Her Best Self | Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast, Disordered Eating, Anorexia, Bulimia, Orthorexia, Body Image, Food Freedom, Calorie Counting, Obsessive Exercise, Food Restriction cover art

Her Best Self | Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast, Disordered Eating, Anorexia, Bulimia, Orthorexia, Body Image, Food Freedom, Calorie Counting, Obsessive Exercise, Food Restriction

Her Best Self | Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast, Disordered Eating, Anorexia, Bulimia, Orthorexia, Body Image, Food Freedom, Calorie Counting, Obsessive Exercise, Food Restriction

By: Lindsey Nichol - Certified Health Coach Eating Disorder Recovery Coach Food Freedom Coach Eating Disorder Intuitive Therapy Certified
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 Transform Your Relationship with Food and Your Body - Find Freedom from Eating Disorders Welcome to the Her Best Self podcast, where women discover lasting freedom from disordered eating, food obsession, and body shame. Hosted by Lindsey Nichol, eating disorder recovery coach and former anorexia survivor, this show provides hope, practical tools, and expert guidance for women ready to break free from the nightmare of disordered eating and reclaim their lives. Lindsey combines her personal recovery journey with professional coaching expertise to deliver actionable strategies for eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, body image healing, and food freedom. Each episode addresses the real challenges women face when healing their relationship with food - from weight gain fears and exercise addiction to perfectionism and decision-making paralysis. This show is perfect for you if you: Struggle with chronic dieting, restriction or excessive exercise Are exhausted from food rules and calorie counting obsession Battle negative body image and weight preoccupation Feel controlled by exercise compulsion or movement anxiety Are high-achievers dealing with perfectionism in recovery Want to stop the start-stop recovery cycle and commit fully to healing Are ready to go ”all in” on recovery but need guidance and support Desire food freedom and body peace without endless therapy or diet programs Episode Topics Include: Eating disorder recovery strategies and mindset shifts Breaking food rules and challenging fear foods safely Body image healing and weight restoration support Exercise addiction recovery and joyful movement Perfectionism, people-pleasing, and control in recovery Decision-making, commitment, and overcoming recovery resistance Meal planning, intuitive eating, and mechanical eating guidance Family relationships, social eating, and recovery in real life Lindsey doesn’t just share recovery theory - she provides the raw truth about what recovery actually looks like, the uncomfortable parts no one talks about, and the specific tools that create lasting change. Her approach combines evidence-based recovery principles with spiritual foundation and practical implementation for busy women. Whether you’re just beginning to consider recovery, are in the early stages of healing, or are working to maintain long-term food freedom, this podcast meets you where you are with compassion, expertise, and actionable guidance. New episodes air twice per week (Tuesday’s and Friday’s) featuring solo deep-dives, client success stories, expert interviews, and listener Q&A sessions. Join thousands of women who are choosing recovery, embracing their worth beyond their weight, and discovering that food freedom is not only possible - it’s their birthright. Ready to take the next step? Visit www.herbestself.co for a coaching application, free resources, and community support. Your best self is waiting. Your freedom starts now. _____________________________________________________________________ **DISCLAIMER** Trigger warning: The episodes on Her Best Self podcast may, at times, cover sensitive topics including but not limited to eating disorders & mental health. You are advised to refrain from listening if you are likely to be triggered or adversely impacted by any of these topics. Neither Lindsey Nichol LLC, associates nor guests, shall at any time be liable for the content covered causing offense, distress or any other reaction. The information contained comes from personal insight & education but should not be viewed as clinical support or professional diagnosis. Anything said should NOT be taken as a replacement for medical intervention & is nothing is intended to establish a therapist-patient relationship, to replace the services of a trained therapist, doctor or other health professional, nor treatment. @ Copyright 2025 Lindsey Nichol LLCCopyright 2025 All rights reserved. Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • EP 237: Do I Still Have Bad Body Image Days? (The Honest Truth) + My 8 Step Bad Body Image Toolkit

    EP 237: Do I Still Have Bad Body Image Days? (The Honest Truth) + My 8 Step Bad Body Image Toolkit
