Healing Through Pleasure, Presence, and Power with Danielle Harel

In the second episode of this series, Lisa unpacks what it means to reclaim exercise as an act of self-care, not self-control. Drawing from her own journey and trauma-informed expertise, she explores how mindful, functional movement can reconnect us to our bodies, build emotional resilience, and support holistic well-being. With compassion and clarity, Lisa challenges the myths we’ve inherited about exercise, and invites everyone to shift from shame-based discipline to embodied empowerment.Topics Include:Relationship with ExerciseFunctional Training Mindset and DisciplineSelf-Compassion and Growth[1:42] Lisa reflects on her long-term journey with exercise, acknowledging years of conscious movement and empathizing with listeners who feel disconnected from exercise or have negative associations due to past experiences. Lisa shares her own childhood experiences of gym class anxiety and trauma, expressing deep empathy for listeners who may carry similar feelings into adulthood. Lisa discusses the concept of reclaiming one’s relationship with exercise, encouraging listeners to redefine movement in a way that feels supportive and enjoyable for their future.[4:32] Lisa explains functional training as movement patterns that mirror everyday activities (walking, running, lifting, lunging, squatting, pushing, pulling, twisting) and highlights its integration into daily life for holistic health. Lisa emphasizes that exercise is not just about physical health but also mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. [7:50] Lisa discusses how exercise can help heal dissociation and mind-body disconnect, especially for those with trauma histories, by fostering intentional awareness of bodily sensations. Lisa suggests using movement not to change the body, but to reconnect with it and become more aware of physical sensations, which can translate to greater emotional awareness. Lisa explains that experiencing discomfort during exercise is essential for physical and personal growth, distinguishing between healthy discomfort and pain, and highlighting how tolerating discomfort in the gym can translate to better emotional resilience.[22:00] Lisa stresses the importance of recognizing and respecting one’s physical limits and plateaus during exercise, noting that denial can lead to injury and that these experiences do not reflect personal failure. Lisa emphasizes the necessity of rest and recovery, stating that even professional athletes and Olympians should not work out seven days a week, and that honoring the body’s need for rest prevents injury and overtraining. [30:30] Lisa discusses the concept that there is no finish line in fitness; progress is ongoing, with new goals always emerging. Lisa emphasizes the importance of being present, celebrating achievements, and avoiding burnout by acknowledging progress. Lisa addresses the complex relationship with discipline, advocating for a self-loving, compassionate approach rather than self-loathing. Lisa discusses how practicing discipline in movement and exercise can help with other habits and behaviors outside of the workout space.[51:25] Lisa discusses how exercise serves as a mechanism for practicing resilience, self-reflection, and personal development, focusing on how individuals respond to obstacles, discomfort, and disappointment. Lisa talks about how her clients would often underestimate their physical and emotional strength, and the role of her as their coach in helping them realize their true capacity. *The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 

In the first solo episode of this series, Lisa dives into what it takes to build a healthy, lasting relationship with movement and exercise. She explores how tuning into your body — not punishing it — is the key to sustainable exercise, and how self-inquiry and experimentation help you discover what truly feels good. Lisa reframes movement as essential care, not a chore — something our bodies are meant to do — and invites listeners to shift from a mindset of restriction to one of nourishment, growth, and joyful embodiment.Topics Include:Exercise MindsetSelf CompassionBody Awareness[1:03] Lisa makes two announcements: the group coaching program that started in May and the five-day retreat at the Omega Institute in September. [3:54] Lisa explains her motivation for recording a solo episode focused on exercise, aiming to provide a comprehensive resource for those struggling with their relationship to exercise. Lisa reflects on her personal growth since starting the podcast, describing the initial anxiety and how she now feels calm, grounded, and grateful for the platform.[5:33] Lisa emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s beliefs and emotional responses to exercise, encouraging listeners to reflect on where their attitudes toward exercise originated. Lisa urges listeners to critically examine the origins of their beliefs about exercise, including the influence of experts and profit motives, and to assess whether these beliefs are still serving them.[15:53] Lisa discusses viewing exercise as maintenance and care for the body, emphasizing the body as a vehicle for the soul and the importance of movement for overall well-being. Lisa addresses the emotional challenges of returning to exercise after a break, the tendency to compare oneself to past abilities, and the need for both gentle and fierce self-compassion to overcome avoidance.[41:21] Lisa talks about the importance of engaging in a conversation with the body rather than making demands. Instead of immediately acting on the urge to move by enforcing structured exercise, one should ask the body what kind of movement, duration, and intensity it desires. [57:28] Lisa encourages listeners to reclaim their relationship with exercise, making it personally meaningful and enjoyable rather than dictated by external pressures or diet culture. The invitation is to reflect on how to integrate these ideas into one’s life. Lisa invites listeners to submit questions about exercise and movement via Spotify, email, or Instagram for future episodes. *The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 

