201. Fertility Without Weight Loss: A Radical Rethink with Guest Nicola Salmon

Ever feel like food is the only way you’re allowed to rest? In this episode, we dive into the complicated overlap between rest, productivity, and eating — especially when slowing down feels wrong.  We talk about using food to procrastinate, to collapse, or "let go" … and the cultural guilt that makes true rest so hard to claim.  If you’ve ever felt anxious doing nothing (unless snacks are involved), this one goes there. 00:49 The Struggle with Rest and Productivity 01:38 Exploring the Concept of Rest 03:36 Restorative Activities and Personal Reflections 05:58 The Role of Food in Rest and Procrastination 17:01 The Fear of Losing Momentum 18:49 Understanding Compulsive Eating 19:12 Functional vs. Emotional Eating 19:54 Binge Eating as a Coping Mechanism 20:56 The Pressure to Keep Going 21:51 Balancing Responsibilities and Self-Care 23:56 The Importance of Rest 25:00 Personal Experiences with Overcommitment 29:13 Navigating Hyper Productivity 35:20 The Right to Rest and Restore   Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Binge Eating Coach & Somatic Therapist IT 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

This week, we’re talking boundaries—the invisible lines that protect our time, energy, and sanity (when we actually enforce them). Stef and Sarah unpack what boundaries really are (hint: not just saying “no”), how they show up in our bodies, our relationships, and our work—and why so many of us struggle to hold them. From family dynamics to friend drama, people-pleasing traps to food boundaries, they share real stories of what it takes to define and defend your limits without guilt. They also get into the psychology behind rigid vs. porous boundaries, how social conditioning makes it harder for some of us to draw the line, and why clear communication isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. If you’ve ever felt like setting a boundary makes you mean—or like you’re constantly betraying yourself just to avoid conflict—this conversation is for you. Tune in for a candid, compassionate look at how to honor your needs and why boundaries aren’t just protective… they’re a form of kindness. 01:09 Defining Boundaries 02:20 Types of Boundaries 04:09 Personal Experiences with Boundaries 08:09 Boundaries in Relationships 10:32 Communicating Boundaries Effectively 11:41 Challenges in Setting Boundaries 13:11 Owning Your Boundaries 21:23 The Importance of Clear Communication 22:56 Setting Boundaries with Family 24:35 Navigating Boundaries in Friendships 26:41 Balancing Personal and Professional Boundaries 28:56 Understanding Boundaries in Therapy 34:57 Boundaries and Food Relationships 40:55 Concluding Thoughts on Boundaries Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Binge Eating Coach & Somatic Therapist IT 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

In this episode, the hosts introduce their guest Nicola Salmon, a fertility coach with a medical science background who advocates for fat-positive fertility. Nicola shares strategies for navigating the biases in fertility healthcare systems, especially for those in bigger bodies. She discusses her journey, the myths around fertility in fat bodies, and the challenges posed by current medical practices, including BMI restrictions and the implications of GLP-1 medications. Nicola also offers insights on advocating for oneself in medical settings and emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive and safe environment. The conversation covers practical advice, highlights the emotional aspects of the journey, and aims to provide both hope and actionable steps for those struggling with fertility and fat bias. MEET Nicola Salmon Fat Positive Fertility Membership on KOFI Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Binge Eating Coach & Somatic Therapist IT 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

In our epic 200th episode, we celebrate nearly four years of non-stop conversations without missing a single week! We dive into listener questions, sharing our (sometimes poignant, sometimes hilarious) insights on binge eating recovery, talking to kids about food, and handling body insecurities. We reveal a little about ourselves with a fun quiz—you'll find out who’s the over-packer and who’s likely to adopt a stray pet on impulse. Stick around for the grand finale: a HUGE announcement that’ll have you scrolling to the end, and nope, it’s not us quitting the podcast. You won't want to miss this celebration. Join us!   00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration 00:52 Reflecting on Past Episodes 01:11 Plans for the 200th Episode 02:40 Q&A: Personal Experiences with Binge Eating 06:02 Q&A: Talking to Kids About Food 09:18 Q&A: Coping with Weight Gain and Body Grief 11:50 Q&A: Hormonal Cycles and Eating 19:47 Q&A: Intuitive Eating and Body Image 33:44 Discussing the Experience of Binge Eating 34:47 Lessons Learned from Each Other 38:31 Surprising Facts About Each Other 40:47 Fun Quiz Segment 51:06 Big Announcement   Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Binge Eating Coach & Somatic Therapist IT 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

In episode 199, the hosts introduce and interview Anny Johnson from The Fat Ugly Blog. Anny shares her personal story of recovering from binge eating disorder and discusses the complexities of her journey as a black woman in recovery spaces. Despite technical hiccups during the introduction, Anny remains a captivating guest, shedding light on her experience of achieving her dream job as cabin crew, the ongoing challenges in body image, and the power of self-compassion. She speaks about reclaiming terms like 'fat' and 'ugly' and navigating through diet culture to find her own path to health and well-being. The episode emphasizes the importance of owning one's story and making personal, empowering choices. Meet Anny: Website Instagram Upcoming book: "Fat Ugly" Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT 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

