Recover To Flourish | Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Ciandra Birnbaum

Welcome to the Recover To Flourish, The Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast, a show dedicated to exploring recovery from an eating disorder. I'm your host, Ciandra, an eating disorder recovery coach and nutritional advisor. Through this podcast, I hope to provide a safe and supportive space for people to learn about eating recovery, share their stories, and connect with others on a similar journey. In each weekly episode, we'll dive into various topics related to eating disorder recovery, including mindset shifts, self-care practices, and techniques for managing triggers. We'll also feature interviews with experts in the field, as well as people w...

How to Overcome Social Eating in ED Recovery
#30
Yesterday at 5:00 AM

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re talking about something many of us struggle with in recovery: social eating. Whether it’s family meals, eating out with friends, or social gatherings, eating in front of others can be tough when you're recovering from an eating disorder. I’ll share some personal experiences, tips, and strategies to help you feel more at ease with social eating and break free from the anxiety it can cause.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Why social eating can trigger anxiety in recovery.Practical tips for navigating s...


The Real Truth About Being 'Skinny' | The Era of SkinnyTok
#29
07/22/2025

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a tough but important topic – the truth about being “skinny” and the impact of the SkinnyTok era. With social media constantly bombarding us with images of a specific body type, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that being thin is the ultimate goal. But is it really? I’ll share my thoughts on what being “skinny” really means, how society’s obsession with thinness affects our mental health, and how we can shift our mindset to embrace body diversity and self-compassion instead.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

The ha...


Neuroplasticity and How Rewiring is Important to Recovery
#28
07/15/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re diving into the fascinating world of neuroplasticity and why rewiring your brain is such a big part of eating disorder recovery. You might have heard the term “neuroplasticity” before, but in this episode, we’re going to break down how it works and why it’s crucial for shifting those old patterns and behaviors tied to your eating disorder. I’ll explain how your brain has the ability to change and adapt, and how recovery isn’t just about changing what you eat, but also reprogramming the way you think.<...


Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia: Biological, Psychological, and Sociocultural Aspects
#27
07/08/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re diving deep into anorexia nervosa and bulimia – exploring the biological, psychological, and sociocultural aspects of these eating disorders. If you’ve ever wondered what’s going on behind the scenes, both in the body and the mind, this episode will give you a clearer picture. I’ll break down the different factors that contribute to these disorders and how they affect individuals in unique ways. We’ll also talk about how understanding these aspects can help you in your recovery journey.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

The b...


Meal Plans – How, When, and Why to Use Them in ED Recovery
#26
07/01/2025

In today’s episode, we’re talking all about meal plans – how, when, and why to use them in eating disorder recovery. Meal plans can be a helpful tool, but they can also bring up a lot of anxiety and resistance, so I want to break down how to approach them in a way that feels supportive, not restrictive. 

I’ll share when using a meal plan might be a good idea and how to stay flexible with food without feeling trapped by numbers or rules.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Why meal plans can be...


Practical Advice for Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Recovery | with Meg | ED & Period Recovery
#25
06/24/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m joined by Meg, a lovely content creator who talks all things eating disorder and period recovery. We’re talking about Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA) – a condition where your period stops due to stress, restrictive eating, and over-exercising. If you’ve lost your period and are working on getting it back, this episode is for you! Meg shares practical advice on how to approach HA recovery, why getting your period back is a crucial step in healing, and how to navigate the process with patience and self-compassion.

Here’s wha...


Q & A: Answering Your Recovery Questions, Such as Recovering in Diet Culture, Moving Away from an Athlete Identity, and More...
#24
06/17/2025

In today’s episode, I’m answering some of your biggest recovery questions as submitted over on my Instagram @flourishwithciandra. We’re talking about how to navigate recovery in a world that’s still obsessed with diet culture, how to move away from an athlete identity, and how to deal with some of the other challenges that come up in eating disorder recovery. 

I’ll share my thoughts, personal experiences, and offer practical tips to help you work through these common hurdles.

This episode is all about creating space for you to heal, even in a world tha...


