The BariNation Foundation Podcast

Bariatric support groups provide an essential community for weight loss surgery patients. Today, we welcome Jonathan Cleveland to the BariNation Podcast to discuss his transformative experience just two months after VSG surgery. Jonathan shares how the BariNation community helped him navigate post-op bariatric surgery recovery challenges, from managing protein intake to celebrating non-scale victories. He reveals how the "space and grace" motto became his daily mantra when struggling with post-op bariatric life expectations. Natalie Tierney and Herb Lentz, who host the beginner bariatric meetup groups in the BariNation Community, co-host the episode to advocate for the power of peer connection versus unreliable internet searches and Facebook groups.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

✅ How bariatric support groups provide emotional validation and practical advice that Facebook groups and internet searches cannot match

✅ Why connecting with the bariatric community with Natalie Tierney in BariNation helps navigate post-op bariatric life challenges like protein and hydration goals

✅ The "space and grace" approach to managing frustration during weight loss surgery recovery and celebrating non-scale victories

✅ How beginner bariatric patient support meetups create a safe space for pre-op and newly post-op patients to share experiences

✅ Why joining trusted virtual support groupsand meetups in BariNation  leads to better outcomes than self-diagnosing symptoms through unreliable online sources

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Natalie Tierney opens the episode and invites Jonathan Cleveland and Herb Lentz to introduce themselves as members of the BariNation membership community. Jonathan is a two-month post-op bariatric patient, and Herb hosts beginner bariatric meetups

02:36 How bariatric support groups provide a community with like-minded individuals who understand the unique struggles and non-scale victories

06:05 The "space and grace" motto helps manage frustration with protein intake after surgery and hydration goals during weight loss surgery recovery, and other tips

10:17 Overcoming fear of joining bariatric community online meetups as a newbie and finding welcoming peer support

12:32 Jonathan shares why bariatric support groups provide trusted advice versus going down rabbit holes on Facebook groups and unreliable internet sources

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

💎Bariatric support groups offer understanding that friends and family cannot provide, creating a space where members celebrate non-scale victories like not needing seatbelt extenders with genuine excitement

💎 The "space and grace" mantra helps manage early post-op bariatric life frustrations when struggling to meet protein intake after surgery and hydration targets during weight loss surgery recovery

💎 Virtual support groups provide vetted advice from real bariatric patient support members and medical professionals, preventing harmful self-diagnosis from unreliable Facebook groups and internet rabbit holes

💎 Beginner bariatric community online meetups create cohorts where pre-op and newly post-op patients practice curiosity, ask questions without judgment, and build family-like connections

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Jonathan Cleveland currently resides in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. He is 6 months post-op from VSG surgery by Dr. Edmund Chen of the Texas Center for Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery. He has lost a total of 115 pounds. He loves to travel across the world in his free time. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

BariNation Website

BariNation - Email

BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   

BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide

In this revisited episode, we're diving into the theme of curiosity—how it shapes our journey, fuels personal growth, and helps us navigate life after bariatric surgery. Curiosity isn’t just about asking questions; it’s about staying open to new possibilities, exploring uncharted paths, and discovering what works best for you. Our definition of thriving is to progress towards or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances, and curiosity plays a key role in helping us thrive. Together, we’ll unpack how curiosity can lead to breakthroughs, deepen your self-awareness, and transform your perspective on health, wellness, and beyond. Let’s jump in and spark some curiosity!

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 0:49 Using the tool of curiosity to thrive in 2025 after bariatric surgery
• 2:54 Jason describes how relentless curiosity has taken him to the gym
• 7:01 Natalie shares how she struggled with what was within her control
• 10:33 This episode is for everyone to thrive and use relentless curiosity 
• 11:53 Get curious about your bariatric journey and try new things within your control
• 13:44 Being relentless about curiosity to thrive and actively using the BariNation community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Try using curiosity as a proactive tool to overcome obstacles and thrive, regardless of circumstances. This approach involves shifting from frustration to asking empowering questions like "I wonder what would happen if...?" to spark problem-solving and innovation.
• Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all the challenges, try solving one problem at a time. This focused approach allows for incremental progress, whether adapting a fitness routine, making bariatric dietary adjustments, or tackling life challenges.
• Practicing curiosity within a supportive community amplifies its impact. Engaging with others who understand and encourage experimentation creates a safe space to try new things, share insights, and celebrate progress together and bariatric surgery.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

