Episode description:

In this episode of Peace Meal, Kezia Reeder joins host Dr. Jillian Lampert to offer thoughtful, compassionate guidance for anyone supporting a loved one with an eating disorder. As a clinician with lived eating disorder experience, Kezia understands how complicated it can feel to reach out for help—especially when you're afraid of saying the wrong thing or not being taken seriously.

Through honest conversation and real-life stories, Kezia and Jillian explore what support can look like—whether you’re a parent noticing early signs, a friend reaching out, or someone helping a loved one take the first brave step toward treatment. They reflect on the power of early intervention, the importance of trusting your instincts, and how simply showing up—consistently and without judgment—can make all the difference.

About Kezia:

Kezia Reeder is the Director of Clinical Operations at Accanto Health, with brands The Emily Program and Gather Behavioral Health. Kezia became involved in the eating disorder field after struggling with, and recovering from, an eating disorder in college. As a mother to a young daughter, Kezia is driven by her desire to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for future generations. Combining her professional skills with her personal mission, she is a fierce advocate for eating disorders awareness and treatment, passionately working to improve client care and access.

We cover:

What eating disorder signs can look like at any age

How to trust your gut and act early, even if others dismiss your concern

Ways to approach a friend with care and curiosity, not pressure

What happens when you make the first call for help

How to model body respect and food neutrality at home

In Kezia's words:

On making the first call for help: “The people you’re talking to really care and truly believe that getting help makes a difference. It was a lot less scary than I anticipated.”

On why early action matters: “The sooner we get someone the help they need, the better the prognosis. So if you’re delaying care—what if this goes on longer than it needs to? What are the far-reaching impacts of waiting to get the right care?”

On the effort recovery takes—and why it’s worth it: “[Eating disorders are] not a phase. It’s not something that will just go away… Recovery takes effort, and it can feel like a huge, daunting task—and it is so worth it.”

Learn more about The Emily Program online or by calling 1-888-364-5977. 

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About the podcast:

Peace Meal is a podcast hosted by The Emily Program that covers topics related to eating disorders, body image, and how society may influence our thinking.

You can find Peace Meal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube Music. If you enjoy our show, please rate, review, subscribe, and tell your friends!

Are you interested in being a guest on Peace Meal? Email [email protected] for more information.