In this moving episode of Behind the Bite, Dr. Cristina Castagnini sits down with Katie Kiliszewsk to explore a deeply personal journey through the shadows of anorexia and substance abuse. Katie opens up about the childhood roots of her eating disorder—from being teased by neighborhood kids to the damaging influence of a sports coach—and the sixteen-year battle that followed. They discuss the "all-in" mentality required for true healing, the difficult transition from using exercise as an escape to using it as a source of joy, and how motherhood became the ultimate catalyst for her recovery. This episode is a powerful testament to the fact that no matter how long the struggle lasts, there is always light on the other side. Katie Kiliszewski is a wife, mom of three, runner, and mentor to women in eating disorder recovery. She believes if you have faith, you have hope, and if you have, hope you have everything. Katie’s is a story of resilience and grit in overcoming anorexia and addiction. Her passion is sharing her story to inspire.    

KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED:

  • How early childhood experiences and comments from authority figures can plant the seeds for an eating disorder.
  • The complex relationship between eating disorders and substance abuse as a way to "turn the brain off."
  • Why "99% recovery" isn't enough and what it means to be truly "all-in" on healing.
  • The importance of setting boundaries and moving past the trap of people-pleasing.
  • How to rebuild a healthy relationship with exercise and movement after years of using it as a punishment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • The "All-In" Choice: Recovery requires a definitive 100% commitment; being 99% in still leaves a door open for the eating disorder voice to return.
  • Eating Disorders as a Separate Personality: Katie describes how the disorder slowly takes over until you no longer recognize your own likes, dislikes, or identity.
  • The Power of Truth: Breaking the "secret" of the eating disorder by speaking up to a treatment team or support system is often the first step toward relief.
  • Rebuilding the Self: Recovery isn't just about stopping behaviors; it’s an opportunity to intentionally rebuild your identity from the ground up.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • [03:00] Introduction to Katie Kiliszewsk and the power of recovery stories.
  • [07:22] The early roots: Childhood bullying and perfectionism.
  • [08:48] The impact of sports culture and a coach's role in body image.
  • [14:48] Navigating the loss of control during inpatient treatment.
  • [18:27] The pivotal moment: How being kicked off a soccer team led to substance abuse.
  • [21:10] Using alcohol as a coping mechanism to escape the "eating disorder brain."
  • [29:28] Putting yourself back together: Choosing which parts of your identity to keep.
  • [31:55] Embracing "too muchness" and the gift of being a sensitive "cotton ball" person.
  • [38:40] Motherhood as the ultimate motivation to achieve 100% recovery.
  • [40:11] Reframing movement: Transitioning from running away to running toward joy.
  • [44:10] The rewarding work of mentoring others in recovery.

CONNECT WITH KATIE:

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Until next time, remember, we're here to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and support each other on the path to a better life.

Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

The content of this podcast episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or affiliated organizations. If you have any medical or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those sensitive to topics related to body image, weight stigma, and eating disorders.