What are the advantages of a bariatric surgery care team? Today, you will discover the vital role of an integrated health team in bariatric surgery. On this episode of the BariNation podcast, we are thrilled to interview Heidi Bednarchuk, exploring why a cohesive bariatric surgery care team is key to patient care success. From pre-op preparation to post-op support, discover how to choose a team that supports your obesity treatment journey and enhances quality of life. Heidi shares insights on building an integrated health team for bariatric surgery, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for long-term wellness.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

The critical role of a bariatric surgery care team in ensuring successful patient care throughout the obesity treatment journey

How an integrated health team collaborates to provide comprehensive pre-op preparation and post-op support for lasting results

Why prioritizing quality of life is key to choosing the right bariatric surgery care team for your needs

Practical questions to ask to identify an integrated health team for bariatric surgery that supports long-term wellness

The importance of patient care advocacy and how a cohesive team enhances obesity treatment outcomes

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

TIMESTAMPS: 

• 02:50 Heidi’s role in integrated health team leadership for patient care and the vital role of the bariatric surgery care team beyond pre-op preparation and post-op support
• 12:28 Heidi explains why evaluating the bariatric surgery care team is crucial for quality of life in the obesity treatment journey, such as roles like the bariatric nurse
• 14:33 Heidi uses a fruit smoothie analogy to describe a cohesive, integrated health team for bariatric surgery, enhancing quality of life
• 25:05 Advice on questions to identify an effective bariatric surgery care team, focusing on interdisciplinary team communication
• 32:24 Heidi discusses studies showing patient care priorities like nutrition and mental health in post-op support, often overlooked
• 42:24 Discussion of the stigma, eliminating old mindsets and communicating with care teams who are not integrated                                                                                                                      
• 47:30 Emphasis on staying connected with the bariatric surgery care team to avoid post-surgical support drop-off for obesity treatment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

An integrated health team for bariatric surgery collaborates to enhance quality of life and address challenges in obesity treatment.

Asking the right questions helps identify an effective bariatric surgery care team focused on interdisciplinary team communication.

Patients must advocate for their own patient care needs to build a bariatric surgery care team that supports long-term success in obesity treatment.

ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Heidi Bednarchuk, APRN, CNS, CBN, FASMBS-IH, is a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse at the Bariatric and Comprehensive Weight Loss Program at the Mayo Clinic.  She has worked in metabolic and bariatric surgery since 2012 and genuinely loves her work. She is committed to supporting individuals affected by obesity and to highlighting the vital role Integrated Health plays in delivering lasting, patient-centered outcomes. Heidi is also the Immediate Past President of the Integrated Health Leadership Council at ASMBS (American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons), having held multiple leadership and committee roles over the past several years.

Heidi Bednarchuk - LinkedIn

Patients’ experiences of life after bariatric surgery and follow-up care study

A Comparison of Health Professionals' and Patients' Views of the Importance of Outcomes of Bariatric Surgery Study

A systematic scoping review of multidisciplinary team working in surgical services: the need for bariatric surgery research

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

TREO Foundation - The Walk

TREO Walk Discounted BariNation Membership 

BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   

BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide

Have you ever felt stuck in your bariatric journey, unsure what to do next?  Are you seeking a supportive community that understands life's challenges after surgery? If these questions resonate with you, you won’t want to miss this episode of the BariNation podcast.

In this re-release episode, we dive deep into the real experiences and challenges of bariatric patients, offering tools and insights to help you on your journey. In this episode, we’re exploring two pivotal concepts—"space and grace" and "pause and pivot"—that are integral to the BariNation support community for bariatric patients. These tools are designed to assist members in navigating their weight loss journey with greater ease and understanding.

Whether you're just starting your weight loss journey or you've been living with bariatric surgery for years, the BariNation community is designed to provide the support and motivation you need to stay on track. Tune into this conversation and community that will make you feel understood, supported, and empowered on your path. 

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:26] BariNation is here for your bariatric surgery journey
• [3:20] BariNation offers Space and Grace
• [7:12] When facing a challenge, Pause and Pivot
• [11:11] The BariNation community is here to support you

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Space and Grace – This concept emphasizes the importance of removing yourself from triggering situations (physically or mentally) and giving yourself understanding rather than harsh self-criticism. It’s about creating space to manage emotions and extend yourself grace without making excuses.
• Pause and Pivot – When facing challenges or hitting a plateau in the bariatric journey, taking a moment to pause, reflect, and reassess your direction can help you make intentional and sustainable changes. This prevents reactive decision-making and supports long-term success.
• Community and Support Matter – The BariNation podcast and support community provide a space for bariatric patients at all stages to connect, share experiences, and seek guidance from professionals and peers. Engaging with others on a similar journey can provide essential encouragement and perspective.