The Importance of Carbs and Dietary Fats in ED Recovery
#23
06/10/2025

In this episode, we’re talking about something that’s often misunderstood in eating disorder recovery: carbs and dietary fats. These nutrients are essential for healing, but they can be really challenging to incorporate when you're recovering from an eating disorder. I’ll share why both carbs and fats are crucial for your physical and mental health, and why it's so important to break free from the fear and misconceptions around them.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Why carbs and fats are essential for recovery.How these nutrients support brain health, energy, and hormone balance.Tips for g...


How to Approach Bulimia Recovery
#22
06/03/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re talking about bulimia recovery – an often misunderstood part of the journey. If you’ve been struggling with bulimia or know someone who has, this episode is for you. I’ll share some of the key steps to take, why recovery isn’t a straight path, and how to rebuild a healthier relationship with food and your body.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

The importance of addressing the cycle of binging and purging.How to focus on nourishing your body without guilt.Practical steps to rebuild trust...


Should You Weigh Yourself in ED Recovery?
#21
05/27/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re diving into a question many of us in recovery ask: Should I weigh myself during eating disorder recovery? It’s a tough one, right? I’ll break down the pros and cons of weighing yourself, share my own experience, and offer some guidance on how to navigate this decision in a way that supports your recovery.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Why weighing yourself can be triggering in recovery.When it might be okay, if at all, to consider weighing yourself.How to shift focus away...


How Eating Disorders Affect Sleep
#20
05/20/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re talking about the link between eating disorders and sleep. If you’ve struggled with insomnia or restless nights during recovery, you’re not alone. I’ll share how disordered eating affects sleep, why it’s crucial for healing, and practical tips to improve your rest.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

How eating disorders impact sleep quality.Why sleep is vital for recovery.Tips for improving your sleep during recovery.Managing sleep challenges without guilt.

Sleep is essential for healing, and I’m here to help you p...


Letting Go of Control in ED Recovery
#19
05/13/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re diving into one of the toughest parts of eating disorder recovery: letting go of control. If you’ve been struggling with the need to control food, exercise, or your body, you’re not alone. I know from personal experience how hard it is to start loosening the grip, but I’m here to talk about why it’s so essential for healing and how to take those first steps toward true freedom. 

In this episode, I’ll share some of my own journey, offer practical tips, and remin...


Getting Stuck in "Quasi" Eating Disorder Recovery
#18
05/06/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re talking about something that can be tricky to navigate: getting stuck in quasi eating disorder recovery. You know, when you’re doing enough to feel like you’re making progress, but you’re still holding on to some of the old behaviors or mindsets. It’s like you’re in recovery, but not quite fully in it yet. Trust me, I’ve been there, and I know how confusing it can be. In this episode, I’ll dive into why this happens and what you can do to move forward.


Will I Get Unfit if I Stop Doing Cardio During Eating Disorder Recovery?
#17
04/30/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m addressing a question that I hear a lot: Will I get unfit if I stop doing cardio during eating disorder recovery? I totally get why this might be a worry, especially if you’ve been using exercise as a way to control your body or manage your food intake. But here’s the thing – recovery is about healing your body, mind, and relationship with movement. In this episode, I’ll talk about why it’s important to take a step back from cardio in recovery and how you can focus on...


Can You Get Into the Fitness World After an Eating Disorder?
#17
04/29/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m answering a question that comes up often in recovery: Can you get into the fitness world after an eating disorder? If you’ve been wondering about getting back into exercise after recovery, or if the idea of fitness is overwhelming, this episode is for you.

I’ll share my thoughts on how to approach fitness with a balanced mindset, focusing on self-care and joy, rather than the need to "earn" food or change your body. It’s totally possible to enjoy movement again – but it’s all about fi...


Embracing the Messy Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery
#16
04/22/2025

In this episode, we’re talking about something that can feel really uncomfortable in recovery – the messy middle. You know, that part of the journey when things aren’t perfectly ‘recovered,’ but you’re also not in the same place as when you started. It can feel messy, confusing, and even a bit frustrating.

