In this episode, your host, Kait, discusses the profound effects of malnourishment on both the brain and body, drawing insights from the Minnesota starvation experiment. She emphasizes the psychological changes that occur due to starvation, the importance of nutritional rehabilitation, and how refeeding can restore mental clarity and emotional well-being. Kait highlights that symptoms of eating disorders are often a result of starvation rather than personal flaws, and she encourages listeners to seek recovery and nourishment as a path to reclaiming their lives.

Episode takeaways:

• Malnourishment affects brain function and emotional regulation.

• The Minnesota starvation experiment illustrates the consequences of starvation.

• Psychological changes from starvation can mimic mental health disorders.

• Nutritional rehabilitation is crucial for recovery from eating disorders.

• Refeeding can reverse many negative effects of starvation.

• Eating is essential for brain function and emotional health.

• Symptoms of eating disorders often stem from malnourishment.

• Meal plans are important for restoring nutritional balance.

• Recovery is about more than just food; it's about life quality.

• You can achieve recovery and reclaim your identity. 

Episode References

ARTICLE

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery 

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

🍒 Recovery resources

Affiliate Links

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Welcome back to the Recovery Companion Series. 🎉 

In this episode of the Recovery Companion Series, your co-hosts Kait and Eric, discuss the significance of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, reflecting on their personal journeys with eating disorders and the importance of sharing stories. They emphasize the need for ongoing awareness and advocacy beyond just one week, highlighting the complexities of eating disorders and the power of self-compassion in recovery. The discussion also touches on the importance of community support and the role of personal narratives in fostering understanding and connection among those affected by eating disorders.

Episode takeaways:

• Eating Disorder Awareness Week is a crucial time for advocacy.

• Sharing personal stories can inspire others and foster community.

• Self-compassion is essential in the recovery process.

• Eating disorders can manifest differently for everyone.

• Awareness should extend beyond just one week.

• Recovery is a journey filled with ups and downs.

• It's important to highlight the hidden aspects of eating disorders.

• Community support plays a vital role in recovery.

• Understanding the complexities of eating disorders is key.

• Everyone's recovery journey is unique and valid.

  
  

Connect with Kait

📸 @bitebybiterecovery

🔗 bitebybiterecovery.org 

📞 Interested in 1:1 recovery coaching? Book your FREE discovery call 

🍒 Kait’s Recovery Resources

Connect with Eric 

📸 @ericpothen 

🔗 Eric’s website 

🎙️ Embracing You

👕 Embrace Wear

In this episode, your host Kait is joined by Ashleigh Erickson to talk about the role downhill mountain biking played in their eating disorder recovery. Throughout the episode they discuss how mountain biking has played a crucial role in their recovery, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and the joy of riding. The conversation explores the parallels between mountain biking and recovery, highlighting the significance of calculated risks, nourishment, and celebrating progress, not perfection. Through their stories, they aim to inspire others to embrace their journeys and find freedom in both biking and recovery.

Episode takeaways:

• Mountain biking can be a powerful tool for recovery.

• Community support is essential in overcoming challenges.

• Recovery is a messy process, much like learning to ride.

• Calculated risks in recovery can lead to significant breakthroughs.

• Finding joy in movement is crucial for mental health.

• Nourishing the body is vital for both biking and recovery.

• Fear can be a motivator for growth and progress.

• Celebrating small victories is important in recovery.

• The biking community is often more accepting than other fitness communities.

• Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone in their struggles.

Episode guest: Ashleigh is a lifelong lover of bikes who battled an eating disorder from her teens to early 30s. While certain genres of biking have played a role in her eating disorder, she found downhill and enduro style mountain biking have given her a passion to heal her relationship with exercise. She found the purpose she has been pursuing when she and her now husband opened a small bike shop that largely specializes in downhill and enduro mountain bikes

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery 

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

🍒 Recovery resources

Affiliate Links

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Welcome back to the Bite by Bite Podcast. 👋🏼 This episode is the second bonus episode for National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026 💚💙

In this bonus episode, Kait is joined again by recovery coach Caitlin Butler for an honest, unscripted conversation about why eating disorder recovery coaching matters. They dig into the real-time support that coaching provides and how it fills the gaps that even the best treatment programs can leave behind. Whether it's a 2am text or an in-the-moment check-in, coaching meets people where they are, when they need it most.

