The BariNation Foundation Podcast

Have you ever wondered what else bariatric surgery can do for your health beyond just weight loss? If you're on a weight loss journey, or even just considering it, this episode will help you see how metabolic surgery can transform your overall wellness, not just the number on the scale.

Dr. Saurabh, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist, joins us to talk about the true power of bariatric surgery—including its ability to reverse or improve conditions like type 2 diabetes, GERD, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure. He also shares how hormonal changes after surgery play a key role in resetting the body’s metabolic function and offers advice on what to look for in post-op 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.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (01:45) Dr. Saurabh is a board-certified bariatric surgery and obesity medicine specialist 
• (02:26) Being certified in obesity medicine allows a doctor to offer both surgery and medications
• (06:23) Benefits of surgery beyond weight loss, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and GERD
• (08:43) Reversing type 2 diabetes through hormonal changes
• (10:31) Many health concerns improve even before significant weight loss 
• (14:15) Short-form education on Instagram delivers key messages about holistic bariatric care

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Metabolic and bariatric surgery offer far more than weight loss—they can lead to remission or improvement of serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes, GERD, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure, helping patients reclaim their health and extend their quality of life.
• Choosing a provider who is certified in obesity medicine ensures a more comprehensive, holistic bariatric care approach that addresses the root causes of obesity and supports long-term success through personalized treatment plans.
• The bariatric community at BariNation provides ongoing education, expert insight, and support after surgery, empowering patients with tools to celebrate non-scale victories and live a full, vibrant life post-op.
• Dr. Saurabh is the latest Bariatric Surgeon and Obesity Medicine Specialist to join BariNation as an expert.  You’ll see him on future podcast episodes, in the BariNation Membership Community leading groups, and getting onboard with us on the Struggle Bus some Tuesdays at 7p eastern/4p pacific answering all your metabolic wellness questions.  

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
• Shireesh Saurabh, MD | Seattle, WA
• Dr. Saurabh Partners with BariNation
• Dr. Saurabh - Instagram

GUEST BIOGRAPHIES:

Dr. Shireesh Saurabh

Dr Saurabh is a board-certified general surgeon, and a fellowship trained bariatric surgeon. He received his medical degree from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (A.I.I.M.S). He completed his General Surgery residency from the Drexel University College of Medicine and Bariatric Surgery fellowship from University of Iowa. He specializes in advanced laparoscopic, robotic, and endoscopic surgical techniques in general and bariatric surgery. He is involved in research related to bariatric surgery and has presented his results at various national conferences. He is part of several local and national committees related to American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). He is also board certified in Obesity Medicine. Dr. Saurabh practices at Swedish Weight Loss Service at the First Hill and Issaquah locations, both in Washington State. 

Melanie Lindell

Melanie Lindell, LMHC, serves as BariNation’s CHRO and is a licensed counselor with over a decade of experience in trauma and abuse. A bariatric patient herself, Melanie had Roux-en-Y surgery in 2019 and faced a complex recovery that included complications, additional surgeries, and time on a feeding tube. Her passion is helping others heal and thrive, and she considers it a privilege to walk alongside fellow bariatric patients as a support group leader.

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 ever found yourself shrinking—physically or emotionally—just to make others feel more comfortable? We’ve been there. But what if you permitted yourself to take up space, to share, to grow, and to heal? That’s precisely what BariNation is about: creating space for every part of your journey, with people who get it.

Today, Natalie speaks with two amazing BariNation community members, Herb and Christine, a host and regular attendee of The Beginner Bariatrics group. They’ve not only walked the walk, but they’ve also made it their mission to help others feel safe and seen along the way. We discuss the emotional weight of obesity, the power of community, and the unexpected mindset shifts that can change everything. Christine shares how attending Bariatric Beginning meetups in the BariNation Community helped her understand that the disease of obesity is not a moral failing and needs to be a lifelong commitment to wellness. If you’ve ever felt alone or unsure about where you belong in this process, this episode is for you.

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 donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (04:27) Christine reveals her emotional "why" for weight loss surgery 
• (09:23) A support group is a simple but powerful way to stay engaged in the bariatric lifestyle
• (13:25) Herb’s meetups are welcoming, warm, and a place where anyone can take up space without judgment
• (17:12) Christine discusses her initial hesitation to join groups, how isolation pushed her to engage, and the emotional reward that comes from connecting
• (21:09) Discussion of the "power of the pause" of moral failure and obesity as a disease
• (27:59) Every day is brand new, and thoughts on a pumpkin spice latte

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Beginner Bariatric Meetups are a powerful support tool for those just starting their bariatric surgery journey, helping members feel less alone and more confident in their process.
• The BariNation membership community plays a vital role in rekindling hope and sustaining long-term post-op success, proving that community connection can transform not just your health but your life.
• Sharing personal bariatric stories builds deeper understanding and connection within the weight loss surgery community, offering relatable insights for both new and seasoned members.