But guess what? That messy middle is where a lot of the real growth happens. I’ll share why embracing this phase is so important and how you can learn to sit with the discomfort, without feeling like you’re doing it wrong.

Recover...


Can You Ever Lose Weight Again After an Eating Disorder?
#15
04/15/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m tackling a question that comes up a lot in recovery: Can you ever lose weight again after an eating disorder? It’s a question that can stir up a lot of emotions and confusion, and I get it – it’s not an easy one to answer.

So, let’s talk about it. I’ll share my thoughts and experiences on why this question isn’t as straightforward as it may seem, and why, in recovery, the focus should be on health, not weight loss. I’ll also dive into...


Weight Restored on a Low Intake, What to Do Now?
#14
04/08/2025

In today’s solo episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re diving into a tricky topic: what to do when you’ve restored weight on a low intake and are wondering where to go from here. If you’ve found yourself in this situation, you’re not alone, and it’s completely normal to feel a little uncertain.

I’ll share my personal experience with weight restoration and why it’s so important to focus on increasing your intake to nourish your body properly. We’ll also discuss how to navigate this phase in recovery with compassion, m...


Should I Get Into the Fitness World While Recovering from an Eating Disorder?
#13
04/01/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re tackling a big question – Should I get into the fitness world while recovering from an eating disorder? If you’ve ever wondered whether it's okay to pursue fitness during recovery or if it might set you back, you’re not alone. 

As someone who has navigated this very path, I’ll share my personal experience and offer some realistic advice on how to approach fitness in a way that supports your recovery, rather than hindering it. We’ll talk about listening to your body, finding balance, and ho...


Addicted to Feeling Hungry? How an Eating Disorder Can Become Addictive
#12
03/25/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m exploring something many people don’t talk about – the addiction to feeling hungry. If you’ve ever felt a sense of control or comfort from hunger, this episode is for you. 

As someone who’s walked through eating disorder recovery, I know how an eating disorder can become addictive in ways that go beyond the food itself. In this episode, I’ll talk about why hunger can feel like a source of security, how this pattern develops, and why it’s so challenging to break free. 

I’ll also s...


Feeling Hungrier After Eating: Why It Happens in Eating Disorder Recovery
#11
03/18/2025

In this episode, we’re talking about something that can feel confusing and frustrating in recovery – feeling hungrier after you’ve just eaten. 

If you've ever experienced this, you’re not alone. I know from personal experience that hunger can sometimes feel unpredictable, especially during eating disorder recovery. 

In this episode, I’ll break down why this happens, what it means for your body, and how you can approach this feeling with compassion and understanding. We’ll also chat about how this is a normal part of the healing process and why listening to your body is so imp...


How Does an Eating Disorder Affect Your Bone Health (Osteoporosis vs Osteopenia)
#10
03/11/2025

In today’s episode, I’m diving into a topic that’s often overlooked in eating disorder recovery – bone health. Specifically, we’ll be talking about osteoporosis and osteopenia and how an eating disorder can impact your bone mineral density. 

As someone who’s personally experienced bone health challenges during my recovery, I’ll share my journey, including the steps I took to restore my bone mineral density and rebuild strength. I’ll also explain the differences between osteoporosis and osteopenia and explain how addressing these issues is important to long-term recovery. 

If you’ve ever been concerned...


Extreme Hunger Tips in Eating Disorder Recovery
#9
03/04/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m diving into a topic that often comes up in eating disorder recovery: extreme hunger. If you’ve been through the recovery process, you know that your body can sometimes feel like it’s asking for more food than you’re used to. 

It’s totally normal, but it can also feel overwhelming and confusing. I’m here to share some practical tips to help you navigate extreme hunger, trust your body’s signals, and work through the discomfort without guilt or shame. 

This episode is all about giv...


Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder
#8
02/25/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m talking about something that often goes hand-in-hand with eating disorders but can be misunderstood – Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). If you’ve ever found yourself obsessing over perceived flaws in your appearance, even when others can’t see them, this episode is for you. 

I’ll break down what BDD is, how it can affect your recovery journey, and what steps you can take to start addressing it. From social media to plastic surgery, we will cover it all.