BariNation Website

Have you had or are you preparing for bariatric surgery or starting GLP1’s and wondering how to avoid nutritional deficiencies? Do you know what Wernicke’s encephalopathy is and how easy it is to prevent and treat it? Tune in to this episode of the BariNation podcast to uncover critical insights! 

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Emma Patterson, a renowned expert in bariatric surgery with 25 years of experience. Dr. Patterson shares her research on thiamine deficiency (aka vitamin B1), offering practical advice on preventive care and thiamine supplementation to help safeguard your health before and after metabolic and bariatric surgery (aka weight loss surgery.) Don’t miss her expert tips on vitamin supplementation to ensure a successful bariatric journey!

Don’t forget! BariNation is proud to be this year's National Sponsor of TREO Foundation's The Walk: Stomp the Stigma. Sign up to join BariNation’s virtual team for the September 27th, 2025, The Walk: Stomp the Stigma, which raises awareness and access to care. There are also 12 in person walks happening and more being organized. To find a walk near you, or set one up visit the TREO Foundation website linked below.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (03:15) Dr. Emma Patterson shares her 25-year focus on bariatric surgery
• (10:45) Wernicke’s encephalopathy is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by thiamine deficiency
• (17:00) Surgeons should monitor nutrition to prevent thiamine deficiency and what are the classic symptoms 
• (28:21) Dr. Patterson notes the low risk of thiamine supplementation, encouraging bariatric patients to discuss it with their surgeons 
• (35:44) Wernicke’s encephalopathy typically peaks two to three months post-bariatric surgery, but can occur later if nutritional deficiencies persist
• (43:59) Dr. Patterson gives advice to bariatric patients starting GLP-1 medications 
• (48:30) Discussion of the importance of  vitamin B1’s role in, cell maintenance, and nerve function

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• B1/Thiamine deficiency can lead to Wernicke’s encephalopathy, a severe neurological condition, particularly in bariatric patients post-surgery due to reduced nutrient intake.
• Preventive care through B1/Thiamine supplementation (100 mg daily) starting two weeks before bariatric surgery and continuing for three months post-op is critical to avoid complications.
• Patient education on bariatric nutrition, especially the importance of vitamin B1, empowers individuals to advocate for their health and prevent malnutrition risks.

RESOURCES:

• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• TREO Walk Discounted BariNation Membership  
• BariNation x TREO Landing Page
• TREO Fall In-Person Walks
• BariNation Website
• BariNation - Email
• BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership   
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• Dr. Patterson’s website 

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Emma Patterson, a board-certified bariatric surgeon, has over 25 years of experience, performing 6,000+ bariatric surgery procedures like Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass after her fellowship at Mount Sinai Hospital. As the Northwest’s first laparoscopic bariatric surgery specialist and Bariatric Medical Director at Wilshire Surgery Center (MBSAQIP Center of Excellence), she’s authored 50+ peer-reviewed papers, including in NEJM, and contributed to NIH’s LABS consortium. Renowned for her expertise in thiamine deficiency and Wernicke’s encephalopathy, she advocates for bariatric nutrition and serves as an expert witness in medical advocacy (Practical Gastro, YouTube).

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Are you searching for a bariatric surgeon who truly understands the importance of lifelong support? Do you want to know how inclusive healthcare can transform your bariatric journey? Then you don’t want to miss this conversation because it may completely change how you think about your options for obesity care.

Before we dive in, we’re thrilled to share that BariNation is a national sponsor of the TREO Foundation’s Walk to Stomp the Stigma which is happening in 10+ cities throughout the fall. The Virtual Walk is on Saturday, September 27th and we invite you to join our BariNation team. Together, we’ll shine a light on the importance of better access to obesity care for all. Click the link in the show notes to join our BariNation team and walk with us virtually—you don’t want to miss the chance to be part of this movement.

