In this episode of The Busy Bariatrics Podcast, I sat down with Jamie Mills—a registered dietitian, a fellow bariatric patient, and someone who just gets it on every level. We talked about her personal journey through weight loss, what it’s really like navigating GLP-1 medications, and how movement, nutrition, and mindset all have to play together if you're in this for the long haul.

Jamie opened up about the postpartum challenges no one prepares you for, what it means to build a real relationship with food, and how family dynamics (yes, even the well-meaning ones) can totally shape our eating habits—for better or worse.

We also got into the emotional and cultural side of food—how it’s never just about calories—and why showing up for yourself with realistic goals is the key to long-term success. If you’ve ever felt alone in the process, this episode is going to remind you that you’re far from it.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jamie Mills and Her Journey

02:51 Understanding GLP-1 Medications

05:49 The Role of Movement and Nutrition

08:44 Mindset and Sustainable Habits

11:31 The Importance of Flexibility in Fitness

14:32 Coaching Techniques and Client Relationships

17:20 The Power of Personal Accountability

20:08 Long-Term Success and Motivation

31:33 The Importance of Commitment in Programs

34:06 Overview of the Tribe Membership Program

37:29 Understanding Goals and Accountability

39:58 The Balance of Consistency and Flexibility

43:46 Healthy Relationships with Food

49:03 Modeling Healthy Habits for Children

53:32 Lightning Round: Quick Insights and Tips

Struggling with optimizing your metabolism after bariatric surgery? Take our free assessment! 

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Summer camp sold out faster than free samples at Costco — which is awesome. But here’s the thing: not everyone signed up. So in this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why some folks ghosted, claimed they didn’t have the money, or said they didn’t have the time.

We’ll dig into the psychology behind these excuses—because it’s not just about cash or calendar chaos. It’s about commitment, values, and what actually gets people moving (or freezing) when it comes to their bariatric journey.

If you ever find yourself wanting change but then making every excuse in the book, this episode is your reality check—with a side of salty accountability.

Trust me, it’s worth a listen.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Overcoming Barriers in Bariatrics

03:01 Behind the Scenes of Summer Camp Planning

05:41 The Impact of Competition in Bariatric Coaching

08:49 Setting Limits and Intentional Coaching

11:39 Understanding the Psychology of Change

14:23 The Reasons Behind Ghosting in Coaching

17:33 Coping Mechanisms and Identity in Bariatric Journeys

20:12 Financial Priorities and Perceived Value

22:57 Time Management and Prioritization in Health

26:07 The Importance of Routine and Structure

29:12 Final Thoughts on Commitment and Change

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In this episode of the Busy Bariatric Podcast, I’m joined by registered dietitian Jenny Young to talk about the must-have supplements for anyone post-bariatric surgery. We get into why movement isn’t just a “nice to have,” the vital vitamins and minerals your body needs, and why blood work should be your best friend. We also chat about omega-3s, why inflammation is a bigger deal than you think, and how to choose quality supplements without getting sucked into gimmicks. Plus, we clear up the mystery around creatine and collagen in your bariatric diet. Stick around for a lightning round of quick tips that could change your post-surgery game.

Takeaways

"The Hidden Truth About Supplements: Are You Wasting Money After Bariatric Surgery?"

"Why Skipping Regular Blood Work Could Be Sabotaging Your Post-Surgery Success"

"Collagen Isn’t the Miracle You Think It Is: Here’s What You’re Missing"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Bariatric Nutrition and Supplements

03:01 The Importance of Movement in Bariatric Recovery

06:00 Understanding the Necessity of Supplements Post-Surgery

09:05 Key Vitamins and Minerals for Bariatric Patients

11:58 The Role of Vitamin D and Calcium

14:59 Exploring Omega-3s and Their Benefits

18:09 The Impact of Inflammation and Recovery

20:49 Choosing Quality Supplements

24:01 The Benefits of Creatine in Health and Recovery

28:06 Understanding Creatine: Powder vs Gummies

30:02 The Hierarchy of Supplements in Nutrition

31:40 Navigating Vitamin Intake Post-Surgery

36:00 Learning from Mistakes: A Personal Story

38:01 Timing and Consistency in Vitamin Intake

40:04 The Importance of Multivitamins

43:01 Collagen: Is It Necessary?

45:03 Lightning Round: Quick Tips for Bariatric Patients

My Resources and Special Offers 

Join my email list for inside tricks to crush your bariatric journey! 

