In this powerful and deeply vulnerable episode, Dr. Cristina Castagnini welcomes Nikki DuBose, a model, author, advocate, and PsyD student, who shares her courageous journey from childhood trauma and eating disorders to a thriving modeling career that masked deep internal struggles, and ultimately to full recovery and healing. For years, Nikki lived the life everyone envied—gracing magazine covers, walking runways, and embodying what society calls "perfection." But behind the flawless images was a young woman falling apart inside, battling an eating disorder that began at age eight and a relentless pursuit of external validation that could never fill the void within. Through therapy, spirituality, and profound self-discovery, Nikki learned that the most beautiful transformation doesn't happen on the outside—it happens when you finally come home to yourself. Together, Dr. Castagnini and Nikki explore the reality behind the glamorous facade, the pressures of the modeling industry, and what it truly means to find peace from the inside out.

Nikki DuBose is a model, author, advocate, and PsyD student. She owns an eating disorder coaching service and primarily works with people in the performance arts who are looking to regain freedom from the obsession of food and body image. Nikki’s first memoir, Washed Away: From Darkness to Light, discusses her recovery from mental health issues in the fashion industry. She has appeared on shows like The Doctors, The TD Jakes Show, and CBS LA to discuss her recovery and the importance of spirituality.        

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Why the "perfect" life on the outside can mask profound pain on the inside.
  • How childhood trauma laid the foundation for Nikki's eating disorder at age eight.
  • The reality behind magazine covers: hours of preparation, lighting, makeup, and airbrushing.
  • How the modeling industry glorified thinness and perpetuated unhealthy standards.
  • Why external validation can never replace internal self-worth.
  • The turning point when Nikki's agency told her: "Get help or we won't represent you."
  • How writing her memoir became a cathartic process of reclaiming her voice.
  • Why full recovery is possible—and what it truly looks like.
  • The power of shifting from outside-in to inside-out living.
  • How Nikki now uses her story to help others find freedom from food and body obsession.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:58 The Illusion of Perfection
  • 01:25 Meet Nikki DuBose: The Model's True Story
  • 03:06 Nikki's Early Struggles with Eating Disorders
  • 04:22 The Impact of Childhood Trauma
  • 08:40 The Harsh Realities of the Modeling Industry
  • 21:59 The Turning Point: Seeking Therapy
  • 24:51 The Illusion of Hiding Addiction
  • 26:50 The Glorification of Thinness in Modeling
  • 32:11 Writing My Memoir: A Journey of Healing
  • 35:08 The Power of Recovery and Self-Compassion
  • 43:08 From Personal Struggles to Professional Practice
  • 45:48 Coaching and Helping Others Heal
  • 49:37 Conclusion and Resources

CONNECT WITH Nikki DuBose:

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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.