In today’s episode, I’m joined by Harry and his grateful mum, Jacqui, who are the hosts ‘Don't Weight to Change?’ which began following my personal 10+ year battle with anorexia.

By sharing their story, they aimed to help others struggling with mental health issues, especially young boys and men, creating a safe space for candid discussion and support.

Their story is one of honesty, compassion, and the power of connection between parent and child, showing how recovery is not only about healing the individual, but also about transforming relationships and finding hope together.

In this week's episode of Full of Beans, we discuss:

• Harry’s experience as the first male inpatient on a UK eating disorder ward
• The impact of gender stereotypes on diagnosis, denial, and support
• Harry's desire for male support and role models in recovery
• How exercise addiction and perfectionism mask disordered behaviours
• The role of family in recovery
• The trauma and helplessness felt by parents and loved ones
• Why the New Maudsley Method was a turning point in their recovery journey
• How the Don’t Wait to Change podcast is helping other men feel seen and heard

Timestamps:

01:58 – Why they started their podcast, Don’t Wait to Change

03:10 – Early signs and unhelpful eating disorder treatment

06:46 – The lack of male-specific ED support

10:27 – Inpatient experience as the only male

15:01 – The role of exercise and compulsive behaviours

22:10 – The impact on family and how they coped

43:02 – How vulnerability strengthened family bonds

49:42 – Why weight doesn't equal wellness

📍 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses eating disorder behaviours, medical trauma, and suicidal ideation. Please take care when listening.

Resources & Links:

• Follow Harry & Jacqui on Instagram @dontweighttochange
• Listen to their podcast on Spotify Don't Weight To Change

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to the Full of Beans Podcast here
• Follow Full of Beans on Instagram here
• Read our latest blog here

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to help us spread awareness.

Sending positive beans your way, Han 💛