Kait and Caitlin also get into the weight of lived experience, what it means to work with someone who has been in the thick of it themselves, who knows the rationalizations, the manipulation, the fear, and the exhaustion that come with an eating disorder. They're candid about where traditional treatment can fall short, including a real conversation about meal plans, rigidity, and what it looks like to truly meet someone where they’re at. 

Episode takeaways:

• Coaching provides real-time support that traditional treatment often lacks.

• Lived experience in recovery coaching offers unique insights and understanding.

• Meal plans can create rigidity and anxiety rather than promote recovery.

• Accountability is crucial in maintaining progress in recovery.

• Recovery is a messy process that requires flexibility and compassion.

• Fear and anxiety surrounding food are often deeper than they appear.

• The importance of meeting clients where they are in their recovery journey.

• Support from a coach can help bridge gaps in traditional treatment.

• Understanding the nuances of eating disorders requires personal experience.

• Recovery is possible without having all the answers.

Episode Guest: Caitlin Butler  is an eating disorder recovery coach and founder of Bold Bites HQ, where she creates tools and merch that make recovery visible, unapologetic, and achievable. After being told by doctors and treatment programs that she was “too far gone” and pressured to follow their rules—or not recover at all—Caitlin found her own way, and now helps others do the same. Through her care packages, apparel, her work as a recovery coach and her resources, Caitlin empowers people to stop apologizing for their hunger, take up space unapologetically, and challenge the toxic messages that keep recovery feeling out of reach. Bold Bites HQ is a rebellion against diet culture and broken systems, built for those who’ve been gaslit, silenced, or ignored. Caitlin’s mission is clear: provide real support for real recovery, one bold bite at a time.

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery & @bitebybitepodcast

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

🍒 Recovery resources

Connect with Caitlyn

👉🏼 @boldbiteshq

👉🏼 Caitlyn's website -  find 1:1 coaching & resources here

👉🏼 BoldyBitesHQ - Etsy Shop *use code Boldbites10 for 10% off your purchase!*

👉🏼 FREE Exploratory Call 

👉🏼 Sleazy Teas Co.

Affiliate Links

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In this episode, your host, Kait, shares 20 compelling reasons to recover from an eating disorder, emphasizing the importance of finding motivation and hope in the recovery journey. Each reason highlights the benefits of recovery, from appreciating life's little moments to embracing emotions and living authentically without the constraints of an eating disorder. Kait encourages listeners to recognize their worthiness of recovery and to pursue a life filled with joy, energy, and self-acceptance.

Episode takeaways:

• Recovery is possible for everyone, including you.

• Having a strong 'why' is crucial for recovery.

• Life is richer when you appreciate the little things.

• You can enjoy food and drinks without guilt.

• Recovery allows you to say yes or no based on your desires.

• Knowing who you are without your eating disorder is liberating.

• Recovery helps you see life through a clearer lens.

• You gain energy and strength to live fully.

• Emotions are valid and should be embraced, not avoided.

• You are worthy of recovery and capable of achieving it.

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery 

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

🍒 Recovery resources

Affiliate Links

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This episode is the kick-off for National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026 💚💙

In this episode of the Bite by Bite podcast, your host Kait is joined by Dr. Zoe Ross-Nash to  discuss the complexities of eating disorder recovery, emphasizing that the journey often gets worse before it gets better. They explore the emotional turmoil, the importance of grieving the eating disorder, and the necessity of taking recovery one step at a time. Dr. Ross-Nash shares a powerful metaphor about a mountain to illustrate the process of recovery and personal growth, highlighting the importance of self-compassion and balance in life.

Episode takeways:

• Recovery often feels worse before it gets better.

• Eating disorders provide a false sense of safety and security.

• Grieving the loss of the eating disorder is a significant part of recovery.

• Recovery should be approached bite by bite, focusing on small steps.

