BariAftercare: The Podcast

Theodore Roosevelt called comparison the theif of joy. And all along I thought it was the SCALE that was the theif of joy! Well… I guess it's all in how you utilize either comparison or the scale that determines whether or not you allow it to steal your joy. Yes – pay attention to those words… whether or not you ALLOW ANYTHING to steal your joy is up to you! It's that thinking thing again… what we choose to think about is so powerful. But in THIS episode I am talking specifically about comparison, something all humans naturally do. Listen in and gain some tips for using comparison to your benefit and listen for ways to minimize it's negative impact in your life.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategies15 Ways to Stop Self-Comparisonhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-power-of-prime/202307/15-ways-to-stop-self-comparisonAre You a Comparison Junkie?https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-freedom/201205/are-you-comparison-junkieThe 2 Faces of Social Comparisonhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mental-health-nerd/202409/the-2-faces-of-social-comparisonWhy You Should Stop Comparing Yourself to Everybody Elsehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/working-through-shame/201909/why-you-should-stop-comparing-yourself-to-everybody-elseSocial Comparison Theory https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/social-comparison-theory#:~:text=Comparisons%20are%20likelier%20to%20make,more%20realistic%20and%20motivating%20comparisons.

We've all said it a thousand times when it comes to following through with difficult things and/or things we don't really want to do… We've said what? We've said, “That's easier said than done!” And it's true in nearly every case… because most things in life are genuinely easier to say than they are to do! Working in the field of weight weight loss, I hear the phrase, “It's easier said than done” pretty much on a daily basis. In this episode, we'll look at the importance of realizing when we're using those words as an excuse. Bottom line? If we choose easy, we're not likely to get the results we say we want! Let's get to exploring this topic…Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Every single one of us is guilty of using some pretty common forms of Stinkin' Thinkin' at times. Psychologists use fancier word to describe Stinkin' Thinkin'… we call them Cognitive Distortions. Thinking Traps are also words to describe negative thoughts because they often leave us feeling TRAPPED on a hamster wheel of negative thoughts that spin out and result in negative feelings and ultimately result in unhealthy behaviors. I had a patient say it much more clearly… she told me, “Negative thoughts result in negative behaviors.” Enough said! Therefore, we need to become aware of the Cognitive Distortions we use most frequently and employ the skills from last week's episode to change our thoughts and therefore change our behavior. BECAUSE… Healthy thoughts lead to Healthy Behaviors! Let's get started and face the truth!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesCognitive Behavior Worksheets:https://www.mentallyfitpro.com/c/free-therapy-worksheets/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt-worksheetshttps://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/abc-model-for-rebt50 Common Cognitive Distortions Alice Boyes Ph.D.15 Types of Cognitive Distortions/Worksheet10 Common Types of Cognitive DistortionsPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.connie

Did you know that we recyle something like 90% of our thoughts over and over, day after day AND that about 85% of those recycling thoughts are NEGATIVE thoughts? That's what some research says! And I happen to believe that… even if we're not aware of all those automatic negative thoughts on the hamster wheel of our mind. We need to change this to make room for and to create new, healthier neuropathways that keep us engaged in a non-stop loop of more neutral and positive thoughts! You've heard the saying… change you thinking, change your life. It's true. In this episode you will learn specific skills for challenging and changing negative thoughts using tried and true cognitive behavior tools. Let's get going so you can get going on changing that stinkin' thinkin'!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesCognitive Behavior Worksheets: https://www.mentallyfitpro.com/c/free-therapy-worksheets/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-cbt-worksheetshttps://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/abc-model-for-rebtPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

