The BariNation Foundation Podcast

Have you ever felt your body isn’t keeping up with your favorite workouts? Movement must evolve as we recover from injury, or are getting started with a movement routine; finding the proper exercise can make all the difference.

In this episode, we dive into the journey of adapting fitness routines to support long-term health. Our guest, Melanie Lindell, shares what she’s learned about movement—specifically how swimming can be a powerful, whole body workout that strengthens the body and provides a multitude of wellness benefits while protecting the joints. She discusses the importance of embracing new forms of exercise, trusting expert guidance, and allowing movement to evolve. Today’s inspiring podcast is just a preview—be sure to listen or watch the full episode exclusively on the BariNation Community to discover how minor adjustments can lead to lifelong wellness.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and intro
• (01:29) Melanie’s story of pivoting her movement and fitness journey 
• (05:11) Looking at swimming through a different lens and the safety it provides
• (08:57) Accepting current body image and trying something new
• (10:25) Choosing swimming as a lifelong fitness routine

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• As the body changes, certain forms of exercise may no longer be sustainable. Exploring alternatives like swimming can provide long-term support for joint health and overall mobility.
• Swimming offers a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, reduces stress, and minimizes the risk of injury. Its accessibility across all fitness levels makes it a valuable form of movement.
• Embracing new fitness routines requires a willingness to adapt and learn. Investing in proper techniques and trusting expert guidance can lead to long-term success and enjoyment in physical activity.

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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:

Instagram: @myroux_n_why

Website: https://lindellcounseling.com/ 

https://barination.mn.co

BIOGRAPHY: 

Melanie Lindell, LMHC is a professional counselor who has spent the last decade working in the area of trauma and abuse. It is her deepest belief that we were all created for relationship, that we want to be known and loved and have the ability to freely know and love others. Her passion is helping clients work through maladaptive survival strategies/patterns learned and replacing them with adaptive strategies that help them thrive. She is a bariatric patient, having had Roux-en-Y on August 23, 2019. Her recovery process was atypical and led to additional surgeries, several complications and a long season on a feeding tube and learning to eat again. She serves in BariNation as a Support Group and Meetup Leader, tapping into her expertise and patienthood to guide members through the ups and downs of bariatric life. 

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 makes AdventHealth's approach to bariatric care different, and how are they setting patients up for long-term success?

In this special episode, BariNation is hitting the road and recording in a professional broadcast studio! Join hosts Jason, Natalie and Sarah as they sit down for this special episode, recorded live at AdventHealth in Central Florida. They’re joined by two expert guests, Dr. Melissa Bagloo and Dr. Shiva Seetahal, to dive deep into the bariatric patient process and the holistic approach AdventHealth takes to support long-term success. This conversation covers everything from qualifications for surgery to the latest advancements in metabolic care. Plus, hear about the exclusive $29/month membership to the BariNation community for patients of the AdventHealth system. Get ready for an insightful and game-changing discussion on the future of obesity treatment and what it means for bariatric patients everywhere!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Opening and introduction
• (02:00) Qualifications for bariatric surgery and how does it work
• (09:25) AdventHealth provides various surgeries and how they support their patients
• (15:52) What co-morbidities does bariatric surgery treat, and when should you consider anti-obesity medication
• (21:51) Discussion of adolescent surgery, treating the whole person, the science behind bariatric surgery and the metabolic effects
• (29:13) Knowing what surgery is right for you, the AdventHealth difference, medications and patient support
• (39:46) What predictions are there for the future of obesity treatment 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The qualifications for bariatric surgery have broadened, allowing more patients to access life-changing treatment. Previously, candidates needed a BMI of 40 or a BMI of 35 with medical conditions. Now, individuals with a BMI of 35 (without medical issues) or a BMI of 30 (with medical conditions) may qualify. This expansion reflects growing recognition of bariatric surgery’s benefits, including diabetes resolution, improved fertility, and reduced cancer risks.
• AdventHealth in Central Florida emphasizes a holistic, team-based approach to bariatric care. Bariatric providers communicate closely with primary care doctors, endocrinologists, and cardiologists to ensure continuity of care before and after surgery. This integrated model helps patients receive comprehensive support for long-term success.
• Bariatric surgery is not just about reducing stomach size and is not a one-time fix, but fundamentally alters hormone regulation and metabolism. This shift is why many in the field now refer to it as “metabolic surgery” rather than simply "weight loss surgery," helping to combat the stigma and highlight its role in treating obesity-related diseases..

