han, and the relapse that she is currently experiencing.

A big, big thank you to everyone who has supporting Full of Beans so far. Without your support, this wouldn't be possible, but I truly am so grateful for the kind words you share, and the change we are creating.

Please note that this episode dives in deep relapse and recovery, so please make sure you tread lightly and look after yourself. This conversation is important, but may be raw.

To find out more about George, you can find him on Instagram and Twitter @myo_minds and @MyoMinds, respectively.

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Tallulah O'Hea. Tallulah is a Body Confidence Coach and the founder of The Body Conversation, a company dedicated to delivering inspiring, educational and empowering body image workshops for teenage and pre-teen girls. Driven by a deep passion for supporting young girls in navigating body image challenges, Tallulah creates a foundation for meaningful discussions about body confidence within schools through her impactful workshops. Inspired by her own transformative journey in redefining her relationship with her body, Tallulah is committed to helping women overcome struggles with body image and cultivating a healthier, more positive connection with themselves.

This week, we discuss:

• Navigating puberty and body image issues.
• The impact of social media and parental influence on body image issues.
• Changing body image perspectives.
• Pregnancy and body acceptance.
• Reframing conversations around dieting.
• A new perspective on nourishment and punishment.
• Empowering young girls to exercise for self care.
• Creating positive body image in schools.
• Advice for teachers and parents supporting young people.

To learn more about Tallulah's work, you can visit The Body Conversation website at www.thebodyconversation.co.uk.

You can also connect with Tallulah on Instagram @tallulahohea and 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 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).

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Rory Brown. Rory is a health, behaviour, and performance coach and works with clients to determine the limiting beliefs they hold which are preventing calmness, confidence, and freedom.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• Rory's practice of working with clients to achieve their goals, promote beneficial change, and how his work in the fitness industry found him there.

• Goal setting, the need for a quick fix, and the difficulty in sticking to goals that are externally enforced rather than internally.

• The importance of discomfort, tolerance, and confidence in facing fear and promoting change.

• The role of breath work and mindfulness, and the feeling of safety and disconnect in relation to an eating disorder.

• Rory's personal experience of an eating disorder, and how he transitioned from having an eating disorder to the practice he works in now.

• The restriction and eating disorder or fear provides, and the realisation of the world outside of an eating disorder.

To find out more about Rory and his practice, you can find him on Instagram @rorythomasbrown or visit https://www.rorybrown.org/.

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorders, body image, trauma and other mental health-related topics that com individuals may find distressing. Please check in with yourself along the way, and tread lightly.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Jodie. Jodie is a vlogger, who hosts a Vlog with her husband Steve, documenting Jodie's recovery journey and how they are working as a partnership to navigate the challenges of eating disorder recovery.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• The role that Steve plays in Jodie's recovery, and how Jodie's perception of Steve's role has changed as her recovery journey has progressed.

• The importance of external, clinical support in eating disorder recovery for both the one with the eating disorder and their partner.

• The importance of recovering for you rather than recovering for a partner, or anyone externally.

• The importance of understanding what the eating disorder provides you in order to navigate recovery, determine your goals, and be able to move forward now for the future.

• Jodie's perspective of how to help someone with recovery in the moment, asking what they need, and being flexible and patient.

• Jodie's attempt at "All In", how this worked out for her, and how the way social media perceives all in might not be the most beneficial for recovery.

• The impact of Jodie's eating disorder on her marriage, demonstrating just how manipulative and detrimental eating disorders can be.

• The support that is available for partners, and how this needs to be improved.

To find out more about Jodie and their Vlog, you can find them on Instagram and Youtube @recoveryinpartnership, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjolMcNcoKiJHb0pfbf_GdA

Please note that this episode discusses eating disorders (particularly anorexia nervosa) relapse in realtime. Please check in within yourself throughout the episode, and note that this podcast should not be used as an alternative to clinical support.

In this weeks epiosde, Han is joined by Elle Kelly. Elle is a registered sport, eating disorder, and disordered eating dietitian. Elle works with clients with eating disorders and disordered eating to improve their relationship with food, and has excellent knowledge on this specifically in the athletic community.

As we move into a challenging time of year, where diet and gym culture thrive, we thought it would be good to navigate these challenges together and the impact of certain behaviours.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• Navigating the festive period, and the movement into the new year, and how to work through the normalisation of disordered eating behaviours.

• The difference between eating disorders and disordered eating, and how disordered eating has become normalised in society.

• The presence of disordered eating in sports and athletes, and the difficulty of identifying this due to external pressures, goals, training routines etc.

• The prevalence of eating disorders in lean vs non-lean and weight vs non-weight dependent sports.

• The Female Athlete Triad and Low Energy Availability (LEA) in athletes, what it is, how this can present, and the long term impacts of these issues.

To find out more about Elle, you can find her on Instagram @ellekellynutrition or visit her website https://www.eknutrition.com/.

Please note that this podcast discusses a number of eating disorder and disordered eating behaviours that some individuals may find challenging. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way. It should also be noted that this podcast should not be replaced by clinical support.

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Hannah Harvey. Han has personal experience of an eating disorder and her recovery journey, and now runs a peer support group to help others as a result of her personal experience.

In this week's episode we discuss:

• Han's personal experience of her eating disorder.

• The different aspects of your life and how the eating disorder can overshadow these, making you forget how you are enough in so many areas of your life but not with the eating disorder.

• What being in recovered or being recovered actually means, and how the eating disorder may try to distort this.