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 donation.
• BariNation - Email

BIOGRAPHY:

Hi, I’m Christine Donovan. I had VSG in 2024 with Dr. Joe Cribbins at the Texas Center for Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery and have lost over 225 pounds—but more importantly, I’ve gained a whole new perspective on life. I’m here to talk about the real stuff—how community, mindset, and support make all the difference on this wild ride. Oh, and I’m powered almost entirely by Barebells protein bars at this point; they should probably sponsor me.

Herb Lentz: Whether as a classically trained singer, business management professional, or peer-to-peer messaging consultant, Herb’s passion lies in the formation of community. Having had VSG surgery in 2021, he has successfully lost over 150 pounds and achieved a newfound active lifestyle, keeping up with his family. As lifelong bariatric patients, Herb encourages us all to focus on mindset challenges and is constantly exploring what it means to be committed, focused, and motivated. He is enthusiastic about empowering others in the bariatric world by meeting them at whatever point they are on in their journey, specifically for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.

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.

Ready to unlock the secret to supercharging your bariatric journey through gut health? Tune into this episode featuring Dr. Edmund Chen for transformative insights! As a passionate bariatric surgeon and devoted BariNation advocate, Dr. Chen reveals how the gut microbiome, fueled by bariatric surgery and a fiber-forward diet, can reduce inflammation and enhance your metabolic wellness. He shares practical tips for bariatric patients to thrive with minimally processed foods. 

Join our vibrant BariNation membership community for live support, delicious whole foods recipes, and a welcoming bariatric community to fuel your inspiration for as little as $5 per month! You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time donation.

Start elevating your health today!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening
• (02:08) Discussion of gut microbiome in the digestive system, producing metabolites that affect gut health
• (03:45) Discussion about diets of ultra-processed foods, inflammation, cardiovascular health issues, and autoimmune diseases 
• (08:15) Bariatric patients temporarily transition from protein shakes to whole foods after post-bariatric surgery
• (12:45) A fiber-forward diet with minimally processed foods is the second-best way to enhance the gut microbiome
• (14:30) Bariatric surgery is a critical step that bariatric patients have already taken to improve their overall health

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bariatric surgery is the most effective way to improve gut health and gut microbiome, shifting it to a healthier state that enhances metabolic wellness and supports weight loss, as evidenced by studies showing positive changes in microbiome complexity post-surgery.
• A fiber-forward diet rich in whole foods and minimally processed foods is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, as it provides essential fuel to beneficial organisms and reduces inflammation caused by ultra-processed foods.
• Ultra-processed foods and saturated fats can harm the gut microbiome, leading to increased inflammation and health issues like obesity, cardiovascular health problems, and autoimmune diseases, making it vital for bariatric patients to prioritize fiber and real foods.

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 donation.
• BariNation - Email

GUEST RESOURCES:  

Texas Center For Surgery - Website

TCBAS BariNation Membership - Website

Dr. Edmund Chen - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Edmund Chen, a skilled bariatric surgeon, graduated with honors from Johns Hopkins University and earned his medical degree from Cornell University. After researching metabolism at the National Institutes of Health and training at Northwestern and Duke, he specializes in ultra minimally invasive procedures using the da Vinci system for bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve, bypass, and revisions. Known for compassionate, patient-focused care, he optimizes outcomes for bariatric patients at his Dallas practice.

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.

Ever wondered why your cravings seem unstoppable despite your best efforts? At BariNation, we’re peeling back the layers on ultra-processed foods to help our bariatric community make informed choices for gut health and lasting wellness.

We’re joined by Dr. Eric Smith of the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, who breaks down the science behind food addiction, the deceptive allure of hyper-palatable products, and why whole foods are key to silencing food noise. Discover actionable steps and resources like Food Fight USA to transform your approach to obesity treatment.

