Breaking the ’New Year, New You’ Cycle: Body Positivity Wisdom with Emily Lauren Dick

Helping Families Be Happy

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Emily Lauren Dick to discuss about body positivity for the new year.

Emily is a dynamic creative marketer and author of "Body Positive: A Guide to Loving Your Body." An ardent speaker and activist, Emily is deeply passionate about body image, women's issues, and dismantling shame. She's an advocate for ethical marketing and empowers individuals to fully embrace their authentic selves. Her insightful work has graced platforms like Glamour, Today's Parent, and Scary Mommy.

Episode Highlights

• 01:25 Christopher opens the discussion with Emily on her extensive work in the field of body positivity, especially as we enter a new year. They touch upon the common trend of setting physical goals like losing weight, seeking health and strength, and asks for her recommendation on the topic and ponders on the reasons behind society's obsession with physical goals.
• 01:50 Emily discusses the importance of shifting from the "new year, new you" mentality to focusing on a happy, balanced life. Highlights the significance of joyful movement and a balanced diet that's both enjoyable and nourishing.
• 02:28 Emily introduces the concept of "fat phobia" prevalent in society and defines "fat phobic" as the fear, hatred, or discrimination against fat bodies.
• 03:34 Emily recognizes that not everyone has the privilege of being in good health due to various reasons, including illnesses that might be out of one's control.
• 04:12 Christopher expands the query by seeking insight into the media's intentions and tactics regarding the portrayal and perception of body images.
• 06:16 Emily emphasis on the importance of brands not only promoting body inclusivity but also ensuring that their products cater to diverse body types. She notes that while Aerie showcases diverse body types in marketing, they do not have a vast size range in their products.
• 07:06 Christopher asks Emily for her recommendation to focus on positive ideas and practices concerning body image and awareness for the upcoming year.
• 08:59 Emily recommends engaging with communities that offer support, reading inspirational books, and consuming media (movies, podcasts) that have a positive impact on one's mental well-being.
• 09:42 Christopher notes the phrase "comparison is often the thief of happiness." He acknowledges the challenge that media and advertising present, as they often promote comparison between individuals.
• 10:20 Emily recommends comparing oneself only to previous versions of oneself to gauge personal progress. She says we are not the same as we were in the past, and it's essential to recognize our growth.
• 10:45 Emily suggests practical techniques, like starting a gratitude list, to help individuals reflect on their progress and accomplishments.

3 Key Points

1. Emily discusses how some products marketed under the pretence of promoting health can be harmful. Emphasizes the importance of promoting inclusivity and reducing societal pressures to fit a certain body type.
2. Emily encourages people to pursue both physical and non-physical activities that they are passionate about. She suggests engaging in activities that are enjoyable and make one feel good, emphasizing "joyful movement.
3. The conversation addresses the media's role in promoting thin ideals and inducing comparisons.

Tweetable Quotes

• “The promotion of thin ideals continues because it's a successful strategy.” - Emily
• "Shift from the 'new year, new you' mentality to focusing on a happy, balanced life." - Emily Lauren Dick
• "Joyful movement and a balanced diet are key to loving your body." - Emily Lauren Dick
• "Comparison is often the thief of happiness." - Christopher Robbins
• "Compare only to previous versions of oneself to recognize personal growth." - Emily Lauren Dick

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families be Happy Podcast Apple
• Emily Lauren Dick
• Podcast Editing