The Dr. Francavilla Show

Claim your complimentary gift of my exclusive mini weight care guide today!

Link: Weight Care Guide — Dr. Francavilla Show (thedrfrancavillashow.com)

Could Zepbound revolutionize the way we treat sleep apnea?"

Sleep apnea affects millions of people worldwide, and for the longest time, treatment options have been limited to devices like CPAP machines or surgical interventions. Now, Zepbound, a groundbreaking treatment, offers a new approach specifically designed for obstructive sleep apnea. This innovation brings fresh possibilities for managing a condition that has long been challenging to treat.

To dive deeper into this development, I’ve invited Dr. Jeremy McConnell, an expert with a unique background that bridges sleep medicine and obesity medicine. This is the perfect opportunity to explore this transformative treatment with someone who truly understands its potential.

We also discuss:

• CPAP Intolerance
• Breaking Down Sleep Apnea
• Key Signs and Questions for Identifying Sleep Apnea
• The Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
• Effective Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
• How Weight Loss Impacts Sleep Apnea
• Zepbound as a Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Dr. McConnell is a diplomate of both the American Board of Obesity Medicine and the American Board of Family Medicine. As a master fellow of the Obesity Medicine Association—one of only about ten in the world—his expertise is unmatched. He also holds a certificate of added qualification in sleep medicine, making him uniquely equipped to discuss this topic.

He’s the co-founder and board chair of the Florida Obesity Society, as well as the founder of Florida Sleep Specialists and Discover Health. With his deep knowledge and experience, this conversation promises to shed light on Zepbound’s potential to transform sleep apnea management.

Ready to learn more? Tune in to the full episode to hear Dr. McConnell’s insights and join the conversation on managing sleep apnea effectively. 

Connect with Dr. McConnell:

• Website for weight management program: discovermyhealth.com
• Website for Sleep Management: sleepmanatee.net

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

Claim your complimentary gift of my exclusive mini weight care guide today!

Link: Weight Care Guide — Dr. Francavilla Show (thedrfrancavillashow.com)

Obesity Is Not an Temporary Condition
Why do some still treat it that way?

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Angela Fitch back to explain why obesity should be seen as a chronic disease that requires long-term management, not just a temporary challenge. She discusses the risks of using medications like Wegovy and Zepbound intermittently without proper guidance.

Dr. Fitch, a physician and the immediate past president of the Obesity Medicine Association, brings years of expertise to the conversation. She also served on the Clinical Management Committee of The Obesity Society and is currently the Chief Medical Officer and founder of Knownwell, where she’s helping reshape obesity care.

We dive into why treating obesity as a short-term issue—where patients are expected to go it alone after receiving initial treatment—can be harmful. Plus, we explore what comprehensive, long-term obesity care looks like and why it’s key to sustainable health.

Hit play on the full episode to catch everything!

Connect with Dr. Fitch:

• X: Angela Fitch, MD
• Facebook: knownwell health
• Website: Knownwell.co
• Instagram:  knownwellhealth
• Linkedin: knownwell

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

Claim your complimentary gift of my exclusive mini weight care guide today!

Link: Weight Care Guide — Dr. Francavilla Show (thedrfrancavillashow.com)

Starting medications like Zepbound & Wegovy can feel overwhelming without the right information. I understand that most doctors prescribing these medications don’t have the luxury of spending 20 minutes explaining what patients can expect. That’s why I created this episode—to provide you with the insights you need.

In my practice, I frequently guide patients through starting medications like Zepbound and Wegovy, offering them a clear understanding of what to expect such as:

• Who the GLP-1 medications are for
• Who Should Avoid GLP-1 Medications
• Why Long-Term Use with GLP-1 Medications is needed
• Side Effects that you might encounter
• How to minimize Side Effects
• A brief guide to Injections
• What to Eat While on Medication
• The role of Exercise with this GLP-1 medication

This episode serves as a more personal way to communicate that information, helping patients feel more prepared and informed.

So, here’s a condensed version of the conversation I have with patients regularly. It’s like you’re sitting down with me, receiving the same advice I’d give in person. Share this with someone else who is taking these medications. For prescribers, it could make your life a little easier by providing a resource you can share—whether it’s this episode—so you can offer more depth without needing to cover everything in a short clinical visit.

Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into each topic and how it can make your experience with these medications smoother.

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁
 Download now: Holiday Game Plan

What’s Next for You in 2025?

Let’s dive into the possibilities for the upcoming year. What do you want to accomplish? What transformations are you ready to embrace?

Whether it’s hitting a fitness milestone like running a 5K, building a new habit like reading one book a month, or pursuing a career achievement like securing a promotion, we’ll set powerful New Year’s goals together.

I’ll walk you through the SMART Framework to create actionable, results-driven goals and help you craft a plan for success. Along the way, I’ll share inspiring insights to keep you motivated. Let’s make 2025 a year of progress and purpose!

Be sure to listen, and let’s make 2025 your year of growth and achievement!