RESOURCES:

• Check out this exclusive AdventHealth BariNation Monthly Membership for only $29/mo! 
• 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:

Melissa Bagloo, MD - AdventHealth Website

Shiva Seetahal, MD - AdventHealth Website

BIOGRAPHIES: 

Dr. Melissa Bagloo is a board-certified bariatric and general surgeon and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. A Florida native, she trained in the Northeast before joining AdventHealth. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida. She completed her general surgery residency at NYU, followed by a minimally invasive and bariatric surgery fellowship at Weill Cornell and Columbia. Specializing in advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery, Dr. Bagloo has performed over 500 robotic and thousands of minimally invasive procedures. She is dedicated to whole-patient care, helping patients achieve lasting weight loss with minimal recovery time.

Dr. Shiva Seetahal is a board-certified surgeon specializing in minimally invasive and laparoscopic procedures, strongly focusing on patient care and satisfaction. He earned his medical degree with honors from the University of the West Indies, completed his surgical residency at Howard University Hospital, and pursued a Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery fellowship at Atlanta Medical Center. He has been actively involved in research, has published numerous works, and has served on editorial boards for surgical journals. Dr. Seetahal is also a member 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 overcome one addiction only to find yourself struggling with another compulsive behavior?

Welcome to another episode of the BariNation Podcast! We know that after bariatric surgery, many of us experience profound changes—not just in our bodies, but in our relationships with food, alcohol, shopping, and other behaviors. That’s why we’re diving into the topic of process/transfer addiction with addiction therapist Sarah Smith. Together, we explore how addiction can evolve after surgery, the triggers to watch for, and why seeking support from your surgeon or a therapist can be a game-changer. Sarah also shares the bottom line on early prevention, giving us the tools to recognize and address these patterns before they take control. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (00:32) The process of addiction after bariatric surgery
• (03:04) What is transfer addiction?
• (05:26) What triggers should you look for
• (10:32) Seek the help of your surgeon or a therapist
• (13:33) Sarah leaves listeners with the bottom line of early prevention

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• After surgery, some individuals unconsciously replace food addiction with other compulsive behaviors, such as excessive shopping, alcohol, drug use, or even exercise. This shift happens because their primary coping mechanism (food) is no longer an option, leading them to seek alternatives.
• Key red flags include increased reliance on substances or activities for emotional regulation (e.g., suddenly drinking more alcohol, excessive online shopping, or compulsive exercise). People may also notice escalating negative consequences, such as financial strain, guilt, or stress when unable to engage in the behavior.
• If someone notices these behaviors in themselves, they should reach out to their surgeon, a therapist specializing in addiction, or supportive communities like BariNation. Talking about concerns in a shame-free environment can lead to healthier coping strategies and support for managing post-surgical challenges.

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: 

Alcohol Use Disorder can impact anyone on a bariatric journey. We can help in BariNation in private and confidential ways.. Connect and learn with Sarah in the BariNation Membership Community, where she leads an Addiction Transfer Support Group every Monday at 4 pm PST / 7 pm EST and General Support every other Friday at 6 pm PST/ 9 pm EST

Learn more at https://barination.mn.co

GUEST RESOURCES:

Changes in Alcohol Use after Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Predictors and Mechanisms https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7057935/

Why Drinking Problems Develop After Gastric Bypass Surgery

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/why-drinking-problems-develop-after-weight-loss-surgery

Increased Admission for Alcohol Dependence After Gastric Bypass Surgery Compared With Restrictive Bariatric Surgery https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/fullarticle/1679649

BIOGRAPHY: 

Throughout her career, Sarah Smith, MHR, MSW, LADC, ICAADC, RCSWI, MCAP, CBHCMS-A/C, CRPS,  has been dedicated to advocating for individuals in recovery, advancing behavioral health initiatives, and promoting harm reduction strategies. Her passion for this work is rooted in both professional expertise and lived experience, driving her commitment to creating accessible, evidence-based solutions that empower individuals and communities. She believes in the power of collaboration, education, and policy development to break down barriers and foster lasting change. Whether through program development, advocacy, or direct service, she strives to contribute to a system that prioritizes dignity, equity, and compassionate care for all.

