Beyond Binge Eating How to Overcome Food Addiction & Build Autonomy in Recovery with Mary Lacey Banks
In this episode, I sit down with Mary Lacey Banks—podcaster, motivator, and addiction recovery advocate—to discuss her inspiring journey of overcoming amphetamine, alcohol, and food addiction while reclaiming joy, autonomy, and self-trust in recovery.
Mary shares raw, honest insights into the struggles and breakthroughs of addiction recovery, emphasizing how shifting focus from trauma to joy and self-care can transform the healing process. With practical techniques and contagious enthusiasm, she offers a fresh perspective on how to create lasting change.
Here’s what we cover in the episode:
• Mary’s personal journey through addiction, including amphetamines, alcohol, and food—how she found freedom and healing.
• The importance of autonomy and self-trust for sustainable recovery beyond traditional programs.
• How mindfulness, body awareness, and simple daily rituals (like mindful touch) support mental and physical healing.
• Why joy and connection are vital tools in breaking free from compulsive behaviors and rebuilding a fulfilling life.
• Practical advice for anyone struggling with addiction or food obsession who wants to find a new way of being.
If you’re ready to move beyond addiction cycles and cultivate lasting joy and freedom, Mary’s story and strategies offer powerful guidance and hope.
00:00 — Intro
00:29 — Guest introduction: Mary Lacey Banks
01:57 — Mary’s recovery story
02:12 — Rock bottom hospital experience
03:30 — Overcoming Adderall addiction
04:20 — The struggle of Food addiction
05:38 — Importance of autonomy in recovery
06:54 — Discovering self-trust as key to overcoming bingeing
09:00 — Use of AI chatbot as a virtual food therapist
13:22 — Breaking free from compulsive cycles
16:39 — Food as first addiction and progression to alcohol and amphetamines
20:12 — Breathwork session as a pivotal healing moment
21:02 — Multiple paths to recovery and finding your unique way
22:16 — Changing relationship with body
26:22 — Using body-based practices for self-connection and mindfulness
29:14 — Body scans and meditation adaptations for nervous system relaxation
34:41 — Advice for women struggling with binge eating and alcohol recovery
37:12 — How to connect with Mary Lacey Banks
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
🗣️ Contact and Follow Mary here:
https://www.instagram.com/marylaceybanks/
https://open.spotify.com/show/2e09EALblEHR49SUlLBvuj?si=0ad07872aa8c4245
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Follow Beyond Binge Eating
Instagram: / https://www.instagram.com/BeyondBingeEating/
Website: https://www.BeyondBingeEating.com
Newsletter: https://beyondbingeeating.com/Newsletter/
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grab your FREE Eat-With-Awareness Bundle to slow down, stay present, and reclaim peace with food: https://beyondbingeeating.com/opt-in/
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Disclaimer: The information on this channel is for educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or therapy. The views and opinions expressed by podcast guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Kristina Dobyns or Beyond Binge Eating.