We’ll talk about self-compassion, seeking the right sup...


How Will I Know I've Recovered From My Eating Disorder?
#7
02/18/2025

In today’s episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m answering a question that many of us in recovery ask: How will I know when I’ve fully recovered? If you’re in the midst of your journey, you’ve probably felt that discomfort, the uncertainty of when things will feel better or if you’re “there” yet. I’ll share why recovery isn’t about a set checklist or a timeline but about embracing new thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that allow you to live your most authentic life.

I’ll walk you through what recovery really means...


Reasons Why You’re Binge Eating and How to Fix It
#6
02/11/2025

In this episode, we’re getting real about binge eating – why it happens and how to start addressing it. 

Binge eating can feel like a huge obstacle in recovery, and if you’ve ever felt stuck in this cycle, you’re not alone. I’m here to talk about some of the common reasons behind binge eating, from emotional triggers to restrictive eating patterns, and share practical steps to help you break the cycle. 

This isn’t about perfection – it’s about understanding what’s going on and giving yourself the tools and compassion to move forward. 


Understanding the Fear of Weight Gain
#5
02/04/2025

Hey there, friends! In this episode, I’m diving into a topic that often comes up in eating disorder recovery: the fear of weight gain. Whether you’ve struggled with it yourself or know someone who has, this fear can be all-consuming and deeply tied to body image, control, and self-worth. 

As an eating disorder coach, I’ve seen how this fear can shape the recovery journey, and I want to help you understand where it comes from and how to navigate it with more compassion. 

We’ll explore strategies to challenge this fear, create a healthie...


Diet culture is EVERYWHERE! How you can learn to cope
#4
01/28/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re diving into the reality that diet culture is all around us – from social media to conversations with friends, it's hard to escape. 

As an eating disorder coach, I know how overwhelming and triggering this can be, especially when you’re working on your recovery. I’ll share some strategies and mindset shifts that can help you cope with the constant pressure, tune out the noise, and focus on what truly matters – your health, happiness, and self-worth. 

If you’re tired of feeling bombarded by diet culture...


Should You Go ‘All In’ in Eating Disorder Recovery?
#3
01/21/2025

Helloooo my loves!!

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m tackling the big question: Should you go ‘all in’ in eating disorder recovery? It’s a term you might have heard thrown around, but what does it really mean? 

As an eating disorder coach, I’ll break down the pros and cons of the ‘all in’ approach and explore why it can be both a powerful and challenging part of recovery. I’ll also share some personal insights and offer guidance on how to decide what feels right for you in your journey. Rec...


How to Cope with Bloating During Eating Disorder Recovery
#2
01/14/2025

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, we’re talking about something that often comes up during eating disorder recovery: bloating. Whether you’re reintroducing more foods into your diet or working through body changes, bloating can feel uncomfortable and overwhelming. 

I’ll share some practical tips to help you cope with it in a compassionate and realistic way. We’ll talk about why bloating happens, how to manage it without letting it control your recovery, and ways to be kinder to your body during this process.

Recovery is a journey, and I’m here to s...


Asking for Permission to Eat and Other Reassurance-Seeking Behaviours
#1
01/07/2025

Hey my loves! Happy New Year and welcome to series 3 of the Recover to Flourish podcast.

In this episode, we’re exploring the common behaviour of seeking permission to eat and other reassurance-seeking habits that often show up in eating disorder recovery. As an eating disorder coach, I know how challenging it can feel to trust yourself and your body when you’ve spent so much time relying on external validation. I’ll share my personal experiences and offer practical tips to help you break free from these behaviours, so you can learn to trust your own hunger...


Facing Fears in Eating Disorder Recovery
#61
12/17/2024

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m talking all about facing fears in eating disorder recovery, especially coming up to the festive season. Fear is such a big part of the process, whether it’s the fear of weight gain, fear of eating certain foods, or fear of losing control. I’ve seen how overwhelming these fears can be, but I’m here to remind you that they don’t have to define your journey. 

Join me as I share some personal experiences and practical steps you can take to face and challenge your fears...


