She kept her weight loss surgery a secret—even from her kids. Now she's down 140 lbs and living life on her terms. In this powerful new episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, co-host Mel (@melunfiltered.vsg) sits down with Staci Renee (@stacirenee82)—a hilarious, fierce, and inspiring single mom of 3 from Kentucky who shares her raw and real VSG transformation story. 💬

🎙️ Our Sleeved Life Podcast is your go-to space for authentic conversations about bariatric surgery, self-worth, mental health, and life after weight loss. With episodes that spotlight real people and their journeys, this show is about empowering the weight loss surgery community—one voice at a time.

💥 In this episode, Staci opens up about:

Why she chose vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) after years of being denied coverage

Navigating motherhood and nursing school while recovering from surgery

Her experience with the 6-week post-op recovery, liquid diet, gas pain, and fear of complications

The unexpected emotional challenges of losing 140+ pounds, body image shifts, and “pretty privilege”

The truth about friendships that faded and the drama of dating over 40

Building community and confidence through TikTok and the Just Be You Bariatric Awards (JBY)

How she balances bariatric nutrition, uses protein water hacks, and stays strong without carbonation

💖 Whether you’re researching bariatric surgery, struggling to feel seen in your journey, or just need a boost of realness—you’ll walk away feeling inspired, empowered, and not alone.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:

Is VSG worth it? Honest reflections 3 years post-op

How to get your insurance to cover weight loss surgery

Bariatric surgery recovery tips (real talk from a nurse & mom)

Coping with identity shifts after major weight loss

The link between mental health and weight loss

How TikTok VSG creators are reshaping bariatric visibility

Tips for thriving in a supportive bariatric community

📲 Follow Staci on TikTok for sassy, real-life VSG content: @stacirenee82
💬 Follow Mel for daily bariatric motivation: @melunfiltered.vsg
🎧 Subscribe to Our Sleeved Life Podcast for new weekly episodes that celebrate real people with real journeys.

👉 Like, Comment & Subscribe if you loved Staci’s story or relate to this journey.

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