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 we told you that accessing the proper care for obesity could be more straightforward, supportive, and ultimately more successful than you might think? 

Welcome to another episode of the BariNation Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Betsy Dovec, founder of BodyByBariatrics, and her right hand, Hannah Schuyler, to discuss how they’re changing the game for bariatric surgery. In this conversation, we dive into why Dr. Dovec opened BodyByBariatrics, how they’re breaking down the barriers to surgery, and how they’re helping patients move through the surgery process and post-op more efficiently. From mindset to movement, meals to motivation, we’ll walk through how their innovative approach helps patients reset and take control of their health in meaningful ways. They also share the exciting news of the grand opening of the BodyByBariatrics surgical center in Orlando, which is on March 6, 2025, at 6 PM EST! 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (03:36) Meet Hannah Schuyler and Dr. Betsy Dovec
• (07:24) Why Dr. Dovec opened BodyByBariatrics
• (15:03) Partnering with BariNation Community
• (24:32) How has Body by Bariatrics provided more to the patients than just pre-op and the barriers to surgery from jumping hoops to insurance
• (40:18) Getting the surgery process on the fast-track and fighting with the insurance company
• (53:00) March 6, 2025, 6 PM EST is the grand opening for BodyByBariatrics in Orlando

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bariatric care is evolving to improve patient access, focusing on actively partnering with professionals, surgeons, and centers. 
• Bariatric surgery is a wise investment that yields significant returns for patients and insurers. It’s time to update outdated policies that hinder access to this vital care.
• A more holistic, patient-centered approach to obesity care is essential. This requires stronger collaboration between primary care physicians, bariatric surgeons, and support teams. 

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:

Dr. Elizabeth Dovec  - Instagram

BodyByBariatrics - Website

Weight Loss Collab - Instagram

Hannah Schuyler - Instagram

BIOGRAPHY: 

Dr. Elizabeth “Betsy” Dovec is a pioneering bariatric surgeon, entrepreneur, and thought leader revolutionizing obesity care. As Founder and CEO of BodyByBariatrics, BodyBySkin Med Spa, and The Surgical Institute of Central Florida, she has created a cutting-edge, 15,000-square-foot ASC and wellness center integrating bariatric surgery, medical weight loss, cosmetic surgery, GI, and aesthetics. A passionate innovator and educator, Dr. Dovec is transforming the field with value-based care, virtual patient engagement, and preoperative education while shaping the future of bariatric medicine.

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 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.

On the BariNation podcast, 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. 

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.

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

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 is it about men and bariatric surgery that makes it such a difficult conversation to have? How can we break the silence and create a space for men to feel comfortable sharing their journeys?

In this episode, Jason Smith leads the first Men's Roundtable discussion with guests Kevin Goethe and Corby Jackson. Together, they explore men's unique challenges on their bariatric journeys, the emotional and psychological hurdles, and why it’s hard for men to open up about their experiences. Kevin, a bariatric patient and entrepreneur, and Corby, a licensed mental health therapist who’s walked the weight loss path himself, share personal stories, insights, and strategies to help other men overcome the stigma surrounding bariatric surgery. Tune in to hear a candid, vulnerable conversation that empowers men to take control of their health and embrace their journey without shame.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:29] Introduce guests and their histories, and today we discuss men and bariatric surgery
• [5:18] The men share their stories and find comparisons with Jason in their behavior
• [16:05] Discussion of past eating experiences and being able to control the food 
• [28:01] Getting men to talk about men's health and share is difficult because they are self-reliant
• [36:47] The discussion gets honest and vulnerable
• [43:45] Discussion of therapy and playing the victim
• [51:40] Discussion of what they would like to see in the bariatric community next year

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Many men delay making health decisions, including bariatric surgery, due to ingrained beliefs about self-reliance, hard work, and proving they can do it on their own. This internalized pressure often leads to resistance, even when faced with medical advice or clear health challenges.
• Food is a coping mechanism for energy, comfort, or routine. Recognizing and addressing the deep emotional connections to eating is crucial to the bariatric journey. It requires a shift in mindset and habits beyond the physical changes from surgery.
• Men often avoid seeking help due to societal pressures of self-reliance, but they recognize the value of shared experiences in weight loss journeys, especially post-surgery. By encouraging open conversations, setting boundaries, and embracing unique paths, they create a supportive space to challenge old patterns and grow together.

