In this episode, Lisa is joined by group coaching alumni, Jen. They discuss Jen’s personal journey of healing from childhood family dynamics, body image struggles, and emotional challenges, highlighting the importance of community, self-responsibility, and ongoing support in achieving self-acceptance and well-being.

Topics Include:

• Family Dynamics

• Body Image

• Emotional Healing

[0:31] Lisa announces that the next round of the Out of the Cave group coaching program will start soon in May 2025, encouraging listeners to reach out within the next couple of days if interested.

[2:13] Lisa introduces the episode as an interview with Jen, who has participated in the group coaching program, aftercare program, and a retreat, highlighting Jen’s growth and healing. Jen shares she is 43 years old, a wife, mother to a 19-year-old and a 7-year-old first grader, the youngest of three sisters, and a special education teacher. She identifies as a recovering perfectionist and people pleaser.

[4:07] Jen describes being a ‘surprise’ child, with sisters 8 and 13 years older, and growing up in a house built for two children. She recalls her parents’ backgrounds, family traditions, and the impact of being the youngest and unplanned. Jen reflects on the recurring family narrative of her being a surprise, how it was discussed publicly, and how she internalized this story, realizing its impact only in adulthood. Jen describes predictable family meals, with her father being present and supportive, and her mother always preparing meals. Jen talks about her father finishing leftover food to avoid conflict, highlighting family dynamics around food and emotional safety.

[46:39] Jen describes initial isolation and academic focus during the first quarters of college, experiencing loneliness. Her turning point came when her roommate encouraged her to join a sorority, which led to increased confidence and a sense of belonging. Jen realized that many peers in the sorority share similar body image struggles, which helped her feel less alone and more confident.

[58:53] Jen describes a period of self-discovery and reinvention during and after college, emphasizing the importance of social connections, leadership opportunities, and overcoming social anxiety. Jen met her husband through a persistent colleague, married after a few years of dating, and navigated the challenges of blending families and moving homes. Jen experienced a ‘geriatric pregnancy’ at age 36, lost weight due to focusing on her child’s well-being.

[1:03:27] Jen discusses the significant stress from her father’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis, his death, and a miscarriage, all compounded by the pandemic. Jen talks about reverting to food for comfort and loss, leading to substantial weight gain. Jen sought out supportive doctors, eventually connecting with Dr. Susan Caldwell who recommended the OOTC podcast. Jen credits this as a turning point, leading to self-reflection and engagement with a supportive community.

[1:12:52] Jen emphasizes the necessity of group support, aftercare, and the ongoing connection with others who understand her experience. Lisa and Jen discuss that healing has no finish line, is messy, and requires ongoing acceptance and adaptation. Jen talks about initially resisting group programs but found it essential for connection and healing, noting the value of support from others. Jen encourages listeners to overcome hesitation and invest in their own healing, stating the process is life-changing and worth the investment. 

*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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