Want a free 30 minute consultation on how to optimize your bariatric journey? Take our free metabolic assessment! 

Ready to crush your goals apply to my 1:1 coaching program! 

Find me on Socials 

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Busy Bariatrics 

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In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Kimmel , bariatric patient, dietitian, and someone who’s not afraid to call it like it is to tackle the truth about alcohol after weight loss surgery. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about "one drink." Helen and I break down the science behind how alcohol messes with your body after surgery, why we all seem to ignore the mental traps around drinking, and how to make booze fit into a post-surgery lifestyle without totally derailing your progress. We also dive into GLP-1 meds, why tracking your drinks is a must (even if you’re in denial), and how mindfulness could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed to stay on track.

Takeaways

Why Drinking Alcohol Too Soon After Bariatric Surgery Could Be a Dangerous Mistake

The Hidden Dangers of Alcohol Post-Surgery: How Fast Does It Really Hit?

GLP-1 Medications and Alcohol: What You Need to Know Before Taking a Sip

Why Tracking Your Alcohol Intake Could Be the Key to Long-Term Weight Loss

How to Enjoy Alcohol Without Sabotaging Your Bariatric Success

Timestamps

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Alcohol and Hydration Post-Surgery

03:01 Helen's Personal Journey and Professional Insights

05:55 Understanding Alcohol's Impact on the Body

09:04 Navigating Alcohol Consumption Safely

12:04 The Metabolic Effects of Alcohol

15:05 Incorporating Alcohol Responsibly After Surgery

17:53 Mindful Drinking and Tracking Calories

28:06 Balancing Nutrition and Enjoyment

32:07 Mindfulness in Eating and Drinking

40:15 Navigating Alcohol After Bariatric Surgery

46:40 Understanding GLP-1s and Their Impact

48:44 Rapid Fire Insights and Closing Thoughts

In this episode, I sit down with registered dietitian Megan Wolf to dive deep into the importance of hydration after bariatric surgery. We bust some common myths about hydration, share practical tips for boosting your daily water intake, and talk about how alcohol can throw a wrench in your hydration game. Megan and I also dig into the effects of caffeine on hydration, the emotional connections we have with food, and why personalized nutrition advice is so critical for bariatric patients. We highlight the value of accountability, the power of having an outside perspective, and how making small, sustainable changes can set you up for long-term success after surgery. If you're serious about thriving after bariatric surgery, this conversation is packed with real talk, practical strategies, and game-changing advice you won't want to miss.

Key Takeaways

• "Think you're hydrated? Think again."

• "One drink could undo all your progress."

• "Caffeine: your secret sleep saboteur."

• "Social media myths are hijacking your health."

In this episode of the Busy Bariatric Podcast, I sit down with Kayla Girgen to dive into a topic that doesn’t get enough attention—blood sugar management after bariatric surgery. We break down why understanding blood sugar fluctuations is so important, plus practical tips to keep your levels stable without overcomplicating things. Kayla shares her insights on the power of fiber, how sleep (or lack of it) affects your body, and what you really need to know about alcohol. We also talk about why a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition doesn’t work and how building real connections with clients leads to long-term success.

• Struggling with energy crashes after bariatric surgery? Here’s what might be happening.
• Think all carbs are the enemy? The right pairing makes all the difference.
• Exercise isn’t just about weight loss—are you using it to your full advantage?
• Not sleeping well? Your blood sugar might be paying the price.
• That cocktail might be doing more to your blood sugar than you realize.
• You’re tracking protein, but are you giving fiber the attention it deserves?
• Feeling stuck? The secret to long-term success might be in the small wins.
• Cravings out of control? The answer could be in how your body reacts to food.
• Accountability is everything—are your support systems setting you up for success?
• Macros matter, but there’s more to nutrition than just hitting your numbers.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Fiber

03:03 Challenges of Fiber Intake Post-Surgery

05:35 Incorporating Fiber for Families

08:30 Tracking Fiber Intake

11:30 The Role of Water with Fiber

14:25 Understanding Fiber's Impact on Health

17:27 The Journey of a Dietitian

20:24 Practical Tips for Increasing Fiber

23:06 Navigating Fiber with IBS

26:03 The Science Behind Fiber and Digestion

32:31 Dreams of Culinary Arts

33:48 Transitioning from Hospital to Bariatrics

38:22 The Journey of Teaching and Coaching

42:45 Challenges of Running an Online Business

47:39 Resilience in Bariatric Surgery

52:47 Lightning Round: Building Healthy Habits

Ok so I've recorded this episode three times and realize I'm just going to let it fly. In this episode I cover JBY25 Weekend, from Flying in to hosting my team and my largest client base ever as well as why I flew home mid event, and everything that has been going on this week in the Bariatric community.