    Sep 5 2025
    What does recovery actually look like years later? Do bad body image days ever completely disappear? In this vulnerable episode, Lindsey pulls back the curtain on her life after eating disorder recovery and shares exactly what she does when difficult body image moments show up - because yes, they still do sometimes. If you've ever wondered what to expect from recovery or you're struggling with perfectionism around your healing journey, this episode will give you hope and practical tools you can use today. Today's Truth: Recovery doesn't mean perfection - it means having the tools to navigate difficult moments with love instead of war. Key Topics Covered: 🌟 The reality check: Do bad body image days ever completely stop? 🌟 Why having difficult moments doesn't mean you're "not recovered enough" 🌟 The difference between struggling in active eating disorder vs. recovery 🌟 8 practical tools for navigating bad body image days 🌟 How thoughts about your body directly impact how you feel in your body Lindsey's 8-Step Bad Body Image Day Toolkit: ✨ Give Yourself Grace Upon Grace Permission to feel without judgmentTalk to yourself like your best friendRemember: recovery isn't about never struggling ✨ Throw on Comfy, Baggy Clothes Remove physical discomfort that amplifies emotional discomfortFocus on how you feel, not how clothes fitThis isn't hiding - it's self-care ✨ Get to the Root: What Am I Trying to Control? Ask: "What's really going on here?"Often body image struggles are about something else entirelyAddress the actual issue, not just the symptom ✨ Resist Mirror-Checking Temptation Avoid body-checking and analyzingBody-checking always makes things worseRedirect energy toward things that serve you ✨ Honor Yourself with Mindful Eating Eat normally despite difficult feelingsChoose nourishing foods that taste goodDon't punish your body for emotional discomfort ✨ Notice Exercise Compulsions and Pause Ask: "Am I moving from love or punishment?"Choose gentle movement over intense workoutsIt's okay to rest when you're struggling ✨ No Social Media Scrolling Stay off platforms that trigger comparisonProtect your mental space fiercelyChoose books, friends, or creative activities instead ✨ Ask "How Do I Want to Feel?" Shift from "How do I look?" to "How do I want to feel?"Focus on strength, comfort, connection, gratitudeResearch shows this actually changes body image in real-time Key Takeaways: 💝 Recovery isn't about never struggling - it's about struggling with love instead of war 💝 Bad days don't mean bad weeks or months - you have tools now 💝 Your humanity doesn't disqualify your recovery - difficult moments are normal 💝 Progress over perfection, always - you're exactly where you need to be 💝 You can do hard things - including sitting with uncomfortable feelings Research Highlight: Studies show that when we focus on how we want to feel in our bodies rather than how we think we look, it directly impacts our actual body image experience. Our thoughts about our bodies influence how we experience being in our bodies - which means we have more power than we realize! Ready for Community Support? Join The Recovery Collective! Finally, a recovery community that gets it. If this episode resonated with you, you're exactly who The Recovery Collective was created for. This is where women in all phases of eating disorder recovery come together every other week to normalize the messy parts of healing, celebrate victories, and support each other with practical tools and genuine understanding. What You Get: Bi-weekly 60-minute group coaching calls via ZoomSafe, judgment-free space with 10-15 women maximumReal-time support for your current recovery challengesCommunity of women who understand what it's like to navigate recovery in real lifeCoaching insights that help you move forward with practical strategies Special Founding Member Pricing: First 10 members: $47/month for 6 months (over 50% off!)Regular membership: $97/monthLess than $1.50/day for bi-weekly coaching and community support Imagine having a safe space where you could share that you're having a difficult body image day and receive understanding, practical support, and gentle reminders of your worth instead of judgment. Recovery is possible right now, and it's so much more beautiful when we do it together. Ready to sign up? www.herbestself.co/recoverycollective Ready for Support? 📧 Email Lindsey: info@lindseynichol.com 🌐 Apply for Recovery Coaching: www.herbestself.co 💕 Join the Community: www.herbestselfsociety.com Limited spots available for fall coaching - only 2 slots remaining Connect with Lindsey: 🌟 Website: www.herbestself.co 🌟 Instagram: @thelindseynichol 🌟 Client Application: HBS Co. Recovery Coaching - Client Application - Google Forms Love this episode? Here's how you can support the show: 💕 Share it with a woman who might need to hear this message 💕 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts -...