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 donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:20) Dr. Smith advocates for whole foods and how ultra-processed foods derail patients' efforts
• (06:56) Big Tobacco’s strategies influenced hyper-palatable food production, creating food addiction through ultra-processed foods
• (14:30) Example of a grilled chicken patty with 47 ingredients illustrates the hidden complexity of ultra-processed foods
• (21:00) Discussion of the Blue Zone and discussion of food noise and chemical noise
• (38:15) Dr. Smith gives an example of an addictive drink and how to overcome it
• (44:42) Discussion on balancing protein goals with whole foods to reduce obsession with macronutrients 
• (51:15) Critique of SNAP programs providing non-nutritional items like soda, which lack nutritional value 
• (54:25) Trying a diet of 80% whole foods for a month to assess improvements in gut health

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Ultra-processed foods contribute significantly to food addiction and food noise, making it harder for individuals, especially in the bariatric community, to maintain a healthy diet, as they are designed to be hyperpalatable and trigger cravings.
• Focusing on whole foods with single ingredients is a sustainable approach to achieving nutritional value and supporting long-term gut health. 
• Educating oneself about food sources, as advocated by Food Fight USA, empowers individuals to make informed choices, reducing reliance on artificial sweeteners and addressing systemic issues like the Farm Bill to combat obesity treatment challenges.

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 donation.
• BariNation - Email

GUEST RESOURCES:  

Kentucky Bariatric Institute

Dr. Eric Smith - Instagram

Food Fight USA - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Eric F. Smith, DO, FASMBS, CAQ-MBS

Dr. Eric Smith is a board-certified general and bariatric surgeon who has been in practice since 2006. He is the Medical Director for the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, a SRC Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery, a national proctor, speaker, and teacher for Intuitive Surgical in the specialty of robotic bariatric surgery. He is board certified in bariatric and robotic surgery, member of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. He is an engaged, caring and dedicated physician who has completed thousands of bariatric surgeries.

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.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!  

Welcome to the BariNation Podcast, where summer sparks a choice: hide indoors, caught up in body image struggles, or embrace the sun with confidence? Today, we explore body neutrality, a powerful approach to move beyond negative self-talk and live fully in your bariatric journey. 

This week, we are taking a deep dive into the concept of body neutrality, exploring eye-opening statistics about body image and sharing personal stories from our bariatric journey. Whether you’re embracing body acceptance or working through negative self-talk, this episode is packed with insights to help you live joyfully in your summer body. Join our vibrant bariatric community today and dive into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment! At BariNation, we’re here to support you with humor, humility, and honesty as you navigate your bariatric life.

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 donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:15) - Introduction to bariatric community support, emphasizing a safe space for personal wellness and inspiration for a bariatric life
• (01:30) - Discussion on body neutrality and body positivity on your bariatric journey
• (03:00) - National Eating Disorders Association; 5 Steps to Body Neutrality article, defines “body neutrality” as not hating or loving your body, but having a neutral perspective 
• (03:32) - Shocking statistic that 97% of women have a daily “I hate my body” moment
• (06:45) - Strategies for achieving body neutrality, including physical awareness and catching negative thoughts to improve personal wellness
• (11:45) - Emphasis on shifting from negative self-talk to body acceptance, making it easier to find joy and live fully in the bariatric life
• (13:27) Join the BariNation Community to receive the support you deserve

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Body neutrality is about accepting your body as it is, without hating or loving it, and helping those on a bariatric journey move away from negative self-talk.
• Over 90% of women dislike their bodies, but success lies in accepting body neutrality and embracing the summer months in your vessel, your body.
• Practical steps, such as recognizing and reframing negative thoughts, focusing on what you can’t change immediately, and engaging in joyful activities, can foster personal wellness and body neutrality.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• BariNation - Email
• 5-steps-Body Neutrality

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.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!  

Have you ever wondered how hormones affect your health and contribute to weight gain, obesity and a host of health conditions? Are you ready to break free from the isolation of obesity and tap into the power of community? Want to feel hopeful, inspired, and empowered on your bariatric journey? Today, we’re joined by Dr. Priya Jaisinghani, a triple-board-certified specialist in internal medicine, endocrinology, and obesity medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, trained at NewYork-Presbyterian Weill Cornell. Dr. Jaisinghani discusses obesity from a holistic perspective, exploring hormonal changes, weight management, and the importance of individualized lifestyle prescriptions to empower your health journey.

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 donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (04:51) Dr. Jaisinghani explains her triple board certification in internal medicine, endocrinology, and obesity medicine
• (12:30) Weight bias, seeking weight management and the importance of choosing providers with obesity medicine expertise
• (24:29) Hormones and how other life changes are interrelated, impacting emotional, physical, and mental health
• (30:39) Setting small, achievable lifestyle goals to aid in your bariatric journey
• (43:15) The body is constantly aging and changing, impacting weight management strategies
• (48:15) The basic tenets of health and advice that Dr. Jaisinghani gives patients in the BariNation Community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Obesity often thrives in isolation and shame. Weight management support groups, such as the BariNation Community and shared experiences reduce stigma, foster empowerment, and make recovery more achievable through community.
• Hormonal changes, such as menopause, can impact weight loss. Understanding these shifts as natural, rather than personal failure, allows for strategic and guided adjustments to support long-term health.
• Broad advice can feel overwhelming, but small, personalized goals—like simple exercises or gradual changes—build confidence and create sustainable habits worth celebrating.