Buckle up pour the cold brew or the bourbon and be ready for me to rant pretty long on this one!

Chapters

00:00 The Value of In-Person Bariatric Events

04:47 Reflections on the Just Be You Bariatric Awards

12:33 The Journey of Building a Bariatric Community

20:35 The Importance of Connection in Bariatric Support

29:50 Psychological Insights on Social Support

30:18 Balancing Professional and Personal Life

39:19 Community Engagement and Client Connections

48:42 Reflections on Podcasting and Community Impact

In this episode, I sit down with Jeannie Boyer to talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—fiber. If you’ve had bariatric surgery, you know getting enough fiber can be a challenge, but Jeannie and I break down exactly why it’s so important and how to actually get more of it in your diet without making yourself miserable. We also dive into hydration (because fiber without water is a disaster waiting to happen) and the resilience it takes to maintain your health after surgery. Plus, we get real about the marketing struggles dietitians face and how the world of nutrition education is shifting.

Keywords

fiber, bariatric surgery, nutrition, gut health, dietitian, weight loss, healthy eating, fiber sources, hydration, resilience

• Fiber is essential but often overlooked—are you getting enough?
• Bariatric surgery shrinks your stomach, not your fiber needs—here’s how to fit it in.
• Sneaking fiber into family meals is easier than you think—no complaints required.
• Think you’re hitting your fiber goals? Track it for a week and see.
• Your gut health depends on fiber—are you feeding it right?
• More fiber means more water—skip the bloat and hydrate properly.
• Being a dietitian means constantly learning—nutrition never stands still.
• Great dietitians know nutrition—successful ones know marketing too.
• Bariatric success isn’t about willpower—it’s about resilience.
• Checking in with yourself is the key to staying on track—when’s the last time you did?

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Fiber

03:03 Challenges of Fiber Intake Post-Surgery

05:35 Incorporating Fiber for Families

08:30 Tracking Fiber Intake

11:30 The Role of Water with Fiber

14:25 Understanding Fiber's Impact on Health

17:27 The Journey of a Dietitian

20:24 Practical Tips for Increasing Fiber

23:06 Navigating Fiber with IBS

26:03 The Science Behind Fiber and Digestion

32:31 Dreams of Culinary Arts

33:48 Transitioning from Hospital to Bariatrics

38:22 The Journey of Teaching and Coaching

42:45 Challenges of Running an Online Business

47:39 Resilience in Bariatric Surgery

52:47 Lightning Round: Building Healthy Habits

My Resources and Special Offers 

Join my email list for inside tricks to crush your bariatric journey! 

Want a free 30 minute consultation on how to optimize your bariatric journey? Take our free metabolic assessment! 

Ready to crush your goals apply to my 1:1 coaching program! 

Find me on Socials 

Instagram

Busy Bariatrics 

Tiktok

Exclusive Discounts and Offers

Need Help Fueling your workouts Use Promocode BUSYBEE to save 20% off your first Order at Legion! 

 Need meals on the go while hitting your macros after Bariatric Surgery? Nutre Has you covered! Use BUSYBEE to save 50% off your first order!

In this episode of the Busy Bariatrics Podcast, I sit down with Chelsea Bernardez, a registered dietitian, bariatric patient, and expert in nutrition, to talk about something that still confuses a lot of people: fat. Not the kind you’re trying to lose, but the kind your body actually needs to function properly.

Chelsea explains why dietary fat is essential after bariatric surgery, how focusing on quality over quantity can make a huge difference, and why your body relies on healthy fats for long-term health and hormone balance. We also tackle real-life challenges, like balancing a bariatric diet while feeding a family that may not always be on the same page when it comes to nutrition.

If you have ever avoided an avocado because you thought it would slow your progress, this episode will clear up those misconceptions. Get ready to learn, laugh, and walk away with the knowledge to make fats a healthy part of your diet without second-guessing yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Chelsea’s journey into bariatrics started with her own surgery—but how did it change her approach as a dietitian?

• Fats play a crucial role in nutrient absorption after surgery—are you getting enough of the right ones?

