Explore every episode of Food Shrinks
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
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| 04 Feb 2025 | Episode 15: When Is It Time to Go Deeper in Recovery? | 00:20:43 | |
In this episode of Food Shrinks, we dive into an important question: When do we need to go deeper than recovery coaching, and when is it enough to stay at that level? 🔑Key Topics Discussed: 🔒Two Approaches to Healing – Clearing out the body and mind first vs. addressing deeper emotional work upfront. We also explore the balance between doing inner work and simply being in life, finding joy, and knowing when to step back instead of always digging for the next thing to “fix.” 💌 Have a question for us? We want to hear from you! Email us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com 🎥 Watch & Share: If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to our channel. Share this episode with someone who might benefit from learning about healthy communication and conflict resolution! 📢 Follow Us: 📱 Instagram: @FoodShrinks 📧 Email: AskTheShrinks@foodshrinks.com 🌐 Website: foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 29 Oct 2024 | Episode 1: Get to Know Your Food Shrinks | 00:31:47 | |
We’re beyond excited to bring you real recovery talk with some of your closest friends. Welcome to Food Shrinks, where your hosts— Molly Carmel, Clarissa Kennedy, and Molly Painschab —serve up candid, compassionate conversations about food addiction, recovery, and finding true freedom with food.
Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com Website: www.foodshrinks.com Instagram: @foodshrinks
The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 11 Mar 2025 | Episode 20: Food, Cravings & Coping: Is There Always a New Addiction Waiting? | 00:18:44 | |
In today’s episode, we dive deep into a thought-provoking listener question: Will there always be something waiting in the wings to take the place of old addictive patterns? Molly C. shares a personal experience about her resolution to avoid blue light before bed—and how she noticed an urge to watch TV after a fun night out. This sparks a rich discussion on self-awareness, nervous system regulation, and the evolving nature of cravings and coping mechanisms in recovery. In This Episode, We Discuss: ✅ The idea of whether food (or other behaviors) will always be our first instinct in times of stress 📩 Listener Question: Will there ever be a day when food is not our first thought in moments of stress? If not, is the goal simply to acknowledge it, dismiss it, and move on with radical acceptance? This led us to a deep and honest conversation about the nature of recovery, self-compassion, and how to shift from reacting to responding with awareness. Key Takeaways: 🧠 Our nervous system is wired for survival, and old patterns don’t disappear overnight—but they can lose their intensity. 💬 Join the Conversation! 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! See you next week! #FoodAddictionRecovery #NervousSystem #TraumaResponses #CuriosityNotJudgment #Neuroplasticity #FoodShrinksPodcast
The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 25 Mar 2025 | Episode 22: When Life Feels Too Heavy - Coping When It All Piles On | 00:20:04 | |
In this episode: Clarissa opens up about a deeply personal and challenging season in her life—navigating grief, fear, and emotional overwhelm as unexpected hardships pile up. From her puppy's serious health concerns to her mother’s cancer recurrence, Clarissa vulnerably shares what it’s like to face wave after wave of uncertainty. The Food Shrinks dive into what happens when emotional pain feels relentless, and all the usual tools start to feel... not enough. Together, they explore: 💡How to manage emotional pain when it feels like you’re at capacity Through candid conversation and dark humor (because, hey, sometimes we need it), the team navigates the murky waters of high-stress seasons and how to “put on your wetsuit” when life feels like an emotional downpour. Takeaways: 🎧 Listen now for an honest, raw, and heart-opening conversation on what it means to be human, in recovery, and doing your best when life feels just too heavy. 💌 Listener Q&A is open! 💡 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast! Your clicks help keep this work going, and we appreciate you being part of this community. 🩷 📢 Follow Us: The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 17 Dec 2024 | Episode 8: 12 Steps, Many Paths: Finding What Works for YOU in Recovery | 00:23:20 | |
