Ep 12: Let's Talk Turkey!

Be sure to click the link at the bottom of the episode description and vote for your host to be the next "Top Host." Holiday meals are not the enemy — guilt and all-or-nothing thinking are. If Thanksgiving, Christmas, family cookouts, or any big gathering leaves you stressed about what to eat, this episode offers a calmer, smarter way to handle the plate in front of you without losing the joy of the moment.The Chaotic Runner gets personal about her own history with eating disorders, body shaming, and diet culture, then shares the practical tools that helped her stop fearing food. She breaks down what “everything in moderation” looks like in real life, why carbs are not the villain for runners and active people, and how to stop the spiral of “I already messed up, so I may as well keep going.”You’ll hear a simple plate-building framework for family dinners: half veggies, a quarter protein, a quarter grains, plus a thumb-sized amount of fat. She also explains how to use your hands as a portable measuring tool, recognize the subtle “I’m getting full” signal before you overeat, and why eating normally before a big meal can help you enjoy it more.You’ll also discover: How to avoid arriving starving, foggy, and ready to inhale everything on the table Why pre-portioned treats, snack packs, and small servings can reduce binge urges How to satisfy cravings without turning every dessert into a free-for-all Smart swaps and high-protein options for chocolate, ice cream, and sweets Why food fear is exhausting, unsustainable, and not worth missing family time This episode is for anyone who wants to enjoy holiday food, stay consistent with their goals, and still feel like a human being at the table. If you’re tired of punishing yourself for eating, this conversation is a practical, real-world reset, grounded in the kind of moderation that makes life more livable.Perfect for runners, active people, and anyone navigating food stress during the holiday season. Make sure to vote by following this link! https://tophost.org/2026/bailey-baldassari