In this episode, Lisa is joined by Danielle Harel, PhD and cofounder of the Somatica Institute. Together, they discuss healing through embodied pleasure, mindful sensory engagement, and personal growth strategies to counteract societal conditioning and rebuild self-worth.Topics Include:Embodied PleasureSelf EmpowermentPleasurable Experiences[1:06] Lisa welcomes Danielle Harel, PhD in human sexuality and co-founder of the Somatica Institute, for a groundbreaking conversation on tackling themes of sex, intimacy, body image, and self-worth. Lisa shares the email that connected her with Danielle and her excitement at exploring this topic on the OOTC podcast. Lisa notes that with over 120 episodes, this discussion marks a first exploration of topics like sex and intimacy on the podcast. They discuss how societal messages and objectification, such as the constant focus on appearance and weight, deeply influence self-perception and body shame. Danielle talks about the need to counteract these habits by reconnecting with internal sensations. [10:06] Danielle explores using sensuality, intimacy, and erotic embodiment as tools for empowerment and this includes embracing full body sensations and recognizing pleasure as a means to rebuild self-worth and challenge internalized cultural messages. Lisa and Danielle excitedly discuss neurobiology and the concept of neuroplasticity, noting that repetitive thought patterns (like objectifying oneself) form strong neural pathways, which can be reshaped by actively engaging with pleasurable sensations and mindful embodiment.[18:33] Danielle talks about sex beyond penetration, promoting the idea of pleasure in everyday experiences such as movement, tasting food, and overall sensory enjoyment and the empowerment found in diverse pleasurable experiences. discussion about food as a source of pleasure. Lisa and Danielle point out that when food becomes the only source of pleasure, it can lead to disordered eating. They discuss the need for a balanced approach where food is enjoyed along with other life pleasures.[35:30] Lisa and Danielle cover the significance of receiving compliments and self-affirmation as a way to counteract internal criticism, encouraging acceptance and internalizing positive feedback. Danielle discusses how many people have a fear of pleasure due to cultural and societal conditioning. Lisa and Danielle discuss the challenge of slowing down and being present, making gradual steps to allow the nervous system to learn that pleasure is safe.[51:06] Lisa and Danielle talk about the importance of reclaiming one’s own sexuality from societal and cultural narratives, emphasizing a shift towards experiencing and expressing bodily pleasure as a natural part of being human.[56:04] Danielle discusses the benefits of personal growth experience in a group of other people who are going to do it with you and the core training offered through the Somatica Institute. She shared that there is also training for coaches. Danielle offered a 20% off discount for the OOTC audience for the Love Your Body class. She can also be found on Instagram. *The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 

In this episode, Lisa is joined by group coaching alumni, Jen. They discuss Jen’s personal journey of healing from childhood family dynamics, body image struggles, and emotional challenges, highlighting the importance of community, self-responsibility, and ongoing support in achieving self-acceptance and well-being.Topics Include:Family DynamicsBody ImageEmotional Healing[0:31] Lisa announces that the next round of the Out of the Cave group coaching program will start soon in May 2025, encouraging listeners to reach out within the next couple of days if interested.[2:13] Lisa introduces the episode as an interview with Jen, who has participated in the group coaching program, aftercare program, and a retreat, highlighting Jen’s growth and healing. Jen shares she is 43 years old, a wife, mother to a 19-year-old and a 7-year-old first grader, the youngest of three sisters, and a special education teacher. She identifies as a recovering perfectionist and people pleaser.[4:07] Jen describes being a ‘surprise’ child, with sisters 8 and 13 years older, and growing up in a house built for two children. She recalls her parents’ backgrounds, family traditions, and the impact of being the youngest and unplanned. Jen reflects on the recurring family narrative of her being a surprise, how it was discussed publicly, and how she internalized this story, realizing its impact only in adulthood. Jen describes predictable family meals, with her father being present and supportive, and her mother always preparing meals. Jen talks about her father finishing leftover food to avoid conflict, highlighting family dynamics around food and emotional safety.