In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, your hosts, Molly Painschab, Molly Carmel, and Clarissa Kennedy, dive into the topic of 12-step programs and their role in food addiction recovery. This conversation explores their diverse experiences with 12-step recovery, its benefits, challenges, and alternatives, offering valuable insights for anyone navigating their own path to healing. Key Takeaways from the Episode 🩷Personal Experiences with 12-Step: Molly Carmel shares her transformative journey through OA (Overeaters Anonymous), from initial skepticism to finding a foundation for her spirituality and emotional recovery. Meanwhile, Clarissa Kennedy reflects on how her experience with AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) differed, highlighting challenges like shame and fear-mongering but also discussing how she found support in alternative recovery programs like Women for Sobriety and Monument. 🩷The Power of Community: All three hosts agree on the vital importance of community in recovery, whether through 12-step programs or other support networks. They emphasize the value of finding what works best for each individual. 🩷Trusting Yourself in Recovery: This episode tackles balancing outside advice with self-trust. The hosts discuss the importance of listening to your inner wisdom while navigating the complexities of recovery programs. 🩷Finding the Right Fit: Whether exploring different meetings, seeking out supportive sponsors, or finding alternative programs, the hosts encourage listeners to stay curious and keep searching until they find the right recovery environment. 🩷Practical Advice for Recovery: From learning tolerance and humility to understanding the neurobiology of addiction, this episode is packed with actionable advice for those in any stage of their recovery journey. Episode Highlights 🩷Molly Carmel’s candid story of reluctantly joining OA and how it became the foundation for her spiritual and emotional recovery. 🩷Clarissa’s experience of leaving AA and finding healing in alternative programs felt more compassionate and empowering. 🩷The hosts’ discussion on the pitfalls of diet culture infiltrating food-based recovery groups and the importance of rejecting shame-based approaches. 🩷Practical advice for interviewing sponsors, navigating challenging recovery environments, and staying open to new possibilities.
Please email us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com. We’re here to support you on your recovery journey. 🩷Stay Connected Resources Mentioned Tune in, stay curious, and remember—you’re not alone on this journey. Let’s recover together! Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 14 Jan 2025 | Episode 12: Decoding "Diet Culture Vultures" and Empowering Self-Determination | 00:22:27 | |
Today the Food Shrinks unpack what "diet culture vultures" represent in the context of diet culture and self-help programs, emphasizing the importance of self-determination and how to recognize manipulative tactics in various industries, including healthcare, food recovery, and coaching. This honest conversation also explores personal vulnerabilities, the importance of critical thinking, and the need to trust one’s inner wisdom.
Do you have questions or feedback? We’d love to hear from you! Support Us: Stay connected, stay empowered. See you next week! The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 18 Nov 2024 | Episode 4: Triggers, Transitions, and Truth with Molly Carmel | 00:22:22 | |
Welcome back to another heartfelt episode of Food Shrinks! This week, we’re diving deep into what triggers us and how they show up in our lives. It’s Molly C.’s turn to share, and her honesty and vulnerability bring so much wisdom to the table. Molly opens up about navigating big life transitions, like her recent move from North Carolina, back to the Northeast. She shares how underestimated stressors—like moving, saying goodbye, and caring for a sick pet—combined with her “I’m fine” coping mechanism led to a challenging time in her recovery journey. Key highlights from the episode include: Key Takeaways for Listeners: Thank you for tuning in and joining us on this journey. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing it. Don’t forget to rate and review—we love hearing from you! Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 15 Apr 2025 | Episode 25: You’re Not Fragile: Unpacking the Power of Fragilization | 00:20:47 | |