In this week's episode will teach you skills for ditching self-defeating attitudes and behaviors and for overcoming a victim mentality, which we talked about last week! Learning to be more resilient when setbacks threaten to derail your progress and learning to increase your “I think I can, I think I can” attitude, or self-efficacy, will not only help you prevent emotional eating and avoid self-sabotaging eating behaviors, these skills will assist you in maintaining motivation to accomplish any goal you set for yourself in life! Let's jump in so you can get started today using the skills of resiliency and self-efficacy to become your very best self AND maintain a healthy weight!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesIf You Think You Can't… Think Again: The Sway of Self-Efficacyhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/flourish/201002/if-you-think-you-can-t-think-again-the-sway-self-efficacyTo Thine Own Self-Efficacy Be Truehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/live-in-concert/201807/thine-own-self-efficacy-be-true This Is the Belief That Influences Every Decision You Makehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/motivate/202308/this-is-the-belief-that-influences-every-decision-you-makeUnderstanding Self-Destructive Behavior https://www.healthline.com/health/mentalhealth/self-destructive-behavior#diagnosisWhy Do I Self-Sabotage My Diet?https://www.redmountainweightloss.com/blog/dr-kim-self-sabotage-controlling-life/?srsltid=AfmBOor-KVrZQul8CrN3LTTINVVxJQhB07kXZe8XT65hY5CiXISpp34nThe Psychological Meaning of Resiliencehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/finding-new-home/201804/the-psychological-meaning-resiliencePlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at ww

Now, THAT's a vague episode title! And it's vague on purpose! None of us want to admit to … well, our less than healthy behaviors. Yet the truth is, we all engage in behaviors we would be mortified if others were to witness. The topic of this episode describes a type of behavior and mindset I would bet every one of us has engaged in at some points in time. For a percentage of people, this becomes a way of life. Others can see it clearly, but the one entrenched in this is usually oblivious… because they are hurting. Their attitude and behaviors results in continued self-sabotage and pushing others away. Enough of the mysteriousness…. Buckle your seatbelt, open your mind and let's take a look at this topic. If you're honest enough to see how this describes you, there are suggestions for pivoting into a healthier, more productive way of dealing. Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategies Victim Mentality: 10 Ways to Help Clients Conquer Victimhood https://positivepsychology.com/victim-mentality/The Agony and Ecstasy of Victimhood https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/putting-psyche-back-into-psychotherapy/202401/the-agony-and-ecstasy-of-victimhoodVictim Mentality: Definition, Causes, and Ways to Cope https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-victim-mentality-5120615Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Do you ever wonder why you do some of the things you do? And also… why you might not do other things you want to do or plan to do? If you're human…  I'm gonna guess you have wondered those exact same things… maybe on daily basis! Our behaviors are linked to all sorts of things going on in our brains. Listen in as Dr. Joan Brugman helps us better understand the connection between our brains and our behavior!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

There are all sorts of ways people choose to lose weight… surgical weight loss procedures, GLP 1's, Weight Watchers, Noom, and all sorts of various diets such as the Mediteranian Diet, the KETO diet, or tragically, some version of the cabbage soup diet. Here's the deal… no matter how a person loses weight, they all experience many of the same things after losing weight… and I'm NOT just talking about physical changes. Yes, clearly there are physical changes but there are also dietary changes, not to mention the NUMEROUS emotional, psychological and relationship changes that happen when someone loses weight. Being aware of, and maybe even prepared for, these changes is important! Listen in and be in the know!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategies5 Best Weight Loss Programs to Try in 2025, According to Dietitians https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-weight-loss-programsPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

There's little in life I find more inspiring than when a person takes a difficult situation and creates something amazing out of it! Rob DiMedio is one of those people! Rob, a post-op who chronicled his journey on social media, has taken his passion for health and created a business called Busy Bariatrics. Due to Rob's passion for taking charge of his health, Busy Bariatrics has gotten VERY BUSY! If you already know Rob, you'll love catching up with him on this episode. If you don't know Rob, you're in for a treat! Listen in and become one of the people inspired by this energetic post-op!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Food… a red herring? As in… a fish? Nope!  So what does that mean… food… a red herring? You think I'm gonna tell you here, in the intro? Not a chance! But when you listen to the entire episode, you'll learn why Dr. Anita A. Johnson, author of Eating in The Light of The Moon, wrote an entire chapter on this topic.  Also, as you listen to this episode, based almost entirely on that one chapter in Dr. Johnson's book, I hope you will make the decision to join me for a Book Review about Eating in The Light of The Moon to be held on Sunday, March 30th at 7 PM EST on the Zoom platform. To register for this event, go to my website www.conniestapletonphd.com/books  If you are a member of the online BariAftercare community, this event is, of course, free for you! Now let's get started on this awesome information!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comBook: Eating In The Light Of The Moon by Anita A. JohnsonConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

