The BariNation Foundation Podcast

Are you still relying on the scale to measure your health? Have you ever wondered what your body is made of?

Today, we’re exploring a topic that’s revolutionizing the way we approach weight loss, fitness, and long-term health: body composition. What is it? Why does it matter? And where do we even begin?

Dr. Nina Crowley, a clinical expert in bariatric care and weight management, discusses what body composition reveals, beyond just the pounds on a scale. She explains how bioimpedance technology works, why BMI isn't the whole story, and how understanding your muscle mass and fat mass can completely change your approach to health.

Whether you’re newly post-op, years into your journey, or just getting curious about what’s under the surface, this conversation is for you.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:01) Dr. Crowley shares her professional bariatric and weight loss background
• (03:12) Discussion of body composition, muscle mass, and fat mass and bioimpedance technology and analysis explained
• (09:15) Why it is critical to know your body composition and the limitations of using BMI as a health metric 
• (13:30) Why some providers hesitate to use body composition tools and how to overcome those barriers.
• (17:58) Dr. Crowley shares how to work toward your goals once you have the data

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Dr. Nina Crowley emphasizes that traditional weight measurements, such as stepping on a scale, only tell part of the story. Body composition analysis reveals what the body is made of—primarily fat mass versus fat-free mass (including muscle, bone, and water). This deeper understanding enables patients to make more informed decisions about their health and wellness, particularly during the aging process or following bariatric surgery.
• Crowley explains how bioimpedance analysis offers quick, reliable, and clinically validated results on fat and muscle mass by sending a low electrical current through the body. It provides a point-of-care tool for clinicians and patients to receive meaningful data in under a minute, enabling more effective, real-time conversations about health goals.
• Understanding internal health drives better lifestyle choices. This data empowers individuals to focus more on nutrition, movement, and aging-related health concerns, rather than obsessing over a single number on the scale.

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:

Dr. Nina Crowley LinkedIn

seca website

Beyond BMI: Understanding Body Composition & Obesity YouTube Video

https://secambca.com/ask-your-provider-to-offer-body-composition-analysis/

https://www.obesityaction.org/resources/all-about-body-composition/

BIOGRAPHY: 

Nina Crowley, PhD, RD, is a nationally recognized expert in obesity care and a longtime advocate for patient-centered communication and access to treatment. She began her career as a bariatric dietitian and led the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program at the Medical University of South Carolina. Nina now serves as Director of Clinical Education and Partnerships at seca. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Obesity Action Coalition, advancing education, advocacy, and the use of body composition to support individualized care beyond the scale.

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 if you're getting the correct diagnosis regarding your weight?

What if the number on the scale or your BMI doesn’t tell the whole story about your health?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jaime Ponce, President and Medical Director of the Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about how obesity is diagnosed, why BMI is outdated, and how we can approach treatment more effectively and compassionately.

We talk through how obesity is a complex, chronic disease—not just a matter of willpower or size—and how you can be overweight without technically having a diagnosis of obesity. But here’s the truth: excess weight can still impact your health. It’s not something to brush off or wait to treat. Dr. Ponce explains that conditions like preclinical obesity—when the damage is starting even before a formal diagnosis—can be just as serious and deserve clinical attention. If you’ve tried to lose weight for years or decades with no lasting success, you’ll walk away from this episode with one clear message: this is not your fault, and more effective and personalized treatment options exist. Let this conversation be the start of your transformation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (00:55) Dr. Ponce shares his professional journey and discusses obesity rates worldwide
• (08:32) Discussion of the disease called obesity, and BMI is not a good indicator of obesity
• (15:01) Identifying obesity, overweight, and preclinical obesity
• (25:21) Quality of life is a part of clinical obesity, and a thorough evaluation with your doctor
• (37:20) The healthcare system doesn’t recognize obesity for what it is
• (39:53) Time to spread the word—bariatric surgery changes lives.
• (49:30) Dr. Ponce advises anyone considering bariatric surgery

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• You don’t need an official obesity diagnosis to take excess weight seriously—any amount can affect your health, even as outdated views still delay proper treatment.
• Obesity is a complex, individualized disease that requires tailored treatment approaches — not every person with obesity has the same internal damage or health risks.
• Managing obesity is a lifelong process, not a one-time fix — even after initial success with surgery or medication, the disease can persist or recur.
• Stigma and fear often keep people from seeking obesity treatment, but real patient stories are powerful tools to raise awareness and break down those barriers.

