Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University's podcast "Enlighten U" has released its June episode, focusing on body positivity and emotional well-being in the context of social media. The episode features insights from Antonio Byrd, an EMU alum with a degree in education, who shares his personal experiences with body image challenges.

Byrd reflects on how comparisons and external opinions affected his self-image negatively during his youth. "I would look in the mirror, and I would literally hate myself," he said. He explains that music played a significant role in helping him cope with these struggles and introduced him to positive affirmations.

"Music started to make me more conscious of the things that I said, period," Byrd noted.

The episode also includes commentary from Aesha Mustafa, Ph.D., an assistant professor at EMU's Department of Leadership and Counseling. She discusses the early onset of body image issues and emphasizes the importance of positive self-talk. "Rather than thinking of what I can’t do, I thank my body for the things it can do for me," Mustafa stated.

Mustafa highlighted how social media often distorts perceptions of reality through curated images. "We take pictures over and over and post the best one on social media," she explained. "In reality, the idea of that ‘best picture’ is an illusion."

Both Byrd and Mustafa agree on maintaining positivity as a strategy for fostering a healthier relationship with one's body. Byrd added, "You have to just know that someone else’s blessing isn’t your blessing."

The podcast will return in September for its third season. For further information or to contribute ideas for future episodes, contact Lolita Cummings or Melissa Thrasher at Eastern Michigan University.

"Enlighten U" is recognized as an award-winning podcast produced by Eastern Michigan University aimed at addressing various mental health topics relevant to college students. Co-hosted by EMU executive director of media relations Melissa Thrasher and public relations professor Lolita Cummings, each monthly episode invites students or alumni alongside subject-matter experts to discuss issues such as imposter syndrome, financial strain, grading anxiety, among others.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university. It offers diverse academic programs across its colleges serving nearly 13,000 students annually.