‘Tis the season for food, family… and emotional fatigue.
In this episode, Dr. Kristin Lloyd and Coach Frances Vogel expose the truth about “energy vampires in Santa hats” — those well-meaning (and not-so-well-meaning) family members who can drain your energy faster than a buffet drains your willpower.
Together, they unpack how to protect your peace during the holidays — not just from overeating, but from emotional overload, guilt, and toxic family dynamics. You’ll learn how to stay grounded, maintain your boundaries, and show up for yourself even in the most triggering environments.
Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing your health through medication, this episode will help you create a Holiday Survival Toolkit so you can stay cozy, not complacent — protecting both your emotional well-being and your long-term progress.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
* Why holiday stress and social anxiety have intensified post-pandemic — and what to do about it
* How to identify and neutralize “energy vampires in Santa hats” who drain your emotional reserves
* The “cozy, not complacent” approach to navigating the holidays without losing momentum
* Setting healthy boundaries with food, family, and expectations — without guilt
* How to handle body and weight comments with grace (and a sense of humor)
* Practical exit strategies, scripts, and deflection tools to keep your peace intact Why protecting your energy isn’t avoidance — it’s alignment
Key Takeaways
* Social anxiety has skyrocketed since the pandemic, making holiday gatherings emotionally harder than ever for bariatric patients — often more due to the people than the food.
* Emotional energy drains lead to poor food choices. Protecting your peace protects your progress.
* Boundaries are sacred. You can honor family traditions without betraying your own needs.
* Preparation beats willpower. Having mental rehearsal, supportive allies, and exit plans ready helps you thrive under pressure.
* “Their chaos isn’t your cue.” You don’t have to participate in others’ dysfunction just because you’re invited to the show.
* Choose presence over perfection. Staying connected to your why helps you maintain momentum while enjoying the season.
Episode Summary
Dr. Kristin Lloyd and Coach Frances Vogel dive into the emotional and psychological side of holiday survival for bariatric patients. Beyond the buffet tables and dessert trays, this episode tackles what truly derails progress: toxic family dynamics, emotional exhaustion, and guilt-driven eating patterns.
Kristin shares personal reflections on navigating complex family relationships, grief, and guilt around her father’s last Christmas — highlighting the courage it takes to maintain boundaries without disconnecting from love. Frances brings practical insights on managing social anxiety and re-entry into family dynamics post-pandemic, along with tactical humor like “dysfunctional family bingo” to lighten heavy moments.
Together, they emphasize that protecting your energy isn’t selfish — it’s essential. You’ll learn how to:
* Set clear boundaries around food and conversation topics
* Use short, assertive responses like “No, thanks,” or “I’m good for now” without overexplaining
* Spot emotional triggers before they lead to mindless eating
* Create your own “holiday peace plan” — identifying 3 joyful events, 3 personal boundaries, and 3 energy-restoring rituals
Whether you’re navigating passive-aggressive relatives, pressure to eat, or feelings of loneliness, this conversation offers both emotional validation and actionable tools to get you through the season with confidence, compassion, and grace.
Mentioned in This Episode
* “Survive the Holidays Masterclass” — Dr. Kristin Lloyd’s 3-part self-study on-demand training that helps you manage holiday triggers, set clear boundaries, and protect your progress.🎧 Includes: printable workbooks, scripts, and the Dysfunctional Family Bingo bonus!💰Available now for just $99 — limited time only.👉 Grab your spot here before enrollment closes!
Connect & Learn More
* Website: www.bariatricmindsetsuccess.com
* Follow on Instagram: @kristinlloydcoaching
* Join the Free Facebook Community: Bariatric Mindset Mavens
* Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen
Final Thought
Protecting your peace this season is a radical act of self-love.You don’t have to prove your worth through your plate or your politeness.You’ve earned the right to rest, reset, and reconnect with what matters most — you.