• Han's experience of recovery, navigating rules, and advice for others.

• Han's approach to setting goals in her recovery and New Year's and resolutions.

• How Han sets her big and small goals, how she sticks to them, and how a Tesco meal deal can change your life.

Additionally, Han and I set ourselves goals for when this podcast is released to see if we can set them. They were:

• Han (Harvey) - to be louder in calling out diet culture and to be really aware of the subtle messaging of diet culture around New Year.

• Han (Hickinbotham) - to be actively engaging in eating disorder treatment.

And... make sure you listen until the end for an incredible surprise.

To find out more about Han, you can follow her on Instagram @hananaharvey or Twitter @1HannahHarvey.

Please note that this podcast discusses anorexia nervosa recovery and thoughts around eating disorders. Please check in with yourself along the way. Note, this podcast should not be a replacement for clinical support.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Harriet Frew. Harriet is the founder of The Eating Disorder Therapist Podcast, works as a counsellor to help clients find peace with food and their body, and provides training to mental health professionals around eating disorders and body image.

In this weeks episode, we tackle your questions and concerns regarding the festive period, including:

• Navigating social events which are high frequency and checking in with yourself to ensure you are looking after yourself and not saying yes to everything causing burnout.

• How to navigate the food, ensure you eat regularly, and maintain your blood sugar levels.

• How to navigate challenging comments around food, appearance, diet chat etc from others and the importance of communication.

• How to navigate the guilt that sometimes comes alongside eating, and how we can begin to enjoy the food without wanting to compensate afterwards.

• How to navigate the urge to engage in binging and purging behaviours, and other compensatory behaviours which may feel inescapable during the festive period.

• The importance of communication, whether this is someone with you in person or someone who can be on the other end of the phone for when you need a vent.

• How to use Christmas as a tool for recovery, rather than fearing the event.

• Supporting a friend or family member in eating disorder recovery this Christmas, the importance of communication and checking in.

You can find out more about Harriet on Instagram @theeatingdisordertherapist_ or https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorder behaviours that some individuals may find triggering. Check in with yourself along the way and tread lightly. Please note that this podcast should not be replaced for therapeutic support.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Dr Joanna Silver. Joanna is the lead psychological therapist at Orri, a specialist eating disorder treatment service in London. Joanna joins us to discuss Christmas preparation, and to provide advice on navigating a number of festive concerns.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• Common concerns that Joanna has witnessed in clients including:

  • The increased number of social events and how to navigate them.

  • Spending more time with family members.

  • Wanting to restrict before social events.

  • The urge to binge because of the quantity and types of food in the home at Christmas that may normally be avoided.

  • Navigating triggering conversations around food and body.

• Supporting someone through eating disorder recovery as a family member or friend, and the importance of communication.

• How as a loved one to make sure you have time for yourself and enjoy the things you like about the festive period too.

My main takeaway from this podcast is: do what works for you, and what makes you happy.

You can find out more about Orri @orri_uk on Instagram or Twitter. You can also find out more at orri-uk.com.

You can also check out the BEAT website for support around the festive period, as mentioned by Joanna. https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/news/coping-with-eating-disorder-christmas/

Please note that this podcast discusses a number of eating disorder behaviours that some individuals may find difficult. please check in with yourself along the way and tread lightly.

Please don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe! You can find FOB on Instagram and Twitter @thefobpodcast or visit www.fullofbeansed.co.uk for more information!

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Emily Nuttall. Emily is a mental health campaigner, and ambassador for BEAT and Mind. Emily is also advising at Action for Children.

In this week's episode, we discuss:

• Emily's experience of an eating disorder.

• The impact of having cerebral palsy on the development of Emily's eating disorder, and how this impacted her recovery.

• The impact of having autism on the development of Emily's eating disorder, and how this impacted her recovery.

• What Emily found useful in her treatment, and the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach which individualises treatment based on the patient, not the diagnosis.

• Emily's awareness-raising work as an individual with lived experience.

To find out more about Emily, you can find her here:

• Twitter: @emily4993

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-nuttall-89b725195/

• Instagram: @emilyemzn

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/emilyn93

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Dr Jamie Feusner. Jamie is a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto, and is the principal investigator in the Brain, Body & Perception Research Program. The clinical research at the Brain, Body & Perception Research Program aims to understand the brain's basis of perception, emotion, and reward across conditions involving body image, obsessions, and compulsions.

The main research topics of the Brain, Body & Perception Research Program are Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Anorexia Nervosa (AN).

In this weeks episode we discuss:

• What is BDD?

• How Jamie got interested and started researching BDD.

• The link between OCD, AN and BDD.

• The brain region activation difference between someone with BDD and healthy controls.

• The difference in structures in the brain of individuals with BDD, and how they contribute to BDD symptoms.

• The importance of insight in BDD and how it can support an individual.

• The role SSRIs can play in improving the symptoms of BDD.

• The treatment options available for BDD, and the complexity of this are due to the involvement of many different parts of the brain.

• The next step in Jamie's research, using TMS to increase the brain's plasticity, which may improve the behavioural interventions provided for BDD. As well as eye movement, emotions, and brain connectivity.

If you would like to find out more information about the Brain, Body & Perception Research Program and Jamie's research, you can find more information here:

• Email: anorexia.research@camh.ca or bdd.research@camh.ca

• Website: https://bbp.lab.utoronto.ca/

• Twitter: @BDD_anorexia

Please note that this podcast discusses behaviours specific to eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Please check in with yourself along the way, and note that this episode should not be replaced for clinical advice and support.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Emmy Brunner. Emmy is a personal empowerment and transformation coach, psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and the CEO of The Recover Clinic. Through Emmy’s personal and professional experience, Emmy works with clients to establish their trauma response, and to help them develop coping mechanisms to manage difficult life events.

