Mirror Mirror

About Mirror Mirror

This podcast explores eating disorders and mental health through a compassionate, evidence informed lens. Each episode blends clinical insight with real-world understanding, helping listeners make sense of complex experiences around food, body image, trauma, mood, and recovery. Grounded in psychiatry, neuroscience, and lived experience, conversations focus on reducing shame, challenging stigma, and offering clarity without pressure or perfection. Rather than quick fixes, this space emphasizes curiosity, safety, and the slow work of healing. Whether you’re navigating recovery, supporting someone you love, or working in mental health care, this podcast offers thoughtful discussion, gentle education, and reminders that change is possible and you don’t have to do it alone.

Publisher

Sunol Hills

Category

education · health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Dec 2025

Latest episode

7 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

7 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Aug 2026

   The One About Social Media

   How much of what you see online about food, bodies, and "wellness" is actually true—and what happens when the algorithm learns exactly what your eating disorder wants to see? In this episode of Mirror Mirror, Dr. Vikas Duvvuri sits down with returning guest Maddie Young — a writer and journalist, a longtime patient, and someone who has been strong in her recovery from anorexia after more than a decade of struggle. Together they unpack how social media, influencers, and even AI chatbots shape the way people think about food, body image, and mental health. Maddie brings a rare double perspective: someone who is "chronically online" for her work and who has lived through both the harm and the unexpected help that these platforms can offer in recovery. The conversation moves from the flood of misinformation in "mental health tips" content to the way celebrity weight changes get sensationalized to the quieter dangers of orthorexia and "clean eating" culture—and lands on practical, compassionate strategies for protecting your recovery in a world designed to keep you scrolling. In this episode, we discuss: •Why so much online mental-health and nutrition content is misleading—and how chatbots complicate the picture • How recovery-focused creators can be a genuine source of hope The "case study" of celebrity weight in the public eye, and why concerned or sensationalized reactions often backfire • Orthorexia, "clean eating," and how food quietly takes on moral value. • How eating disorders can look different in men and boys, especially around muscularity and gym culture • Practical ways to reset your algorithm, vet what you consume, and know when to step away entirely Drawing on ideas from writers like Naomi Klein about optimization, personal branding, and the "cult of thinness," this episode is a grounded, honest look at a space that can feel impossible to navigate — with real takeaways for anyone in recovery or supporting someone who is. 📄 Referenced in this episode — Maddie's article "Ozempic and the Cult of Thinness" (Funktasy): https://funktasy.com/lifestyle/ozempic/ If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder or mental health concerns, support is available. Learn more about treatment options and resources at www.sunolhills.com. If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, share it with someone who might benefit, or leave a comment below—your engagement helps these conversations reach the people who need them most. CHAPTERS 00:09 Introduction & Welcome 00:44 Meet Maddie: Writer, Patient, and Anorexia Survivor 01:21 Why Social Media Matters in Eating Disorders 02:58 When "Mental Health Tips" Are Half Misinformation 05:16 When Chatbots Become the Therapist 06:33 The Positive Side: Recovery Creators & Hope 08:22 Pro-Eating-Disorder Content Is Everywhere Now 09:25 Celebrity Weight in the Public Eye: A Case Study 11:53 Why "Concern" and Sensationalism Can Backfire 16:25 Food Extremes: Carnivore, Seed Oils & Diet Culture 17:17 Optimization, Capitalism & Hidden Selling 19:38 Media Literacy & Resetting the Algorithm 22:03 Why a Clean Break Is Sometimes Necessary 24:26 Connection vs. Constant Dopamine 27:36 Understanding Orthorexia 33:53 Building a Checklist for Trustworthy Sources 37:37 Muscularity, Boys & the Body Image Blind Spot 40:40 "Looking Healthy" and Getting Help 44:03 Closing Thoughts & a Call for Good Content

2. 