[46:39] Jen describes initial isolation and academic focus during the first quarters of college, experiencing loneliness. Her turning point came when her roommate encouraged her to join a sorority, which led to increased confidence and a sense of belonging. Jen realized that many peers in the sorority share similar body image struggles, which helped her feel less alone and more confident.[58:53] Jen describes a period of self-discovery and reinvention during and after college, emphasizing the importance of social connections, leadership opportunities, and overcoming social anxiety. Jen met her husband through a persistent colleague, married after a few years of dating, and navigated the challenges of blending families and moving homes. Jen experienced a ‘geriatric pregnancy’ at age 36, lost weight due to focusing on her child’s well-being.[1:03:27] Jen discusses the significant stress from her father’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis, his death, and a miscarriage, all compounded by the pandemic. Jen talks about reverting to food for comfort and loss, leading to substantial weight gain. Jen sought out supportive doctors, eventually connecting with Dr. Susan Caldwell who recommended the OOTC podcast. Jen credits this as a turning point, leading to self-reflection and engagement with a supportive community.[1:12:52] Jen emphasizes the necessity of group support, aftercare, and the ongoing connection with others who understand her experience. Lisa and Jen discuss that healing has no finish line, is messy, and requires ongoing acceptance and adaptation. Jen talks about initially resisting group programs but found it essential for connection and healing, noting the value of support from others. Jen encourages listeners to overcome hesitation and invest in their own healing, stating the process is life-changing and worth the investment. *The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 

In this episode, Lisa is joined once again by group coaching alumn, Theresa and together they explore Theresa’s journey of personal growth. They focus on her evolving relationship with food, emotional awareness, and the continuous process of recovery and behavior change.Topics Include:RecoveryEmotional AwarenessBehavior Changes[2:51] Theresa introduces herself as a mother, a wife, a friend, a sister, and all of the things.Theresa reflects on her personal growth since her last podcast appearance in 2023, noting significant changes in her relationship with food and self-awareness. Theresa discusses her struggle with dieting and the illusion of control over food, highlighting her realization of not eating enough calories.[10:29] Theresa shares her emotional journey regarding her body image, including feelings of sadness and the desire to stabilize her weight. Theresa mentions the concept of addiction transference, emphasizing the importance of not replacing one addiction with another.[17:10] Theresa expresses feeling brave and vulnerable while sharing personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of not caring about others’ opinions. Lisa discusses skepticism around dieting and the false promise of achieving a goal weight to solve body image issues.[27:32] Theresa shares personal growth experiences, highlighting changes in mindset and behavior regarding food and self-acceptance. Lisa explains using the relationship with food as a mechanism to learn self-love and reparenting. Theresa describes integrating different parts of oneself and developing self-compassion, leading to less judgment and more conscious choices.[33:47] Lisa discusses the ongoing nature of recovery, comparing it to the 12-step model, emphasizing that recovery is a continuous process and not a one-time fix. Theresa shares initial resistance to the concept of recovery related to food, but finds comfort in the idea of recovery from codependence, as discussed by Terry Cole.[51:43] Lisa explains the importance of recognizing emotional eating patterns and learning to sit with discomfort to make different choices.Theresa highlights the value of group support in the recovery process, noting how group questions can help individuals understand their own experiences.[58:13] Lisa emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection, particularly in moments of stress or emotional distress and the power of breath awareness to shift from a stress response to a stress relief response. Theresa and Lisa discuss the idea that issues with food are often not about the food itself but about underlying emotional needs and coping mechanisms.[1:01:32] Lisa mentions that in module 11 of the 14-week group coaching program, highlighting the ongoing nature of personal development and the realization that change is a continuous process. Lisa wraps up by telling Theresa how proud she is of her progress. *The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 May OOTC Group Coaching Program