In this weeks episode we discuss:

Please note that this episode should not be replaced for professional support. If you are struggling, reach out and know you are not alone.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Dr Anna Oldershaw. Anna is a clinical psychologist and academic, specialising in emotion-focused therapy and schema therapy. Anna is also the Chief Investigator on the SPEAKS study, which aims to support patients in navigating emotions suppressed by AN, see the façade of AN, and promote growth and recovery through emotion-based scheme therapy.

• What is SPEAKS and how the study was conducted?

• How SPEAKS supports individuals in understanding their emotions and finding out who they are, and moving away from their vulnerable selves.

• Different coping styles may lead to the development of an eating disorder.

• Trusting yourself in recovery, moving from external to internal motivation.

• The therapeutic process involved in SPEAKS, including the formulation of self.

• The facade of anorexia nervosa, where anorexia nervosa might feel like it’s helping and when it becomes a poor fit in life.

• Finding alternative coping mechanisms through the development of a healthy adult.

• The applicability of SPEAKS, and its effectiveness for individuals with a longer duration and more complex eating disorder that is often missed in traditional therapies.

• The availability of SPEAKS and the future prospects.

• The results and promising outcomes from the SPEAKS study.

To find out more about SPEAKS or Anna…

• Twitter: @SPEAKSstudy & @annaoldershaw

• Email: anna@emotionspeaks.co.uk

• Private therapy & training: www.emotionspeaks.co.uk

• Papers:

  • Lost self paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00219/full

  • Seeing through the facade paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.868586/full

  • Trial protocol: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/12/2/e050350

  • SPEAKS therapy animation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gia_2y0CBvo

Please note that this episode should not be replaced by professional support and advice. If you are struggling, please reach out for support and know you are not alone.

A bit of a different episode this week - Full of Beans first ever SOLOCAST!

Join me as I take a deep dive into the past year and reflect on how recovery has gone this year, the things that have helped, and my thoughts for others.

This week, I discuss:

• Reflections on recovery and how this progressed in 2024.
• Why recovery felt different this time.
• The impact of an eating disorder on my friendships.
• The impact of a neurodivergent diagnosis on my recovery.
• The reality of recovery burnout.
• Understanding the difference between what you want and what your eating disorder wants.
• The importance of reminding yourself of the impact the eating disorder had on you to motivate you in recovery.
• The impact of an eating disorder on my relationship and how I changed this.

You can also connect with me on Instagram @thefobpodcast.

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).

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Jacqueline Davis. Jacqueline is the founder of Binge Breakers and works as a bulimia recovery coach to help her clients to change their habits, shift their mindsets and engage in intuitive eating.

In this weeks episode we discuss:

• Jacqueline's experience of an eating disorder, and how this lead her to coaching.

• The binge-purge cycle, and what these behaviours provided for Jacqueline.

• Jacqueline's recovery methods including pausing, managing urges, communication, and intuitive eating.

• Limited beliefs that prevent recovery, and the importance of unpacking what is holding you back in making the decision of stopping binge-purge behaviours.

• The link between bulimia and burnout, the consequences of behaviours that outweigh the "high" that are sometimes associated with binge-purge behaviours.

• How to navigate and reframe relapses, slip-ups, and the guilt and shame that can be associated with this into a learning moment and sign that difficult emotions are being felt.

• How to navigate weight restoration in bulimia recovery.

Jeanette Archer - pausing

To find out more about Jacqueline, you can follow her on Instagram @bingebreakers_bulimia, or check out her website https://www.bingebreakers.com.

Please note that this episode discusses behaviours such as bingeing and purging, which some individuals may find triggering. This podcast should not be replaced with clinical advice and support. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Sean Saw Jun Kyle. Sean has personal experience of difficulties with food and body image and joins Han in this episode to explore the differences between western and Asian culture, and how this may contribute to the development of difficulties with eating and body image.

In this week's episode, we discuss:

• Sean's experience of growing up in Singapore, and how the conversations around mental health differ from his experience in the UK.

• The difference in calorie counting and diet culture in Singapore compared to the UK.

• Sean's experience of force-feeding as a young Dragon Boat and canoeing national athlete, and the nutritional support he received.

• The normalisation of gym culture Sean was exposed to whilst growing up.

• The comments Sean received regarding his eating and weight as a child, and how this impacted his move the UK and eating around new people.

• The difference in understanding of mental health and eating disorders between generations in Singapore, and the change needed for a supportive environment.

Please note that this podcast discusses body types in different cultures, gym culture, and force-feeding which some individuals may find difficult.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Larabella (Lara) Myers, a friend of Han's from uni, who has personal experience of anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

In this week's episode, we discuss:

• Lara's experience of anorexia nervosa, treatment, and her recovery process.

• Lara's experience of a transition to binge eating disorder, and why she felt this transition occurred.

• Lara's experience of weight restoration, arbitrary measures set in treatment, and managing a change in body shape.

• The impact of prolonged starvation on Lara's hormones causing overstimulated thyroid glands and weight gain.

• Lara's move to Singapore and the impact of body ideals, food types, and cultural differences on recovery.

• Lara's tips for weight restoration and changing her perspective

To find out more about Lara, you can follow her on Instagram and TikTok @larabellamyers.