In today’s episode, we sat down with Dr. Maria Brown, a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon in Arizona who specializes in robotic bariatric surgery and leads a comprehensive program designed to give patients everything they need in one place. Her practice offers medical weight loss, nutrition support, fitness guidance, and a line of vitamins to ensure no piece of the puzzle is missing. Dr. Brown is deeply committed to building safe healthcare spaces where every patient—regardless of their background, identity, or financial status—feels seen, heard, and supported.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (00:29) Join BariNation for the TREO Foundation’s Walk to Stomp the Stigma on Saturday, September 27th
• (01:55) Dr. Brown is a bariatric surgeon specializing in robotic bariatric surgery
• (05:17) Discussion of inclusive healthcare, Medicare, Medicaid, self-pay, and ensuring obesity care for all patients
• (05:52) Brown’s practice is a safe space for every patient, including the LGBTQIA 
• (08:34) Shop around for the right bariatric surgeon and build a lifelong relationship of trust 
• (10:40) Obesity care doesn’t end with surgery—it’s a chronic disease requiring long-term support
• (11:52) Patients deserve to feel seen and heard

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Building a strong BariNation Community and long-term patient support system is just as important as the medical side of bariatric surgery, helping patients succeed beyond the operating room.
• Dr. Maria Brown emphasizes inclusive healthcare and safe healthcare spaces, ensuring that every patient—regardless of race, gender, or sexuality—has access to compassionate obesity care.
• A holistic approach that combines robotic bariatric surgery, medical weight loss, nutrition support, fitness guidance, and specialized bariatric vitamins creates a comprehensive path to better outcomes on the lifelong bariatric journey.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website
• BariNation - Email
• BariNation Partner and Practice Monthly Membership   
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• Dr. Brown - Website
• AZ Weight Loss Surgery

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Maria Brown, a Cuban American from Upstate New York, studied Spanish in Mexico and earned a B.S. in Biology from Siena College, graduating magna cum laude. She gained healthcare experience in Belize, worked at Pfizer, and trained at St. George’s University School of Medicine, with rotations in England, Grenada, and New York City. After completing her General Surgery Residency and a fellowship in Minimally Invasive Robotic, Advanced GI, and Bariatric Surgery, she moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where she is owner and director of Valley Bariatric Medical & Weight Loss Center and a national proctor for Intuitive’s da Vinci Robotic Systems. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, and paddleboarding with her two Huskies.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Have you experienced weight recurrence after bariatric surgery, or worried about it happening to you? Do you want to understand how to manage your weight loss journey as a chronic disease? Tune in to this enlightening episode of the BariNation podcast to gain clarity! 

We know how daunting weight recurrence can feel after bariatric surgery, and that’s why we’re thrilled to bring you this powerful episode of the BariNation podcast. Joining us again is Dr. Saniea F. Majid, a dedicated bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist,to discuss weight gain as part of the chronic disease of obesity. Her research-driven insights and compassionate approach to patient empowerment will leave you inspired, equipped with tools to navigate your weight loss journey, and ready to advocate for your metabolic wellness with confidence. Weight recurrence isn’t your fault.

Don’t forget! BariNation is proud to be this year's National Sponsor of TREO Foundation's The Walk: Stomp the Stigma. Sign up to join BariNation’s virtual team for the September 27th, 2025, The Walk: Stomp the Stigma, which raises awareness and access to care. There are also 12 in person walks happening and more being organized. To find a walk near you, or set one up visit the TREO Foundation website linked below.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:28)  Join BariNation for the TREO Foundation’s The Walk: Stomp the Stigma on Saturday, September 27th
• (02:03) Dr. Majid introduces herself, highlighting her emphasis on obesity as a chronic disease. 
• (06:10) Discussion of understanding and defining weight recurrence and what research reveals
• (16:45) Frame weight recurrence as a disease progression and focus on disease management
• (26:15) Patients should return to their bariatric surgeon for weight recurrence issues
• (34:30) Dr. Majid stresses patient empowerment through education 
• (40:06) Bariatric surgery improves metabolic wellness beyond weight loss, such as resolving sleep apnea
• (48:28) Seeing bariatric surgery as a transformative obesity treatment, and a health transformation 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Weight recurrence is a natural part of the chronic disease of obesity, not a patient failure, and understanding it as a disease management issue can empower bariatric community members to seek timely bariatric care and maintain their weight loss journey.
• Bariatric surgery significantly alters the trajectory of weight gain, improving metabolic wellness by reducing the severity of obesity-related conditions. Still, ongoing follow-ups with a bariatric surgeon are crucial for sustained health transformation.
• Standardizing definitions for weight recurrence is essential for effective obesity treatment, enabling clinicians and patients to address weight management proactively and foster patient empowerment through education and obesity awareness.