You've heard the Serenity Prayer: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot chance, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Turns out the founders of AA did NOT create this thinking. It originated many years BC… before the birth of Christ! The ideas used in the Serenity Prayer come from an ancient Greek Philosophy known as Stoicism. Using the tenets of this philosophy, focusing on what you CAN change in your life and NOT paying attention to the things you can't change, is how to create the life you want. This does require that you know the difference between what you can and cannot control. Listen and learn how to better create your healthiest life after weight loss. There's an amazing exercise at the end of the podcast that could be a game changer for you!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comBook: The Art of Letting Go: Stop Overthinking, Stop Negative Spirals, and Find Emotional Freedom by Nick Trenton.Connie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

People usually have certain expectations when they begin a weight loss experience, whether that means having a surgical intervention, taking medications or participating in a structured program. For many people, some of their expectations are met; some are not. What I find particularly interesting as people lose weight are the things they learn about themselves that they hadn't anticipated. In this episode, I'll be talking to Sandra about the things she has discovered about herself in the nearly two years since having bariatric surgery. I'm sure many listeners will relate to what Sandra shares! Let's get started and be sure to leave us comments after listening! We love those!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

So many people considering bariatric surgery are confused as to the reason anyone would have to have a pre-surgical psychological evaluation? Why would they need to be cleared by a psychologist just to have weight loss surgery? As today's guest host, Dr. Joan Brugman, a psychologist who, like myself, conducts many bariatric pre-surgical evaluations, explains to people, “Having bariatric surgery is not like having your tonsils taken out.” When you have your tonsils or appendix removed, you have the surgery, let your body heal, and go about your life as before. That's not the case when a person has bariatric surgery, although far too many people going into bariatric surgery think that's how it's going to be. When a person has bariatric surgery, every area of their life changes … which is part of the reason we do pre-surgical evaluations. Listen in as Dr. Brugman and I share how vitally important the pre-surgical evaluation is and how it can help you prepare for long-term success following bariatric surgery.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.comDr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

What does the story of a young child participating in swim meets have to do with fear of failure… or fear of regain? Listen in and gain a different perspective on fear of failure. I'll talk about how fear of regain can lead you right to that place you most want to avoid! And, of course, I'll give you some tips on how to lead yourself away from fear of failure and fear of regain while empowering yourself to create the healthy life you said you wanted at the beginning of your weight loss journey! We have a lot to cover so let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Today I have three guests, all members of the BariAftercare program, joining me to talk about their fears of success following significant weight loss. Each of my guests is at a different place in their post-op journey and each is experiencing unique concerns related to their weight loss success. It's likely that each person who experiences significant weight loss has some worries about the changes they will experience in life as they reach and maintain the lifestyle goals associated with weight loss. See if some of the concerns expressed by today's participants are things you have thought about and let us know if you have experienced other fears about life as you successfully maintain your weight loss. Let's get started.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesWiest, Brianna. The Mountain Is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery. Kindle Edition.Why Do You Say You Want to Lose Weight But Then Don't Do It by Sherry Pagoto, PhDWhy Do I Fear Success by Carrie Barron M.D.Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

I'm introducing a funky new word to your bariatric journey tonight when I ask you to keep your DRISHTI in mind as you move through your years of creating your healthy lifestyle. You need consistent effort, ongoing preparation and a lot of patience to prevent falling back into the dreaded DIET mentality, which can suck you far, far away from your life of growth and healthy living! Let's get started and learn -or maybe relearn some things critical to remember on this journey!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Boundaries can be physical… like fences, or gates at the top or bottom of stairs to keep toddlers and pets from going up or down. Boundaries can also be emotional and are established by using communication skills. Physical and emotional boundaries are often used to keep us safe. Emotional boundaries are essential in healthy relationships. Yet many people are reluctant to set boundaries with others. It's difficult, it can be scary and it puts one in a vulnerable position. However, learning to set boundaries is a must in healthy adult relationships and to improve our sense of personal power. Listen in and learn to set boundaries in life, especially with food pushers!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Susan Mitchell:https://www.facebook.com/DrSusanMitchellhttps://www.facebook.com/bariatricsurgerystrategiesBoundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend https://www.drcloud.com/books/boundariesThe Book of Boundaries: Set the Limits That Will Set You Free by Melissa Urban https://www.melissau.com/boundaries-book/Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