In this episode, Lisa is joined by Jasmine Hormati, a registered dietitian and certified intuitive eating counselor, who founded Mendinground Nutrition in NYC. Jasmine shares her insights on a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach to nutrition, focusing on eating disorders and disordered eating. She discusses her journey into the field, the challenges of working in a non-diet space, and the importance of understanding clients’ needs and desires for weight loss.Topics Include:Eating Disorders and RecoveryIntuitive EatingNutrition Therapy[1:48] Jasmine Hormati introduces herself as a registered dietitian, certified intuitive eating counselor, and founder of Mendinground Nutrition, focusing on eating disorders and disordered eating with a non-diet approach. Jasmine shares her journey from being pre-dental to discovering her passion for nutrition and intuitive eating, influenced by her upbringing and education in Los Angeles and UC Berkeley. [8:00] Lisa and Jasmine discuss how intuitive eating and Health at Every Size differ from traditional nutrition education, emphasizing a balanced, non-diet approach to food and body image. Jasmine explains her approach to supporting clients with eating disorders, focusing on food, exercise, and body image, while incorporating emotional and logistical aspects.[14:33] Lisa and Jasmine cover the pendulum swing from dieting to anti-diet culture and finding a middle ground with intuitive eating, emphasizing flexibility and balance. They unpack how emotional eating is not inherently problematic unless it becomes the primary coping mechanism. They talk about the importance of having a balance of physical and emotional solutions.[26:37] Lisa and Jasmine dive into how diet culture often disconnects individuals from their body’s cues, leading to mistrust and the need for reconnecting with one’s body is essential for intuitive eating. Jasmine explains that her practice is weight-inclusive, meaning she focuses on health indicators beyond weight, such as blood values and emotional well-being.[38:00] Lisa and Jasmine discuss how she addresses clients who express a desire to lose weight. They explore the reasons behind this desire and focus on holistic health rather than prescribing weight loss plans. They both emphasize the importance of keeping the client at the center of care, respecting their goals, and not imposing the practitioner’s agenda.[40:56] Jasmine acknowledges the challenges of working in a non-diet, weight-inclusive space, especially when clients have specific weight loss goals. Lisa and Jasmine discuss the influence of medical professionals and the importance of questioning their authority when it conflicts with personal health goals.[50:00] Lisa and Jasmine wrap up the discussion with where she can be found online: Website | Instagram.*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 May OOTC Group Coaching Program 

In this episode, Lisa and Lara Days discuss the controversial topic of pursuing intentional weight loss during eating disorder recovery. They explore different perspectives, emphasizing the importance of first achieving a stable relationship with food before considering weight loss. Topics Include:Eating Disorders and RecoveryIntentional Weight LossFat Phobia[0:06] Lisa begins this episode by announcing the last day of the early bird special for ⁠her May group coaching program⁠ and a ⁠free seven-day mirror work challenge⁠ starting March 31, 2025. She also mentions her upcoming Omega Retreat, ⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food⁠, on September 7-12, 2025 for deeper in-person healing work. [6:43] Lara introduces herself as an intuitive eating counselor, sound healer, yoga instructor, and musician, currently residing in Dallas, TX. Her work is rooted in her core belief that all humans have the right to experience a joyful relationship with food, movement, body, and self.[8:00] Lisa and Lara discuss the nuances of eating disorder recovery and intentional weight loss. They emphasize the importance of defining recovery and ensuring a stable relationship with food before considering weight loss. Both agree on prioritizing mental and emotional healing over focusing solely on weight loss.[21:53] Lisa discusses a three-level approach to weight loss, focusing on mental and emotional well-being before addressing physical changes. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and healthy habits, noting that weight loss can occur naturally when health is prioritized.[33:00] Lisa and Lara discuss the societal obsession with aesthetics and the need for a distinction between weight loss for health versus aesthetics. They talk about the importance of addressing quality of life issues, such as pain and mobility, over superficial weight goals. Lisa shares her personal experience with weight loss and the stigma around wanting to lose weight. She stresses the importance of creating a space where people can pursue weight loss for comfort and health without feeling judged or shamed.[46:00] Lara and Lisa discuss the nuances of fat phobia and weight loss, emphasizing that wanting to feel better physically does not equate to fat phobia. They highlight the need for more nuanced conversations around body image and health. [53:56] Lara talks about intuitive eating and the importance of understanding body cues. They explore that discomfort often arises from unfamiliarity with one’s body and stress the need to explore the reasons behind this discomfort, such as lifestyle changes or physical limitations.[1:03:57] Lisa and Lara discuss the ineffectiveness of one-size-fits-all approaches in health and wellness. They criticize the concept of ‘one size fits all’ in clothing and diet plans, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches.[1:06:37] The conversation touches on cancel culture, with Lisa expressing a desire to cancel it. They discuss the nuances of cancel culture, acknowledging that while it can be justified in some cases, it often lacks understanding and context. Lisa and Lara debate the impact of ‘What I Eat in a Day’ videos. While acknowledging potential harm, they argue for a more nuanced view, suggesting that these videos can be informative if presented with the right intentions and context.[1:16:57] Lisa and Lara wrap up the discussion with where she can be found on Instagram.*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 May OOTC Group Coaching Program - Early Bird Special $500 off by 11:59 PM EST on March 31, 2025 