RESOURCES:

• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• TREO Walk Discounted BariNation Membership  
• BariNation x TREO Landing Page
• TREO Fall In-Person Walks
• Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery: Scope of the Problem, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
• Meet Dr. Majid – Award Winning Weight Loss Doctor NJ | WLWC
• Weight Loss & Wellness Center - Instagram 
• Dr. Majid’s Email
• BariNation Website
• BariNation - Email

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Saniea Majid, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist, founded the Weight Loss and Wellness Center in northern New Jersey, leading innovative bariatric surgery programs. She pioneered minimally invasive and endoscopic treatments, including New Jersey’s first adjustable gastric balloon and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, while establishing MBSAQIP-accredited centers. Committed to obesity care, she expands access to treatments for childhood and adolescent obesity, integrating nutrition and behavioral health. As TREO Foundation president and ASMBS leader, Dr. Majid drives critical research and stigma awareness to advance bariatric community care.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

Are you ready to stomp the stigma around obesity care and treatment? Walk with us! Don’t miss this BariNation episode that’s all about empowering the bariatric community! BariNation is proud to be this year's National Sponsor of TREO Foundation's The Walk: Stomp the Stigma.

Joining us is Dr. Saniea F. Majid, a bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist who’s leading the charge as President of the TREO Foundation. She and April discuss the Virtual Walk on September 27th, 2025 and how to find an In Person Walk near you.  At the heart of this event is the TREO Foundation's work around the goal of impacting personal wellness and treatment improvement.  People suffering from the disease of obesity face stigma in all aspects of their lives including medical providers. Dr. Majid discusses the importance of patient involvement, the role of the ASMBS conference in advancing critical research, and how the virtual team for the September 27th, 2025, The Walk: Stomp the Stigma, is going to be raising awareness and access to care. There are also 12 in person walks happening and more being organized. To find a walk near you, or set one up visit the TREO Foundation website linked below.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (00:29) Join BariNation for the TREO Foundation’s virtual The Walk: Stomp the Stigma on Saturday, September 27th, 2025
• (01:52) Dr. Saniea F. Majid introduces herself, highlighting her holistic approach to wellness 
• (04:00) The TREO Foundation’s mission emphasizes its role in stigma awareness and access to care
• (05:32) The societal bias against obesity, its impact on personal wellness, and the need for public action 
• (07:37) Research by the ASMBS has led to advancements like GLP-1 medications
• (09:47) Dr. Majid addresses bias in healthcare and reducing it through education

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• BariNation is a proud national sponsor of the TREO Foundation’s Stomp The Stigma Walk on September 27th, 2025, encouraging the bariatric community to join their virtual team to raise stigma awareness and support obesity care.
• The TREO Foundation focuses on treatment improvements, critical research, and education to enhance access to care and combat weight recurrence, as highlighted by Dr. Saniea F. Majid at the ASMBS conference.
• Patient involvement in the TREO Foundation’s initiatives, like The Walk, Stomp the Stigma, promotes public action and fosters personal wellness by addressing bias even in the healthcare field and improving bariatric surgery outcomes.

RESOURCES:

• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• TREO Walk Discounted BariNation Membership  
• BariNation x TREO Landing Page
• Meet Dr. Majid – Award Winning Weight Loss Doctor NJ | WLWC
• Dr. Majid’s Email
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• BariNation Website
• BariNation - Email

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Saniea Majid, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist, founded the Weight Loss and Wellness Center in northern New Jersey, leading innovative bariatric surgery programs. She pioneered minimally invasive and endoscopic treatments, including New Jersey’s first adjustable gastric balloon and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, while establishing MBSAQIP-accredited centers. Committed to obesity care, she expands access to treatments for childhood and adolescent obesity, integrating nutrition and behavioral health. As TREO Foundation president and ASMBS leader, Dr. Majid drives critical research and stigma awareness to advance bariatric community care.

Do you ever wonder why the obesity epidemic continues to grow worldwide? Do you want to know how you can be part of the change? This conversation goes beyond borders to shine a light on the urgent need for better obesity awareness, more inclusive bariatric support, and stronger access to care across the globe. We’re here to show you that your story matters and that solutions exist, no matter where you live.