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: 

Patient Case Study Graphic 1

Patient Case Study Graphic 2

BariNation - Email

GUEST RESOURCES:

Jaime Ponce MD (@JaimePonceMD) / X

Jaime Ponce, MD - President - Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga PLLC | LinkedIn

Dr. Jaime Ponce - Instagram

Dr. Jaime Ponce - Facebook

American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

Obesity Action Coalition

Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga

BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Jaime Ponce

Past-President of the ASMBS (2012-2013), honored with the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award (2023), now President and Medical Director of the Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga 

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 if eating just 1200 calories a day could be the key to success after bariatric surgery? 

In this episode, we dive into this burning question with our guest, Kayla Girgen, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer. Join us as we explore the truth behind obesity management and calorie-restricted diets. Kayla tackles whether 1,200 calories a day is sustainable for bariatric patients, and we break down the science of calories, energy, and resting metabolic rate, revealing how your body uses fuel. She also uncovers the hidden dangers of diets that are too calorie-restricted, from mental strain to metabolic slowdowns. Finally, we discuss whether the marketing of packaged foods misleads us into thinking we’re eating healthy. With the support of our BariNation Community, this episode debunks calorie myths, empowers you with personalized nutrition strategies, and highlights the mental and physical impacts of low-calorie diets. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (01:13) Kayla answers the big question: Can I just eat 1,200 calories a day for the rest of my life and be successful?
• (03:38) Discussion of calories, energy and resting metabolic rate
• (06:39) Kayla talks about the dangers of a diet that is too calorie-restricted
• (08:54) Does marketing of packaged foods mislead the consumer to believe they are eating healthy in their journey of obesity management
• (09:59) Kayla advises where to start to determine the correct amount of calories for you

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• A 1,200-calorie restricted diet approach often fails. Kayla offers insights into how the body’s metabolism and the disease of obesity complicate calorie management, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating post-surgery nutrition.
• There are practical ways to manage obesity, like focusing on protein to curb hunger and using tools like resting metabolic rate testing to understand and meet unique caloric needs. The episode provides actionable steps to combat the disease of obesity effectively.
• Extreme calorie restriction has hidden dangers, from mental stress and grazing habits to metabolic slowdowns that can stall weight loss. This episode offers a balanced perspective on achieving sustainable health.

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!    

GUEST RESOURCES:

Ep. 225 - Slider Foods and Blood Sugar: Managing the Roller Coaster Effect with Kayla Girgen

Kayla Girgen - Instagram

Kayla Girgen - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Kayla Girgen is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer determined to help women stop dieting, ditch all-or-nothing thinking, and develop healthy habits for life. With technology like CGM, Kayla shows women how to balance their blood sugar and maximize their tool for sustainable success after bariatric surgery. 

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 if you're truly ready—mentally and emotionally—for bariatric surgery? Or how much support matters throughout your bariatric journey?

In this episode of the BariNation Podcast, we talk with Dr. Kati Duncan, a licensed psychologist and owner of Assessment & Therapy Associates (ATA). We explore how the pre-op evaluation is a tool for success, not a barrier, and why working with a therapist who understands bariatric life makes all the difference. We also dive into emotional prep, connection, and the decisive shift when the physical and emotional weight is finally lifted.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (01:39) Discussion of working with therapists who see bariatrics from a patient's perspective and discounted benefits for members of the BariNation Community
• (07:11) Insurance companies' requirements and being mentally ready for the bariatric journey
• (15:05) Preparing for pre-op and post-op surgery and bariatric life
• (23:16) Disaster planning and writing a letter to yourself before surgery
• (35:13) Natalie explains how she approached the period before her last surgery
• (41:04) The power of faith in believing bariatric surgery will work
• (46:47) Dr. Kati predicts the future of the bariatric space and leaves parting words for listeners