   3 Jun 2026

   Mirror Mirror: The One About Levels of Care (Reaction)

   What actually happens when someone with an eating disorder ends up in a hospital — and how does the system decide what kind of help they need? In this reaction episode of Mirror Mirror, Dr. Vikas Duvvuri and Maddie Young watch and respond to a previously filmed conversation between Dr. Duvvuri and Stephanie Needleman, CEO of an inpatient psychiatric hospital and licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience. Maddie adds her perspective as someone who has personally navigated the full spectrum of eating disorder care. You'll hear about: Why eating disorders are so often missed in emergency settings How inpatient psychiatric care works — and what it can and can't do The difference between inpatient, residential, IOP, and outpatient treatment What resistance to treatment really looks like, and how to work with it The role of family advocacy, especially for adolescents Practical ways caregivers can support a loved one between discharge and program entry Why structure matters so much in early recovery Two perspectives, one conversation — clinical expertise meets lived experience. 🔗 Learn more about support and treatment: www.sunolhills.com (https://www.sunolhills.com) Subscribe for more conversations on eating disorder recovery, mental health, and body image.

3. 

   30 Mar 2026

   The One About Recovery

   What does eating disorder recovery really feel like? In this episode of Mirror Mirror, Maddie shares her personal experience with eating disorder recovery — including the isolation, challenges with treatment, and what actually helped her begin to heal. This conversation breaks down the reality of eating disorders beyond what people see on the outside, and why support, structure, and connection matter so much in recovery. You’ll hear about: • The hidden emotional experience of eating disorders • Why recovery can feel isolating • Challenges navigating treatment, especially as a teen • The role of structure and support in recovery • What actually helps people stay engaged in treatment • How parents and families can better support loved ones If you or someone you care about is struggling with an eating disorder, this episode offers insight, honesty, and hope. Recovery is possible — and you’re not alone. 🔗 Learn more about support and treatment: www.sunolhills.com (http://www.sunolhills.com) Subscribe for more conversations on: Eating disorder recovery, mental health, and body image.

4. 

   18 Feb 2026

   The One About Being Perfect

   The discourse we engage in today revolves around the intricate question, "Why don't I look perfect?" This inquiry serves as a catalyst for a profound exploration into the societal constructs surrounding the notion of perfection, particularly as influenced by pervasive media messaging. As we delve into the complexities of self-image, Dr. Vikas Duvvuri articulates that the crux of the issue lies not merely in the desire to achieve an idealized physique but rather in the methodologies individuals employ to reach such ends, which often exacerbate underlying mental health challenges. We emphasize the importance of understanding that societal standards of beauty are frequently distorted, leading individuals to adopt harmful behaviors in their pursuit of acceptance. Through this episode, we aspire to illuminate the necessity of redefining personal health goals and recognizing the inherent value in one's unique body, thereby fostering a healthier relationship with oneself amidst the cacophony of external expectations. Takeaways: In contemporary society, perceptions of perfection are profoundly influenced by pervasive media representations and social trends. Individuals often feel inadequate when they perceive a disconnect between societal ideals and their own realities of appearance or health. The pursuit of specific weight loss targets can inadvertently exacerbate or trigger the onset of eating disorders in vulnerable individuals. Health professionals advocate for a focus on holistic well-being rather than rigid numerical goals in weight management and health. Media's portrayal of beauty often emphasizes unrealistic standards, perpetuating harmful stereotypes that can lead to disordered eating behaviors. Recognizing the unique genetic and personal diversity among individuals is crucial for developing effective and personalized health strategies. Dr. Vikas Duvvuri and Alex Haynes engage in a compelling dialogue that interrogates the societal constructs surrounding beauty and perfection. They delve into the notion that perfection, as defined by contemporary media and cultural narratives, is often an elusive and unattainable ideal, which can lead to detrimental mental health outcomes, particularly for those grappling with eating disorders. Dr. Duvvuri articulates that the pressures exerted by these societal standards can create a chasm between individual self-perception and the idealized images portrayed in media, exacerbating feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This dissonance is particularly pronounced in the context of individuals who are already vulnerable to body image issues, where the relentless pursuit of perfection becomes a damaging cycle of self-criticism and unhealthy behaviors. Throughout the conversation, the hosts emphasize the importance of shifting the focus from rigid numerical targets to a more nuanced understanding of health that encompasses emotional and psychological well-being. Dr. Duvvuri advocates for a holistic approach to health that prioritizes personal agency and self-acceptance, urging listeners to recognize that beauty cannot be distilled into mere statistics or conformist ideals. The episode further explores the role of media in perpetuating narrow definitions of beauty, highlighting the dangers of consuming content that promotes unrealistic standards. Dr. Duvvuri calls for a collective resistance against these pervasive narratives, encouraging individuals to challenge societal norms and embrace their unique identities as a form of empowerment. In conclusion, this episode serves as both a critique of the prevailing beauty standards and a beacon of hope for those struggling with self-image issues. Dr. Duvvuri and Haynes provide a thoughtful framework for understanding the complexities of body image, advocating for a paradigm shift that values diversity and individuality in the pursuit of health and well-being. By fostering open dialogues about these critical issues, the hosts aspire to inspire a movement toward self-acceptance and resilience against the often toxic messages disseminated by society. Links referenced in this episode: sunolhills.com (https://sunolhills.com) Companies mentioned in this episode: Sunol Hills Dove Victoria's Secret

5. 

   18 Feb 2026

   The One About Treating Eating Disorders

   In this enlightening discussion, we delve into the complexities of eating disorders, emphasizing the critical need for accessible treatment options. Dr. Vikas Duvvuri, co-founder of Sunol Hills, articulates the organization's approach to treating individuals across the spectrum of eating disorders, from severe cases to those in recovery. The conversation highlights the significant barriers individuals face in accessing care, often exacerbated by the misconception of being "sick enough" to warrant treatment. As we explore various facets of eating disorder recovery, we underscore the importance of early intervention and the role of comprehensive support systems in facilitating healing. Our aim is to empower listeners with knowledge and resources, fostering a deeper understanding of how to seek assistance and navigate the challenges associated with these pervasive disorders. The discourse surrounding eating disorders is fraught with complexity, as elucidated in the inaugural episode of Mirror Mirror, hosted by Alex Haynes alongside Dr. Vikas Deveri, co-founder of Sunol Hills. The episode establishes a foundational understanding of eating disorders, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of these conditions, which range from severe manifestations to those in the recovery continuum. Dr. Deveri elucidates the imperative for comprehensive treatment options that cater to individuals at various stages of their struggles with eating disorders. The dialogue underscores the systemic barriers that individuals face when seeking treatment, likening the process to the onerous task of applying to college. Through this analogy, the episode poignantly illustrates the urgent need for accessible care that prioritizes the individual's needs over bureaucratic hurdles. Haynes and Deveri passionately advocate for early intervention, emphasizing that the journey towards recovery must begin with a single step, regardless of the initial condition presented by the patient. This episode serves not only as an introduction but also as a clarion call for those in need, presenting Sunol Hills as a resource dedicated to guiding individuals towards recovery and wellness, regardless of where they commence their journey. In a thorough examination of the complexities surrounding eating disorders, this episode of Mirror Mirror provides listeners with invaluable insights into the psychological and physiological dimensions of these conditions. Dr. Deveri's extensive experience in the field, spanning over two decades, informs a nuanced discussion on the stigma associated with eating disorders and the critical need for empathy in treatment. He articulates the challenges posed by societal misconceptions that often trivialize the severity of these disorders, highlighting that mental health issues are frequently invisible and, therefore, misunderstood. This misunderstanding perpetuates the myth that individuals must reach a certain threshold of severity—often referred to as 'sick enough'—before they are deemed worthy of care. Dr. Deveri compellingly argues against this notion, advocating instead for a model of care that seeks to understand each individual's unique circumstances and psychological landscape. The episode emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive environment where individuals can express their struggles without the fear of judgment, thereby diminishing the barriers that often deter individuals from seeking help. The episode further delves into the alarming prevalence of eating disorders among adolescents, particularly during the tumultuous period of puberty. Dr. Deveri articulates the intricate interplay between hormonal changes and the onset of eating disorders, emphasizing the need for vigilance among parents and caregivers. The discussion highlights the subtle signs of disordered eating that may easily be overlooked, underscoring the importance of proactive communication and education. As the hosts navigate through the conversation, they invite listeners to consider the broader societal context that contributes to the distorted perceptions of body image perpetuated by media and culture. Mirror Mirror aims to not only illuminate the path to recovery for those affected by eating disorders but also to educate the public on the warning signs and the critical importance of early intervention. In doing so, the podcast emerges as a vital resource for individuals and families grappling with the challenges of eating disorders, providing them with the knowledge and support necessary to embark on the journey towards healing. Takeaways: Dr. Vikas Duvvuri emphasizes the importance of early intervention in treating eating disorders, highlighting the significant gaps in care that patients often face. Sunol Hills provides a comprehensive continuum of care for eating disorders, addressing both severe cases and those further along in recovery. The podcast aims to educate listeners about the complexities of eating disorders, including the challenges individuals face when seeking treatment and the misconceptions surrounding these disorders. Dr. Duvvuri discusses the intricate relationship between eating disorders and mental health, noting that many patients are not visibly sick yet still require serious treatment. The need for advocacy and education in the medical community is paramount to ensure that individuals with eating disorders receive timely and appropriate care without unnecessary delays. Listeners are encouraged to recognize the warning signs of eating disorders in themselves and others, emphasizing the importance of having difficult conversations to facilitate timely intervention. Links referenced in this episode: sunolhills.com (https://sunolhills.com)

6. 

   5 Jan 2026

   Mirror Mirror: The One About the New Year

   The start of a new year often brings hope, motivation, and the promise of change — but it can also bring pressure, disappointment, and unrealistic expectations. In this episode of Mirror, Mirror…, we take a closer look at why New Year’s resolutions so often fall apart, and why they can be especially complicated for individuals struggling with eating disorders and mental health challenges. Host Sarah is joined by Dr. Vikas Duvvuri, psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and co-founder of Sunol Hills, to explore what really makes change stick — and why willpower alone is rarely the answer. Together, they unpack the biological, psychological, and environmental factors that influence behavior change, and why “quick fixes” and perfection-based goals can do more harm than good. In this conversation, we discuss: Why New Year’s resolutions tend to fizzle out after a few weeks The role of biology and brain-based predispositions in eating disorders How diet culture and weight-centric messaging can increase risk Why consistency does not mean perfection How self-compassion, flexibility, and support systems are essential for sustainable change What healthier, mental-health-focused resolutions can actually look like This episode offers a grounded, compassionate perspective for anyone feeling discouraged by past resolutions — especially those navigating recovery or supporting someone who is. If you or someone you love is struggling with eating disorders or mental health concerns, support is available. Learn more about treatment options and resources at SunolHills.com. If you found this episode helpful, please consider liking, sharing, or leaving a comment — your engagement helps these conversations reach the people who need them most.

7. 

   24 Dec 2025

   Mirror Mirror: The One About The Holidays

   The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the intricate challenges faced by individuals with eating disorders during the holiday season. It is acknowledged that while many perceive this time as joyous and celebratory, those grappling with eating disorders often encounter significant distress, primarily due to food-related rituals and familial dynamics that exacerbate their condition. The conversation elucidates the psychological burden these individuals endure, as they navigate environments laden with potential triggers and complex interpersonal relationships. Furthermore, the episode emphasizes the necessity for families to adopt a proactive approach, fostering open communication and establishing supportive boundaries to mitigate the adverse effects of these gatherings. Ultimately, the dialogue serves as a critical reminder of the importance of preparation and understanding in creating a more positive holiday experience for those in recovery. The podcast episode delves into the intricate relationship between the holiday season and its potential to exacerbate feelings of dread in individuals grappling with eating disorders. Host Sarah, alongside Dr. Vikasta Furi, a distinguished psychiatrist and neuroscientist, elucidates how, while holidays are often perceived as joyous occasions for family gatherings and culinary delights, they can serve as significant triggers for those affected by eating disorders. Dr. Furi posits that the centrality of food and familial dynamics during these times can evoke a profound sense of anxiety and discomfort, particularly for individuals whose relationships with food are fraught with complexity and history. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics, suggesting that awareness and open communication within families can alleviate some of the tension that arises during holiday celebrations. They encourage families to approach these gatherings with a mindset geared towards fostering positive experiences rather than succumbing to the dread that often accompanies them. Takeaways: The holidays can invoke significant dread for individuals with eating disorders, contrasting with the joy experienced by others. Family dynamics during the holidays can exacerbate the anxiety experienced by those with eating disorders. Preparation and open communication are essential for families to navigate potential eating disorder triggers during holiday gatherings. Parents should consider limiting the number of family members present to create a more manageable environment for their child. Individuals in recovery may experience positive surprises during holiday gatherings by utilizing coping strategies developed in treatment. It is crucial for parents to recognize early signs of eating disorders, which may not directly relate to eating or weight changes.

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.