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 low as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one time donation.
• BariNation - Email

GUEST RESOURCES:

Priya Jaisinghani, MD, DABOM (@priya_jaisinghani)

Dr. Priya Jaisinghani - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. Priya Jaisinghani is an endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist, as well as a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, where she brings expertise shaped by her training at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell. She plays an active role in the Tristate Obesity Society and Obesity Action Coalition. Her work has been featured in major outlets including ABC News, the Today Show, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.

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.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!  

Are you ready to confront the shame and stigma surrounding obesity? Want to join a community that empowers your bariatric journey? 

In this episode, straight from the ASMBS conference in Washington, DC, we unpack the Mason Lecture’s powerful insights on easing shame and stigma in obesity care. We delve into how these barriers hinder treatment, fuel weight regain, and even originate from medical providers, while highlighting how our patient community inspires us to overcome these challenges. 

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 donation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:45) The significance of the Mason Lecture and its focus, and how stigma comes from society, family, and medical providers.
• (02:45) Research shows that shame and stigma can lead to weight recurrence 
• (06:45) Patients are often more stigmatized after choosing obesity treatment
• (08:00) Emphasis on how peer support and patient community are essential tools for healing and overcoming shame
• (09:15) Research validates patient experiences with shame and stigma
• (13:10) Join the BariNation Community to receive the support you deserve

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Shame and stigma—especially from medical providers—are significant barriers to obesity treatment. Patients with obesity face both internal and external shame that not only discourages them from seeking care but can also increase the risk of weight regain after treatment. Research shows that a significant portion of this stigma originates from the very healthcare professionals meant to support them.
• Obesity treatment can ironically increase stigma. Even after choosing medical or surgical intervention, patients often feel greater judgment and isolation, leading many to keep their treatment decisions secret. The societal narrative shifts from blaming people for their weight to blaming them for how they address it, making shame a persistent issue regardless of treatment status.
•  While systemic changes in research, policy, and provider education are crucial, the most immediate and effective support comes from community connection. Sharing experiences with others who understand the journey helps reduce the power of shame, fosters acceptance, and creates a space where patients can truly feel seen and supported.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• BariNation - Email

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.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!  

Are we doing enough to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against obesity? What if bariatric surgery is not just about weight loss, but about treating a chronic, misunderstood disease?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Richard Peterson, the newly elected president of the ASMBS, to talk about his mission to No One Left Behind. From his military roots to his passionate advocacy, Dr. Peterson delves deeply into why obesity is considered a disease, how bariatric surgery is a critical form of medical care rather than a cosmetic procedure, and what must change to ensure equitable access, education, and support for all.

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 low as $5 per month!   

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (03:47) Dr. Peterson shares his professional background and the mission of ASMBS
• (10:40) As president, past initiatives will move forward and the discussion of bias toward obesity
• (18:01) Dr. Peterson’s mission is a call to action to “No One Left Behind,” which stems from his military background
• (31:06) Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure. Obesity is a disease
• (40:40) The importance of obesity education and why obesity not being associated with a specific organ was a game changer
• (49:06) Words matter, you aren’t just losing weight, you are fighting obesity
• (54:55) If you are suffering from obesity, you can get help. The mission is to remove the barriers

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Dr. Peterson’s theme is “No One Left Behind," focusing on ensuring access to obesity treatment for all patients, supporting practices, and fostering unity across the bariatric community.
• Dr. Peterson continues efforts to reduce shame and stigma by educating medical professionals and the public that obesity is a disease, not a personal failing.
• Initiatives focus on integrating obesity education into medical curricula and advocating for comprehensive treatment access to enhance patient care.

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 https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!    

OTHER RESOURCES: 

BariNation - Email

GUEST RESOURCES:

ASMBS - Website

Dr. Richard Peterson LinkedIn

UT Health San Antonio 

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. Peterson serves as the Chief of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery for UT Health San Antonio and is the medical director of the Christus Weight Loss Institute at Westover Hills.

