161. But Can Food Guilt Be A Motivator?

In this episode, we explore the complex role guilt plays in our lives, particularly around topics like eating, self-care, and productivity. We start things off with some chit-chat about recording while standing up -- Stef has a moment of body image angst, revisted at the end of the episode. We discuss how guilt can stem from societal expectations and personal values, and whether it truly helps drive positive change or just makes us feel worse. We also talk about how guilt compares to integrity and self-care, arguing that aligning with one’s values might be a healthier motivator than guilt. Several personal stories highlight these ideas: Sarah shares a dinner story involving guilt around food and a confrontation with her dad's judgmental comments. Stef talks about the difference between productive frustration and unproductive shame using an example of...underwear Both hosts reflect on their own experiences with guilt related to work and productivity, emphasizing the difference between productive self-care and collapsing out of despair or self-abandonment. The conversation also touches on parental expectations, societal pressures about how to look, eat, and "succeed", and the importance of self-compassion (explained in context, not the abstract boring way). Join our growing support community. This community is for you if you want a safe space to work through your daily struggles with food and body image. Community membership includes livestream episode recordings (online), monthly Zoom support meetings, a private Facebook group and member-only Q&A episodes. For more information go to: https://www.patreon.com/lifeafterdiets Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lifeafterdietspodcast Email – [email protected] Connect with Stefanie Michele, ED Recovery Coach, Somatic Therapist IT Work with Stefanie - www.iamstefaniemichele.com/application Website – www.iamstefaniemichele.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/iamstefaniemichele Connect with Sarah Dosanjh, Author & Psychotherapist Website – www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com Instagram – www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist Sarah’s book I Can’t Stop Eating is available on Amazon If you find this episode helpful, you can subscribe to the Life After Diets podcast, leave us a review, and share your thoughts with us on Instagram and YouTube (@lifeafterdietspodcast). Your feedback helps us create content that matters to you.