• When it comes to fat in a bariatric diet, quality matters more than quantity—but do you know which ones to focus on?

• Your fat needs change throughout life—are you adjusting your diet to keep up?

• Healthy fats can keep you fuller longer and boost energy—but which ones actually work best?

• Struggling to make family meals work? There’s a way to balance your bariatric needs with meals your kids will actually eat.

• Adding healthy fats to your meals doesn’t have to be complicated—but are you making it harder than it needs to be?

• Nutrition education is the key to long-term success—but how do you separate fact from fiction?

• Fat has a bad reputation, but understanding its role can change everything you thought you knew about weight loss.

• Women’s health and hormones rely on the right fats—but are you eating what your body really needs?

  
  

  Timestamps

  Chapters

  
  

  00:00 Introduction to Bariatric Care and Personal Journey

  02:26 The Importance of Dietary Fats Post-Surgery

  06:00 Understanding Fats: Myths and Realities

  08:40 The Role of Fats in Different Life Stages

  13:35 Navigating Dietary Needs with Underlying Conditions

  15:11 Identifying Good vs. Bad Fats

  16:19 Family Meals: Integrating Bariatric Needs

  18:39 Incorporating Healthy Fats into Meals

  27:49 Understanding Nutrition Labels and Macronutrients

  30:07 Nutritional Insights for Bariatric Patients

  32:26 The Role of Peanut Butter in Diet

  35:35 Understanding Fats and Satiety

  38:44 The Importance of Carbohydrates

  42:07 Healthy Fats and Hormonal Health

  45:56 Communicating Needs and Boundaries

  47:06 Finding Healthy Sources of Dopamine

  
  

  My Resources and Special Offers 

  Join my email list for inside tricks to crush your bariatric journey! 

  Want a free 30 minute consultation on how to optimize your bariatric journey? Take our free metabolic assessment! 

  Ready to crush your goals apply to my 1:1 coaching program! 

  Find me on Socials 

  Instagram

  Busy Bariatrics 

  Tiktok

  Exclusive Discounts and Offers

  Need Help Fueling your workouts Use Promocode BUSYBEE to save 20% off your first Order at Legion! 

   Need meals on the go while hitting your macros after Bariatric Surgery? Nutre Has you covered! Use BUSYBEE to save 50% off your first order!

  
  

  
  

Alright, in this episode, I’m sharing how I navigated food choices and exercise during a trip to Disney World after bariatric surgery. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t all chicken breast and broccoli. The goal? Enjoying the vacation without stressing over every bite, but still keeping my health in check.

I’ll walk you through how I found a balance between indulging and staying mindful of my goals. There’s a way to enjoy those special moments—like churros and Mickey-shaped snacks—without throwing everything you’ve worked for out the window.

So if you’ve ever wondered how to handle a trip without derailing your progress, this episode is for you. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between living life and sticking to your goals—without the guilt.

• Most people head to Disney with a game plan that just doesn’t work—here’s why.

• Tracking every bite at Disney? Yeah, that’s not the move.

• Want to enjoy the magic of Disney without messing up your progress? Here’s how.

• Finding the right balance on vacation can make or break your experience.

• Ever wonder why your body craves healthy foods—even on vacation?

• Flexibility with your food choices might just be the key to a better trip.

• Should you stress about workouts while on vacation? Let’s talk about it.

• Engage with the magic around you—here’s why being present matters more than you think.
  

• Before you leave, make sure you’re planning for the non-negotiable things.

• How does your relationship with food play a role in vacation success? Let’s dig in.

  
  

  Chapters

  
  

  00:00 Introduction to Disney Diet Delusions

  06:48 Finding Balance in Food Choices

  13:57 The Importance of Flexibility

  21:23 Engaging with the Audience and Conclusion

  My Resources and Special Offers 

  Join my email list for inside tricks to crush your bariatric journey! 

  Want a free 30 minute consultation on how to optimize your bariatric journey? Take our free metabolic assessment! 

  Ready to crush your goals apply to my 1:1 coaching program! 

  Find me on Socials 

  Instagram

  Busy Bariatrics 

  Tiktok

  Exclusive Discounts and Offers

  Need Help Fueling your workouts Use Promocode BUSYBEE to save 20% off your first Order at Legion! 

   Need meals on the go while hitting your macros after Bariatric Surgery? Nutre Has you covered! Use BUSYBEE to save 50% off your first order!