In this episode, the Food Shrinks crew explores a powerful, overlooked concept: fragilization. From personal stories to real recovery insights, the team explores how treating ourselves—or others—as too delicate can actually stall growth, deepen shame, and keep us stuck. Whether it’s in addiction recovery, mental health, or just day-to-day life, fragilization can quietly shape how we show up, ask for help, and relate to our own resilience. We talk about how fragilizing ourselves in depression or post-relapse moments can reinforce powerlessness, and how others fragilizing us—even with good intentions—can feel invalidating. You’ll hear raw reflections, lots of laughs, and a serious reframe: you are not broken, and you are not fragile. 💡 Topics We Explore:
🛠️ Tools & Takeaways:
📬 We want to hear from you! 🌟 Don’t forget: Love you, mean it. The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 18 Mar 2025 | Episode 21: Self-Sabotage: What’s Really Happening? | 00:19:59 | |
In this thought-provoking episode of Food Shrinks, we challenge the concept of self-sabotage and explore a radical reframe—what if it’s not sabotage at all, but an attempt at protection? Join us as we unpack the deeper, more compassionate understanding of behaviors that are often mislabeled as sabotage. Together, we discuss how our brains are wired for survival, not destruction, and how unmet needs, fear, and safety-seeking responses shape our actions. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Key Takeaways & Highlights: Listener Reflection Questions: Join the Conversation: Support the Show! Until next time, Food Shrinks—keep it real, keep it kind, and keep exploring! 🎙️🩷 The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 07 Jan 2025 | Episode 11: Breaking the Impulse Buy Cycle: Navigating Wellness Marketing Traps | 00:24:28 | |
In this thought-provoking episode of The Food Shrinks delve into the allure—and pitfalls—of wellness programs, self-help summits, and fitness courses that promise transformation but often lead to unfulfilled intentions. The trio unpacks the psychological and emotional drivers behind impulsive purchases, the cultural conditioning of "quick fixes," and strategies to make more intentional decisions about investments in personal growth. Key Topics Discussed: Key Takeaways: Listener Challenge: What are your thoughts on impulsive buying in wellness? How do you decide which programs to invest in? Please share your insights and questions with us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com. Join us next week for another honest, empowering conversation! Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 25 Feb 2025 | Episode 18: Sneaking, Hiding, and the Amplified Reward Cycle of Food Addiction | 00:21:02 | |
In this episode of Food Shrinks, we’re shaking things up! With one shrink missing, we dive into how we handle scheduling conflicts as a team and the importance of open, honest conversations in problem-solving. Then, we transition into a powerful discussion about a common struggle in food addiction recovery: sneaking, hiding, and lying about food. We explore how secrecy and shame amplify dopamine release, making the behavior even more rewarding—just like in other substance addictions. By illuminating these patterns, we can dismantle them and find practical ways to break free from the cycle. Key Topics Discussed in This Episode: ✔️ Handling scheduling conflicts with honesty and flexibility – Why communication is key and how we’re restructuring our approach. ✔️ The psychology behind sneaking and hiding food – How secrecy fuels the reward cycle and makes cravings stronger. ✔️ Shame and isolation in food addiction – Why we feel compelled to hide and how it mirrors other addictions. ✔️ Mindful eating and breaking the secrecy cycle – Strategies like eating in the open, using a plate, and slowing down to challenge the food’s "forbidden" appeal. ✔️ The power of self-awareness in recovery – Recognizing triggers, patterns, and practical self-binding strategies to avoid relapse. ✔️ Navigating food choices in social and professional settings – Addressing guilt and external expectations and setting personal boundaries in recovery. Practical Takeaways: ✅ Normalize the struggle – Sneaking and hiding food is common in addiction, and talking about it removes shame. ✅ Break the secrecy cycle – Try eating in the open, paying attention to taste, and challenging the "thrill" of the behavior. ✅ Lean into self-awareness – Identify when and where these urges happen and find strategies to disrupt the pattern. ✅ Own your choices – You can decide what works for you in recovery—without guilt or external judgment.
💡 Want to share your experience or ask us a question? Please email us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com
🎧 Subscribe and leave a review! If you found this episode helpful, share it with someone who might need it.