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Ricardo Cohen, a leading obesity medicine specialist and president of IFSO (International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders) from São Paolo, Brazil, who shares his expertise on the global state of obesity care. Together, we discuss the new obesity definition, why obesity diagnosis matters, and how individualized obesity treatment—from lifestyle interventions to weight loss surgery—can help fight this chronic disease.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (00:49) Join the TREO Foundations, ‘The Walk’ on Saturday, September 27th
• (01:48) Dr. Cohen highlights his work in obesity research and obesity treatment
• (02:35) Preclinical obesity vs clinical obesity, obesity diagnosis and obesity stigma 
• (04:39) Discusses the global rise of the obesity epidemic, pointing to obesity genetics
• (07:30) Discussion of a biological, chronic, complex disease with no single solution for obesity treatment
• (10:35) Discussion of obesity awareness, access to obesity support, and improving obesity outcomes

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

• The obesity epidemic is not just a U.S. issue—it’s a global health challenge. This episode highlights how obesity care and bariatric support can break stigma, improve access to treatment, and empower patients around the world.
• Like other progressive conditions such as diabetes, lupus, and cancer, obesity requires a thorough understanding of its progression and a comprehensive, multi-faceted medical approach. It is also a disease that both deserves and needs proper treatment.
• The TREO Foundation is leading the way by funding obesity research and expanding access to care. Their mission supports better treatments, early diagnosis, and more inclusive approaches to obesity awareness worldwide.
• BariNation is proud to be the national sponsor of the Trio Foundation’s Walk, standing with the bariatric community in advancing obesity treatment, building community resources, and offering inspiration and hope for anyone navigating their journey.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website
• Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month! You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.
• BariNation - Email
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
• TREO Foundation - The Walk
• Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
• The Lancet Report on Obesity
• Dr. Anne Rogers - Ep 252
• Dr. Jaime Ponce - Ep. 250

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Ricardo Cohen, with over 30 years of experience, including 15 at Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz, is a globally recognized bariatric surgeon named among the top 30 by ASMBS. With over 10,000 surgeries, he pioneers research on metabolic surgery for type 2 diabetes. He holds a PhD from the University of São Paulo, is editor of Obesity Surgery, and was the former president of the 2016 IFSO World Congress in Rio.

Additionally, he is a past president of SBCBM (2011-2012) and IFSO Latin American Chapter (2018-2019), and he is currently the President of The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO), a Federation composed of national associations of bariatric surgeons and Integrated Health professionals. Currently, there are 76 official member societies of IFSO, as well as individual members from countries that thus far have not formed a national association. 

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.

Did you know that ADHD is more common in the bariatric community? In today’s episode, we’re going to explore how ADHD and neurodivergence shape our relationship with food, how this affects the bariatric community and discover strategies to thrive. 

We are happy to introduce a clinical psychologist with 20 years of experience working in bariatric medicine, who brings personal insight as a bariatric patient managing ADHD and weight regain. Dr. Karen Stewart shares practical approaches like meal prepping and mindfulness, while addressing how perimenopause and hormone replacement influence emotional regulation and decision making in the bariatric community. By exploring executive functioning, dopamine, and self-compassion, we’ll uncover tools to support the bariatric community in overcoming obesity and weight regain.

Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (02:30) Dr.  Stewart shares her area of expertise and journey with ADHD and weight regain
• (08:00) ADHD neurodivergence may lead to obesity due to disordered eating patterns
• (14:30) Connection between ADHD, multitasking, and mindfulness 
• (20:15) Defining ADHD, neurodivergence, executive functioning, and weight regain
• (29:47) Effects of perimenopause and hormone replacement on ADHD Symptoms and emotional regulation
• (34:40)  Practical strategies for bariatric patients with ADHD, focusing on dopamine, executive functioning, and self-compassion
• (39:13) Lowering the expectation on the food front

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• ADHD and Neurodivergence are more prevalent in the Bariatric Community, contributing to obesity through disordered eating patterns driven by Dopamine-seeking behaviors and Executive Functioning challenges.
• Task switching, cognitive flexibility, and decision making tax the brain, especially in ADHD, necessitating strategies like meal prepping to conserve mental energy.
• For neurodivergent individuals, food often serves as a quick Dopamine hit. However, healthy eating alternatives and non-food activities, such as walks, can help replace unhealthy habits.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website
• Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month! You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.
• BariNation - Email
• BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
• Karen Stewart - Instagram
• Karen Stewart - Facebook
• Dr. Karen Stewart - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Karen Stewart is a clinical psychologist who’s spent 20 years supporting bariatric patients—and she’s been through the process herself. She brings both personal and professional insight to her work, with a special focus on how ADHD affects eating habits, self-care, and long-term health. Karen helps people understand what’s driving their patterns and find practical, sustainable ways to feel better in their bodies.

ABOUT:

If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.