If you have lost a significant amount of weight and remain preoccupied with the scale, if you allow the scale to determine your mood, if you are overly obsessed with a goal weight, or are struggling to overcome emotional eating… OR if you said you wanted to lose weight to improve your health or to prevent health problems, or because you wanted to be able to enjoy participating in activities with those you love and to live longer doing so AND you have accomplished those things but STILL play the diet mentality games, then we need to talk about your emotional and mental wellness. You might have to find out what exactly that means first, which is one good reason to listen to this episode. You will also learn some skills for improving mental wellness that will help you move away from the pre-weight loss weight obsession and diet mentality so you are free to enjoy all the benefits that come with weight loss! Let's jump in!Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

I get all passionate in this episode and do quite a bit of self-disclosing. Why? Because I believe with everything that I am that improving your relationship with yourself is the ONLY way you will be able to follow through the behavioral changes that are necessary for keeping weight off long-term or for remaining free from any long-term unhealthy behavior a person has engaged in to the point it has caused problems in their life. Our actions, our words, our treatment toward ourselves and others are outward signs that clearly demonstrate to others – and ourselves, if we're honest enough to go there, how we really feel about ourselves. That may be a painful thing to hear, but more often than not, that is a reality. The great news is that every single person listening to this podcast has the ability to improve their relationship with themselves. In turn, every other relationship you have in life, to include your relationship with food will improve. Not kidding. Listen in to learn how to start – or continue – your adventure of improving your relationship with yourself! Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Relationships of all kinds can be complicated. And they change over time! Friendships change over time, your relationship with your spouse or partner may be good for years, and then flail, and then get better again! Your relationship with money or social media can change at different stages of life. Your relationship with food may also change over time – or perhaps you have always had a difficult, or unhealthy relationship with food. Let's dig in and discover - or maybe RE-Discover where your relationship with food is at now and how you can IMPROVE that relationship… it CAN happen! Listen in. Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Your Relationship to Food Mirrors How You Handle Life David Hanscom MD https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/anxiety-another-name-for-pain/202209/your-relationship-to-food-mirrors-how-you-handle-lifePlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

How did I get here? I'm guessing you didn't grow up wanting to have the disease of obesity as part of your adult life! And if you have comorbid health issues associated with your obesity, I'm pretty certain you ask yourself the question, how DID I get here? Well, the chronic disease of obesity is a complicated one. Some of the things that lead to obesity you have had no control over… your genetics, what you were fed as a child, if you have illnesses that contribute to weight gain or if you take medications that lead to weight gain. Be compassionate with yourself about those things. And be diligent about taking personal responsibility for the things you can control – your personal health habits. In this episode we talk about the issues contributing to obesity and what you can do to limit the effects of the disease, even if you are genetically predisposed to it or come from a family where you learned really unhealthy eating behaviors! You CAN manage this dreaded disease and work toward the life you dream of living! Let's get going!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Obesity and Overweight. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweightObesity Risk Factors. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/risk-factors/risk-factors.htmlPhysical Activity Basics https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/index.htmlDoes Healthy Eating Cost More? https://extension.usu.edu/nutrition/research/does-healthy-eating-cost-moreWeight Gain Conditions: https://www.webmd.com/obesity/ss/slideshow-weight-gain-conditionshttps://www.webmd.com/obesity/ss/slideshow-weight-gain-conditionshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2571048/#:~:text=The%20importance%20of%20place,significant%20ways%20to%20childhood%20obesity.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8365653/https://academic.oup.com/bmb/article-abstract/123/1/159/3930933?redirectedFrom=fulltext#google_vignettehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6052856/#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20eating%20disorder,experiences%20a%20loss%20of%20control.