Dr. Peterson is highly active in both clinical and academic aspects of bariatric surgery. He is the current president of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS), a past president of the Texas Association for Bariatric Surgery (TABS) and has chaired several committees for the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), including the Public Education Committee and the Communications Committee. He moderates and runs the largest online bariatric journal club on Facebook and serves as the Social Media Editor for Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases (SOARD), the official journal of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). 

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.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!  

Have you ever wondered what happens when bariatric surgery doesn’t go as planned—or when life throws new challenges your way after weight loss? In this episode, April, Natalie, and Jason openly discuss the realities of obesity, the emotional toll of weight recurrence, and the hope that revisional surgery can bring. Together, they explore how bariatric surgery is not a one-and-done solution, but rather a lifelong medical tool in the treatment of obesity. If you or someone you know is facing the possibility of revisional surgery, this empowering conversation will remind you that you are not alone—and that obesity is a disease, not a personal failure.

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 low as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one time donation. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:29) April announces their panel at ASMBS focused on lifting shame and stigma around revisional surgery
• (01:49) Natalie shares how losing over 150 pounds after revisional surgery transformed her life
• (05:59) Three ways to reduce the obesity stigma: build trust, offer peer support, and provide ongoing education
• (09:42) Jason discusses weight recurrence as a valid medical reason for revision 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Revisional surgery can be life-changing and profoundly empowering. Both Jason and Natalie shared how overcoming shame and stigma around having a second or third bariatric procedure opened doors to a fuller life, including travel, physical activity, and self-confidence. These benefits came after initial procedures failed, showing that it's never too late to reclaim your health.
• Shame and stigma remain major barriers to revisional care. Many patients internalize the failure of a previous surgery as personal failure. Still, weight regain or complications are often due to the chronic nature of the disease of obesity, not personal shortcomings. Honest conversations with compassionate practitioners can break through these emotional barriers.
• Patients need supportive practitioners and community — lifting shame and stigma takes a team. Surgeons who listen, educate, and normalize revisional options play a crucial role in patient success, and platforms like BariNation help amplify those voices.

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• Don’t forget to join the BariNation community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one time donation. 

BariNation - Email

ASMBS - 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.

We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!  

What if bariatric patients could shift the narrative around obesity from shame and blame to biology and treatment? 

Today, Dr. Ann Rogers, the current president of the ASMBS, joins us again to help us break down the stigma of obesity, challenge outdated measures like BMI, and openly discuss the truth: obesity is a disease, not a personal failure. This episode is your call to action—start the process, seek support, and share your story to empower others on their journey.

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 low as $5 per month!   

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:42) Dr. Rogers shares her background and discusses the mission of ending the stigma of obesity
• (04:06) Past ASMBS President Dr. LaMasters believes everyone is deserving of treatment
• (07:01) Is obesity a disease, and takeaways from the Obesity Summit
• (12:02) Dr. Rogers references President elect Dr. Richard Peterson comments about there being essentially no training on obesity in medical school
• (17:25) Getting beyond the concept of BMI and other associated medical problems
• (31:48) It is essential to educate yourself about the disease of obesity and the ramifications that are not weight-related
• (35:50) Stick with it, be your advocate, make the appointment with a provider and share your story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Obesity is a complex, chronic condition that warrants medical treatment, yet stigma remains a significant barrier to care. Many still view obesity as the result of poor personal choices rather than understanding the biological, psychological, and societal factors involved. 
• Improving obesity care requires collaboration among healthcare providers across specialties, including surgery, primary care, endocrinology, and more. Unified efforts are needed to enhance education, expand access to care, and prioritize compassionate communication. 
• BMI alone does not accurately capture an individual’s health status. Alternative diagnostic tools—such as waist circumference, DEXA scans, and assessments of visceral fat—offer a more complete picture. These methods aim to identify obesity-related health risks better and move away from outdated, one-size-fits-all metrics.

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 the BariNation community to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!    

OTHER RESOURCES: 

BariNation - Email

GUEST RESOURCES:

Ep 234 - ASMBS President Dr. Ann Rogers Has a Mission: Ending Stigma and Shame in Obesity and Bariatric Treatment 

Ep. 250 - Individualized & Innovative Approaches to Diagnosing and Treating Obesity 

ASMBS - Website

Dr. Ann Rogers - Email

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology Commission Report

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. Rogers is the Director of the Penn State Health Surgical Weight Loss Programs. She is currently serving as the President of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery  (ASMBS), with her term concluding in June 2025 at the National ASMBS Conference in Washington, D.C.

ASMBS MISSION: To enhance the well-being of individuals affected by obesity and associated illnesses through the progression of metabolic and bariatric surgical techniques and other medical interventions.

ABOUT:

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