• Self-compassion is crucial in the recovery journey.

• The eating disorder can act as a coping mechanism for deeper issues.

• Emotions may resurface and feel overwhelming during recovery.

• It's important to have a supportive care team during recovery.

• Recovery is not a linear process; it takes time and patience.

• Finding balance in life is essential for sustainable recovery.

Episode Guest: Dr. Zoe Ross-Nash earned her PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed training at the University of California, Davis in their Eating Disorder Emphasis and the Renfrew Center for Eating Disorders. She recently completed a two-year post-licensure specialization to become a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Ross-Nash is a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of a private practice servicing Florida and 43 states virtually. She previously served as an assistant professor in psychology doctoral programs. She remains actively involved in professional leadership and mentorship as the Editor for Electronic Communications for the American Psychological Association's Division 29 and the Professional Development Chair for Division 12. In 2022, she received the Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy Student Excellence in Clinical Practice Award. Dr. Ross-Nash has been interviewed as an eating disorder subject matter expert by New York Magazine and the New York Post.  Her clinical and professional interests include trauma, eating disorders, wellness, mentorship, and advocacy. Originally from Allendale, New Jersey, Dr. Ross-Nash earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Service Studies and Dance from Elon University.

Interested in 1:1 recovery coaching with Kait

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery & @bitebybitepodcast

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

🍒 Recovery resources

Connect with Dr. Ross-Nash

👉🏼 @drzoerossnash

Affiliate Links

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In this episode, your host Kait is joined by body image coach Jaclyn Lee to discuss the complexities of body image, eating disorders, and the journey to recovery. They explore the importance of self-compassion, mindfulness, and emotional regulation in healing relationships with food and body image. Jaclyn shares her personal journey with binge eating and how it shaped her approach to coaching. The conversation also delves into the impact of social media on body image perceptions and the tools that can aid in recovery. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their emotions and practice deep breathing as a means of fostering a healthier relationship with their bodies.

Episode takeaways:

• Recovery is a journey that requires self-compassion.
• Body image is influenced by childhood experiences and societal pressures.
• Mindfulness can help individuals reconnect with their bodies.
• Shame often accompanies eating disorders and body image issues.
• Social media can exacerbate negative body image perceptions.
• It's important to recognize and process emotions rather than avoid them.
• Deep breathing can help regulate emotions and reduce anxiety.
• Understanding the purpose behind eating behaviors is crucial for recovery.
• Healing involves learning to be present in one's body.
• Support from others can be vital in navigating recovery.

Episode Guest:

Jaclyn Lee is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and Body Image Coach who helps women heal their relationship with food, body, and self. In her therapy practice, she works with individuals across the full spectrum of eating disorders, including binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, chronic dieting, and body image distress, supporting clients toward lasting recovery through mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional regulation. Her signature coaching offering, The Embodied Eating Program, helps people step out of the binge-restrict cycle by addressing the emotional, nervous-system, and relational roots of binge eating through somatic embodiment, mindfulness, and compassionate inquiry.

Having walked her own healing journey with food, Jaclyn brings empathy, steadiness, and authenticity to her work, which is grounded in the belief that your relationship with food reflects your relationship with yourself, and that both can be healed. Based in Berkeley, California, she provides therapy to clients across California and offers coaching worldwide through her programs and workshops.

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery 

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

🍒 Recovery resources

Connect with Jaclyn Lee

👉🏼 Jaclynleetherapy.com

👉🏼 Jaclynleecoaching.com

👉🏼 @jaclyn.lee.coaching

Affiliate Links

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Welcome back to the Bite by Bite Podcast. 👋🏼

In this episode of the Bite Bite Bite podcast, your host Kait,  speaks with Sarah Guadrault about her lifelong struggles with eating disorders, body image, and the impact of pregnancy on her mental health. Sarah shares her journey from childhood fears of eating in front of others to the pressures of high school and college, where her eating disorder intensified. She discusses the challenges she faced during pregnancy, the importance of support systems, and how becoming a mother has changed her perspective on food and body image. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the significance of open dialogue about eating disorders.