Please note that this episode discusses topics that some may find difficult including low weight and weight restoration.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Hope Virgo, Sharon White OBE and Suzanne Samaka. Hope Virgo is an award-winning mental health campaigner who has been involved in several campaigns and projects to improve patients' support for eating disorders (EDs). Sharon is the co-chair of the school nurses international, and the CEO of the School and Public Health Nurses Association (SAPHNA), where she is a passionate advocate for children, young people, and their families. Suzanne Samaka is a mental health campaigner and the founder of the Honesty About Editing Campaign which supports youth mental health against the challenges of low self-esteem and negative body image caused by edited content on social media.

On 17th October, MPs and campaigners will come together to launch the first ever eating disorder manifesto and a toolkit for school nurses empowering them to have the right conversations. EDs are not new illnesses, but they have risen increasingly since the pandemic and delays have led to chronic long-term illness and loss of life. Campaigners have acknowledged we are no longer hiding behind the pandemic and ensure no one is dying from an ED in 2022.

This campaign is working to remove the stigma, shame, guilt, and misunderstanding that surrounds these illnesses, ensuring timely access to specialist support is provided to everyone, and to provide adequate funding to meet the demand required of ED services. everybody should have timely access to specialist services.

The School Nursing Toolkit named "eating disorders can affect anybody" has been produced to support children, young people, and their families through the provision of the latest evidence, research, and user-informed best practice guidance. This will allow school nurses to work with families, schools, and peers to support mental health in and out of education.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• The ED manifesto, timely treatment, and the importance of speaking about EDs in all situations, not just schools.

• How the toolkit aims to support school nurses.

• The importance of involving carers, parents, teachers, school nurses, and others experiences and needs for the resource to be effective and useful.

• A school nurse's role is identifying and supporting the child, young person, and families with an ED.

• How to meet the demands of children and young people with the current workforce, and how this project will support mental health.

• How social media and digital technologies are used to come alongside children and young people to support their mental health.

• Teaching children and young people about mental health in schools.

• Prospects and plans for mental health support in children and young people.

• Working together as a team of mental health professionals, nurses, teachers, and families, with an asset-based, patient-centred approach in order to support the individual.

• The hope for translating these resources into tools available for adults and the workplace.

To find out more about the campaign, toolkit, and podcast guests, visit:

• SAPHNA:

  • Website - https://saphna.co

  • Toolkit - https://saphna.co/news/saphna-launch-eating-disorders-toolkit/

• Sharon White:

  • Twitter - @SAPHNAsharonOBE

• Suzanne Samaka (#HonestyAboutEditingCampaign):

  • Instagram - @protectyouthmentalhealth

  • Twitter - @suzannesamaka (twitter)

  • Campaign link - https://www.change.org/p/amend-the-social-media-law-to-label-content-that-has-been-digitally-edite

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Hailey Hechtman. Hailey is the Executive Director of Causeway, a non-profit organisation which helps people with mental illness and other challenges to find meaningful and rewarding work and to live more independently.

In this week's episode, we discuss:

• Mental health in the workplace, and how this can be affected and supported.

• How to navigate interviews and coming back to work following mental health difficulties.

• What Causeway do, and how they support individuals in the workplace.

• Hailey's personal experience of mental health issues and disordered eating.

• Diet culture in the workplace and how these conversations can be navigated.

• How to have a discussion around mental health with your employer, and how to create a safe and inclusive environment at work.

To find out more about Hailey and Causeway, you can find Hailey on Twitter and Instagram @HaileyHechtman, Causeway @CausewayWork on Twitter, or @causewayworkcentre on Instagram or visit https://www.causewayworkcentre.org/.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Georgie Lazzari. Georgie is a Peer Support Development Worker in the NHS, and a Group Facilitator at First Steps ED.

In this weeks episode, we discuss:

• Georgie's personal experience and progression to peer support work.

• Taking sick leave for an eating disorder and returning to work.

• The method, benefits, and challenges of peer support in eating disorders, and how this differs to clinical support.

• Working in eating disorders post recovery and the support required for these individuals.

Please note that this episode discusses recovery and eating disorder behaviours that some individuals may find difficult, please tread lightly and check in with yourself.

You can find more information about Georgie @GeorgieLazzari on Twitter and Instagram. Please also go to @FirstStepsED on Twitter and Instagram or www.firststepsed.co.uk to find out more about their peer support work.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Sam Sharpe and Syd Friedman who both work at the FEDUP collective. The FEDUP collective is an organisation fighting eating disorders in underrepresented populations.

Sam is a transgender, intersex person who is passionate about science communication, queering up the STEM field, and biology and social justice. Syd identifies as transgender, non-binary and bisexual, and is passionate about social and environmental justice, specifically advocating for LGBTQ communities and demonstrating the injustices in the US food and mental health systems.

We begin this episode by discussing Sam and Syd's personal experience, and how that led them to seek support from the FEDUP collective. We speak about the work of FEDUP, including their support groups, and the work they are doing to build awareness of eating disorders in trans, non-binary and intersex people.

Next we speak about the treatment available in the US for individuals with eating disorders, and touch on the injustices present in the health system for trans, non-binary and intersex people.

We then speak about the role of clinicians and peer support work, and discuss the importance of educating medical professionals on the unique support trans, non-binary and intersex people will require.

We discuss the limited research that is present regarding eating disorders in trans, non-binary and intersex people, and chat about the stigmas and preconceptions that may exist in society regarding eating disorders in trans, non-binary and intersex people. We also discuss the presence of ARFID and neurodiversity in the community.