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

GUEST RESOURCES:

Fadeaway Ryan - Website

Big Kevin - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Corby Jackson is a licensed mental health therapist, advocate, and motivational speaker who inspires others through his weight-loss journey. With a background in addictions and bariatric mental health, Corby creates supportive communities that foster acceptance, healing, and personal growth.  His bariatric journey has led him to losing over 400 lbs and gaining much more in perspective.

Kevin Goethe, Bariatric Patient

Kevin Goethe is a passionate creator, entrepreneur, and bariatric patient dedicated to living a healthier, more fulfilling life. From launching businesses to crafting engaging content, he thrives on turning ideas into reality. His VSG Journey: In March 2023, I underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), a life-changing decision that helped me lose 205 lbs. 

Has your body ever let you down? Join us for an inspiring story of overcoming challenges and finding strength in the BariNation community. Today, April is sharing some deeply personal information about her health journey, one that's been marked by both incredible progress and unexpected challenges.  She’ll be opening up about her struggles of not being able to carry a child full-term before bariatric surgery, the recent developments with her hormonal medications and menopause diagnosis, and the frustrating news that insurance has stopped covering anti-obesity medicines.  Despite these setbacks, she will also discuss her decision to move forward, leaning into self-advocacy and highlighting the importance of supporting communities like BariNation.  Listen to learn how connecting with others has provided invaluable support to her during this challenging time.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:29] April shares her backstory on trying to carry a child full-term before bariatric surgery
• [4:42] Recent developments in hormonal medications and menopause
• [9:25] April’s insurance has failed her and is no longer covering anti obesity medication 
• [10:33] The decision to move forward and lean into self-advocacy

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• April's story highlights the critical need to be your own advocate in healthcare.  She experienced years of misdiagnosis and dismissal of her concerns, ultimately leading to a delayed and more complex diagnosis of menopause. Her persistence in seeking answers, even when faced with setbacks, was crucial.
• April's experience demonstrates how weight, bariatric surgery, and hormonal changes can interact in complex and sometimes confusing ways.  Her symptoms were masked by the effects of weight loss, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to consider the whole picture and for patients to be aware of potential long-term effects.
• April emphasizes the vital role of support communities like BariNation in navigating challenging health journeys.  Connecting with others who have similar experiences provides emotional support, validation, and a sense of belonging, which is especially important when dealing with chronic conditions and difficult life transitions.

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 Patreon to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month! 
• 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!

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 felt judged or misunderstood because of your weight or health struggles? Shame and stigma often surround the conversation about obesity and treatments like bariatric surgery. In this episode of the BariNation podcast, we welcome Dr. Ann Rogers, Bariatric Surgeon and President of ASMBS (American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery), who sheds light on the stigma surrounding bariatric surgery and how it addresses more than just weight loss. Dr. Rogers explains how bariatric surgery can correct serious health problems like diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease, ultimately improving a person's quality of life. We also dive into the resistance to bariatric surgery, the changes needed in healthcare, and how medications and mindfulness can play a role in weight management. Dr. Rogers also shares valuable advice to help break the cycle of shame and self-doubt.

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!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:42] What drew Dr. Rogers to bariatric surgery and improving the quality of life
• [6:58] Why do people resist bariatric surgery? Is it shame and stigma
• [15:36] Changes general practitioners need to make in the insurance industry
• [25:01] Medications to lose weight and why obesity wants to come back
• [34:55] The value of mindfulness and the capacity to live life differently
• [40:23] Discussion that Medicare and Medicaid will have access to GLP1 and forecasting for 2025 and Dr. Rogers's parting advice
• [45:54] Believing the lies we tell ourselves and hear more in the BariNation Support Community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bariatric Surgery Addresses More Than Weight Loss. While bariatric surgery visibly impacts weight, its actual value lies in addressing underlying health conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease, significantly improving quality of life. However, the stigma surrounding obesity and bariatric surgery often deters patients from seeking help. 
• Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that is influenced by genetics, biology, and environmental factors. It's not just a matter of personal choice or willpower; blaming individuals for their condition is unjust and counterproductive.
• Bariatric surgery and related treatments can offer substantial benefits, and despite challenges like weight regain or access to medications, patients should remember that they are worthy of care and support.

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

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Patient Resource Link

GUEST BIO: 

Dr. Rogers is the Director of the Penn State Health Surgical Weight Loss Programs. 

