What happens when perfectionism, academic pressure, and athletics collide with body image struggles? In this powerful episode of Dr. Marianne-Land, I sit down with Dr. Amanda Marie, a psychologist, educator, and mental health advocate who shares her story of battling bulimia throughout her teen years, college, and into her PhD program.

Amanda opens up about how her eating disorder began at 15, fueled by a drive for perfect grades, external validation, and the pressure to perform. She talks about how restriction, bingeing, and purging shaped her daily life and how she balanced secrecy, martial arts training, and academic achievement while silently struggling.

We explore:

How perfectionism and self-worth tied to grades, sports, and appearance can feed into disordered eating

The hidden toll bulimia took on Amanda’s body, mind, and relationships

How academia and high-achieving environments can intensify eating disorders

The turning point that inspired Amanda to pursue recovery after years of secrecy and shame

The importance of support systems, therapy, and using determination as a strength in healing

What Amanda would say to her 15-year-old self and to anyone listening who feels stuck in their eating disorder

Amanda’s story is one of survival and transformation. She explains how she reclaimed her grit and perseverance, once tied to her eating disorder, and redirected them toward recovery, authenticity, and compassion.

💡 Whether you are in recovery, supporting someone you love, or navigating perfectionism and pressure yourself, Amanda’s insights will resonate deeply.

Instagram: @glitterypoison

TikTok: Amanda Cason (searchable by name)

CONTENT CAUTION:

This episode discusses bulimia, restrictive eating, bingeing, purging, over-exercising, and body image struggles. Please listen with care.

Amanda Marie, PhD, is a psychologist, educator, and mental health advocate. After years of battling bulimia while striving for success in academics and competitive sports, she is now in full recovery and dedicated to inspiring others to heal and discover their self-worth. Her journey from perfectionism and secrecy to confidence and authenticity guides her work and message. With experience as a martial arts instructor, teacher, and coach, Amanda is passionate about empowering others to embrace their stories and grow with compassion.

🎧 Listen now to hear Amanda’s inspiring journey from secrecy to self-worth and why recovery is always possible, no matter how long you have struggled.

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