📢 Follow Us: 📱 Instagram: @FoodShrinks 📧 Email: AskTheShrinks@foodshrinks.com 🌐 Website: foodshrinks.com
The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 04 Mar 2025 | Episode 19: Feeling Othered, Vulnerability, and the Power of Connection | 00:19:44 | |
In this episode, Molly C, Molly P, and Clarissa dive deep into the feeling of being "othered"—that sense of not quite fitting in, even among close friends or trusted spaces. We explore: ✨ Big Takeaways from This Episode: 💡 Listener Reflection: 💬 Final Thought: ❤️ Take Care of Yourself After This Episode: 📩 Got a Question or Topic for the Shrinks? 🎧 Subscribe and leave a review! 📢 Follow Us: The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 01 Apr 2025 | Episode 23: Why Can’t I Stay Abstinent—Even After a Health Scare? | 00:20:02 | |
In this powerful episode, we tackle a question that resonates deeply for so many in recovery: "Why can’t I stay off sugar, even after a life-threatening diagnosis?" We received a heartfelt listener question from someone who has been struggling with sugar addiction for years—even after a cancer diagnosis. This sparked a deep, honest conversation about the nature of addiction, why even fear or facts aren't always enough to inspire change, and how recovery takes more than just motivation—it takes connection, community, repetition, and reframing. 💬 In this episode, we cover: 🌱Why fear, force, and facts aren’t sustainable motivators for change 🌱How addiction hijacks the brain and overrides even our strongest survival instincts 🌱Why relapse is not a moral failing, but a symptom of a powerful brain-based disorder 🌱What to do when willpower alone isn’t cutting it 🌱How to expand your recovery toolkit to match the severity of the problem 🌱The importance of community and compassionate self-care in recovery 🌱What “ICU-level care” for food addiction might look like ✨ We explore the truth that addiction is not your fault, but recovery is your responsibility—and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re binging every day or white-knuckling your way through abstinence, there is hope, and there are practical tools to help you build a sustainable, supported recovery. 📩 We want to hear from YOU! 🙏 Support the Podcast: 🌱Subscribe to the show 🌱Rate & Review—we love a 5-star, but you do you, boo 🌱Share this episode with friends, recovery groups, or anyone who needs to know they’re not alone Big hugs. Big whoosh. You’ve got this—and we’re with you every step of the way.
The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 11 Feb 2025 | Episode 16: Breaking Free from Social Media Addiction | 00:19:45 | |
In this episode of Food Shrinks, Molly C. shares a significant life shift—she's entirely off social media! Coming back from a retreat, she realized how much screen time was impacting her nervous system, focus, and ability to engage with life. She opens up about the moment she knew she had to step away, the withdrawal symptoms she experienced, and how she transitioned off social media with the help of the Freedom app. Molly and Clarissa also explore the broader topic of digital addiction, drawing connections to food addiction and other compulsive behaviors. They discuss insights from Dr. Anna Lembke’s work on dopamine and addiction, how social media companies profit from our dysregulation, and what it means to take back your power. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Resources & Mentions:
Join the Conversation:
The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 10 Dec 2024 | Episode 7: To Weigh or Not to Weigh? Navigating Recovery and the Scale | 00:22:18 | |
Ever wondered whether stepping on the scale supports or sabotages your food recovery? This week on Food Shrinks, we're tackling this tricky topic head-on! Today, the Shrinks discuss the complexities of weighing oneself during recovery, the potential triggers, and the importance of tailoring recovery to individual needs. Key discussions include: Takeaways:
📩 Connect with us: Do you have ideas for future topics? Please send us an email or comment on our social platforms. Let’s continue the conversation together! Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 20 Jan 2025 | Episode 13: Exploring Psychedelics in Recovery and Healing | 00:24:07 | |
In this candid and impromptu episode of The Food Shrinks, Molly Carmel, Clarissa Kennedy, and Molly Painschab dive deep into their personal experiences with psychedelics, focusing on their potential as tools for emotional and psychological healing. From ketamine-assisted therapy to psilocybin journeys, the hosts share raw insights into their transformative—yet challenging—experiences. This conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation, professional guidance, and integration, underscoring that psychedelics are not a quick fix but a profound tool in the toolbox of recovery and self-growth. Key Topics Discussed: Key Takeaways: We want to hear from you! Have questions, topics you'd love us to discuss, or experiences to share? Email us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com, and join the conversation.
Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 23 Dec 2024 | Episode 9: You're Not the Problem, You're the Solution. | 00:24:28 | |
In this episode, the Food Shrinks—Molly C., Molly P., and Clarissa—gear up to combat the "diet culture vultures" that descend during the New Year season. They discuss empowering listeners to reclaim their role as the solution to their challenges rather than falling victim to shame-based marketing tactics. This conversation is packed with insights into navigating January's pressures with mindfulness, self-compassion, and an emphasis on long-term recovery.