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The pre-surgical psychological evaluation isn’t a barrier—it’s a support tool designed to ensure patients are mentally and emotionally prepared for surgery and long-term success. When paired with a therapist who specializes in bariatrics, the guidance becomes even more impactful, offering relevant support rooted in a deep understanding of obesity and disordered eating.
• Connection is a biological necessity, not a luxury—and in the bariatric journey, preparing with self-compassion and surrounding yourself with people who truly understand can be just as vital to healing as the bariatric surgery itself.
• Obesity quietly consumes emotional and physical energy, often unnoticed until that weight is lifted. After surgery, many experience a profound peace and clarity, realizing how much space the constant struggle had occupied. Support groups and shared vulnerability play a vital role in recovery, offering a safe space to receive and eventually give back, creating a powerful healing cycle.
• Dr. Duncan commends Dr. Ann Rogers, President of the ASMBS, for prioritizing reducing stigma and improving access to obesity care during her presidency. There's a hopeful shift in how obesity is discussed—as a disease rather than a personal failing—encouraging more people to seek treatment. Finally, the Access to Care Committee, is dedicated to  making sure that every patient has access to obesity 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: 

ATA Bariatrics and BariNation have teamed up to ensure you never walk this bariatric journey alone. Both organizations aim to connect patients with the education, tools, and resources needed to find and maintain personal wellness along their journey. Check out the link below!

Practice Partnership | ATA Bariatrics and BariNation

GUEST RESOURCES:

Assessment & Therapy Associates - Instagram

Assessment & Therapy Associates - Website

ASMBS Website

Access to Care Committee

BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Kati Duncan

I have worked with bariatric patients for over 20 years and truly love my work. I own ATA Bariatrics, a practice with 18 specialized providers dedicated to supporting patients through every stage of the bariatric journey. I’m excited to be part of the BariNation community and to continue helping patients thrive!

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!

Bariatric Surgery, Bariatric Journey, Bariatric Life, Weight Loss, Obesity, BariNation Community, BariNation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, NSVs, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux-en-Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Mental Health, Emotional Wellness, Therapy Support, ASMBS, American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons, Access to Care

Could bariatric surgery change your life? Do you wish you had a community to support you on your weight loss journey? 

On today’s episode of the BariNation podcast, we’re honored to introduce you to Dr. Sachin Kukreja, a new BariNation practice partner and the director of DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. Dr. Kukreja shares how he discovered the life-changing power of bariatric surgery, explains why he believes obesity is a disease that deserves long-term care, and discusses the importance of finding support through the BariNation Community.

Click the link to keep connecting and learning from Dr. Kukreja in the BariNation Membership Community! https://bit.ly/DFWBariNation

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (01:00) Dr. Kukreja shares his professional journey
• (03:00) Dr. Kukreja admits that he fell in love with bariatric surgery because of how it transformed his patients on their weight loss journey
• (07:57) Dr. Kukreja explains that obesity is a disease with no cure
• (09:05) Dr. Kukreja shares his excitement for becoming a partner with BariNation
• (12:13) Keep the conversation going by using the tools provided by the BariNation Community 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Dr. Sachin Kukreja emphasizes a highly individualized approach to bariatric care, recognizing obesity as a chronic, multifactorial disease that requires long-term relationships and tailored treatment plans, not one-size-fits-all solutions.
• Dr. Kukreja didn’t initially set out to become a bariatric surgeon but discovered its life-changing potential through experience. He now finds joy in helping patients “reverse the clock” and transform their health and lives.
• Dr. Kukreja views BariNation as a crucial extension of his practice. It offers patients consistent, safe, and specialized support beyond what a surgical team can provide alone, highlighting the importance of community in long-term success.

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: 

Click the link to keep connecting and learning from Dr. Kukreja in the BariNation Membership Community! https://bit.ly/DFWBariNation

GUEST RESOURCES:

DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery

DFW Bariatrics Store - Hand-Picked for Weight Loss Patients

Dr. Kukreja - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. Kukreja is proud to direct DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. He truly loves the art and challenges of General and Bariatric surgery. Being Board-certified in Obesity Medicine and Fellowship Trained in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, he offers comprehensive obesity care from medications and diet counseling, to non-surgical solutions, to the full range of surgical options – all through small (or no incisions) for a faster recovery. As a testament to his expertise and reputation in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, Dr Kukreja has been recognized by the D Magazine as the Best Doctor for the 7th consecutive year in 2024!

