In this critical episode of Inclusive Minds, Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross is joined by esteemed colleague and friend, Paula Edwards Gayfield, a leading expert on eating disorders in BIPOC communities. They dive into a powerful discussion about the unique and often invisible struggles that Black women face when seeking help for eating disorders. From systemic barriers in healthcare to the complex realities of body image that go far beyond weight, this conversation exposes how deeply racism is intertwined with diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• (01:35) Barriers to Access: Why the cost, time, and lack of insurance coverage for eating disorder treatment disproportionately affect Black women.
• (05:10) Systemic Racism in Diagnosis:How the stereotype of who gets an eating disorder leaves Black women unseen, unheard, and misdiagnosed in clinical settings.
• (07:25) Binge Eating Disorder vs. "A Weight Problem": Paula explains how clinicians often mistake Binge Eating Disorder in Black women for a simple need to lose weight, prescribing diets instead of addressing underlying trauma.
• (10:00) The Impact of New Weight-Loss Drugs (GLP-1s): A look at the dangers of prescribing drugs like Ozempic without screening for eating disorders and how they can disrupt the recovery process.
• (13:45) Beyond Size: Body Image, Colorism & Hair: A nuanced discussion on how body image for Black women is complex and includes skin color, hair texture, and facial features—issues rarely addressed in traditional treatment.
• (21:50) "You're Acting White": Tackling the stigma within the Black community that can prevent individuals from seeking or accepting help for an eating disorder.
• (24:30) How to Advocate for Yourself: Paula shares empowering, actionable advice for Black women on how to interview providers and demand culturally competent care.

Connect with Our Guest

Paula Edwards Gayfield, LPC, CEDS-C: Learn more about Paula's work at The Renfrew Center and in her private practice.

Follow the Host

www.CarolynRossMD.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-coker-ross-md-mph-ceds-c-7b81176/

TEDxPleasantGrove talk: https://youtu.be/ljdFLCc3RtM

To buy “Antiblackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies” - bit.ly/3ZuSp1T

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Dr. Ross and Dr. Fuller dive deep into the importance of authentic allyship, exploring why the time has come for white people to take ownership of systemic racism. Dr. Fuller defines what an authentic ally truly looks like—someone who sponsors and mentors BIPOC individuals, speaks on their behalf, and actively works to create inclusive spaces.

The conversation also touches on the economic benefits of a diverse and equitable workplace, the historical role of allies, and how to foster a culture where BIPOC employees can express their experiences without being labeled as "complainers." Dr. Fuller shares her sources of hope for the future, including her ancestors and the next generation.

• What is an Authentic Ally? Dr. Fuller redefines allyship as active sponsorship and mentorship, not just passive support. She and Dr. Ross discuss the importance of speaking up for BIPOC colleagues, especially when they are not in the room.
• The "White Problem" of Racism: The episode explores Dr. Fuller's powerful belief that systemic racism is a problem that requires more white people to take ownership and action.
• The Business Case for DEI: The discussion highlights research showing that inclusive workplaces are more creative, make better decisions, and are more profitable.

In this episode, your host, Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross, sits down with Dr. Dietra Hawkins to discuss the transformative power of equity dinners. Dr. Hawkins, a renowned clinical psychologist and CEO of Both And Partners, shares her passion for these unique gatherings that use storytelling and food to spark meaningful dialogue and build community.

Dr. Hawkins explains that the purpose of the dinners is to foster dialogue, not debate. By encouraging individuals to share their stories without fear of judgment, the dinners help break down barriers and build empathy. We discuss how these shared meals can lead to powerful outcomes, from personal growth and healing to real-world policy changes within communities. Dr. Hawkins shares inspiring examples of how these dinners have moved people beyond anger and into a place of genuine connection and understanding.

• Equity dinners use art and trained facilitators to guide conversations about race, trauma, and social justice.
• The focus is on dialogue, allowing people to share their lived experiences without being challenged or debated.
• These gatherings can lead to profound personal and systemic changes, moving people from passive observation to active engagement.