5 Tips to Manage Christmas Body Image Distress in Eating Disorder Recovery (BONUS!)
#60
12/12/2024

In this bonus episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m sharing 5 practical tips to help you manage body image distress during Christmas. Whether it’s navigating festive meals, family gatherings, or simply being around more body-focused conversations, I’ve got some strategies to help you stay grounded and focused on your recovery.

These tips are all about self-compassion, setting boundaries, and giving yourself permission to take care of your mental and physical health, no matter what the season brings.

Plus, I’m inviting you to join my Holiday Season Survival Webinar on December 16th at 6...


Recovery, Body Image, and Identity During Motherhood with Rachel Evans, PhD
#59
12/10/2024

In this heartfelt episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m joined by the wonderful Rachel Evans, PhD, to discuss the intersection of recovery, body image, and identity during motherhood. Rachel, an expert in eating disorders and body image, shares invaluable insights on how motherhood can affect one’s relationship with food, body, and self. We dive into the challenges many mothers face while navigating recovery, the pressure of societal expectations, and how to rebuild a positive relationship with yourself and your body. If you're a mum in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode is filled with...


How to Prepare for the Holidays with an Eating Disorder
#58
12/03/2024

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m sharing some helpful tips on how to prepare for the holidays when you're navigating an eating disorder.

The holiday season can bring up a lot of emotions around food, family, and traditions, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right mindset and some planning, you can approach the season with more peace and less stress. I’ll talk about setting boundaries, managing triggers, and how to stay grounded while still enjoying the festivities.

Plus, I’m excited to invite you to join the...


Recovering from an Eating Disorder on a Budget
#57
11/26/2024

In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that many people face: recovering from an eating disorder while on a budget. As an eating disorder coach, I understand how financial constraints can add stress to the recovery process, especially when it feels like eating the "right" foods can be expensive. 

I’ll share practical tips, budgeting strategies, and creative ideas to help you nourish your body without breaking the bank. Recovery doesn’t have to be expensive, and I’m here to show you how to make it work in a way that feels both achievable and compa...


Recover to Flourish Podcast Trailer
#1
11/20/2024

Welcome to the Recover to Flourish podcast! I’m so excited you’re here. In this trailer episode, I’ll give you a sneak peek into what this podcast is all about – from the real, honest conversations on eating disorder recovery to actionable tips and personal stories. As an eating disorder coach, I’ve seen firsthand the power of support, self-compassion, and the right tools to help you heal and flourish.

Whether you're in recovery yourself or just starting your journey, I’m here to help you navigate the ups and downs with kindness, understanding, and a lot of encou...


7 Steps to Start Anorexia Recovery
#56
11/19/2024

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m walking you through 7 important steps to help you take the first strides in anorexia recovery.

Whether you’re just starting out or feeling stuck, these steps can guide you towards healing in a compassionate, realistic way. As an eating disorder recovery coach, I’ve worked with many individuals who’ve faced anorexia, and I know how overwhelming it can feel to know where to begin. 

I’ll break things down simply, share some personal experiences, and offer practical tips to help you move forward in your rec...


Everything to Know About Compulsive Exercise
#55
11/13/2024

In this episode we’re talking all about compulsive exercise – what it is, why it happens, and how it fits into the bigger picture of eating disorder recovery. 

As an eating disorder recovery coach, I’ve worked with many individuals who struggle with the need to exercise excessively, often as a way to cope with emotions or control food. I’ll share insights from my own experience, unpack the emotional and physical impacts, and offer tips on how to start addressing this behaviour in a healthy way. 

Whether you're struggling with compulsive exercise or just trying to...


Moving to University with an Eating Disorder
#54
11/05/2024

In this episode of the Recover to Flourish podcast, I’m joined by the amazing Larissa, a former client who bravely shares her journey of moving to university while managing an eating disorder.

We chat about the unique challenges and experiences she faced during this transition and the strategies that helped her navigate life on campus.

Also reflecting on when it's right to leave university or take a break to support recovery and mental wellbeing. Larissa also shares insights on how to find balance, cope with stress, and embrace the university experience. 

P.S...