In today’s episode, I am joined by Blake Blankenbecler, a psychodynamic therapist, who specializes in anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. She works with people to navigate adult friendships and how to show up as a better and more authentic friend.  During our conversation, Blake shares why social structures and the education system impact the way we make friends as adults, why in a post-covid world we tend to be more hyper-aware and awkward, the idea of the “liking gap,” and how to create a safe space to eat what you want.  In this episode, we cover: Blake shares her journey into private practice and a focus on friendships [3:48] What makes it hard to make friends as adults? [6:47] The “Liking Gap”: the connection between social anxiety, self-esteem, and COVID [10:03] How eating in social settings impacts our food choices and self-image [15:37] Practical ways to reframe your mindset and the way you view your body [20:42] Allowing people to see the deeper layers of yourself and your friends [25:31] Creating safe spaces for yourself to eat in social spaces [30:48] What Blake has planned for the future [34:47] Connect with Blake: Website: blakeblankenbecler.com IG: @blakeblankenbecler  Tiktok: @blakeblankenbecler.lpc   LINKS: Download our FREE Body Confidence Blueprint Follow Dylan on IG Follow FMN on IG