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 It’s time to update outdated policies that hinder access to this vital care.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.

In this inspiring second part of our two-part series, we continue the conversation with the incredible Dr. Sarah Hayek, diving deeper into the transformative world of bariatric surgery. As we step into 2025, BariNation is embracing the theme of curiosity. Dr. Hayek is here to empower us with insights, wisdom, and practical advice on how curiosity can reshape our bariatric journeys. From understanding surgical techniques to navigating the evolving landscape of obesity treatment, this episode is packed with hope, motivation, and tools to help you take the next step toward living your best life. Let’s explore what’s possible together!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:23] Perfection is not real, and dealing with the perceptions of bariatric surgery
• [9:12] Finding the right physician and the food choices you make to fight obesity
• [15:10] The differences between laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery
• [27:56] Dr. Hayek’s predictions for obesity treatment in 2025
• [38:30] Take advantage of the complimentary three-month membership to Bari-Nation provided by Dr. Hayek
• [13:44] Being relentless about curiosity to thrive and actively using the BariNation community

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Focusing on the present moment and leaning into curiosity is critical for creating meaningful life changes. By understanding your "why," breaking perceived barriers, and trusting the process, you can take purposeful steps forward without being paralyzed by fear or perfectionism.
• Robotic surgery offers advantages over traditional laparoscopic surgery, including enhanced precision, reduced recovery times, and increased surgeon comfort and control. The technology allows surgeons to achieve better outcomes by minimizing human error and maximizing efficiency during procedures.
• Bariatric surgery and medications are tools in a comprehensive treatment plan for obesity. Connecting with a trusted surgeon and community is crucial to embracing this life-changing journey, leaving shame and miseducation behind.

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 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Kentucky Bariatric Institute - Website

GUEST BIO: 

Kentucky Bariatric Institute (KBI) is pleased to welcome Sarah Hayek, MD, MEd, to Georgetown and central Kentucky communities. Dr. Hayek will expand the bariatric program’s availability by offering robotic bariatric surgery and several general surgery procedures. Dr. Hayek completed medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and completed residency in general surgery with an additional year in surgical education research at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania. She has been a practicing surgeon for over two years, with experience and training in general and bariatric robotic 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.

Bariatric Surgery, BariNation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, BariNation, Bariatric Journey,  NSV's, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux en Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Curiosity, Thrive, Laparoscopic, Robotic Bariatric Surgery, Da Vinici 5, Intuitive Surgical

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

IN THIS EPISODE:

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

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

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

RESOURCES:

• BariNation Website 
• 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.

Welcome to the first episode of 2025! Our theme for the year is Relentless Curiosity. Dr. Sarah Hayek, a bariatric surgeon at the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, is back on the podcast to share her husband’s journey through bariatric surgery. She discusses the emotional and physical factors behind his decision and highlights the importance of embracing change in overcoming obesity. We explore how the surgery isn’t just for extreme obesity, the role of community support, and why some medical approaches may inadvertently contribute to the problem. Tune in to learn how bariatric surgery can be transformative for individuals at different stages of obesity and why support is key to long-term success.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:42] The theme for BariNation in 2025 is Relentless Curiosity 
• [4:36] Dr. Hayek shares her husband’s journey through bariatric surgery
• [15:35] Looking at the risk factors and deciding to have bariatric surgery
• [25:21] Understanding that obesity is a disease
• [30:56] Surgery is not just for the obese
• [39:41] Obesity is an isolating disease, and you need the community of the BariNation
• [48:56] The Kentucky Bariatric Institutes approach to obesity

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bariatric surgery is not limited to individuals with extreme obesity. Those with moderate excess weight or health risks from visceral fat can also benefit, making surgery a preventative health measure rather than a last resort.
• The decision to undergo bariatric surgery often stems from the realization that traditional weight management methods—like diet and exercise—may not be enough. It's a critical tool in a broader treatment plan, including medical support and lifestyle adjustments.
• Long-term success in weight management post-surgery is tied to daily habits, continuous care, and emotional support. The community of Bari-Nation plays a vital role in helping individuals navigate challenges and maintain motivation throughout their transformative journey.

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 

GUEST RESOURCES:

Kentucky Bariatric Institute - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Kentucky Bariatric Institute (KBI) is excited to welcome Sarah Hayek, MD, MEd, to the Georgetown and central Kentucky communities. Dr. Hayek will enhance the bariatric program by offering robotic bariatric surgery and general surgery procedures. She completed medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and a residency in general surgery at Geisinger Medical Center, with an additional year in surgical education research. With over two years of experience, Dr. Hayek specializes in general and bariatric robotic 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.

BariNation - Website

BariNation - Podcast

Bariatric Surgery, Obesity, Disease, Bari-Nation Community Support, Bariatric Diet, Bari-Nation, NSV's, GLP-1, VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, LapBand, Roux en Y, Gastric Bypass, SADI-S, Health, Weight Management, Emotional Support