To find out more about FEDUP, you can find them on Twitter and Instagram @fedupcollective or visit fedupcollective.org for more information.

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorders in trans, non-binary and intersex people that some individuals may find difficult. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined Tom Davies. Tom is the host of the Proper Mental Podcast, which aims (and achieves) to normalise conversations around mental health.

Han and Tom begin the episode by discussing the importance of talking about mental health illness, and the reasons why Tom started Proper Mental. We then discuss Tom's mental health journey, and how things hit a low point, leading to him having thoughts around ending his life.

We discuss the idea of masculinity, relationships, medication, fatherhood, and communication and how they fed into Tom's mental health journey.

Finally, we discuss what is needed next for mental health illness, and how awareness is only one part of the puzzle.

Please note that this podcast episode discusses topics such as depression and suicide. This podcast is based on lived experience and should not be used as a replacement for clinical advice. If you are struggling, please reach out support and remember this too shall pass.

For support, please find the following resources:

• Samaritans - for everyone

  • Call 116 123

• Papyryus - for everyone

  • Call: 0800 068 4141

  • Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org,

  • Text: 07860 039967,

  • Apps: https://papyrus.orcha.co.uk/

  • Help & Advice: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/help-advice-resources/

• Mind - for everyone

  • Call: 0300 123 3393

  • Email: info@mind.org.uk

  • Other organisations: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helping-someone-else/supporting-someone-who-feels-suicidal/useful-contacts/

• Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) - for everyone

  • Call: 0800 58 58 58

  • Visit: thecalmzone.net

• Shout Crisis Text Line - for everyone

  • Text "SHOUT" to 85258

  • Visit: https://giveusashout.org/

• YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: for people under 19

  • Text: "YM" to 85258

  • Visit: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/shout-85258/

• Childline – for children and young people under 19

  • Call: 0800 1111 (the number will not show up on your phone bill)

• SOS Silence of Suicide SOS Silence of Suicide – for everyone

  • Call: 0300 1020 505 (4pm to midnight every day)

  • Email: support@sossilenceofsuicide.org

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Logan Strouther. Logan is a Specialist Support Officer at First Steps ED, where he provides integrative psychotherapy. Logan is passionate about disordered eating behaviours which have been normalised in society, and both the negative and positive impacts they can have.

We start the conversation on the topic of rumination, and how many people engaging in ED behaviours will think about these 24/7, causing thoughts around food and body to persist all the time.

We then talk about "what I can eat in a day" videos and how they can driver comparison, and may not be accessible for all. We speak about the benefits and challenges these videos propose.

Another topic we discuss is using apps to track your food intake and exercise, and Logan shares his personal experience. We discuss how behaviours can be disordered, but not always meet the diagnosis for an eating disorder. Logan provides brilliant tips on becoming more trusting in yourself so you are able to step away from tracking calories.

We speak about the gym culture and where to draw the line of disordered eating, and with this speak about restrictive practices along with "cheat days".

Finally, we speak about the idea of good and bad foods, and how nutritional information and guidance has to be provided on a societal level rather than an individual level, which can often miss out on the nuance of eating disorders. We also discuss replacing natural foods with low sugar, fat, and carb options, and the thoughts around this in society.

To find out more about Logan and his work, you can follow Logan on Instagram @ed_psychotherapy.

Please note that this episode discusses a number of behaviours which may be triggering to some individuals. The purpose of this episode was to highlight the normalisation, yet problems associated with these behaviours. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this week's podcast, Han is joined by Florence. Florence is a key stage 2 teacher, on a mission to support children with their mental health.

In this episode, we start by discussing why Florence went into teaching and where her motivation to support children’s mental health came from.

We speak about the current education system and where mental health is taught, and Florence provides some great tips on bringing mental health conversations into the classroom. We also speak about the role of a teacher, how to navigate difficult conversations around food and body, and the differences between boys and girls.

We then speak about navigating lessons such as PE, how to support children who are uncomfortable and how to focus on compliments regarding achievements not looks.

We then speak about the impact parents can have on their children's biases towards food and body, and how difficult this can be. We discuss how the Department of Education can work to provide appropriate education to children about self-acceptance, which is fundamental to a productive, happy life.

Florence has provided the following recommendations for teachers and parents to learn more about eating difficulties, body image, and mental health, and how to have these conversations with children:

KS1:

• The heart and the Bottle - Oliver Jeffers

• Not Today ,Celeste - Liza Stevens

• Michael Rosen’s Sad Book - Michael Rosen

KS2:

Non-Fiction:

• How Not to Lose it: Mental Health Sorted - Anna Williamson

• You Are Awesome - Matthew Syed

Fiction:

• A Kind of Spark - Elle Mcnicoll

• Pumpkin Pie - Jean ure

• Julia & The Shark

• The Goldfish Boy - Lisa Thomoson

• All the Things that could go Wrong - Stewart Foster

• Interactive:

• The HappySelf Journal

• The Mood Journal - Fearne Cotten

• Draw it Out - Written by Steffanie Lorig and Rosalie Frankel

You can find out more about Florence and her work on Instagram at @GrowthNotGrades.

Please note that this podcast discusses issues such as eating difficulties, body image, and support for children.

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Emilie Faure. Emilie is the founder and CEO of Juniver, an award-winning health company that’s transforming the way we approach eating disorders. Juniver is the first digital therapeutic of its kind, providing on-demand 24/7 support through an app including a personalised, AI-powered recovery coach.