In this live-streamed episode, Stef and Sarah explore the nuanced world of cravings — what drives them, how they differ from binge or overeating urges, and why they’re often more complicated than they seem. They discuss the physiological and emotional undercurrents behind cravings, from hormonal shifts to nervous system dysregulation, weaving in personal experiences — including Stef’s two most memorable pregnancy cravings. The conversation unpacks how cravings show up differently for restrictors versus permitters, how appetite and craving aren't always the same thing, and what it looks like to approach cravings from a more regulated, self-led mindset. Rather than reducing cravings to something to fix or fear, this episode invites a deeper, more compassionate understanding of them — one that honors both biology and psychology. 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. 01:27 Defining Cravings 03:02 Personal Experiences with Cravings 05:05 Cravings vs. Binge Urges 08:03 Cravings and Emotional Regulation 13:20 Cravings and Permission 16:40 Understanding the Root of Cravings 20:02 Pathology in Wellness Culture 20:51 PMS Cravings and Appetite 21:38 Understanding Cravings vs. Wants 24:31 The Role of Restriction in Cravings 29:45 Cravings and Recovery 33:26 Cravings vs. Urges Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT 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  

In this episode, Stef and Sarah are talking about body image fluctuations. They kick things off with Stef admitting she’s been in a bit of a funk lately, which has her feeling some body image blues. They chat about how our moods can totally mess with how we see our bodies—like when you're tired or anxious, everything feels heavier and more irritating. Stef talks about the importance of recognizing these mood shifts and working on regulating them before trying to 'fix' anything else. They also tackle the topic of 'floods'—those visceral reactions to body image triggers—and share some strategies for managing them when they hit. They also highlight the confusing mix of emotions when weight changes feel different depending on the context. Sarah shares an amusing anecdote about feeling self-conscious in a string bikini.  Stef touches on her past struggle with 'reverse body dysmorphia,' where she clung to an outdated image of her younger self. They wrap up with some thoughts on how seasons influence our body image and the power of gradual exposure. Overall, this episode is a mix of raw honesty, empathy, and practical tips for anyone navigating the ever-changing landscape of body image. Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT 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

In this heartfelt episode, Sarah and Stef explore the concept of self-forgiveness, including that it isn't about excusing harmful behaviors but rather about understanding and acknowledging the underlying causes of our actions.   Sarah emphasizes the role of self-forgiveness in her personal growth, sharing how recognizing our inherent innocence can change the way we address self-blame and guilt. Stef reflects on the interplay between self-forgiveness and accountability, discussing the importance of balancing compassion with the acknowledgment of our responsibilities. Listeners will find relatable anecdotes about personal struggles with self-forgiveness and practical insights into how to navigate these feelings. The conversation touches on themes of regret, grief, and the importance of staying present and regulated while addressing past actions. Together, Sarah and Stef offer a compassionate perspective on how to hold discomfort, avoid the trap of self-victimization, and move toward a healthier, more forgiving state of mind. Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT 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

The main topic of the episode addresses the recent cultural emphasis on thinness and the use of weight loss drugs like GLP-1 medications. Stef and Sarah explore the societal pressure for thinness, the resurgence of weight loss as a value, and how it impacts people on a personal level, particularly those in recovery from eating disorders. They delve into their own experiences and observations about how the culture of weight loss drugs affects our body image. Stef discusses the guilt and pressure experienced by both those who choose to take or avoid these medications and shares personal reasons for choosing not to use them. Sarah shares experiences of interactions with friends who have undergone significant weight changes and the emotional complexities involved. They talk about emotions like jealousy, frustration, and FOMO. The conversation also touches on the ethics and responsibilities of influencers regarding transparency about weight loss, especially when it involves medications like GLP-1. Both hosts express a sense of hope despite the current cultural climate, acknowledging the pendulum swing in societal values and emphasizing patience and trust in an eventual rebalancing towards body diversity and acceptance. Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Looking for a  course about how to fold in health considerations after recovery without a diet culture lens? "Refining Intuitive" (formerly the Gentle Nutrition Mindset) course starts on April 28.) 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

In this episode, Sarah and Stef explore the topic of why they decided to make this a rare two-part series. Stef sparked the idea due to a client's suggestion to dive deeper into the emotional aspects tied to realizing one can't diet anymore. They chat about their personal experiences and how differently they feel about the inability to diet. Stef shares that she often felt anger, stemming from the frustrating feeling of being controlled by an uncontrollable force. Sarah, on the other hand, felt sadness and a bit of unease about not being able to diet, describing a conflict between what she believed and what she felt. The discussion then shifts to the process and emotions tied to this realization. Stef talks about how her next phase of evolution might be becoming softer with herself, while Sarah contemplates if she should be more disciplined. They both recognize that regardless of the approach, the feeling of trying their best despite obstacles is very sobering. Both hosts touch on the grief associated with recognizing they can’t diet anymore—an emotion that only surfaced fully during their recovery journeys. They discuss how memories of past attempts come rushing back, creating a whirlwind of feelings and self-reflection. Join our 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 – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Looking for a  course about how to fold in health considerations after recovery without a diet culture lens? "Refining Intuitive" (formerly the Gentle Nutrition Mindset) course starts on April 28.) 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