In this conversation, Zach Anderson shares his journey of growing up in the Mormon Church, navigating his identity as a gay man, and the impact of high control religions on mental health and body image. He discusses his process of resigning from the church, the challenges of coming out, and how these experiences shaped his approach to nutrition coaching.

The conversation also explores the intersections of purity culture, diet culture, and the nuances of intuitive eating, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and healing from trauma. In this conversation, Zach Anderson discusses the importance of nutrition, the impact of metabolic adaptation, and the psychological barriers many face regarding food.

He emphasizes the need to break free from scarcity mindsets and perfectionism, particularly in the context of fundamentalist beliefs. The discussion also touches on the long-term effects of food restrictions and the importance of self-compassion in the journey of healing and growth. Zach shares insights on how to navigate rigidity in beliefs about food and body image, ultimately aiming to foster a healthier relationship with nutrition and oneself.

Connect with Zach:

IG: @motionsustained

Website: motionsustained.com

Find out  more about working with Zach on his Kate Lyman webpage

To learn more about the support groups offered at the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery or to sign up, click here

This podcast is brought to you by the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery: an online trauma coaching company whose practitioners are trauma informed and trauma trained to work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced high control religion, cults, and religious trauma. For more information on the support that CTRR provides, for resources–including courses, workshops, and more–head to traumaresolutionandrecovery.com or follow us on Instagram: @traumaresolutionandrecovery 

The views and opinions expressed by Sunday School Dropouts are those of the hosts and not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery. Any of the content provided by our guests, sponsors, authors, or bloggers are their own ideas and opinions.

The Sunday School Dropouts podcast is not anti-religion but it is anti -harm, -power and control, -oppression and, -abuse and will speak to the harmful practices and messaging of fundamentalist groups. 

Follow Andrew on Instagram and TikTok @deconstruct_everything 

Follow Laura on Instagram and TikTok @drlauraeanderson or on her website: www.drlauraeanderson.com 

Hosts: 

Laura Anderson and Andrew Kerbs

Music by Benjamin Faye Music @heytherebenji 

Editing and Production by Kevin Crowe and can be found at  kevincrowe.co