Podcast Summary: The Bobby Bones Show – Episode: MORGAN: Elisa & Tori on Disordered Eating Journeys to Now Helping Others

Overview

In this compelling episode of The Bobby Bones Show, hosted by Bob Pittman of Premiere Networks, the focus shifts to a deeply personal and significant topic: disordered eating. Released on April 6, 2025, the episode features heartfelt conversations with Elisa and Tori Payton, both of whom share their challenging journeys with disordered eating and their paths to recovery. The discussion delves into the complexities of eating disorders, societal pressures, personal struggles, and the transformative power of seeking help and fostering self-compassion.

Introduction to the Topic

Bob Pittman sets the stage for the episode by highlighting the prevalence of disordered eating and the importance of dedicating an entire episode to this subject. He introduces his guests, Elisa, an eating disorder recovery coach with a decade of personal recovery experience, and Tori Payton, who shares her battle with bulimia and orthorexia.

Tori Payton’s Story

Tori Payton opens up about her struggle with bulimia and orthorexia, tracing the origins of her disordered eating habits back to her early teenage years. She explains how body changes during adolescence led her to seek control over her eating patterns.

[03:07] Tori Payton: "I don't want to be thin necessarily. I just want to eat healthy for my health. But restricting food led to binge eating and purging."

Her narrative emphasizes the gradual development of her eating disorder, beginning with seemingly innocuous dieting practices such as intermittent fasting (stopping eating after 6 PM). Tori recounts her first binge episode triggered by social circumstances and the subsequent realization of her inability to maintain restrictive eating behaviors.

Understanding Disordered Eating Patterns

Bob Pittman engages Tori in a discussion about the multifaceted nature of disordered eating, dispelling the common misconception that it solely involves behaviors like binging and purging. He highlights the societal influences and internal struggles that contribute to such disorders.

[09:08] Bob Pittman: "Disordered eating isn't just about binging and purging. It's about the fluctuations and societal pressures that influence behavior."

Tori elaborates on how societal norms and the normalization of restrictive eating can mask the underlying issues of an eating disorder, making it difficult for others to recognize the signs.

The Turning Point: Realizing the Need for Change

The conversation shifts to the pivotal moment when Tori recognized the detrimental impact of her eating habits and decided to seek help.

[13:26] Tori Payton: "I finally realized that all these restrictions weren't working. I had to let go of them to truly recover."

Tori discusses the challenges of breaking free from long-standing restrictive behaviors and the fear associated with confronting binge eating. Her decision to embrace intuitive eating marked the beginning of her recovery journey.

Insights and Lessons from Recovery

Tori shares valuable insights she wishes she had known earlier in her journey. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing recovery over rigid dietary rules and understanding that overcoming an eating disorder requires addressing both mental and physical aspects.

[18:04] Tori Payton: "No clean eating is going to make you healthy if you have an eating disorder. Recovery is the top priority."

She also touches upon the misconceptions surrounding intuitive eating, clarifying that it doesn't equate to mindless consumption of unhealthy foods but rather fosters a balanced and respectful relationship with food.

Supporting Others: Advice for Friends and Family

When asked how others can support those struggling with disordered eating, Tori provides thoughtful recommendations centered around compassion, active listening, and avoiding food-related comments.

[31:34] Tori Payton: "Just listen and understand. Avoid talking about food, diets, or weight. Be compassionate and let them lead the conversation."

She underscores the importance of not imposing one's own perspectives or unsolicited advice, advocating instead for leading by example through a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Cyrus’s Story: A Parallel Journey

Later in the episode, Cyrus shares her own tumultuous experience with disordered eating, adding another dimension to the discussion. She recounts how past trauma and societal pressures led her to develop unhealthy eating patterns and the profound impact it had on her mental and physical health.

[37:08] Cyrus: "When I quit competitive volleyball, I lost my sense of self and turned to extreme dieting, which spiraled into an obsessive disordered eating pattern."

Cyrus emphasizes the role of trauma in the development of eating disorders and the importance of addressing underlying emotional wounds as part of the healing process.

The Role of Social Media and Societal Pressures

Both guests delve into the influence of social media and societal standards on their eating behaviors. They discuss how platforms can perpetuate unrealistic body images and create additional stressors that exacerbate disordered eating.

[42:51] Tori Payton: "Social media promotes the Skinny Influencer ideal, which perpetuates unhealthy standards and makes recovery even more challenging."

Cyrus adds that stepping back from these influences and focusing on personal well-being helps mitigate their negative impact.

Strategies for Maintaining Recovery

The conversation explores practical strategies for sustaining recovery, such as managing stress, setting realistic goals, and fostering self-compassion. Tori highlights the significance of eliminating restrictions and embracing intuitive eating as foundational to long-term healing.

[28:29] Tori Payton: "Get rid of the eating disorder first. Only then can you truly heal and maintain a healthy relationship with food."

Cyrus echoes these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of inner strength and gradual self-improvement.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement

As the episode concludes, both Tori and Cyrus offer encouragement to listeners who may be battling similar struggles. They stress the importance of seeking help, being patient with oneself, and maintaining a compassionate mindset throughout the recovery journey.

[72:27] Cyrus: "Lean into grace and away from shame. Believe in yourself and advocate for your happiness."

Bob Pittman commends their vulnerability and underscores the critical nature of discussing such topics openly to foster understanding and support within the community.

Notable Quotes

• Tori Payton [03:07]: "I don't want to be thin necessarily. I just want to eat healthy for my health. But restricting food led to binge eating and purging."

• Bob Pittman [09:08]: "Disordered eating isn't just about binging and purging. It's about the fluctuations and societal pressures that influence behavior."

• Tori Payton [18:04]: "No clean eating is going to make you healthy if you have an eating disorder. Recovery is the top priority."

• Tori Payton [31:34]: "Just listen and understand. Avoid talking about food, diets, or weight. Be compassionate and let them lead the conversation."

• Tori Payton [28:29]: "Get rid of the eating disorder first. Only then can you truly heal and maintain a healthy relationship with food."

• Cyrus [72:27]: "Lean into grace and away from shame. Believe in yourself and advocate for your happiness."

Conclusion

This episode of The Bobby Bones Show offers an enlightening and empathetic exploration of disordered eating through the personal stories of Elisa and Tori Payton. By shedding light on the intricate interplay between societal pressures, personal trauma, and the journey to recovery, the episode serves as a valuable resource for listeners seeking understanding and support. The guests’ candid discussions and actionable advice provide hope and guidance for those navigating similar challenges, emphasizing the power of compassion, self-belief, and community in overcoming eating disorders.