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    18 mins
  • EP 236: 7 Books Every Woman in Recovery Needs on Her Nightstand + Your Personal Invite to The Recovery Collective Support Group💕

    EP 236: 7 Books Every Woman in Recovery Needs on Her Nightstand + Your Personal Invite to The Recovery Collective Support Group💕
    Sep 2 2025
    Are you tired of self-help books that sound good but don't create real change in your recovery journey? In this episode, Lindsey shares 7 current book recommendations that she's actively using with clients and in her own healing - books that will meet you right where you are and support your next brave step toward freedom. Whether you're just beginning to question your relationship with food and your body, or you're years into recovery and ready for that next level of freedom, there's something here for you. Today's Truth: You deserve resources that support your healing, and recovery is possible right now....but sometimes you just need an extra boost of belief! Books Featured in This Episode: 📚 "Feed Yourself" by Leslie Schilling Perfect for healing your relationship with food from the inside outTeaches intuitive eating and food freedom beyond diet culture 📚 "You're Not Enough (And That's Okay)" by Allie Stuckey Challenges toxic positivity and "be your own everything" mentalityOffers permission to need support in your recovery journey 📚 "Goodbye Perfect" by Homaira Kabir Essential reading for recovering people-pleasers and perfectionistsSubtitle: "How to Stop Pleasing, Proving, and Pushing for Others and Live for Yourself" 📚 "Already Enough: A Path to Self-Acceptance" by Lisa Olivera Medicine for anyone struggling with self-worth in recoveryFocuses on genuine self-acceptance, not fake confidence 📚 "Don't Believe Everything You Think" by Joseph Nguyen Game-changer for dealing with loud eating disorder thoughtsTeaches you that you are not your thoughts and don't have to believe them all 📚 "A Crown That Lasts: You Are Not Your Label" by Demi Tebow Powerful reminder that you are more than your eating disorder or diagnosisPerfect for finding identity beyond your struggles 📚 "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown Life-changing research on shame, vulnerability, and wholehearted livingEssential for anyone who's used perfectionism as armor Key Takeaways: ✨ Recovery is possible right now - You don't have to wait until you're "ready enough" ✨ You are not your eating disorder - Your thoughts and diagnosis don't define your worth ✨ Progress over perfection - Healing isn't linear, and that's completely normal ✨ You can do hard things - And you don't have to do them alone ✨ Your journey is unique - What works for others might look different for you, and that's okay Exciting News: The Recovery Collective is Launching October 2025! Finally, a recovery community that gets it. The Recovery Collective is where women in all phases of eating disorder recovery come together bi-weekly to share wins, navigate challenges, and build lasting freedom in a safe, supportive community. What You Get: Bi-weekly 60-minute group coaching calls via ZoomSafe, judgment-free space with 10-15 women maximumReal-time support for your current recovery challengesOptional check-in prompts and VIP offersCoaching insights that help you move forward, not backward Special Founding Member Pricing: First 10 members: $47/month (over 50% off!)Regular membership: $97/monthLess than $1.50/day for bi-weekly coaching and community support Recovery isn't a destination - it's a journey best taken together. www.herbestself.co/recoverycollective Connect with Lindsey: 🌟 Website: www.herbestself.co 🌟 Instagram: @thelindseynichol 🌟 Client Application: HBS Co. Recovery Coaching - Client Application - Google Forms Love this episode? Here's how you can support the show: 💕 Share it with a woman who might need to hear this message 💕 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts - it helps other women find the show 💕 Screenshot and tag @thelindseynichol if you're reading any of these books! Remember, beautiful: Your worth is not measured by how perfectly you do recovery. Healing isn't linear, progress over perfection always, and you are exactly where you need to be right now. Her Best Self with Lindsey Nichol is a podcast for women in eating disorder recovery who are ready to break free from perfectionism, people-pleasing, and diet culture to live authentically and wholeheartedly. *While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.
