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Ditching Diet Culture - with Keri Baker, LCSW
Introduction
In the latest episode of the Two Piers Podcast, host Erica D'Eramo dives deep into the societal messaging surrounding body image and its effects on mental health and well-being. Joined by licensed clinical social worker Keri Baker, the conversation sheds light on various aspects of disordered eating, body positivity, and the importance of representation in these spaces.
Personal Journey and Advocacy for Marginalized Communities
Finding Empowerment Through Shared Experience
(3:36): Keri Baker opens up about their personal journey with eating disorders and body image, emphasizing the value of relatability for clients facing similar struggles.
The Importance of Representation
(5:00): Both Erica and Keri stress the significance of representation in the eating disorder and body image spheres, particularly for individuals belonging to marginalized communities.
Societal Pressure and Conformity
Navigating Societal Expectations
(7:33): The conversation delves into the pressure to conform to societal norms, touching upon career expectations and body image standards.
Intersectionality and Marginalized Identities
(9:15): Erica and Keri explore the complexities of navigating societal expectations, particularly concerning intersecting identities such as fatness and other marginalized identities.
Understanding Eating Disorders and Mental Health
Anxiety and Fitness Tests
(12:04): Keri shares personal experiences with anxiety surrounding fitness tests in school, highlighting the detrimental impact of societal pressures.
Challenging Misconceptions
(15:30): Erica challenges misconceptions surrounding weight and health, emphasizing the need for a shift in focus from weight loss to holistic well-being.
Disability, Accessibility, and Inclusion
Promoting Inclusive Design
(26:08): Erica and Keri discuss the importance of focusing on universal design rather than solely addressing disabilities, advocating for inclusivity in all aspects of society.
Deconstructing Societal Norms
Capitalism and Body Image
(29:00): The conversation touches upon how societal pressures, fueled by industries like diet and beauty, distract from systemic inequalities, perpetuating harmful beauty ideals.
Inclusivity in the Workplace
(32:41): Erica shares personal experiences with workplace dress codes and body shaming, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and representation in the fashion industry.
Promoting Health and Well-being
Shifting Perspectives on Health
(45:39): Erica and Keri discuss the importance of focusing on health-promoting behaviors rather than external appearance, challenging societal norms surrounding weight and health.
Navigating Comments About Body Image
(50:42): The conversation explores strategies for handling comments about body image, emphasizing self-care and boundary-setting.
Seeking Support and Resources
Assessing Disordered Eating
(54:54): Erica and Keri discuss the importance of assessing one's relationship with food and seeking support from clinicians and dietitians for those struggling with disordered eating.
Intuitive Eating and Mental Health
(59:06): Keri shares their experiences with intuitive eating and highlights the importance of mental health support, especially for marginalized communities.
Conclusion
By delving into these topics with empathy and understanding, Erica and Keri provide valuable insights into the complexities of body image and well-being in today's society, offering hope and resources for those navigating similar challenges.
You can connect with Keri via her website, www.keribaker.com, or on social media on Instagram.