Listener Challenge: Molly C.'s Pro Tip: Quotes from the Episode: Connect with the Food Shrinks: Subscribe & Share: | |||
| 26 Nov 2024 | Episode 5: Navigating Food and Holiday Challenges with Compassion and Strategy | 00:27:10 | |
In this episode, The Shrinks explore the complexities of the holiday season, particularly for those managing food addiction or emotional challenges tied to festivities. With a mix of humor, science, and heartfelt personal experiences, the hosts discuss strategies to navigate the season authentically and with self-compassion. From preparing in advance and managing food temptations to setting boundaries and taking timeouts, this conversation is packed with practical advice for handling both food and family dynamics. Whether you love the holidays or find them overwhelming, this episode offers insights to help you approach the season with confidence and care. 1. Diverse Experiences with Holidays: o The holidays evoke a range of emotions and experiences, from joy and celebration to anxiety and trauma. Acknowledging and owning your feelings about this season can be a powerful step toward navigating it authentically. 2. Holiday Preparation is Key: o Whether you love or dread the holidays, preparation can reduce stress and decision fatigue. Key strategies include: Self-Care Before Events: Exercise, mindfulness, or grounding activities can help center you. Eating Beforehand: Arrive at events satiated to avoid hunger-driven choices. Visualization: Mentally rehearse how you want to feel and act at events to set the tone. 3. Managing Food Temptations: o Overvalued holiday foods can trigger overeating. Incorporating “special” foods into your regular diet ahead of the season helps reduce their scarcity and allure. o Approach events with a plan for navigating tempting foods, such as focusing on connecting with people instead of grazing on appetizers. 4. Practical Tools for Overwhelm: o Time-Outs: Step away when needed—go outside, listen to music, or take a breath to reset. o Alternative Activities: Volunteering for tasks, like doing the dishes, can provide a purposeful escape from triggering situations. o Exit Strategies: Feel empowered to leave early or set boundaries to prioritize your well-being. 5. The Power of Accountability: o Connect with supportive communities to share your goals and celebrate successes. Accountability partners can help you stay grounded and navigate challenges. 6. Food Addiction Insights: o Euphoric recall, where food memories are heightened by dopamine and cortisol, plays a significant role in holiday food cravings. Awareness of these patterns can help you make mindful choices. 7. Shift the Focus: o Instead of placing all emotional value on a single holiday or food, embrace the broader season. Reframe the experience by integrating traditions and flavors into everyday life to reduce pressure and scarcity mentality. 8. Boundaries are Acts of Self-Love: o Setting limits with family, food, and even your own expectations is a profound act of self-care. It's okay to prioritize your mental and physical health, even if it means saying no or stepping away. 9. Permission to Protect Yourself: o Whether by taking timeouts, bringing an ally, or using “fake sick” as an exit strategy, remember that it’s okay to prioritize your recovery and well-being. 10. Stay Connected: o Holidays can be isolating, but they’re also an opportunity to lean into support systems. Use resources, like the podcast Q&A shorts on YouTube, to stay motivated and remind yourself you’re not alone. Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com | |||
| 12 Nov 2024 | Episode 3: From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Molly P. Manages Triggers and Overwhelm in Recovery | 00:25:13 | |
In this episode, The Shrinks dive deep into identifying and managing triggers on the path to recovery, with a special focus on insights from Molly P. We discuss how overwhelming schedules, feeling controlled, and people-pleasing tendencies can drive emotional eating or even binge-eating episodes. Molly reflects on her journey and the importance of recognizing when she's overextending herself, neglecting self-care, or shouldering more than she can bear—all classic triggers in her recovery. Key takeaways include the value of setting boundaries and prioritizing yourself in the face of external demands. Our panel emphasizes creating space in your schedule for breaks and meals and urges listeners to pause and check in with themselves regularly, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. This small act can help curb stress and prevent overwhelm. A powerful theme emerges around vulnerability and the need for support in recovery. Whether it's scheduling short breaks, learning to say "no," or asking for help, these are essential skills for protecting one’s mental and emotional health. Remember, self-care doesn’t require perfection—it’s about consistent, small steps that help you thrive. Join us as we explore the daily practices that contribute to a resilient recovery journey. Watch now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOnmZOhF9Ts&t=1s Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share with others who might need these insights! Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 31 Dec 2024 | Episode 10: Facing Vultures, Shame, and Self-Abandonment | 00:24:52 | |