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 struggling to see obesity as more than a number on the scale? Do you wonder why shame and stigma still dominate the conversation around bariatric surgery? 

In this episode, we explore the truth about obesity as a chronic disease and how we can shift the narrative to one of compassion, education, and long-term support. Our guest, Carah Horn, brings her clinical expertise and lived experience to the table in an eye-opening and empowering conversation. We talk about the outdated perceptions surrounding bariatric surgery, the crisis in obesity care, and why finding the right provider makes all the difference. Carah shares powerful analogies—like her “lawn care” metaphor—to help us understand why long-term maintenance and ongoing support matter. She also explains the dangers of anti-obesity medications without proper oversight and how the BariNation Community provides a unique space for education, encouragement, and behavior change. Whether you are post-op, pre-op, or still considering surgery, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and more equipped for the road ahead.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction and opening
• (01:24) Carah shares her professional background in obesity disease and bariatric surgery
• (12:19) The narrative surrounding obesity needs to change, and finding the correct doctor
• (19:14) Carah speaks to the crisis of care, anti-obesity medications and comorbid conditions
• (33:03) Each patient is different, and she encourages going back to your surgeon when health changes occur
• (39:31) Carah shares the word picture she tells her patients
• (56:12) Making your bariatric journey positive rather than negative and using the tools provided by the BariNation Community 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Obesity is a complex, chronic disease affecting every aspect of a person’s life—physical, emotional, and social. It should be promoted as a legitimate medical condition that requires real treatment. Unfortunately, shame and stigma surrounding obesity prevent many people from seeking treatment. 
• Treating obesity is about improving health, not appearance. Viewing it through the lens of disease management—similar to diabetes or cancer—can help shift public perception and lead to better care. Medications and surgery are tools to treat the underlying condition, not just to achieve a certain weight.
• The lack of long-term support and education around obesity medications is dangerous. When prescribed without proper medical oversight or behavioral support, these medications can lead to serious health risks. Without a comprehensive program—including nutrition guidance, mental health care, and consistent follow-up—patients are more likely to misuse medications, relapse, or face complications, especially if access to treatment is suddenly lost.

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!    

GUEST RESOURCES:

Carah Horn - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY: 

MBA-HCA, BSN, RN, CBN, FASMBS-IH

Carah is a clinician who is passionate about engagement. She believes that change and best practices happen in the community. She is active at the local, state, and national levels of obesity treatment and advocacy, as well as an Integrated Health Star in Florida for the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS). She has four daughters and five grandsons and loves fitness and learning! 1 Corinthians 10:31—So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 

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 felt like no one truly understands what you're going through on your bariatric journey? What if the missing piece to your success isn’t more willpower but an actual, supportive community that gets it?

In this episode, a familiar face and voice to the BariNation Podcast, licensed therapist and obesity medicine coach Lora Grabow, joins us as we celebrate the fourth anniversary of our first podcast together and reflect on just how far we’ve come. Lora shares her connection to BariNation, and we dive deep into the power of live, professional-led support groups. These groups are more than just a place to talk—they’re where we learn how to practice life after bariatric surgery. From navigating emotional eating to building confidence in maintenance, this episode reminds us that community isn’t a bonus—it’s part of the treatment. Plus, don’t miss an exciting announcement about how you can qualify for a discounted membership to the BariNation Community.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and intoduction
• (00:36) April and Lora talk about the fourth anniversary of their first podcast
• (01:52) Lora shares her story of connection to BariNation
• (03:26) April discusses the different support groups  
• (05:12) Lora explains the importance of community after bariatric surgery 
• (11:12) April announces that if you work with Lora, you are eligible for a discounted membership
• (14:11) Visit BariNation Community to join a group of patients that will empower your wellness journey 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Bariatric patients thrive when they’re surrounded by others who understand the journey. While individual therapy and medical advice are crucial, nothing compares to the support, empathy, and shared experience of being in a live, safe, and emotionally supportive group setting. Community is not just helpful—it’s treatment.
• Support groups led by experienced professionals offer patients a unique space to work through challenges, celebrate wins, and practice emotional growth in real time. These groups go beyond general advice—they allow members to “practice the how” of bariatric life by engaging with peers and receiving expert feedback when needed.
• Much of the support offered focuses on the key transitional points in the bariatric journey: pre-op, post-op, maintenance, emotional eating, and everything in between. ​

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!    