Episode takeaways:

• Sarah has struggled with anorexia and disordered eating for most of her life.

• The pressure to conform to societal standards of body image began in high school.

• Eating disorders can be hidden, and many people may not realize someone is struggling.

• Pregnancy triggered old eating disorder thoughts and behaviors for Sarah.

• Support from her husband and friends has been crucial in her recovery journey.

• Sarah aims to model a healthy relationship with food for her daughter.

• Self-compassion is a key lesson learned from her experiences with an eating disorder.

• The scale is not a measure of worth or health; it's just a number.

• It's important to talk about struggles with eating disorders to break the stigma.

• Recovery is a continuous journey that requires support and understanding. 

Episode Guest: Sara Guadrault is a first-time mom who spent much of her life struggling with an eating disorder negative body image. Sara has reached recovery and is passionate about speaking out and telling her story to raise awareness and let others who are currently struggling they are not alone.

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery & @bitebybitepodcast

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

🍒 Recovery resources

Affiliate Links

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Welcome back to the Recovery Companion Series. 👋

In this episode of the Recovery Companion Series, your co-hosts, Kait & Eric,  explore the challenges of embracing stillness during winter, particularly for high achievers and those in recovery from eating disorders. They discuss the pressures of productivity and perfectionism, the importance of redefining rest, and the need for self-compassion. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of allowing oneself to rest and the connection between nature's cycles and personal well-being. They share personal experiences and practical strategies for navigating these challenges, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach to ambition and self-care.

Episode takeaways:

• Embracing stillness can be challenging, especially in winter.

• High achievers often tie their self-worth to productivity.

• Rest is a necessary part of self-care and recovery.

• Nature teaches us the importance of cycles and rest.

• Productivity can be redefined to include rest and self-care.

• Self-compassion is crucial in navigating feelings of guilt around rest.

• Creating permission slips can help in allowing oneself to rest.

• It's okay to feel discomfort when trying to embrace stillness.

• Finding balance between ambition and rest is essential.

• Acknowledging the challenges of recovery can foster connection and support.

Connect with Kait

📸 @bitebybiterecovery

🔗 bitebybiterecovery.org 

📞 Interested in 1:1 recovery coaching? Book your FREE discovery call 

🍒 Kait’s Recovery Resources

Connect with Eric 

📸 @ericpothen 

🔗 Eric’s website 

🎙️ Embracing You

👕 Embrace Wear

“Stay small, be better” isn’t just a phrase, it’s a cultural value many people absorb long before they understand its consequences.

In this episode, your host Kait, and episode guest Millie examine how early body-based expectations, especially in performance-driven environments like sports, contribute to the development and persistence of eating disorders. From subtle comments to explicit rules, many people learn that success, discipline, and worth are tied to minimizing their bodies.

We talk about how this message becomes internalized, why it feels reinforcing rather than harmful at first, and how it continues to show up even in recovery. This is a conversation about culture, not blame, and about understanding the roots of eating disorders so we can interrupt them more effectively.

Episode takeaways:

• There was a lot of talk around our bodies at a young age.

• We were told to stay small for better performance.

• There was an emphasis on not having a womanly body.

• The pressure to conform to certain body standards starts early.

• Childhood experiences shape our perceptions of body image.

• Performance in sports was linked to body size.

• Societal expectations can harm self-esteem.

• The conversation reflects on the impact of these pressures.

• Understanding these issues is crucial for mental health.

• Awareness can lead to better support for young girls.

Episode Guest: Emilia Galvez (Millie) is a nutrition and food science student and eating disorder recovery advocate with lived experience of an eating disorder.. She is part of the non-profit The RecoverED Project and an ambassador for Project HEAL, and is passionate about making recovery feel more human, accessible, and compassionate.

Interested in 1:1 recovery coaching with Kait?

👉🏼 Book your FREE Discovery Call for 1:1 recovery coaching

Connect with Kait

👉🏼 @bitebybiterecovery & @bitebybitepodcast

👉🏼 bitebybiterecovery.org

🍒  Recovery resources

Connect with Millie

👉🏼@milslives 

Affiliate Links

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