Juniver’s mission to improve access to effective help for people with eating disorders, is deeply personal to Emilie, born from her own recovery journey, which highlighted the gaps in traditional care.

Before founding Juniver, Emilie’s career spanned sales strategy and partnerships at organisations like White Cube gallery and Sotheby’s; she brings a wealth of experience scaling teams and leading with empathy.

This week, we discuss:

• Emilie's inspiration for starting Juniver and the services Juniver provides to people struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating.
• The technology behind the digital therapy solution, Juniver.
• The two pillars of recovery: managing an urge differently and eating enough for your bodies needs.
• Navigating urges when you're alone and how Juniver supports this in an unbias way.
• The keys to habit formation in recovery: start small, build on what you're doing already, experiment and tweak, celebrate success.
• Tips for navigating the festive season during eating disorder recovery including boundaries, planning and meeting yourself with compassion.

To learn more about Juniver, you can visit her website at www.joinjuniver.com or download the Juniver App on the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/juniver/id1637450809.

To access the discount mentioned in the episode, use code JUNIFOB.

Connect with Juniver by following them on Instagram @joinjuniver and TikTok @joinjuniver.com.

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).

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Dr Emily Setting. Emily was diagnosed with atypical anorexia in 2019, and is very passionate about debunking the stigmas associated with eating disorders.

We start by talking about Emily's experience, and how she developed an eating disorder in her adult years and how this came about for her. We spoke about her experience of gaining support from the GP, how her BMI didn't mean the criteria for anorexia nervosa, and the impact the comments the GP made on her eating disorder.

Throughout our conversation we come back to stigmas that our community felt need to be demystified in eating disorders, these include:

• EDs only occur in teenage women.

• Everyone with an ED is underweight.

• People with EDs don’t like food.

• People with EDs are attention seeking and selfish.

• Anorexia is the only ED.

• Recovery from an ED doesn’t take a very long time.

• EDs are shameful.

We speak about the role of an eating disorder and what it provides, how this makes recovery so hard, and the grieving process that comes with this. We speak about the addictive nature of eating disorders, and the normalisation of some disordered behaviours.

We speak about diet culture, and how a number of aspects of this have been incorporated into society and the impact of the dieting industry on our insecurities.

We speak about how for those who haven't engaged in eating disorder recovery navigating diet culture can be difficult as a result of a lack of awareness and understanding, and how in recovery you have to fit against all of this. We also speak about how our eating disorders have provided us with the knowledge that diet culture is not conducive or helpful, and how we are able to step away from this throughout recovery.

Please note that this episode discusses a number of eating disorder behaviours that may be triggering for some individuals. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Chloë Grande. Chloë is a Canadian mental health blogger, writer and speaker. Chloë has personal experience of anorexia nervosa, and following a relapse decided to start her blog to raise awareness of eating disorders.

In this weeks episode, we discuss Chloë's experience of her eating disorder, and how the pandemic triggered her relapse. We discuss her motivation for recovery, and how she has moved from having an eating disorder to raising awareness about them.

We also discuss Chloë's experience of Social Anxiety Disorder, the impact this has on her life, and how this integrates and affects her eating disorder.

To find out more about Chloë, her blog and her work, you can find her @chloshegrows on Instagram and Twitter, or visit chloegrande.com.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Been There Founder, Tessa Peters. Been There is an app for individuals with body image struggles, which provides free one to one mentoring support, via the app, from a real person who has experienced similar issues.

In this episode, we start by discussing Tessa's experiencing of developing an eating disorder, and how this impacted her life. We then spoke about her experience of Eating Disorders Anonymous, and how this inspired her to develop Been There.

We spoke about body image issues, and how we navigate these in our day-to-day lives. This leads onto discussions around social media and social support, and other mechanisms of support.

To find out more about Tessa and Been There, you can find them on social media @beenthere.app or visit www.beenthereapp.com.

Please note that this podcast discusses dieting and purging behaviours which may be triggering for some individuals. Please tread lightly and check in on yourself throughout.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Maddie Isaac. Maddie is a very good friend of mine, and is also a mental health nurse, who is currently awaiting treatment for her anorexia nervosa relapse.

With Maddie, we begin by discussing her experience of an eating disorder, her first diagnosis, and the treatment she received when she was younger. We then go onto discuss her life without an eating disorder, and how this crept back into her life during the pandemic.

We go on to speak about recovery, and how this feels more challenging this time around. We speak about the support Maddie's partner and flat mate provide for her, and the differences between support from friends is different to family, making recovery in adulthood feel more challenging.

Finally, we discuss Maddie's role as a mental health nurse, and how this made her more proactive in seeking support. We discuss Maddie's experience of witnessing eating disorders on her ward, the eating disorder training she received as a mental health nurse, and the changes we need to see going forward to provide adequate support in mental health services.

Please note that this episode discusses relapse, eating disorder behaviours, suicide, and other topics that listeners may find triggering. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Hazel Cornhill. Hazel is a mental health campaigner, podcaster, and blogger, who is working to increase awareness and bust stigmas around mental health. Hazel cohosts The Reality Tourist Podcast,– aka THE psychosis podcast, where Hazel speaks with others and discusses their experience of psychosis.

We begin this weeks episode by discussing the impact that bulimia and psychosis have on Hazel's day to day life. We discuss the behaviours involved in Hazel's bulimia and discuss how Hazel experiences psychosis, and how these conditions interact or are distinct.

