What is it about men and bariatric surgery that makes it such a difficult conversation to have? How can we break the silence and create a space for men to feel comfortable sharing their journeys?

In this episode, Jason Smith leads the first Men's Roundtable discussion with guests Kevin Goethe and Corby Jackson. Together, they explore men's unique challenges on their bariatric journeys, the emotional and psychological hurdles, and why it’s hard for men to open up about their experiences. Kevin, a bariatric patient and entrepreneur, and Corby, a licensed mental health therapist who’s walked the weight loss path himself, share personal stories, insights, and strategies to help other men overcome the stigma surrounding bariatric surgery. Tune in to hear a candid, vulnerable conversation that empowers men to take control of their health and embrace their journey without shame.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:29] Introduce guests and their histories, and today we discuss men and bariatric surgery
• [5:18] The men share their stories and find comparisons with Jason in their behavior
• [16:05] Discussion of past eating experiences and being able to control the food 
• [28:01] Getting men to talk about men's health and share is difficult because they are self-reliant
• [36:47] The discussion gets honest and vulnerable
• [43:45] Discussion of therapy and playing the victim
• [51:40] Discussion of what they would like to see in the bariatric community next year

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Many men delay making health decisions, including bariatric surgery, due to ingrained beliefs about self-reliance, hard work, and proving they can do it on their own. This internalized pressure often leads to resistance, even when faced with medical advice or clear health challenges.
• Food is a coping mechanism for energy, comfort, or routine. Recognizing and addressing the deep emotional connections to eating is crucial to the bariatric journey. It requires a shift in mindset and habits beyond the physical changes from surgery.
• Men often avoid seeking help due to societal pressures of self-reliance, but they recognize the value of shared experiences in weight loss journeys, especially post-surgery. By encouraging open conversations, setting boundaries, and embracing unique paths, they create a supportive space to challenge old patterns and grow together.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-community
• Want to see bonus content? Head over to Patreon to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast

GUEST RESOURCES:

Fadeaway Ryan - Website

Big Kevin - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Corby Jackson is a licensed mental health therapist, advocate, and motivational speaker who inspires others through his weight-loss journey. With a background in addictions and bariatric mental health, Corby creates supportive communities that foster acceptance, healing, and personal growth.  His bariatric journey has led him to losing over 400 lbs and gaining much more in perspective.

Kevin Goethe, Bariatric Patient

Kevin Goethe is a passionate creator, entrepreneur, and bariatric patient dedicated to living a healthier, more fulfilling life. From launching businesses to crafting engaging content, he thrives on turning ideas into reality. His VSG Journey: In March 2023, I underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), a life-changing decision that helped me lose 205 lbs.