Dr. Rogers is currently serving as the President of the American Society of Metabolic & Bariatric Surgeons (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:

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 been triggered in a conversation, and your immediate response is fight or flight? What if you could shift your response, improving the quality of your relationships and communication?

In this episode of the BariNation podcast, we welcome back Rodolfo Alvarez, a certified mindset coach, engineer, Master of Science and BariNation Membership Community Credentialed Expert, to dive into the art of constructive conversations. Rodolfo explains how to communicate effectively when you're triggered, how to respond in a way that fosters understanding, and why this kind of mindset shift is crucial for maintaining strong relationships, especially when navigating the challenges of weight loss surgery. If you're ready to transform how you approach conversations and feel more in control of your responses, this episode is for you!

Rodolfo leads regular Mindset Classes in the BariNation Community and has been a frequent guest on the BariNation Podcast.

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!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:31] Rodolfo defines a constructive conversation
• [4:11] Confrontation doesn’t change anyone's mind
• [6:14] The challenge of listening
• [11:06] Allowing people to disagree
• [11:37] Join us in the Bari-Nation Support Community and consider donating to DriveToThrive.com/BariNationPodcast 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• A constructive conversation focuses on expressing one's needs and feelings without attempting to change the other person's viewpoint. It's about sharing how one feels and what one needs from the other person in a way that respects their position.
• It's essential to listen to what's beneath someone's words. In a disagreement about surgery, the other person's objections stem from concern and fear for your health rather than judgment or disagreement with your choice.
• Disagreements are natural in relationships, and it's essential to allow space for differing opinions without changing each other’s minds. Acknowledging this can help maintain and strengthen relationships.

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

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Rodolfo Alvarez - Website

Rodolfo Alvarez - Instagram

Yes Institute - Website

GUEST BIO: 

Rodolfo Alvarez is a certified mindset coach, engineer, and Master of Science with over a decade of experience working with individuals and organizations, including PepsiCo and McKinsey, as well as schools and non-profits worldwide.  He hosts monthly Mindset Classes in the BariNation Community and contributes his expertise on the BariNation Podcast frequently.

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.

Bariatric Surgery, Communication, Relationships, BariNation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, BariNation, Bariatric Journey,  NSV's, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux en Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Mindfulness, Medications, Effective Conversations, Emotional Responses, Listening

Have you ever wondered what truly drives change in our lives—especially regarding health? It's not just about the number on the scale but how we feel and the decisions we make when faced with life-changing moments. In this episode of the BariNation podcast, we’re joined by Corby Jackson, who has an inspiring story of transformation, going from weighing 835 pounds to losing 438 pounds. Corby shares the emotional connections we often have with food, how he chose life over addiction, and the importance of having hard, life-saving conversations. Tune in as we explore how those difficult but necessary talks can be the key to living your best life.

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 the link below to learn more and give. THANK YOU for your support!

Drive To Thrive - Donation

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:04] Corby shares his weight loss transformation from 835 pounds 
• [4:00] How memories can be an emotional connection to food
• [5:27] Choosing living over addiction
• [6:27] Why the hard conversations can be life-saving
• [9:56] Believing the lies we tell ourselves and hear more in the BariNation Support Community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Food can sometimes substitute for emotional connections, filling a void of loneliness, loss, or stress. It can become a source of comfort, similar to substances like drugs or alcohol, creating false connections tied to memories or relationships.
• True transformation often comes not from reaching a specific weight loss goal but from recognizing the need for personal change. Health challenges or a deeper understanding of one's purpose can spark this. Small, consistent actions, like daily exercise, can help foster a sense of meaning and drive positive change.
• People often live according to narratives imposed by others, such as societal expectations or limiting beliefs. Realizing the power of one’s voice and rejecting these external narratives can be a crucial step in taking control of one's health and life, leading to greater fulfillment and personal growth.

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

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Fadeaway -  LinkTree to Corby's Resources

GUEST BIO: 

Corby Jackson is a licensed mental health therapist, advocate, and motivational speaker who inspires others through his weight-loss journey. With a background in addictions and bariatric mental health, Corby creates supportive communities that foster acceptance, healing, and personal growth. Driven by his mantra, “My consistency outweighs my doubts,” he empowers individuals to take intentional steps toward their best selves.

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.