We then speak about Hazel's experience of treatment, and how her comorbidities (including ADHD) have been managed and supported. We speak about the impact of each diagnosis, and how they worked to make support more challenging.

We then go through some hypotheses stated by M. Seeman (2014) to explore the interaction between bulimia and psychosis. These include:

• Eating disorders and psychoses are entirely separate disorders may occur in the same person by chance.

• Due to starvation, electrolyte and metabolic imbalances, psychotic-like symptoms may occur in patients with an eating disorder.

• Controlling food intake can provide mastery, achievement, and control in individuals who have a low self-efficacy (common in psychosis).

• Eating disorders are delusional in individuals who struggle with body image distortions.

• Eating disorders in an early sign of psychosis, or psychotic-like symptoms can be the sign of the beginning of an eating disorder.

• Anti-psychotics may cause weight gain and lead to eating disorder behaviours, whilst anti-depressants used in eating disorders can cause psychosis.

• Psychotic symptoms are a marker of severity in eating disorders, while food refusal signals a severe and dangerous stage of psychotic illness.

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorder behaviours, self-harm, suicide, and psychosis. This episode may be triggering for some individuals, so please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks episode Han is joined by Vicky Vella.

With Vicky, we begin by speaking about the current work they do in order to support medical staff working with individuals with eating disorders, ranging from dietitians to nurses to obstetricians, and the role that they may play in eating disorder treatment.

We then discuss the new guidelines, MEED, which stands for Medical Emergencies in Eating Disorders. The new guidance from the Royal College of Psychiatrists is based on the advice and recommendations of an Expert Working Group provides. It provides a comprehensive overview of the latest evidence associated with eating disorders, including highlighting the importance and role of healthcare professionals from right across the spectrum recognising their responsibilities in this area.

We talk about managing compensatory behaviours, refeeding syndrome, and NG tube feeding, and how they should be managed for eating disorder patients. We also speak about parental support and how parents can support their loved ones when admitted to hospital.

To find out more about Vicky and the training they provide, you can find them on Twitter @VickyVella2.

The MEED guidelines can be found here: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/improving-care/campaigning-for-better-mental-health-policy/college-reports/2022-college-reports/cr233

Please note that this episode discusses eating disorder behaviours and inpatient admission that may be required. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks podcast, Han is joined Nia Modley. Nia is a trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner and has her own experience of anorexia and bulimia nervosa.

We begin by discussing Nia's mental health journey, and the development of her eating disorder. Nia initially had anorexia nervosa, which later transitioned to bulimia nervosa. In the podcast we discuss how these eating disorders presented differently for Nia, the different impact they had, and how she felt towards them.

Later we discuss Nia's education, and how she dropped out of her exams in order to focus on her recovery (hence the title!) which she is extremely proud of and passionate about.

We then speak about Nia's poetry and how her writing helps her to talk about her mental health. We speak about the reality of recovery, the nitty gritty, the uncomfortableness, the desire to stop and the inability to see how numbing could be better than feeling. But how in the end, it is completely worth it.

To find out more about Nia and her poetry, you can find her on Instagram @niamodley or search Nia Modley on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZtN5jORoQdfPHPmuYEdVgQ

Please note: this podcast contains discussions surrounding anorexic and bulimic behaviours that may be triggering for some individuals. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this week’s episode, Han is joined by Tahlia David. Tahlia has ARFID and has had this all her life despite only being diagnosed when she was 20 years old.

We begin by discussing the development of ARFID for Tahlia, and the symptoms she and her family noticed. We discussed how this changed over the years, and how those around her changed their opinions of her eating habits as she came into adulthood.

We discuss Tahlia’s treatment and her misdiagnose of anorexia aged 15, and how she then went back for a diagnosis when she was 20 and got the correct treatment which has been improving her repertoire of foods she can manage.

We then speak about the awareness of ARFID and how this needs to improve, not only in society but also with medical professionals.

Finally, we talk about methods to increase the variety of foods that can be managed such as food chaining, and how as a loved one you can support your loved one navigating ARFID.

To find out more about Tahlia, you can follow her @tahliapaiged or read her blog that will be coming soon!

Please note that we discuss ARFID characteristics and behaviours that some individuals may find difficult to hear. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this week’s episode, Han is joined by Neil Procter. Neil is an actor and his theatre company, Lancashire People's Theatre, is developing a play about eating disorders in men based on Neils experience.

With Neil, we begin by discussing his personal experience of an eating disorder, and how he transitioned from anorexia, to OSFED, to bulimia, to BED, and orthorexia. We spoke about the Neil’s personality, environment, and social life at the time, and how this impacted his need for the eating disorder.

We then when onto speak about Neil’s experience of BED, the way these behaviours helped Neil manage life when it was falling apart, and why moving away from these behaviours was so hard when they are almost normalised in society.

Neil discusses his practice of Buddhism and how this has allowed him to focus on creating an unshakeable sense of self, rather than being defined by external factors, including his eating disorder. On the topic of conversation, we discuss Neil’s recent ADHD diagnosis and the impact he feels this has had both on the development and maintenance of his eating disorder.

We then go onto speak about the more beneficial coping mechanisms Neil has developed through recovery, and the impact being male has had on his journey overall. We spoke about the men who are helping to raise awareness for eating disorders, and the importance of more discussions around this from those in the public eye.

To find out more about Neil, you can follow him on Twitter @procter_neil or read more at Lancashire People’s Theatre (@lancashirepeoplestheatre).