GUEST RESOURCES:

Lora Grabow, LMSW -Website 

Lora Grabow, LMSW - Instagram

Lora Grabow, LMSW - Facebook

BIOGRAPHY: 

Lora Grabow, LMSW, is an obesity medicine therapist, coach, and professional speaker with over 20 years of experience working with obesity medicine patients. 

Lora helps patients discover the missing piece of their treatment plan: A piece she calls Headwork™. She owns a thriving private practice, which serves patients affected by the disease of obesity. Her expertise includes providing individual therapy and 1:1 coaching, facilitating support groups, and engaging patients in her online course, Foundations in Headwork for Healthy Weight Loss. She is an active leader of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. (ASMBS) She is a sought-after podcast guest and speaker at national provider and patient obesity medicine conferences.  

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 it takes to truly embrace movement as a lifestyle, not just an obligation? 

In this episode of BariNation, April speaks with longtime bariatric friend, Casey Kilduff, whose journey as a runner is nothing short of inspiring. Casey opens up about the determination it took to run after bariatric surgery, how she had to adapt her training and nutrition to fit her new body, and why movement—no matter what form it takes—is deeply personal. They talk about consistency, finding joy in the process, and ditching the judgment that often comes with fitness. Whether you are just starting your movement journey or looking for motivation to keep going, Casey’s story proves that small steps lead to incredible transformations. Tune in for an inspiring story of determination in a no-judgment zone, and check out the BariNation Community to discover the resources we provide.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and BariNation community
• (01:13) April introduces Casey, and they talk about their long-lasting friendship
• (03:34) Casey discusses training for a marathon after bariatric surgery
• (13:36) Consistency and taking baby steps toward your bariatric fitness goals
• (17:24) Using a chalkboard to track and motivate and finding the movement right for you
• (25:11) Tweaking movement for the bariatric lifestyle and removing the judgment
• (37:23) Casey creates her life around running and talks about listening to a positive voice
• (43:13) Visit BariNation to join a community of resources that will empower your wellness journey 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• ​Transitioning from an active lifestyle before surgery to becoming a dedicated long-distance runner illustrates how movement is a deeply personal and evolving journey. Beginning with small steps—walking and participating in fun runs—and gradually progressing to half marathons and eventually a full marathon demonstrates that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness; it's about discovering what brings joy and motivation. 
• Movement should be a sustainable and enjoyable part of life rather than something dictated by rigid expectations. Fitness, particularly in the bariatric community, should not be defined by pace, performance, or external benchmarks but by personal growth, participation, and joy.
• Casey discusses the unique challenges bariatric patients face when training and fueling their bodies compared to non-bariatric athletes. She underscores the value of working with professionals who understand these needs and adjusting expectations to fit one's body and abilities.

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!    

GUEST RESOURCES:

Casey Kilduff - Instagram

BIOGRAPHY: I had Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery in March of 2021 and lost half my body weight. In December of 2023 I had revisional surgery to Roux n Y RNY due to severe GERD and a hiatal hernia. Movement has been my biggest growth point post op. My favorite thing to do is spend time with my sweet old lady rescue dog, Olive.

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 just a few minutes each day could transform your wellness journey? 