In this episode, Lisa is joined by Jaime where they explore Jaime’s journey through bullying, emotional eating and alcohol use, and physical pain to her recovery and transformation through the OOTC group coaching and self-acceptance. Topics Include:Emotional Eating and DrinkingEmotional SobrietyImportance of Community Support[0:06] Lisa begins this episode by announcing the opening of her group coaching program with an early bird discount and a free seven-day mirror work challenge starting March 31, 2025. She also mentions her upcoming Omega Retreat, Reclaiming Peace With Food, on September 7-12, 2025 for deeper in-person healing work. [6:45] Jaime introduces herself as a lifelong learner, a teacher, an artist, a writer, a creator, and a healer who always wants to learn and better herself then goes out into the world to teach and heal others. [8:38] Jamie shares her journey of healing from a toxic relationship with food and body image, influenced by her family’s diet culture. She recalls a significant childhood memory of being shamed for her appearance, which impacted her self-worth and eating habits. Lisa emphasizes the importance of not making negative comments about food and body to children and suggests resources for parents to support intuitive eating in their kids.[13:00] Jaime discusses her struggles with emotional eating and alcohol as coping mechanisms during middle and high school, leading to social anxiety and isolation. Jaime acknowledges awareness of problematic drinking habits from a young age, using alcohol to cope with social anxiety and build confidence.[23:07] Lisa shares a similar experience with early alcohol use, seeing it as a social activity without awareness of its coping function. Jaime reflects on her self-worth being tied to body image, influenced by bullying and societal pressures during adolescence. Lisa highlights the issue of self-worth being linked to physical appearance, leading to a lifelong cycle of weight loss and gain. [34:58] Jaime discusses her journey with weight loss and health issues, including sleep apnea and back pain. Despite some improvements, she struggled with back pain, leading her to explore mind-body approaches at Omega retreats. She resonated with the teachings of Nicole Sachs and Lisa, which led to a deeper exploration of journaling and self-discovery. [43:26] Jaime eventually joined Lisa's program to further her personal growth and connect with others. Jaime discusses overcoming chronic pain and the importance of addressing body image and food relationships as part of her healing journey. She emphasizes the value of community support in her recovery process.[50:12] Jaime shares her experience in the OOTC group program, noting the benefits of community support and the opportunity to observe personal growth over time. Jaime highlights the importance of learning in a community setting and stepping out of her comfort zone.[1:01:00] Jaime shares a recent epiphany about her fear of weight loss, linked to receiving comments and judgments from others. She realized that avoiding weight loss was a way to control these interactions. Lisa emphasizes the role of control in weight loss fears, noting that emotional resistance can stem from past experiences and relationships, such as parental expectations.[1:06:59] Jaime discusses the importance of balance and emotional sobriety, choosing not to use food to cope with emotions. Lisa and Jaime wrap up the discussion by talking about focusing on feeling good and healthy rather than achieving a specific weight goal.*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: [email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠

In this episode, Lisa is joined by Jenny where they explore Jenny’s journey through challenging family dynamics, emotional trauma, and eating disorders, highlighting her transformation and healing through the OOTC group coaching and self-compassion. Topics Include: Family Trauma Eating Disorder Healing Self-Compassion and Acceptance[2:06] Lisa introduces Jenny, a recent graduate of the Out of the Cave program, highlighting her as a success story. Jenny describes herself as being 44 years old, living in Rochester, NY with her two cats, and working in education.  [5:30] Jenny tells Lisa about her childhood, growing up in a household with contrasting parental influences, addiction, and emotional volatility. Jenny explains how family dynamics, including her father’s drinking and strict meal expectations, affected her relationship with food. Lisa discusses the importance of creating a safe and pleasant mealtime environment, referencing the division of responsibility in feeding.[18:00] Jenny discusses binge eating as a coping mechanism for emotional turmoil and financial instability, starting at age 11. Jenny shares experiences of body shaming and emotional abuse from her father, which contributed to her negative body image and emotional distress. [23:41] Jenny describes her parents’ struggle with alcohol addiction and the impact of her separation on her emotional well-being. Jenny reveals being sexually abused and subsequently bullied, which intensified her feelings of isolation and led to therapy.