Are you or someone you know struggling with an eating disorder? Finding support and understanding can be crucial on the path to recovery. In the digital age, podcasts have become a powerful medium for sharing personal stories, gaining expert advice, and fostering a sense of community. In this comprehensive guide, I have curated the best eating disorder podcasts that offer empathy, insight, and practical tips for healing. From personal narratives of triumph over adversity, to interviews with leading psychologists and registered dietitians, these podcasts cover a wide range of topics to help you or your loved ones navigate the challenges of an eating disorder. Whether you’re seeking comfort, information, or inspiration, hopefully this guide will lead you to a podcast that speaks to your unique journey.

Understanding eating disorders

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can have serious physical and emotional consequences. They can affect individuals of any age, gender, or background. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are just a few different types of eating disorders. These disorders often stem from a combination of genetic, psychological, environmental, and social factors. Understanding the underlying causes and psychological mechanisms of eating disorders is crucial for effective treatment and support.

The prevalence of eating disorders is a growing concern, with millions of people worldwide affected by these conditions. The impact of societal beauty standards, body image issues, and cultural influences on eating behaviors cannot be overlooked. It’s essential to raise awareness and promote empathy and understanding for individuals struggling with these disorders. Podcasts have emerged as a valuable platform for sharing experiences, disseminating information, and offering hope to those on the path to recovery.

Eating disorders can be isolating and overwhelming, but with the right support and resources, individuals can embark on a journey toward healing and resilience. The stigma surrounding these conditions can make it challenging for individuals to seek help or share their experiences. Podcasts play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and providing a safe space for open, honest conversations about eating disorders.

The power of storytelling: How podcasts can help with eating disorders

Storytelling has a profound impact on our understanding of the human experience. When it comes to eating disorders, personal narratives can offer validation, connection, and a sense of empowerment. Podcasts provide a platform for individuals to share their stories in their own words, allowing listeners to gain insight into the lived experiences of those affected by eating disorders. These stories often convey the resilience, determination, and transformative journeys of individuals on the path to recovery.

Listening to personal accounts of overcoming adversity can instill hope and motivation in those grappling with similar challenges. The power of storytelling lies in its ability to foster empathy and dispel misconceptions about eating disorders. By humanizing these experiences, podcasts create a supportive community where individuals feel understood and less alone in their struggles. Moreover, podcasts featuring diverse voices and perspectives contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate discourse surrounding eating disorders.

In addition to personal narratives, podcasts often feature interviews with mental health professionals, registered dietitians, and advocates who offer expert insights and practical guidance. These conversations provide valuable information on treatment options, coping strategies, and self-care practices. By combining storytelling with professional expertise, eating disorder podcasts serve as a comprehensive resource for individuals seeking knowledge and support.

The best eating disorder podcasts (in no particular order!)

1. “Food Psych Podcast” hosted by Registered Dietitian Christy Harrison – This podcast challenges diet and wellness culture, and ultimately how to make peace with food. Featuring conversations with experts and personal stories of recovery, it offers a holistic approach to healing from disordered eating. Food Psych is arguably one of the most popular eating disorder recovery podcasts among my clients!

2. “The Eating Disorder Diaries” hosted by Amy Goeckel – Amy shares her personal perspective as she discusses her 15+ year struggle with bulimia. She interviews guests in recovery, who have fully recovered, and healthcare professionals who want to help you recover. This podcast is nothing short of incredible, (and Amy is a personal friend!) In this episode, I was a guest on Amy’s podcasts. We discussed my recovery from bulimia and resources to help you recover from bulimia.

3. “The Eating Disorder Therapist” hosted by Harriet Frew – This podcast aims to help you overcome disordered eating and find peace with food. Harriet recovered from bulimia and is passionate about helping others recover too.

4. “Recovery Warriors” hosted by Jessica Flint – This podcast is arguably one of the most well-known and best eating disorder recovery podcasts.

5. “Full and Thriving: An Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast” hosted by Meg McCabe -This podcast has an episode for everybody no matter what point in recovery you are in. Meg makes sure to touch on every possible topic, question, and thought one may have in eating disorder recovery. Check out this episode where I talk about my personal experience with bulimia!

6. “Curious About Recovery- Diving into Eating Disorders” hosted by Kirsten Hunneyball – Kirsten is an incredible recovery coach who interviews professionals and eating disorder survivors, and shares her experience. I just interviewed Kirsten on my Conquering Bulimia blog page–check out her full interview regarding her recovery from bulimia here!

7. “Recover to Flourish | Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast” hosted by Ciandra Birnbaum – Ciandra is a certified eating disorder recovery coach based in the United Kingdom who provides a safe and supportive place for people to learn more about eating disorder recovery and its biggest challenges.

8. “Recovery Bites” hosted by Karin Lewis – Karin welcomes different voices in the eating disorder recovery field, top experts, and voices of those who have struggled, in an effort to “get real” about recovery. She brings on incredible guest speakers to have candid conversations about diet culture, the recovery process, and eating disorder treatment.

9. “Recovery Talk” hosted by Amalie Lee – This is a podcast about “everything eating disorder recovery,” in Amalie’s words! Tune in for episodes like “Fear of Doing Recovery Wrong,” “Perfectionism in Food and Eating,” and “The Honeymoon Phase of Recovery.” She’s touched on topics like binge-eating disorder, family therapy, social media, being a “normal weight” in recovery, and more. 

10. “The Eating Disorder Trap Podcast” hosted by Robyn Goldberg – This podcast aims to help patients, clinicians, and their families move closer toward recovery. Robyn is an IAEDP-certified eating disorder registered dietitian/supervisor and certified intuitive eating counselor. This podcast also discusses medical conditions and other related topics pertaining to eating disorders. This podcast is incredibly helpful for parents going through difficult times with a child in recovery.

