In this inspiring episode, Dr. Cristina Castagnini talks with Samantha Brior, founder of Safe Sam’s, a unique product line and community resource designed to support individuals and families going through eating disorder recovery. Sam shares her personal story of recovery, how her lived experience inspired her to create snack bars specifically for those in treatment, and how her journey evolved into a mission-driven business that funds recovery-related needs. Through Safe Sam’s, she not only offers practical products like motivational blankets, journals, and self-care items but also helps cover real-life expenses—such as groceries or medical bills—that can otherwise be barriers to recovery. This heartfelt conversation explores how creativity, persistence, and compassion can transform personal pain into a force for good, offering hope to those navigating the difficult path of recovery.

Samantha Brior is the founder of Safe Sam's, a product line geared towards individuals and families going through the eating disorder recovery process that donates a portion of the sales to help empower others throughout their eating disorder recoveries. Sam loves to utilize both her own lived experience, her creativity, as well as professional experience, to help individuals and their loved ones in only the ways that she can!

Key Topics Discussed:

  • How Sam’s personal recovery inspired her to create specialized snack bars for those in treatment.
  • The challenges and lessons she learned in developing recipes that met the needs of individuals with eating disorders.
  • Why she ultimately pivoted from manufacturing snack bars to publishing her recipes and starting Safe Sam’s.
  • How Safe Sam’s products (like journals, lip care, and blankets) are intentionally designed to support emotional well-being.
  • The financial barriers many people face during recovery—and how Safe Sam’s helps bridge the gap.
  • How social media and creative outreach (like entering the “Cake Boss” Greatest Baker competition) help raise awareness and build community.
  • The importance of balancing passion-driven work with self-care to avoid burnout.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:59 Meet Samantha Brior: Founder of Safe Sam's
  • 02:14 Samantha's Journey and the Birth of Safe Sam's
  • 04:10 Developing the Perfect Snack Bar
  • 07:44 Challenges and Innovations in Snack Bar Creation
  • 13:03 From Snack Bars to Published Recipes
  • 19:00 Expanding Safe Sam's: New Products and Community Support
  • 21:43 Current Endeavors and Future Plans
  • 27:53 Conclusion and Contact Information

CONNECT WITH SAMANTHA:

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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.