In this week's VERY special episode, we are joined by Abbie's client, Kimberly.

She speaks from the heart in bravely sharing her body story — from childhood adversity and weight stigma, to the decision to get weight loss surgery, to dealing with the aftermath of that experience, to learning how to create real safety and belonging in her life.

Kimberly has magnetic energy, and is an example of why vulnerability is true courage and strength. She doesn’t just talk the talk, she walks the walk, and is a beautiful example of what it looks like to move from constantly seeking external validation to learning to trust our innate worthiness.

Tune in to hear more about…

• Kimberly’s journey from seeking external validation through weight loss to finding internal trust and self-acceptance.

• Her decision to get weight-loss surgery and what she wishes she knew back then.

• The severe physical, mental, and emotional side effects of the surgery.

• Why Kimberly wanted to get the surgery reversed.

• Setting firm boundaries with family as an act of self-respect.

• The difficulty of rebuilding a healthy relationship with movement after experiencing trauma and disordered behaviors.

• How to reconnect with movement in a positive way.

• Overcoming avoidance and old rules to embrace a more compassionate approach to food and exercise.

• The role of a supportive coach in creating a safe space for healing and growth in movement and self-respect.

• Navigating a world that is still steeped in bias, even when you are working to free yourself.

Support the show: Enjoying this podcast? Please support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, community engagement, and access to "Ask Abbie" at Patreon.com/fullplate

Group program:

Looking for more support and concrete steps to take to heal your relationship with food and your body? Apply for Abbie's next 10-week group program: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/group-coaching

Group membership:

Already been at this anti-diet culture thing for a while, but want community and continued learning? Apply for Abbie's monthly membership: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/circle-monthly-group

Social media:

Find the show on Instagram: @fullplate.podcast

Find Abbie on Instagram: @abbieattwoodwellness

Transcripts: If you’re looking for transcripts, you can find those on Abbie's website, www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/podcast

Podcast Cover Photography by Anya McInroy

Podcast Editing by Brian Walters

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This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribe