Becoming Anchored
Laura Deneen and Lauren Jackson are thrilled to be hosting the Becoming Anchored Podcast together. Lauren had the idea of starting a podcast, and Laura jumped on board. We are two humans here to ride the waves of life together, sharing in your grief and pain and celebrating with you in your joy. We also have the unique perspective of being therapists and are excited to share about our therapeutic experiences on this platform. Lauren and Laura believe that we are always becoming, in the sense that we are always learning and growing. We hope this podcast uplifts you, validates you, and provides hope to you. We honor your unique story and thank you for listening! Laura Deneen and Lauren Jackson are NOT acting as therapist in this podcast. The information shared during this episode is for informational purposes only. If you are needing additional therapeutic support, please reach out to someone in your area. If you are in Tennessee, we would be honored to work with you!
Episodes

Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen are joined by Lauren Martin, a fellow therapist and expert on perfectionism, to delve into the profound topic of the loneliness of perfectionism. Lauren Martin shares her insights on how perfectionism can lead to isolation, the concept of masking, and the importance of authenticity in overcoming these challenges.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Understanding Perfectionism and Loneliness: They explore how perfectionism is more than just striving for flawlessness; it's about adhering to a rigid vision of how things "should" be, which can lead to isolation and loneliness when reality doesn't match these expectations.
The Concept of Masking: They discuss the idea of masking—when one's external persona doesn't match internal feelings—and how this incongruence can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Lauren Martin explains how masking is common among perfectionists and offers strategies to become more authentic.
Overcoming Perfectionism: The episode provides practical steps for recognizing perfectionistic tendencies, such as "clocking" when you're performing rather than being genuine. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness, asking for help, and embracing imperfections as part of personal growth.
Join us as we uncover the hidden loneliness that often accompanies perfectionism and learn how to cultivate genuine connections by embracing authenticity.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen are joined by Jamison Worley, a skilled dietitian specializing in athlete nutrition, to discuss Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). Jamison shares her journey from being an athlete to working with sports nutrition, offering valuable insights into how RED-S affects performance, health, and well-being. Together, they explore the transition from the Female Athlete Triad to RED-S, uncovering its broader impacts on physical and mental health.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Understanding RED-S: Jamison explains the transition from the Female Athlete Triad to RED-S, highlighting the broad spectrum of symptoms beyond just under-fueling and bone health, including impacts on the immune system, gut health, and mental health.
The Importance of Proper Fueling: Athletes often unknowingly under-fuel, which can drastically affect performance and recovery. Jamison emphasizes the power of education in helping athletes recognize their body’s needs and the importance of nutritional support for optimal performance.
Coaching and Nutrition: The episode also touches on the role coaches play in either supporting or unintentionally harming an athlete's relationship with food and body image. Jamison shares how involving coaches in the treatment process can create a more informed and supportive environment for athletes.
Join us as we dive into the world of athlete nutrition and explore how proper fueling can enhance both performance and overall well-being.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen sit down with staff therapist Sarah Beth to dive into the unique challenges athletes face when navigating eating disorder recovery. Broadcasting from Brentwood, Tennessee, they explore how athletic identity often becomes intertwined with self-worth and how the pressure to perform can hinder recovery.
Key Insights from This Episode:
1. Balancing Athletic Identity and Self-Worth: Sarah Beth shares her experience working with athletes who struggle to separate their self-worth from their performance in sports. The hosts discuss the fear of failure and the emotional weight of letting down supporters, highlighting the complexities of recovery for athletes.
2. Reconnecting Body and Mind: The conversation touches on the importance of reconnecting with one’s body during recovery. Sarah Beth offers grounding techniques that help athletes listen to their bodies rather than relying solely on their minds, fostering a healthier relationship with movement and self-awareness.
3. Taking Time Away from Sports: Sarah Beth and the hosts talk about the value of taking a step back from competitive sports during recovery, allowing athletes to re-evaluate their relationship with their sport and rediscover a sense of self outside of their athletic achievements.
This episode provides valuable insights for athletes, therapists, and supporters alike, offering a compassionate look at the process of healing from both an athletic and mental health perspective. Tune in to hear how athletes can find balance and embrace recovery without losing themselves in the process.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen explore the experience of starting therapy, addressing common concerns and offering insights into what new clients can expect in their first sessions. Broadcasting from Brentwood, Tennessee, this episode serves as a helpful guide for those embarking on their therapy journey, whether for the first time or after a break.
Key Insights from This Episode:
1. Building Safety and Rapport: Lauren and Laura emphasize the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment. In the initial sessions, therapists focus on building rapport and understanding each client's unique needs, allowing them to feel comfortable and supported.
2. Setting Goals and Expectations: Therapy is a collaborative process. Early sessions involve setting clear goals and discussing what the client hopes to achieve, creating a roadmap for the therapeutic journey.
3. The Value of Pacing: Therapy isn’t about diving into all your life’s challenges at once. The hosts talk about the importance of pacing, allowing clients to share their stories at their own speed and feel emotionally safe in the process.
This episode of Becoming Anchored offers compassionate and practical advice for anyone feeling apprehensive about starting therapy. It underscores that therapy is a space where clients are held with care, and that healing takes place within the safety of a trusting relationship.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Laura Deneen and Lauren Jackson explore the important topic of reevaluating our relationship with movement, often referred to as exercise. Broadcasting from their private practice in Brentwood, Tennessee, they discuss how cultural norms and personal history can shape our approach to movement, and how to shift towards a more intentional, enjoyable, and value-driven relationship with it.
Key Insights from This Episode:
1. Movement Beyond Exercise: Laura and Lauren emphasize the importance of reframing exercise as “movement,” recognizing that activities like yard work or playing with your children can be just as valuable as traditional workouts.
2. The Impact of Diet Culture: The conversation dives into how diet culture can push individuals toward compulsive exercise and how healing that relationship requires self-awareness, rest, and kindness.
3. Exploring Your Own Journey: Listeners are encouraged to examine their own motivations and habits around movement, considering how much joy, flexibility, and intention are present in their routines.
This episode of Becoming Anchored offers valuable insights for anyone looking to redefine their approach to movement, focusing on creating a relationship that nurtures the body and soul. Tune in for thoughtful conversation and actionable takeaways.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen, both licensed therapists, delve into the complex topic of people pleasing. They explore the behaviors, motivations, and emotional roots behind why we often put others' needs above our own. This discussion is enriched by their personal experiences and professional insights, offering listeners practical strategies to reduce people-pleasing tendencies.
Key Insights from This Episode:
Understanding People Pleasing: People pleasing is defined as a consistent pattern of putting others’ needs above your own, often driven by fear of conflict, a desire for acceptance, or avoidance of discomfort.
Exploring Motivations: The hosts discuss how conflict avoidance, perfectionism, and early life experiences can contribute to people-pleasing behaviors, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these motivations to foster change.
Practical Steps to Change: Listeners are encouraged to build awareness of their needs, practice assertiveness, set boundaries, and approach discomfort as part of the journey towards healthier self-advocacy.
This episode of Becoming Anchored offers valuable perspectives on overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, helping listeners to develop more balanced and fulfilling relationships. Join us as we explore how to prioritize our needs while maintaining compassion and connection with others.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen explore the complexities of uncertainty and how it impacts our daily lives. Broadcasting from Brentwood, Tennessee, they draw from their personal experiences and professional expertise as therapists at Anchored Counseling Co., where they specialize in eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, and more.
Key Insights from This Episode:
Understanding the Human Need for Certainty: Discover why uncertainty is challenging for most of us, rooted in our biological wiring and life experiences.
Awareness and Acceptance: Learn how to build awareness around your relationship with uncertainty and how it shows up in your body, helping you stay present even when life feels unpredictable.
Healthy Coping Strategies: Gain practical therapeutic tools to navigate uncertainty, reduce anxiety, and foster emotional resilience.
This episode of Becoming Anchored provides valuable insights and strategies for embracing life’s uncertainties with grace and self-compassion. Whether you're dealing with a major life transition or everyday challenges, Lauren and Laura offer wisdom and encouragement to help you stay grounded and present.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Thursday Aug 15, 2024
Thursday Aug 15, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Laura Deneen and Lauren Jackson invite the insightful Sarah Torti to explore the complex and tender topic of parenting with a focus on body image. Broadcasting from Nashville, this episode delves into the nuances of creating a family culture that fosters positive body image, safety, and connection for our children.
Key Insights from This Episode:
1. The Importance of Family Culture: Sarah emphasizes the significance of intentionally crafting a family environment where body diversity is valued, and every member feels loved and accepted, no matter their appearance.
2. Embodiment and Connection: The conversation highlights how nurturing an embodied experience—one that celebrates the wonder of our bodies through senses and mindfulness—can build a strong foundation for healthy body image in children.
3. Practical Parenting Approaches: The hosts discuss the importance of modeling healthy body relationships, addressing the language used around bodies and food, and the power of repair in parenting.
This episode of Becoming Anchored offers hope and practical wisdom for parents navigating the challenges of raising children in a world fraught with diet culture and body image concerns. Tune in to learn how to foster a safe, nurturing environment where your children can thrive.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Thursday Aug 08, 2024
Thursday Aug 08, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, host Laura Deneen is joined by Dr. Laurie Cooper, a seasoned psychologist, and certified eating disorder specialist. Together, they explore the complex intersection of eating disorders and trauma, shedding light on how these two issues are deeply intertwined.
Key Insights from This Episode:
The Role of Eating Disorders in Emotional Regulation: Dr. Cooper discusses how eating disorders often serve as a coping mechanism for managing overwhelming emotions, particularly in individuals with trauma histories.
Understanding Trauma and Its Physiological Impact: The episode delves into the ways trauma affects the body and mind, emphasizing the importance of addressing both trauma and eating disorders in a comprehensive treatment approach.
Building Safety and Hope in Therapy: Laura and Dr. Cooper highlight the significance of creating a safe therapeutic space and pacing the treatment process to ensure clients feel supported and hopeful throughout their recovery journey.
This episode of Becoming Anchored offers valuable insights for both clinicians and individuals seeking to understand the complexities of eating disorders and trauma. Tune in for a compassionate conversation that underscores the importance of holistic healing.Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.

Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen, both licensed therapists, explore the impactful topic of family of origin. Broadcasting from Brentwood, Tennessee, they delve into why understanding our family backgrounds is crucial for personal growth and emotional well-being.
Key Insights from This Episode:
Understanding Family of Origin: Lauren and Laura introduce the concept of family of origin, explaining how the family we grew up with—whether biological, adoptive, or otherwise—shapes our early experiences and continues to influence our lives. They discuss the importance of primary caregivers and the broader family network in our developmental years.
The Impact on Emotional and Relationship Patterns: The hosts share professional insights on how our family of origin influences our emotional responses and relationship patterns. They highlight how early experiences with emotions and behaviors can shape our adult lives, affecting everything from self-worth to communication styles.
Healing Through Therapy: A significant portion of the episode focuses on how therapy can help address and heal wounds from our family of origin. Lauren and Laura discuss the process of re-parenting oneself, understanding and validating past pain, and creating new, healthier patterns. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and compassion in this healing journey.
This episode of Becoming Anchored not only deepens the understanding of family of origin but also encourages listeners to reflect on their own family backgrounds. The co-hosts provide valuable guidance on how to explore and heal from past experiences, offering hope and practical advice for personal growth and emotional well-being.
Lauren and Laura from the Becoming Anchored podcast are passionate about offering more than just insights and advice through their podcast. To extend their support beyond the airwaves, they've curated a selection of thoughtfully designed merch that resonates with the podcast's mission of mental wellness and hope. Additionally, for those seeking personalized guidance on their mental health journey, the team offers professional therapy services tailored to meet your individual needs, fostering a path to healing and growth. Embrace the Becoming Anchored community fully by subscribing to our podcast, where you'll find a wealth of resources, inspiration, and support. Connect with us for therapy services, explore our merch to carry a piece of this journey with you, and ensure you never miss an episode by subscribing today.