Jen’s journey began by listening to this very podcast! After going through the group program and aftercare (the alumni group), she’s here on the pod that started it all for her. Jen is a scientist in the field of cancer research, a wife and mom, and she struggled for years with losing and gaining weight until she finally discovered Out of the Cave through a friend. Together, Jen and Lisa discuss the relationship between body, identity, and culture, the journey of allowing and discovering, and how all your relationships change as you do this work.

Topics include:

[6:45] The early years of Jen’s childhood. Grocery shopping with her mom was a bonding activity and she loved cooking, but she and her brother were left on their own while both parents worked which often left them feeling lonely. The difference between ‘innocent’ and ‘harmless.’

[13:19] Struggling with her Filipina identity growing up in America, not looking like a ‘typical’ Filipina. Minimizing herself to avoid attracting the attention of bullies. The relationship between body, identity, and culture. Growing up with judgmental parents who focus on flaws.

[18:24] Age 8-18, food brought her happiness and became a reliable companion. Feeling the pressure to look a certain way to be accepted by her peers.

[23:49] After reaching her highest weight in college in response to the confusion and discomfort of her parents’ separation, Jen spent 16 years on Weight Watchers to try and get her weight under control. Realizing that she was gaining confidence from her boyfriends, from their compliments and their attention.

[33:18] Examining the belief that we exist now as a ‘before’ picture and that once we become the ‘after’ picture, we can stay there. But as human beings, we are in our bodies every day until we die - it doesn’t end or stop, change is a constant in our lives.

[35:44] Discovering the Out of the Cave podcast and connecting to the brain science that filled in the missing pieces from her history with Weight Watchers and therapy. Building an understanding of what actually caring for your whole self looks like, not just your physical self.

[43:07] Lisa’s recollection of Jen’s first emails. Jen’s experiences upon gaining new tools from the podcast and group coaching. The way her relationship with her husband and her kids has changed just from the way she talks to them.

[50:10] The shift in awareness that came about from learning the reason WHY we think, say, and do certain things. Challenging limiting beliefs, recognizing your humanity, meeting your own needs.

[1:02:23] Desiring and manifesting a deeper level of relationships. What it means to be out of the cave as a spiritual being having a physical experience. Making the decision to end the cycle.

[1:08:09] Allowing yourself to be open and truthful and authentic. Learning to put yourself first. Understanding the way everything that came before impacts your present day.

The 21 Day Journal Challenge is starting on Monday July 25th! Take this opportunity to set a daily journaling practice with the support of a an energetic and understanding community. Learn more at https://outofthecave.health/journal-challenge

Early Bird pricing for September group coaching program is available! Get $500 off your registration until July 31st. Apply now at https://www.outofthecave.health/work-with-me

Join the first ever Out of the Cave and Into Your Power retreat! Today and tomorrow, July 4th and 5th, 10% of all ticket sales are being donated to Home Start, a local San Diego agency dedicated to preventing and treating child abuse through early intervention and support. Get your ticket now at https://www.outofthecave.health/retreat