Episode 30: In this heartfelt episode of Former Fat Friend, we welcome the courageous Katie Yurow, who shares her transformative journey following gastric sleeve surgery in 2021. After losing 100 pounds, Katie opens up about her experiences with weight regain and the steps she's taking to address it, including her recent introduction to GLP-1 medication. Her candid reflections on the emotional and mental challenges of long-term weight management provide invaluable insights into the complexities of obesity.

Join us as Katie recounts her journey from being the "fat friend" to navigating the emotional rollercoaster that often follows significant weight loss. She discusses the importance of community support, the challenges of food addiction, transfer addiction and the necessity of ongoing therapy in maintaining a healthy mindset. Katie's story highlights the reality that weight loss is not just a physical transformation but a profound emotional journey that requires continuous self-reflection and growth.

As we dive deeper into her experiences, Katie reveals the role of GLP-1 medications in her recovery and how they have helped her manage cravings and regain control over her relationship with food. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is multifaceted, and finding the right resources and support is essential in the ongoing battle against obesity.

Follow Katie on social media: @ladykatie_vsg & @ladykatie_hair

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Episode 29: In this enlightening episode of Former Fat Friend, we welcome the esteemed Dr. Eric Smith, a pioneer in bariatric and robotic surgery. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Dr. Smith shares his profound insights into the evolution of obesity medicine and the transformative impact of bariatric surgery. As the Chief of Surgery at Georgetown Community Hospital and Medical Director of the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, Dr. Smith has performed over 5,000 robotic cases, making him a leader in the field. He is also known for his role on the TLC show 1000 Pound Sisters and as co-host of the Pop Culture podcast.

Join us as Dr. Smith delves into his journey from training in Dayton, Ohio, to becoming a prominent figure in obesity treatment. He discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in bariatric surgery, the significance of patient trust and support, and the critical role of mental health in achieving successful outcomes. Dr. Smith also sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery, the importance of muscle maintenance for long-term weight loss, and the potential of GLP-1 medications.

This episode offers a comprehensive look at the future of bariatric surgery and obesity medicine, highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach to treating obesity. Dr. Smith's dedication to patient care and his innovative work with Pop Recovery Systems exemplify his commitment to improving health outcomes for those struggling with obesity. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges traditional views and inspires hope for a healthier future.

Learn more about Pop Recovery Systems here: https://www.poprecoverysystems.com 

Listen to the Pop Culture podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pop-culture-podcast/id1775983707 

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Episode 28: In this episode of Former Fat Friend, we sit down with the vibrant and candid Sara, known on Instagram as FatGirlTalking. Sara shares her transformative journey after undergoing gastric bypass surgery nearly three years ago, resulting in a remarkable weight loss of over 200 pounds. She opens up about how adding a GLP-1 medication to her regimen has impacted her progress and her life. Sarah's story is one of resilience, humor, and a relentless pursuit of a fuller life beyond the confines of obesity.

Dive into Sara's past, from her early struggles with weight that began in childhood to the pivotal decision to undergo bariatric surgery at age 50. Discover how societal perceptions and personal experiences shaped her journey and how she overcame the shame and stigma often associated with obesity. Sara's insights into the mental and physical challenges of weight loss, the role of humor in healing, and the newfound freedom she experiences are both inspiring and enlightening.

Join us for this engaging conversation as Sara and Kasey discuss the complexities of weight loss, the importance of self-compassion, and the evolving landscape of obesity treatment. This episode is a testament to the power of personal transformation and the impact of community support in navigating life's challenges.

Follow Sara on social media: @fatgirltalking

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This week, we dive into part two of Jamie Mills' extraordinary journey. In this episode, Jamie candidly shares her insights on using GLP-1 medications for weight management, her experiences transitioning off and back on after childbirth, and how these medications complement her bariatric surgery. Jamie also opens up about her series of plastic surgeries, detailing her experiences and how these choices have impacted her life before and after pregnancy. This episode offers a heartfelt conversation about navigating weight loss, stigma, support systems, and empowering personal health decisions.

Follow Jamie on social media: @thesleeveddietitian

Learn more about Jamie's TRIBE membership program: https://thesleeveddietitian.com/the-tribe-membership/

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Join us for an insightful episode as we welcome our incredible guest, Jamie Mills, known on social media as The Sleeved Dietitian. Jamie, an award-winning registered dietitian nutritionist and a best-selling author, shares her extraordinary journey from struggling with weight and PCOS to undergoing bariatric surgery in 2017. This decision led her to lose over 135 pounds and transform not only her own life but also the lives of countless others.

In this first part of a two-part episode, we delve into Jamie's inspiring story. Jamie shares about dealing with PCOS and childhood obesity, having bariatric surgery, and pursuing a career as a dietitian focused on helping pre- and post-op bariatric patients. She discusses use of GLP1s in her journey and what is what like experiencing pregnancy and motherhood. She also shares candidly her thoughts on the bias and stigma surrounding obesity and body positivity within the dietetics community.

