In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, bariatric surgeon Dr Alex Craven joins The Bari Chronicles to dismantle the myths that continue to shape how obesity is treated — and mistreated — in Australia.

From the false belief that people can simply “eat less and move more,” to the idea that metabolic surgery is dangerous, extreme, or a last resort, Dr Craven explains why these narratives are not only wrong, but actively harmful. Drawing on decades of clinical evidence and lived patient experience, he reframes obesity as a complex, biological disease — not a personal failure.

This episode explores why effective obesity treatment must protect mental health, preserve a healthy relationship with food, and be offered with the same objectivity as any other life-saving medical therapy. It is a conversation about dignity, evidence, and why listening to lived experience is no longer optional in modern healthcare.

In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, we sit down with someone very close to the BSA family — Steve, Tash’s husband — as he opens up about his long, slow, and often frustrating journey toward finally choosing weight loss surgery. Steve’s story is one so many people will relate to:

✓ years of putting it off,

✓ the slow creep of weight gain,

✓ the aches, pains and mobility changes,

✓ the mental battle of “Is it really that bad?”,

✓ and the moment you realise life is getting smaller when you want it to be bigger.

Across this conversation, Steve shares:• what made him finally say “yep, it’s time” • how Crohn’s disease shaped his surgical options and why sleeve was recommended• the hidden ways weight gain shows up — bending over, tying shoes, squatting at work, fatigue• the impact of watching Tash regain her life post-surgery• his fears, hopes and what he’s genuinely excited about• how habits like drinking, eating fast and long-term routines will need to change• the importance of choosing a surgeon you fully trust — not just the first one you see• preparing for surgery close to Christmas (yes, he’s missing the turkey) learning to build new habits around water, vitamins, and pacing food• the optimism and the scepticism that everyone feels before surgery This episode is real, honest, funny in moments, and incredibly relatable. Steve reminds us that weight loss surgery isn’t an “easy way out” — it’s a tool, not a magic wand. And it’s a tool he’s ready to use to rebuild his confidence, mobility and quality of life.🎧 A must-listen for anyone considering surgery, supporting someone through it, or wanting to hear what real lived experience sounds like — nerves, hope, humour and all.

In this powerful episode, Damo sits down with Steve — a lived-experience legend who’s bravely opening up about something many bariatric patients never see coming.

After having gastric bypass surgery, Steve thought he understood his limits with alcohol. But one ordinary dinner out with friends ended with an RBT, a shocking reading, and the devastating moment his licence was taken on the spot.

What followed was months of stress, shame, court dates, financial strain, and the daily challenge of navigating family life without the ability to drive. But Steve owns every part of his story — no excuses, no hiding. Just honesty, accountability, and a determination to make sure others don’t learn the same lesson the hard way.

Together, we talk through:

• How bariatric surgery changes the way alcohol is absorbed

• Why “just one or two drinks” can put you over the limit

• The emotional and practical fallout of losing your licence

• The fear, embarrassment, court process and consequences

• The reality that nobody plans an accident, but the impact can last a lifetime

• Why Uber is cheaper than fines, court, lost independence — or hurting someone

• How Steve hopes his story will save others from the same pain

This episode isn’t about judgement. It’s about awareness — and it’s a must-listen heading into the festive season.

⚠️ Trigger Warning:
This episode contains discussion about grief, loss, and the death of a loved one. If this topic is distressing or triggering for you, please take care while listening. You can choose to skip this episode or reach out for professional support if you need it.

🎧 Episode Description:
In this deeply personal episode, Tash and Damo open up about navigating grief after their mum’s passing — and how life after bariatric surgery changes the way we experience emotional pain, comfort, and healing.

They talk about food noise returning under stress, setting healthy emotional boundaries, and learning to find comfort in memories rather than meals.

This conversation reminds us that healing isn’t linear — it’s messy, human, and full of grace.

💬 “Even when the storm is raging, I can now stop. I never had an off button before surgery.”

If you need support in Australia:

• 💛 Lifeline: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention

• 💙 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 — 24/7 mental health support

• 💚 Griefline: 1300 845 745 — 8am–8pm, 7 days a week (grief counselling and resources)

• 💜 Butterfly Foundation: 1800 33 4673 — support for eating and body image concerns

• 🧡 Head to Health: headtohealth.gov.au — connect with free mental health services

Remember: you’re not alone, and help is always available.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Sponsored by: CostPriceSupplements.com.au
Use code GASTRIC175 for up to 17% OFF trusted bariatric supplements and protein.

Affiliate disclaimer: Bariatric Support Australia may receive a small commission from purchases made using this code, which helps us continue providing free resources and community support.

This week, Dr Cheng returns to The Bari Chronicles to unpack the hype around GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Are they miracle fixes or long-term tools? We dive into what makes these medications effective, why short-term use is “just a party trick,” and how combining surgery with medication can lead to the best outcomes.
Tash and Damo share personal stories about sustainable weight loss, muscle preservation, and the mindset shifts that make all the difference.

Sponsored by: Cost Price Supplements — use code GASTRIC175 for up to 17% off your order.

Release Date: Monday, 3 November 2025

Reflux can be uncomfortable, frustrating — and for many bariatric patients, life-changing. In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo speaks with leading upper GI surgeon Dr Craig Taylor to unpack why reflux happens after weight loss surgery, why medication isn’t always enough, and what treatment options and tests can actually make a difference.

From understanding structural causes like hiatal hernias to knowing when revision surgery might help, this conversation empowers patients with knowledge to better advocate for their health. Whether you’ve had a sleeve, bypass, or are just considering surgery, this is an essential listen.

🎙️ Sponsored by Cost Price Supplements — use code gastric175 at checkout.

In this episode of The Barry Chronicles, Dr. Terry Lin discusses the critical role of supplementation after bariatric surgery, focusing on the importance of individualized approaches to multivitamins. The conversation highlights the risks associated with excessive vitamin B6 intake, the necessity of regular blood tests, and the regulatory challenges surrounding dietary supplements. Dr. Lin emphasizes the need for informed decision-making and the role of dietitians in managing supplementation for optimal health outcomes.

What if your weight isn’t telling the whole story?
In this episode, Damo visits Jennifer, a Dietitian at Melbourne Weight Loss Solutions, to explore the power of body composition scanning and what those deeper measurements reveal about your health after bariatric surgery.

From understanding the balance between fat mass and muscle mass to learning how hydration, medication, and lifestyle all play a role, this conversation challenges the idea that progress is defined by the number on the scale.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or years post-op, this episode will shift how you see your body and remind you that strength, recovery, and resilience can’t always be measured in kilograms.

🎙 Hosted by Damo Verner
Presented by Bariatric Support Australia
Powered by Cost Price Supplements – use GASTRIC175 for up to 17.5% off and double reward points.

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In this conversation, Damo and Tash from Bariatric Support Australia engage with Dr. Rachel Gold, a clinical psychologist specializing in eating disorders and body image. They discuss the importance of mindset in relation to body image, the impact of weight stigma, and the challenges faced by individuals post-bariatric surgery, including body dysmorphia and disordered eating. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-compassion, understanding neurodivergence, and creating supportive environments for those undergoing weight loss journeys. Dr. Gold also shares resources aimed at helping individuals navigate their relationships with food and their bodies.

This conversation delves into the complexities of bariatric surgery, exploring the psychological and physiological aspects of comfort eating, the transformative potential of surgical interventions, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to weight management. The discussion highlights the evolution of surgical techniques, the significance of pre- and post-operative care, and the need to address biases in medical treatment. The speakers emphasize the importance of patient-centered care and the various options available for individuals struggling with obesity.