11. “The Food Freedom Lab” hosted by Ryann Nicole – Ryann is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Nutritionist, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who helps individuals overcome binge eating, disordered eating, and poor body image. Check out this podcast if you’re ready for food freedom!

12. “Take The Cake with Kate Noel” hosted by Kate Noel – This podcast discusses eating disorder recovery, along with health and wellness, lifestyle, food, body image concerns, and more. So, if you’re looking for a podcast that goes beyond eating disorder recovery, look no further.

13. “Dr. Marianne Land: An Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast” hosted by Dr. Marianne Mille- She is an eating disorder therapist and binge eating coach, and this podcast is for anyone struggling with an eating disorder. Listen in for personal stories and strategies to help you heal in your eating disorder recovery journey.

14. “The Ease With Food Podcast: an Eating Disorders & Non-Diet, Intuitive Eating Podcast” hosted by Shannon Western- In this podcast, Shannon talks about all things disordered eating and health and wellness.

Personal stories of recovery and resilience

Personal narratives are at the heart of many eating disorder podcasts, offering listeners a window into the lived experiences of individuals navigating the challenges of disordered eating. These stories encompass the highs and lows of the recovery journey, emphasizing the resilience, courage, and hope that characterize the path to healing. By sharing their struggles and triumphs, podcast guests inspire empathy, understanding, and a sense of solidarity among listeners who may be grappling with similar issues.

Listeners often find solace in hearing stories of resilience and recovery, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. These personal narratives emphasize the importance of seeking support, embracing self-care, and challenging societal norms that contribute to disordered eating behaviors. By amplifying diverse voices and experiences, eating disorder podcasts create a tapestry of stories that reflect the complexity and individuality of each person’s journey toward healing.

Expert advice and insights on eating disorders

In addition to personal stories, eating disorder podcasts feature interviews with psychologists, therapists, nutritionists, and other experts who provide invaluable insights into the psychological, emotional, and nutritional aspects of disordered eating. These professionals offer evidence-based guidance on navigating recovery, managing triggers, and building a healthier relationship with food and body image. Their expertise contributes to a comprehensive understanding of eating disorders and equips listeners with practical strategies for healing.

By addressing common misconceptions and myths about eating disorders, experts featured on podcasts help dispel stigma and promote accurate, compassionate approaches to supporting individuals with these conditions. Their advice on seeking professional help, cultivating self-compassion, and fostering a positive relationship with food and body image can be transformative for listeners who are on their own journey toward recovery.

Podcast episodes for family and friends of those with eating disorders

Supporting a loved one with an eating disorder can be challenging and emotionally taxing. Many eating disorder podcasts dedicate episodes to providing guidance and support for family members, friends, and caregivers. These episodes offer insights into the complexities of eating disorders, practical tips for communication and support, and resources for seeking professional help. By addressing the impact of eating disorders on relationships and family dynamics, these episodes foster understanding and empathy among support networks.

Listening to podcasts tailored to the experiences of caregivers can equip them with the knowledge and tools to offer meaningful support to their loved ones. Understanding the nuances of eating disorders, including the role of stigma, shame, and societal pressures, can help family and friends create a compassionate and supportive environment for individuals in recovery.

Impact of eating disorder podcasts on mental health awareness

The influence of eating disorder podcasts extends beyond individual listeners to the broader landscape of mental health awareness and advocacy. By amplifying diverse voices, challenging stigma, and promoting evidence-based information, these podcasts contribute to a more informed and empathetic understanding of eating disorders within society. They play a vital role in destigmatizing these conditions and creating a supportive community for those affected by them.

Furthermore, eating disorder podcasts elevate the voices of marginalized communities and individuals with intersecting identities, shedding light on the unique challenges they face in navigating recovery and accessing care. By promoting inclusivity and representation, these podcasts advocate for a more equitable and compassionate approach to addressing eating disorders within diverse populations.

Finding support and community through eating disorder podcasts

One of the most significant benefits of eating disorder podcasts is the sense of community and support they provide to listeners. Many individuals grappling with disordered eating may feel isolated or misunderstood, but through podcasts, they can connect with others who share similar experiences. Engaging with podcast episodes, online discussions, and supportive communities linked to these podcasts can foster a sense of belonging and solidarity.

Listeners often find comfort in knowing that they are part of a larger community of individuals committed to healing and resilience. The shared experiences, advice, and encouragement offered through podcasts create a supportive network that extends beyond geographical boundaries, offering a lifeline to those navigating the challenges of disordered eating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best eating disorder podcasts offer a powerful combination of personal narratives, expert insights, and community support. These podcasts serve as a beacon of strength and solidarity for individuals on the path to recovery, fostering empathy, understanding, and hope. By sharing diverse stories of resilience, challenging stigma, and providing evidence-based information, these podcasts contribute to a more compassionate and informed discourse surrounding eating disorders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical guidance, or a sense of community, the world of eating disorder podcasts is a valuable resource for those navigating the complexities of disordered eating.

I hope you always remember that recovery is possible, and you are not alone in your journey. Through the voices and wisdom shared in these podcasts, may you find the strength and resilience to navigate the challenges of disordered eating and embrace a path of healing and holistic well-being.

Is there a great eating disorder recovery podcast that I didn’t mention? Do you want your podcast featured on this list? Reach out to me here!

If you’re ready to take the next step in your recovery journey, let’s talk about how eating disorder recovery coaching may be a game changer for you. I offer a free 25-minute consultation call, let’s get it scheduled here!

Merrit Elizabeth

Merrit Elizabeth is an Eating Disorder Recovery Coach certified by The Carolyn Costin Institute. She holds a master’s degree in Health Promotion Management and has years of experience working with women with eating disorders.