Tune in to hear Jamie's unique insights, the challenges she faced in her personal and professional life, and her passion for making a difference in the lives of bariatric patients. Don't miss this engaging and empowering conversation, and make sure to join us for part two of Jamie's story next week.

Follow Jamie on social media: @thesleeveddietitian

Learn more about Jamie's TRIBE membership program: https://thesleeveddietitian.com/the-tribe-membership/

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@MaintainingKasey

Today, Kasey is diving into a hot topic: regain after major weight loss and bariatric surgery. With her background in cognitive neuroscience and social psychology, Kasey dives into the science of obesity, focusing on the hot topic of weight regain. She breaks down the research on bariatric surgery, comparing it to other weight loss methods, and explores factors predicting success and challenges like regain.

Kasey shares her personal experience with weight regain, offering empathy and insights into how she navigated this challenging phase. She discusses the importance of realistic expectations, patient adherence, and the role of social support in long-term success. The episode is packed with valuable information and encouragement for anyone on a weight loss journey, emphasizing that you're not alone and there's always hope for a healthier future.

Join Kasey as she continues to explore the complexities of weight loss and the power of community in achieving lasting change.

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Episode 24: Today, Kasey and Lisa have a fantastic guest that Lisa never stops gushing about. They're thrilled to introduce you to Lora Grabow, a bariatric therapist with over 20 years of experience helping folks just like us navigate the mental maze of weight loss surgery.

Lora shares her insights on "head work," the often missing piece in bariatric treatment. Kasey, Lisa and Lora dig deep into emotional eating, setting boundaries, and the infamous "phantom fat." Get ready to explore the mental side of your weight loss journey with someone who's been a pillar in the bariatric community.

Whether you're considering bariatric surgery, are freshly post-op, or just curious about the mental hurdles of weight loss, this episode is packed with wisdom and real talk. Plus, Lora gives us the lowdown on her resources and how you can join her supportive communities. 🎉

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Thanks for being here and supporting us! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and maybe even leave a comment. We'd love to hear from you!

If you'd like to follow Lora on Socials, you can here: @Bariatric.Therapist 

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@leaningintolisa

Episode 23: This week, Allie and Kasey are getting cozy with flannel pajamas as they chat about the ever-complicated topic of body image before and after weight loss and surgery. They discuss how body image doesn't magically improve with weight loss and how external factors like workouts and clothes can play a huge role.

They also touch on relationships post-weight loss and the challenges that come with such a significant life change. It's not always easy, and sometimes the journey can be a bumpy ride for both partners.

Lastly, they delve into the latest social media controversy about GLP-1 boosters, discussing the ethics and responsibility of influencers in promoting these products. They raise important questions about the long-term treatment plans for bariatric patients and the need for accessible and effective solutions.

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Thanks for being here and supporting us! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and maybe even leave a comment. We'd love to hear from you!

@FormerFatFriendPod

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@allieslosingit_rny

@leaningintolisa

Episode 22: Welcome back to the Former Fat Friend Podcast. It's Kasey here, and I'm beyond excited to have a truly special guest joining us today. Meet Dr. Steven Reyes, or as many know him, Dr. Steve – a bariatric psychologist with nearly two decades of experience helping people transform their lives through weight loss surgery.

In this episode, we dive into Dr. Steve's journey into bariatric psychology and explore the fascinating psychological aspects of weight loss surgery. We chat about the importance of community, overcoming weight loss stigma, and preparing for long-term success as a bariatric patient. Plus, Dr. Steve shares some incredible insights on emotional eating, body image, and setting realistic goals.

Dr. Steve is a wealth of knowledge and compassion, and I can't wait for you to hear his unique perspective on the bariatric life. Whether you're considering surgery, have already undergone it, or just want to understand more about this transformative journey, this episode is packed with valuable advice and encouragement.

So grab a cozy spot, and let's get inspired together. And don't forget to check out Dr. Steve's upcoming book, The Bariatric Code, for more amazing insights!

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@leaningintolisa

Episode 21: This week, we're diving into everything from new relationships to health journeys, and even some unexpected wardrobe adventures!

Lisa's got a boyfriend (cue the squeals!), and she's learning the ins and outs of sharing her life on the internet with him. From vulnerability hangovers to the joys of wearing your partner's clothes, she's navigating it all with humor and heart.

Meanwhile, Allie's tackling some back pain woes, but she's finding new ways to stay active and keep her spirits up. She's been hitting the Peloton hard and sharing her adventures in parenting and fashion along the way.

And Kasey? She's taking on a new challenge with a personal trainer and embracing the idea of gaining muscle instead of losing weight. It's a whole new world, and she's ready for it!

Join us for a laid-back chat that feels like you're sitting down with old friends. We're talking life, love, and everything in between, with a side of laughter and a dash of real talk. Can't wait to catch up with you!

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@allieslosingit_rny

@leaningintolisa