In this candid and deeply personal episode, the Food Shrinks—Molly Carmel, Clarissa Kennedy, and Molly Painschab—dive into the challenging topic of self-abandonment, appeasement, and the consequences of chasing quick fixes. From past experiences with expensive treatment programs to navigating shame and self-doubt, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone struggling to hold on to themselves in moments of uncertainty. The hosts share their missteps, lessons learned, and actionable strategies to help listeners recognize and reclaim their power. Key Takeaways: The Cost of Quick Fixes: 🏔️Clarissa reflects on her experience with an overpriced treatment center that promised transformation but delivered minimal value. She highlights the allure of "glitzy solutions" and how they often lead to disappointment. 🏔️Molly Painschab and Molly Carmel share similar stories of misplaced trust in expensive programs, shedding light on the sunk-cost fallacy and the dangers of magical thinking. SUNK-COST FALLACY: the phenomenon whereby a person is reluctant to abandon a strategy or course of action because they have invested heavily in it, even when it is clear that abandonment would be more beneficial. Self-Abandonment in the Name of Appeasement: 🏔️The concept of appeasement, or people-pleasing, is explored as a survival mechanism that often leads to self-abandonment. 🏔️The hosts emphasize the importance of identifying and challenging the behaviors that lead to prioritizing others' expectations over personal truth. The Power of Connection: 🏔️Shame thrives in secrecy. Sharing struggles with trusted individuals can break the cycle of self-doubt and isolation. 🏔️Building a "power circle" of supportive and honest people is essential for navigating challenging situations. Lessons Learned: 🏔️Trust your intuition. Don't ignore the red flags if a program, relationship, or commitment feels wrong. 🏔️Always evaluate decisions transparently—if you can't explain or defend your choices to a trusted person, reconsider them. 🏔️Remember that true growth and healing come from consistent self-care and inner work, not quick fixes. Practical Advice: 🏔️Talk to trusted people before committing to significant decisions. 🏔️Don’t let shame silence you. Even a simple text like “I’m not okay” can open the door to support. 🏔️Reclaim your narrative by acknowledging your truth, even in the face of fear or judgment. Call to Action: We’d love to hear from you! Please share your experiences, questions, and thoughts with us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com. Your stories inspire us and our listeners. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with friends and loved ones. Together, we can support each other in navigating the complexities of food, life, and recovery. Join us next week for another honest, empowering conversation! Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com Website: www.foodshrinks.com Instagram: @foodshrinks The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 18 Feb 2025 | Episode 17: Hormones, Hunger, and Healing | 00:20:05 | |
In this insightful and heartfelt episode of Food Shrinks, we explore the complex relationship between hormones, perimenopause, and food addiction recovery. Inspired by listener questions, we share our journeys, client experiences, and the science behind hormonal changes—whether you're still cycling, in perimenopause, or navigating menopause. 🌿 In This Episode: 🧘 Hormones and Recovery: How shifts during the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, and menopause can affect food cravings and emotional eating. 💡 Key Takeaways: 💪Hormonal Changes Are Not the Enemy: Learn how fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone influence cravings and mood. 💬 Share Your Experience! 💌 Have a question for us? We want to hear from you! Please email us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com 🎥 Watch & Share: If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to our channel. Share this episode with someone who might benefit from learning about healthy communication and conflict resolution! 📢 Follow Us: The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 03 Dec 2024 | Episode 6: Navigating Vulture Coaching, Vulnerability, and Empowerment in Recovery | 00:22:58 | |
⚠️Please forgive the poor internet connection in this episode! In today’s episode, the Shrinks go off-script to discuss a topic that lit a fire in Molly C.’s heart last night while scrolling Instagram. This raw and authentic conversation unpacks the challenges, complexities, and nuances of navigating advice in the recovery and coaching space—especially when it comes to weight loss, bariatric surgery, and GLP-1 medications. Molly C. shares her visceral reaction to a controversial Instagram post suggesting that people should only consider medical interventions after “getting straight with God.” From there, the discussion evolves into exploring the fine line between empowerment and victim-blaming, the ethical responsibility of coaches and counselors, and the dangers of relying solely on personal experience without professional training. Key Topics Discussed: ✴The importance of integrating spirituality, science, and evidence-based care in recovery journeys. ✴ People face vulnerabilities when seeking support and how predatory marketing can exploit that. ✴How