In this episode, we dive into the impact of the 100-Day Pillars Challenge and how BariNation members embraced the four key pillars—movement, mindset, metabolic wellness, and community. The members share their takeaways, from small daily habits that created lasting change to the surprising insights that reshaped their approach to health. Whether learning about gut health, rethinking nutrition, or finding sustainable ways to stay engaged, this challenge proved that progress isn’t about perfection but consistency. Tune in for an inspiring discussion, and check out the BariNation Community to discover how the community can aid you on your bariatric journey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (00:29) BariNation members discuss what they took away from the 100-Day Pillar Challenge
• (03:22) BariNation members discuss why they started the challenge
• (06:11) The revelations that were learned on the challenge
• (12:40) What aspects of the 100-Day Pillar Challenge will be a part of their continued journey?
• (18:51) Visit BariNation to join a community of resources that will empower your wellness journey 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The 100-Day Pillars Challenge aimed to deliver small, digestible knowledge each morning, offering quick insights on key wellness pillars. These micro-learnings, ranging from one to five minutes, provided a daily boost of wisdom while encouraging deeper exploration through linked research and articles. The challenge helped participants push past the typical short-term engagement of most challenges and commit to a long-term exploration of movement, mindset, metabolic wellness, and community. 
• The challenge encouraged members to embrace what worked for them rather than feeling pressured to do everything perfectly. Christine highlighted how she engaged with daily readings without necessarily journaling, and Cece found value in bookmarking resources for ongoing learning.
• A significant insight for many participants was the impact of gut health on emotions and overall well-being. Learning about ultra-processed foods and tools like the Nova app will shift perspectives on nutrition and metabolic wellness.

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!    

GUEST RESOURCES:

@geriatricbariatric

@cmbkny

BIOGRAPHY: 

Christine Mason

Christine Mason had Bariatric surgery in January 2021, once she fully realized that her metabolic disorder was not something she could control with restrictive dieting and excessive exercise. She joined the BariNation Membership Community in its early days and has attended at least one support group a week for 3 years and plans on keeping that commitment to herself going. In addition to running two Strategy, Marketing and Media consultancies, she also serves as the Chief Operating Officer of BariNation.

Cecilia Rouleau

Cece from NH. Lap Band 2009 to RNY March of 2023. Found BariNation listening to the Podcast. Been a member for 2 years and loving it!

Cherilyn Walker

I am an energetic wife, mother, roller coaster junkie , high school assistant principal and casting director who decided to ditch the diets and really honor my body by having VSG in November 2022. I've lost 112 lbs and am loving learning how to take good care of myself.

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!  

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a real impact in the fight for obesity care and bariatric surgery access, this episode is for you. 

We are thrilled to host Dr. Renee Hilton to explore the power of bariatric surgery advocacy—what it takes to push for policy change, how mentorship plays a critical role, and why patient stories are the key to breaking down the stigma surrounding obesity. From the challenges of insurance coverage to the growing conversation around GLP-1 medications, this discussion sheds light on the hurdles and opportunities in bariatric surgery advocacy. Join us to learn how you can be part of the movement for change.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and intro
• (01:37) Dr. Hilton shares her professional journey and why she is passionate about advocacy
• (07:12) Access to care and pursuing advocacy for bariatric surgery in Georgia
• (19:19) Patient's stories make a difference, the stigma surrounding the surgery, and the percentage of people needing the surgery is extremely high
• (28:15) The number on the scale is not as crucial as the comorbidities and how to get involved in advocacy
• (36:22) Insurance companies make obese patients jump through hoops
• (43:15) GLP-1 medications and discussion of who pays for the care needed

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Successful advocacy requires more than passion—it demands mentorship, strategy, and collaboration. Learning from experts and leveraging resources like ASMBS is key to driving policy change.
• The impact of patient stories on policymakers is substantial. These stories demystify the bariatric surgical procedure, make it relatable, and help to break down the stigma surrounding it.
• Despite widespread insurance coverage for bariatric surgery, utilization rates remain low. This discrepancy underscores the significant role of stigma in preventing individuals from seeking necessary treatment. While advocacy for obesity treatment is evolving and gaining recognition, the need to demonstrate a clear return on investment (ROI) remains a significant challenge. 

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!    

GUEST RESOURCES:

Renee Hilton, M.D. - Facebook

Renee Hilton, M.D - Instagram

Augusta University - Website

Renee Hilton, M.D. - X

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. L. Renee Hilton-Rowe is an Associate Professor at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University Medical Center and serves as the Section Chief of Minimally Invasive Surgery and the Director of the Center of Obesity and Metabolism. She is the past ASMBS State Access to Care Representative for the state of Georgia and is currently serving as the immediate past president of the Georgia ASMBS state chapter. She is the Access to Care Committee Chair for 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!