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    18 mins
  • EP 235.5: The 3 Core Beliefs That Are Secretly Fueling Your Eating Disorder + What to Do Next to Change the Way You Think

    EP 235.5: The 3 Core Beliefs That Are Secretly Fueling Your Eating Disorder + What to Do Next to Change the Way You Think
    Aug 29 2025
    Core beliefs are the fundamental, deeply held beliefs we develop in early childhood that shape how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. In this eye-opening episode, Lindsey breaks down how eating disorders stem from and reinforce negative core beliefs that can take years to heal from. Learn about the three types of core beliefs that are secretly feeding your disordered eating patterns and discover how to identify and transform these beliefs to break free from the cycle keeping you stuck. Key Takeaways Core beliefs are fundamental truths you've made into idols that need to be challengedEating disorders stem from and reinforce negative core beliefs developed in childhoodThere are 3 types of core beliefs: how you see yourself, others, and the worldYou are becoming someone you've never been before - be patient with that process"You either quit or keep going - they both hurt. Choose your hurt wisely." The 3 Types of Core Beliefs Type 1: How You See Yourself What It Includes: Self-worth and personal valueSelf-competence, skills, and abilitiesSelf-identity - who you are at your coreBeliefs shaped by caretakers, feedback, and criticisms over your lifetime How It Feeds EDs: "I'm not good enough" leads to perfectionism, restriction, and rigidityFalse identity created by the eating disorder becomes your truthTying worth and value to performance instead of inherent value How to Change It: Build self-compassion through recovery inspirationEmbrace your identity as "daughter of the most high, warrior, queen"Recognize the voice in your head is a false narrativeUnderstand you don't have to earn, restrict, or compensate for nourishment Type 2: How You View Other People What It Includes: Trustworthiness and reliability of othersBeliefs about goodwill and kindness in peoplePrejudices and stereotypesSafety mechanisms developed from rejection or inconsistent caregiving How It Feeds EDs: "If I can just be perfect, I'll have less rejection"Using food and exercise to control how others perceive you"If I gain weight, will my husband/boyfriend still want me?" How to Change It: Stop comparing yourself to other peopleUnderstand most people don't actually care about your recovery journeySet boundaries with people who aren't in your cornerAccept support from those who truly want what's best for you Type 3: Your Perception of the World What It Includes: Beliefs about safety vs. danger in your environmentAbundance vs. scarcity mindsetBeliefs about available resources and opportunitiesLevel of control you have over your life and world events How It Feeds EDs: "The world is unsafe, so I must perform to prove my value"Searching for control and stability through food/body managementFear-based restriction during uncertain times How to Change It: Challenge wellness culture and societal body image messagesCreate personal meaning and purpose beyond the disorder"Stay away from processed bodies rather than processed foods" How Core Beliefs Create ED Cycles The Connection: Core beliefs affect your motivations, goals, life choices, and desires for freedomNegative self-perception breeds perfectionism and restrictionFear of others' judgment results in using food and exercise for controlWorldview of unsafety heightens need to prove value through performance Powerful Quotes from This Episode "You are becoming someone you've never met before - and that's what I want you to take with you today.""What other people think of you is not your business.""No one truly cares what you are doing in your recovery outside of those closest to you.""You either quit or you get to keep going, and they both hurt. Choose your hurt wisely.""We have to stop living and breeding a culture where our daughters feel wrong for being in their own body." The Core Belief Transformation Process Step 1: Identification Recognize which of the 3 types of core beliefs are impacting your EDIdentify the "fundamental truths" you've made into idolsUnderstand these beliefs reinforce unhealthy coping mechanisms Step 2: Challenge Question beliefs about yourself, others, and the worldRecognize many beliefs aren't even yours - they were inheritedChallenge wellness culture and societal messages Step 3: Rebuild Build self-compassion and embrace your true identitySet boundaries and stop caring about bystanders' opinionsCreate meaning and purpose beyond the disorder Warning Signs Your Core Beliefs Are Feeding Your ED Tying your worth to your performance or appearanceBelieving you must be perfect to avoid rejectionUsing food/exercise to control how others see youFeeling unsafe in the world and needing control through restrictionBelieving you're "not good enough" or "unlovable" The Recovery Mindset Shifts From: "I'm not good enough" To: "I am a warrior becoming someone I've never been before" From: "I must be perfect to be loved" To: "I am worthy of love exactly as I am" From: "The world is unsafe" To: "I can create meaning and purpose beyond my fears" Journal Prompts for Core Belief ...
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    17 mins
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