to discern if a coach or counselor is qualified to provide the help you need—questions to ask and red flags to watch for. ✴Why it’s okay (and essential) to fire a professional who isn’t serving your best interests. ✴The power of GLP-1 medications and bariatric surgery as tools for recovery and the myths and stigma surrounding them. ✴The broader cultural implications of moralizing health interventions and the importance of meeting people where they are. Takeaways for Listeners: ✴There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to recovery. Every journey is unique, and the right tools vary for everyone. ✴It’s vital to find practitioners who are trained, compassionate, and genuinely invested in your healing—not in keeping you sick. ✴Be wary of shame-based messaging that suggests you’re not “doing enough” or “faithful enough” to heal. ✴Your recovery is valid, whether it includes medical interventions, spiritual growth, or a mix of both. ✴Always hold onto hope—healing is possible, and you deserve the best care and support available. Listener Challenge: We’d love to hear your thoughts on this conversation! Have you experienced shame-based coaching? How do you choose the proper support in your recovery journey? Please share your insights and stories with us at asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com. Resources Mentioned: ✴Questions to Ask a Coach or Counselor Before Working with Them (from a previous Food Junkies episode) https://www.foodjunkiespodcast.com/episodes/episode-151-molly-painschab-clarissa-kennedy-bethany-mazereeuw-what-to-look-for-in-a-counsellor ✴Dr. Rhona Epstein: A trusted Christian food addiction counselor with decades of experience. https://drrhona.com/ Follow Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Please stay connected for more honest conversations about recovery, tools, and hope. Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com Website: www.foodshrinks.com Instagram: @foodshrinks The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 04 Nov 2024 | Episode 2: Taste, Triggers, and Triumph: Clarissa's Inspiring Recovery Journey | 00:25:15 | |
In this episode Clarissa shares one of her latest challenges in Food Addiction Recovery. The shrinks dive into a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about resilience and recovery in the face of unexpected health challenges. After Clarissa lost her sense of taste and smell due to long COVID, she found herself navigating a tricky path back to healthy eating and sobriety. She opens up about how these changes impacted her relationship with food, triggering old patterns and even leading to a brief return to use. Together, they explore how to keep a balanced food plan, manage fatigue, and find self-compassion through tough times. With supportive insights and practical strategies for maintaining routines when food loses its appeal, this episode is a beacon of hope and encouragement for anyone on a recovery journey. Tune in for a candid chat on the power of not feeling like you have to start over but instead just continuing on your recovery journey, leaning on support systems, and embracing self-care every step of the way. Email: asktheshrinks@foodshrinks.com Website: www.foodshrinks.com Instagram: @foodshrinks The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.
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| 08 Apr 2025 | Episode 24: Letting Go & Growing Up | 00:17:33 | |
Welcome to the Food Shrinks podcast! In this heartfelt and honest episode, the Food Shrinks team dives into a powerful listener-submitted question: What happens when the people, places, and things that once brought us comfort no longer fit in our healing and recovery journey? This week, we explore the grief and growth that come with outgrowing relationships, hobbies, environments, and identities that once felt like home. You’ll hear reflections on: Whether you’re frustrated by your changing preferences or unsure how to handle friends who no longer “get you,” this episode will remind you: You’re not going crazy—you’re just growing. 💗 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Ways You Can Support the Show: Got a question for the Shrinks? Email us at AskTheShrinks@FoodShrinks.com or drop your comments on our YouTube channel! 🌱 Remember: healing doesn’t always feel good—but it’s always worth it. We love you, and we’re so glad you’re here. The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. | |||
| 28 Jan 2025 | Episode 14: Conflict, Communication, and Repair in Healthy Relationships | 00:19:22 | |
In this episode, Molly, Clarissa, and Molly (aka The Food Shrinks) dive deep into healthy conflict resolution and how it impacts relationships, recovery, and our connection with food. Through personal stories, the hosts share their challenges and breakthroughs when it comes to communication, boundaries, and repair. 📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Molly’s 2025 Resolution Turning Conflict into Growth Practical Conflict Resolution Skills Connection to Recovery 💡 Listener Takeaways: 🎥 Watch & Share: 🗨️ Have a question? Drop it in the comments or email us at AskTheShrinks@foodshrinks.com. We love hearing from you! 📢 Follow Us: Let’s keep the conversation going and help each other thrive in recovery! See you next time!
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