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁 

 Download now: Holiday Game Plan

Trigger Warning

This episode focuses entirely on eating disorders.

Contrary to the common belief that only very thin individuals struggle with eating disorders, I’m joined by Dr. Kara Pepper, who shares that eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes.

Dr. Pepper is an Internist and Executive Coach based in Atlanta, GA. She runs a hybrid telemedicine and in-person practice focused on patient autonomy, clinical excellence, and compassion. She also offers executive coaching and is the founder of Micropractice Mastermind, a community for physicians in solo practice.

In this episode, Dr. Kara and I delve into a controversial aspect of the conversation around eating disorders, exploring signs, biases, and how to distinguish an eating disorder from normal eating behaviors.

Listen to Dr. Kara Pepper shed light on this often-misunderstood topic, offering fresh perspectives on eating disorders and their overlooked forms.

Connect with Dr. Pepper:

• Instagram/Threads: karapeppermd
• Facebook: Kara Pepper, MD
• Website: karapeppermd.com
• Podcast: It’s Not Just You with Dr. Kara Pepper 

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁 

 Download now: Holiday Game Plan

The secret to aging well lies in preserving musculoskeletal health—but it doesn’t happen by chance. Why?

Look around at those who seem to age gracefully—patients, family members, or friends. What do they have in common? They’ve made movement a way of life. Whether it’s golfing, walking, playing tennis, or simply staying active around the house or neighborhood, they’ve embraced intentional movement as a non-negotiable part of their routine.

Science backs this up: regular exercise doesn’t just keep us moving; it reduces chronic diseases, eases pain, and, most importantly, helps us stay functional as we age. The key? Purposeful and consistent activity.

In this episode, I’ll break down why this is so critical and share practical ways to weave intentional movement into your life for a healthier, more vibrant future.

If you’re ready to start exercising but don’t know where to begin, GLP Strong is here to help. This entry-level strength training program is designed for anyone new to strength training or returning after years away.

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁 

 Download now: Holiday Game Plan

I get it—the ketogenic diet has taken a lot of heat lately. It’s not the first choice for most people these days, but that doesn’t mean it’s without merit. It played an essential role in weight loss and health when options were limited, and for certain people, it can still offer real benefits.

Lately, I’ve noticed a wave of criticism about the ketogenic diet in my Facebook groups and conversations with colleagues. But I stand by the idea that it has its place.

So, let’s dive into what the ketogenic diet is, how it functions, and its advantages and drawbacks. I’ll also talk about who might find it beneficial. You might have given it a try or know someone who has. It’s a diet that comes and goes in popularity, but its value is worth a closer look.

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁 

 Download now: Holiday Game Plan

Is Phentermine being overlooked as a weight management option? 

While it’s been around for decades, newer medications like Wegovy and Zepbound have taken the spotlight. Yet, Phentermine—and its combination with Topiramate, known as Qsymia—remains an effective choice for many.

In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at these medications. We’ll explore how they work, who might benefit from them, and how they compare to newer treatments. These medications have a long history of use and can still play an important role in weight management today.

By the end of this discussion, you’ll have a clearer understanding of whether Phentermine or Qsymia could be a good option for you or your patients. Welcome to the Phentermine and Qsymia episode!

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁 

 Download now: Holiday Game Plan

Are you losing weight too quickly with medications like Zepbound or Wegovy? How can you tell if it’s going too far?

With the rise of weight loss medications like Zepbound and Wegovy, this question is more important than ever. While these medications can lead to significant weight loss, it’s crucial to understand what healthy weight loss looks like and how to monitor your progress. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but recognizing the signs of excessive weight loss and knowing how to gauge your health is key.

In this discussion, I’ll also briefly touch on the right calorie intake with these medications. I even have a dedicated episode diving even deeper into this question: How many calories should you eat (Especially if on Wegovy or Zepbound!)

Additionally, I talked about the importance of maintaining muscle during weight loss. Losing muscle can slow metabolism, weaken strength, and impact bone health over time. That’s where GLP Strong comes in! Designed for patients on weight loss meds, this program helps preserve muscle mass while you lose weight. 

If you're concerned about rapid weight loss on medications, don’t miss the full episode!

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com

🎁 Stay on track this season with my Holiday Game Plan! 🎁
        Download now: Holiday Game Plan

Struggling to navigate the holiday season without derailing your progress? 

The holidays bring joy, connection—and plenty of temptations. But what if there’s a way to enjoy the festivities without losing sight of your goals?

In this episode, practical strategies take center stage. Whether it’s setting intentions, managing indulgences, or sticking to your plan, you’ll find ideas you can actually use during holiday parties, family dinners, and everything in-between.

Ready to head into the season with a solid plan? Don’t miss out—listen to the full episode and set yourself up for success this holiday season!

Connect with me:

• Instagram: doctorfrancavilla
• Facebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. Francavilla
• Website: Dr. Francavilla Show
• Youtube: The Doctor Francavilla Show
• GLP Strong: glpstrong.com