Podcast Episode 338: Why Diet Culture is Sneakier Than You Think – and How to Fight Back with Jennifer Beasley, LPC, CEDS
Have you ever felt like you were hiding a secret so big, you feared no one would understand—or worse, judge you for it? That’s the reality for so many struggling with eating disorders. In this heartfelt conversation, Jennifer Beasley, LPC, CEDS, is an eating disorder therapist, parent coach, and author of DumpED: The Breakup That Changed Everything, shares her journey of battling an eating disorder while growing up in the shadow of relentless diet culture. Her story is raw, relatable, and full of hope.
Jennifer grew up in the 90s, a time when stick-thin models were idolized, and diet culture was everywhere—from magazine covers to TV shows. She describes how eating disorders, personified as “Ed” in her book, became a false friend, offering control during times of chaos. But like any toxic relationship, it demanded more and more until it took over her life. Her perspective on breaking free from Ed will resonate with anyone who has felt trapped by an unhealthy relationship with food or body image.
Eating disorders don’t exist in a vacuum—they affect relationships, family dynamics, and mental health. Jennifer’s insights offer practical strategies for those struggling and for parents supporting teens navigating diet culture and body image pressures. She also challenges harmful societal norms, such as the outdated BMI system, that perpetuate the shame many feel about their bodies. Her advice is both empowering and actionable, helping readers rethink what it means to truly heal.
If you’ve ever felt the weight of diet culture or struggled with self-worth, Jennifer’s story will inspire you to take the first step toward breaking free. It’s never too late to reclaim joy, build resilience, and kick “Ed” to the curb. Take a moment to reflect—you’re not alone, and help is always within reach.
In this episode of the No Guilt Mom podcast you’ll learn:
- the sneaky nature of Eating Disorders (ED)
- the harmful societal messaging around body image, dieting, and BMI, and how to reframe your perspective to focus on health and self-acceptance.
- actionable advice on supporting teens struggling with body image or mental health challenges.
- how one therapist battled an eating disorder for years until she finally asked for help.
Resources We Shared In This Episode:
Learn more about Jennifer and download her free Eating Disorder Support Guide
Join our FREE No Guilt Mom Podcast group
Victoria’s Secret (song) by Jax
The History and Faults of the Body Mass Index and Where to Look Next: A Literature Review
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Read the transcripts HERE
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#parentingpodcast #parentingtips #selfcare #mentalload #kids #teenager #toddler #preschooler #baby #EatingDisorders #BodyDysmorphia #MentalHealthAwareness #ParentingTeens #SelfWorth #BodyImage #BreakingUpWithEd #NoGuiltMomPodcast #NoGuiltParenting #JenniferBeasley #SupportingTeens
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Brie Tucker
COO/ Podcast Producer at No Guilt Mom
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