In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, Dr. Cristina Castagnini welcomes Dr. Erin Harrop (they/them) — a licensed medical social worker, assistant professor at the University of Denver, and leading researcher on eating disorders, weight stigma, and inclusive healthcare. Dr. Harrop brings both professional expertise and personal lived experience to the discussion, shedding light on how systemic biases and cultural myths about body size shape who receives care — and who gets ignored. Together, they explore the harmful message that some people are “not sick enough” for treatment and the devastating effects of weight stigma in the medical system. Through compelling real-life examples and research insights, Dr. Harrop helps listeners understand how eating disorders present across diverse bodies, why atypical anorexia remains misunderstood, and what needs to change in healthcare. Erin Harrop (they/them), LICSW, PhD is an assistant professor at University of Denver and a licensed medical social worker. Erin’s research focuses on eating disorders, weight stigma, and inclusive healthcare. Erin centers marginalized populations (e.g., queer, trans, higher weight, lower SES, BIPOC communities), incorporating mixed methods, arts-based, and lived experience research. In addition to studying the impact of stigma on these groups, Erin is also investigating interventions to reduce stigma in both patients and providers. In their work with eating disorders, Erin draws from their own lived experience as a person recovering from an eating disorder.    

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Why atypical anorexia is one of the most misunderstood and underdiagnosed eating disorders.
  • How weight stigma determines who gets care — and who doesn’t.
  • Real stories of medical bias and dismissal, including patients denied care until they became sicker.
  • The dangerous myth that you have to “look sick” to deserve treatment.
  • How the healthcare system still tells patients to “go home, get sicker, and come back.”
  • The emotional and physical harm caused by doctors’ weight-based assumptions.
  • Why BMI is an unreliable and outdated measure still used to gatekeep care.
  • How Dr. Harrop’s own lived experience as a patient fuels their advocacy and research.
  • Practical strategies for self-advocacy and seeking weight-inclusive medical care.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:55 Welcoming the Audience
  • 01:33 Introducing Dr. Erin Harrop
  • 03:23 Dr. Harrop Personal Journey
  • 05:35 Challenges in Eating Disorder Treatment
  • 08:13 Weight Stigma in Medicine
  • 12:15 The Reality of Recovery
  • 20:02 Personal Experiences with Weight Stigma
  • 26:17 Medical Pushback and Policy Constraints
  • 27:22 Questioning Medical Advice
  • 28:53 BMI Limits and Clinic Policies
  • 29:54 Historical BMI Changes and Industry Influence
  • 31:07 Weight Stigma in Medical Practice
  • 34:07 Patient Stories of Medical Neglect
  • 39:50 Training Physicians on Eating Disorders
  • 44:50 Advocating for Proper Medical Care
  • 45:56 Resources and Final Thoughts

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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.