Lisa is joined by April, a group coaching alum, as she discusses her journey of personal transformation, focusing on overcoming substance abuse and emotional eating, and the impact of emotional awareness in recovery programs. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the influence of online content in personal growth.

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[1:09] Lisa introduces April, a coaching graduate, and expresses excitement about sharing April’s journey. April shares her nervousness about the interview and her decision to approach it authentically without over-preparing. April introduces herself as a 58-year-old mother of three from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and discusses her transition after her children left home.

[4:40] Lisa and April reflect on her childhood, noting that food issues weren’t apparent until later, but there were underlying dynamics related to food and money. April recalls learning about food as a reward or punishment during her childhood.

[9:01] April shares her self-perception as ‘big boned’ from childhood and how it evolved over time, particularly after having children and dealing with weight issues. Lisa and April discuss her childhood, including her parents’ young age, lack of attention, and the responsibilities she took on with raising her siblings, which contributed to her substance abuse starting at the age of 12. April reflects on her journey to sobriety at 25, and how a moment with her daughter prompted her to attend AA meetings.

[22:00] April describes her struggle with emotional eating as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress, and her experiences with various diets over 30 years, often resulting in weight gain. 

[30:15] Lisa and April discuss the importance of recognizing the emotional component in programs, highlighting how it can be a transformative aspect for participants. Lisa mentions how social media algorithms can lead people to discover beneficial programs, as was the case with finding ‘Life With Kate’ on Instagram. April describes how following Lisa online provided significant insights and motivation, emphasizing the impact of online content on personal growth.

[39:54] Lisa explains the program’s structure, divided into three parts: understanding the problem, finding solutions, and maintaining progress. April shares her initial skepticism and eventual breakthroughs, emphasizing the importance of mindful eating and self-permission.

[46:05] April discusses significant personal realizations, such as not hating their body but disliking past actions. They highlight the importance of self-awareness, journaling, and reparenting themselves emotionally. Lisa uses Plato’s allegory of the cave to illustrate the transformative journey participants undergo, moving from ignorance to enlightenment and freedom.

[53:17] Lisa and April wrap up with the discussion of how April is incorporating the tools she learned to cope with the emotions of life and how she has created a sense of safety with them.  

*The views of podcast guests do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of Lisa Schlosberg or Out of the Cave, LLC.

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