Please note that we discuss various eating disorder behaviours in this episode. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

In this weeks very special duo episode, Han is joined by Dr Kamila Irvine and Zoe Burnett. Kamila researcher and lecturer at the School of Psychology at the University of Lincoln, specialising in body image and eating disorders. Zoe is an award winning speak, author, trainee counsellor at First Steps ED, and has lived experience of atypical anorexia.

For our pride month special, Dr Kamila and Zoe join us to speak about body image and eating disorders in lesbian and bisexual women. Dr Kamila has completed a number of research projects exploring body image in lesbian and bisexual women, revealing that body image may not be so different to straight women after all.

Additionally to Dr Kamila's research, we discuss the unique challenges that lesbian and bisexual women may face that may increase the development of an eating disorder. As ever, we can appreciate that eating disorders are multi-factorial, however these factors may increase the prevalence of eating disorders.

We also discuss topics such as objectification, body standards in the community, the impact of heterosexism and internalised beliefs regarding body image that relate to the topic.

To find out more about Dr Kamila, you can follow her one @DrKIrvine or find her research here: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kamila-Irvine.

To find out more about Zoe, you can follow her on socials @BarefootRebel1 or visit https://www.barefootrebel.co.uk/.

To find out more about First Steps ED, you can follow them on socials @firststepsed or visit https://firststepsed.co.uk/.

Please note: this episode discusses the unique challenges that the LGBTQ+ community may face that may increase body image and eating disorder struggles. Please tread likely and check in with yourself along the way.

This week, Han is joined by Julie and Fleur to discuss Non-Violent Resistance (NVR) in eating disorder recovery. Fleur, a mum of two, shares her experience using NVR to support her daughter through anorexia recovery with kindness and compassion. She highlights the importance of self-care and nurturing the parent-child relationship to help her daughter reconnect with the family instead of retreating into the disorder.

Julie, a family therapist in a CAMHS Eating Disorders Team, has been using NVR since being inspired by parents' stories at a 2011 conference. With a passion for NVR, Julie shares how its principles guide her as both a therapist and parent, offering valuable insights for families supporting a loved one.

This week, we discuss:

• What Non-Violent Resistance (NVR) is and how it supports individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
• Using NVR to help parents manage emotions and conversations with a loved one struggling with an eating disorder.
• The role of self-care and reconciliation gestures in reconnecting with a loved one.
• The value of external support and how it can differ based on individual needs.
• Strategies for managing frustration when a loved one isn’t engaging in recovery.
• Navigating difficult conversations about eating and treatment without feeling misheard or upset.
• How to seek support from others, like schools, and what to request.
• The importance of modeling a fulfilling life to help a child distance themselves from their eating disorder.
• Rebuilding trust and navigating the festive season with your child.

To find out more about NVR you can check out the following:

• Haim Omer - Non-Violent Resistance
• John Burham - The Cycle of Supported Meal

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).

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Hannah Lewin. Hannah is a qualified PT and the founder of Mind + Motion, an online tool that includes movement to help people move toward their recovery from disordered relationships with exercise and food.

With Hannah, we discuss how our relationship with exercise can be affected during an eating disorder. We talk about Mind + Motion, and how Hannah uses a compassionate approach to help her clients to value their body and how they can exercise, rather than feel like its never enough.

We discuss the role of a coach, and the expertise required to support an individual with an eating disorder history. Additionally, we discuss how you can find peace and enjoyment in exercise along the path of recovery.

To find out more about Hannah and Mind + Motion, you can follow @mindplusmotion or @hannahllewin on Twitter, or @mindplusmotion or @hannahlewin_ on Instragram. You can also visit https://mindplusmotion.com/ to find out more.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Bobby Temps. Bobby is the host of Mental - The Podcast to Destigmatise Mental Health, which speaks with a range of individuals about their mental health journey.

In this weeks episode, we begin by chatting with Bobby about their personal experience of mental health, and their epxeirnece of depression and anorexia. We discuss the differences between the two conditions, including the development, the stigma, and the impact the conditions had on their life.

We then go onto talking about recovery, and the impact this can have on our lives. We discuss mental health in general and talk about how this can shape you but can sometimes take over you. We talk about the development of our careers, and signs to be aware of in recovery.

Finally, we discuss Bobby's mental health campaigning and the changes required for mental health awareness in different generations.

To find out more about Bobby and Mental - The Podcast to Destigmatise Mental Health (or Bobby's other podcast, Dating Games), simply search Bobby Temps or the podcast name on your favourite podcast app, or you can find them on social media @bobby_temps or @mentalpodcast.

Please be aware we discuss anorexia and depression in this episode.

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by PhD candidate Melinda Karth. Melinda is a PhD candidate at Purdue University, where she is looking at anxiety in individuals "recovered" from anorexia nervosa.

With Melinda, we begin discussing her journey into neuroscience, and what inspired her research. We then speak about the current animal models that are used in eating disorder research, including the binge eating model and anorexia model in mice. We also discuss the potential for a bulimia nervosa animal model, and PICA in giraffes!

We then speak about Melinda's PhD work, and discuss how animals demonstrate symptoms of anxiety and depression, and discuss her PhD looking at anxiety and anorexia in weight restored individuals. Finally, we discuss how different parts of the brain are involved in symptoms of eating disorders and anxiety.

To find out more about Melinda and her research, you can follow her @MelindaKarth and check out Melinda's blogs here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-neuroscience-eating-disorders

Please note we discuss a number of eating disorder behaviours and how they are manipulated in mice models. Take care and tread lightly.