What really happens when someone chooses weight loss surgery? Is it a quick fix or the result of years of trying everything else first?

In this episode, Jess Unsworth shares her honest journey through weight struggles, medical challenges, and finally, her decision to have bariatric surgery. Jess talks about her work in emergency services, the toll it took on her body, and the frustration of dealing with PCOS and insulin resistance. She opens up about the emotional weight of feeling like she had run out of options after years of trying diets and even experiencing severe side effects from Ozempic. With her husband having undergone the same surgery, Jess had a close-up look at both the benefits and difficulties. Jess breaks down common misconceptions about bariatric surgery, explores what recovery looks like, and talks about the ongoing emotional and physical work involved in healing, eating, and maintaining balance post-op. Jess also discusses the unexpected changes to taste, food tolerance, and her evolving relationship with food after surgery.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to go through weight loss surgery or are considering it yourself, this episode will give you a real-world view—without sugarcoating it. 

 

Episode Highlights:

• Jess’s medical background and reasons for surgery
• The impact of PCOS and insulin resistance on weight
• Side effects and hospital stay after Ozempic
• Emotional journey to accepting surgery as a final option
• Public misconceptions about weight loss surgery
• Differences in post-op food tolerance and cravings
• Long-term mental and physical adjustments after surgery
• How Jess maintains her health and food mindset now
• The importance of community and shared patient stories
• How weight and conditions like PCOS and endometriosis affect fertility.
• Jess expressed the mixed emotions around receiving compliments post-surgery
• Setting boundaries around food, like stopping when full

 

About Our Guest:

Jess Unsworth is an experienced emergency management professional with over 13 years of service across prevention, preparedness, and response roles in the emergency services sector. She brings a deep sense of purpose to her work, finding meaning in supporting communities during crises and helping smooth the path back to normality after major events. As recognition of her contributions, she received the National Emergency Medal for her work during the 2019–2020 Bushfires.

She has a strong background in leadership and team management, with proven expertise in stakeholder engagement, policy and procedure development, and operational response. Among her notable achievements are training staff in the activation of Community Fire Refuges following the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, and leading efforts to streamline processes within the State Control Centre to ensure timely delivery of critical information.

 

Connect with Jess Unsworth

• Instagram | @its_jessunsworth

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