[31:09] Lisa and Jenny discuss the duality of wanting to be both thinner and bigger for safety and acceptance, highlighting the complexity of body image issues. Jenny discusses a long-term struggle with body image, feeling disconnected from her body, and the belief that being in a smaller body would make her lovable. [40:46] Jenny shares experiences with punishing exercise routines and restrictive diets, believing these would lead to being loved and accepted.[42:19] Jenny recounts how the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a return to binge eating due to stress and food scarcity fears. Jenny found inspiration and support through social media, leading to a connection with Lisa who provided a new perspective on food and eating. [58:50] Jenny discusses her struggle with food and body image, realizing it’s about her relationship with herself and safety. She experienced a shift in understanding her inherent worth and self-compassion. Jenny shares her experience in the OOTC group coaching program, highlighting significant personal growth and shifts in perspective, particularly around self-worth and emotional safety.[1:05:00] Jenny describes learning to binge mindfully, which led to a realization about self-erasure and a subsequent reduction in binging behavior. Jenny talks about gaining the ability to process emotions and make choices, which has been transformative in dealing with life’s challenges. [1:18:36] Lisa and Jenny end by discussing her personal growth and healing journey, emphasizing the positive impact of the OOTC group coaching program, which helped her with issues related to food and binge eating. Jenny highlights the importance of group support in her healing process, noting the value of being part of a cohort that provides encouragement and shared experiences. *The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025 May OOTC Group Coaching Program - Early Bird Special $500 off before the end of March 2025

In this episode, Lisa is joined by Lesley Logan, a pilates instructor, to discuss the transformative impact of pilates on body image, functional fitness, and the mind-body connection. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, inclusivity, and the role of pilates in healing trauma and promoting empowerment. Topics Include: Mind-Body Connection Self-Awareness Functional Fitness Healing Trauma through Movement[2:06] Lisa starts this episode by asking Lesley to introduce herself. Lesley shares her first experience with pilates and how she fell in love with it after one class and thought everyone should try it. She discusses how she became an instructor and eventually quit her retail job to teach full-time.   [5:30] Lesley discusses her early experiences with body image, influenced by societal standards and family dieting culture. She highlights the struggle of seeing the body as an ornament and the journey to viewing it as an instrument. Lisa and Lesley discuss the importance of functional fitness for aging well, emphasizing the need for strength and mobility to perform everyday tasks and travel comfortably.[18:00] Lesley discusses personal experiences with body image issues, health challenges, and the pressure of maintaining a certain appearance in the fitness industry. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on health metrics like vitamin levels rather than weight. Lesley explains how pilates can serve as a moving meditation, helping individuals connect with their bodies and improve mental focus. [28:05] Lisa relates pilates to healing trauma and overcoming dissociation by strengthening the mind-body connection. Lisa emphasizes the importance of feeling safe in one’s body and how mindful movement can aid in trauma recovery. Lesley shares experiences of bringing diverse groups together through pilates, fostering a sense of community and shared experience, even among people who might not typically interact.[34:53] Lesley provides guidance for beginners in pilates, suggesting they look for comprehensively trained instructors and be mindful of class types and equipment. Lesley suggests practicing pilates 3-4 times a week, emphasizing that sessions can be as short as 15 minutes. [45:49] Lisa and Lesley discuss how the primary intention of pilates is to achieve a balance of strength and flexibility, focusing on posture and muscular strength. Lesley explains that it is designed to be a low-impact exercise that is accessible to many people. Lisa and Lesley discuss how pilates helps individuals become the authority on their own bodies, promoting a sense of safety and embodiment. Lesley also discusses how pilates encourages self-care and empowers individuals to take control of their health. [57:58] Lisa and Lesley conclude this episode by encouraging curiosity and self-kindness in one’s pilates practice, highlighting that self-care is essential for overall well-being. They also discuss how listeners can find Lesley online: Website | Free 4-Week Challenge | Instagram | Facebook*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.⁠Purchase the OOTC book of 50 Journal Prompts⁠⁠Leave Questions and Feedback for Lisa via OOTC Pod Feedback Form ⁠Email Lisa: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Out of the Cave Merch⁠ - For 10% off use code SCHLOS10Lisa’s Socials⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠Reclaiming Peace With Food Retreat at the Omega Institute - September 7-12, 2025