It's always an honor and a privilege to have Laura Preston on the podcast with me because Laura IS, in many ways, BariAftercare! She is an organizer extraordinaire, has an understanding of the bariatric community that is unmatched, and has a passion for aftercare as deep as my own. In this episode, we talk about the many ways we, along with our other BariAftercare mentors, as well as members of the BariAftercare community, have steered BariAftercare to assist post-ops with accountability, focus, education, encouragement and maybe even a bit of entertainment! We also share some helpful new tools we are adding to the daily schedule that will help you wake up with a good, healthy start to the day, content to help you make wise decisions throughout the day, and a wind-down to help you get a good night's rest. All day every day, BariAftercare is available to help you live your healthiest life, to include your weight loss adventure. But remember, with BariAftercare, we go beyond bariatrics! We also have a great introductory offer for people ready to join the full online BariAftercare program at www.bariaftercare.comResources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Scott Bagwill, an active member of the full online BariAftercare program, is today's guest on BariAftercare, the Podcast! Scott had bariatric surgery almost one year ago and has lost an extraordinary amount of weight. He has also been one of this season's new “Best Friends” on the TLC network show, 1000 Pound Best Friends. Today you'll get to know more about Scott, his childhood, his weight ups and downs, and how he found himself as part of the 1000 Pound Best Friends cast. Listen in and be ready to get inspired to follow a dream of yours by listening to Scott share his dream of fulfilling a promise he made to his father prior to his father's death. Also think about how you can, as Scott is doing, share with others your courage, your strength and the joy obtained by working hard to create a life of your choosing!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Scott Bagwill Instagram: @scott_1kbestfriendsPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Alcohol… a substance consumed by most people, to include those who are having or have had a surgical bariatric procedure or may be on GLP-1 medications. In this episode, Dr. Susan Mitchell, a PhD educated bariatric-specific registered dietician joins me in talking about how the consumption of alcohol affects those who have had bariatric surgery. I talk about information specifically related to the use of alcohol for those who are taking GLP-1 medications, as well. It's critical to understand how having bariatric surgery and/or taking GLP 1-s interacts with alcohol so that you can make wise choices if you opt to drink. Listen in and learn lots from the great information contained in this episode of BariAftercare, the Podcast! Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Last week I took you for a stroll down the Memory Lane of fad diets over the past century and ended up at what is clearly NOT a fad in the world of weight loss: the GLP-1 medications. In this episode I share most of what Dr. Sanjay Gupta and the people he interviewed about the GLP-1's said about these medications that are now, and I quote, “the biggest class of drugs in the developed world.” Dr. Gupta recently did an interview with the hosts of a local, and syndicated Altanta-based morning radio show a few days prior to his year-long investigative report on GLP-1's which aired on CNN. The information in the documentary answers a lot of common questions people have about the medications and the ramifications of taking them. Listen in and get reliable information about the GLP-1 medications from the well-respected Dr. Sanjay Gupta. Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Sanjay Gupta on The Bert Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcGtV8STzPMYou can watch Dr. Sanjay Gupta Reports: Is Ozempic Right for You? on CNN.com, CNN connected TV, and mobile apps if you are a pay TV subscriber. It will also be available on demand on these platforms, as well as on Cable Operator Platforms, beginning Monday November 18.  You can also stream past editions of Dr. Sanjay Gupta Reports on demand on Max.

GLP's have taken the world by storm and are being used for weight loss by people who medically qualify for them and by people who well… found a way to get them, whether they formally “qualify” for them or not. Weight loss methods date back … probably as far as time… In this episode, I highlight some of the more popular ways people have used to lose weight over the past century. THEN I talk about the GLP's and more importantly, what is common to each and every type of weight loss when it comes to weight maintenance.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)12 fad diets and weight loss trends from the '60s and '70shttps://www.metv.com/lists/12-fad-diets-and-weight-loss-trends-from-the-60s-and-70sTaste's nutritionist rates the worst fad diets from the 70s and 80shttps://www.taste.com.au/food-news/our-nutritionist-rates-worst-fad-diets-70s-80s/5a2qkc5y Episode 203: (for 11/13/24) GLP's for Weight Loss. The Be All and End All?https://vimeo.com/1030136922/99bf2c9c9fPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

It's definitely not only your body that changes following significant weight loss! In fact, most areas of your life are affected when you lose weight. Think about it… in addition to improvements in physical health, people who lose weight get out and participate in more of what life has to offer. They become more engaged in community activities, travel on trains, planes, and…a lot of cruise ships, attend concerts and go to amusement parks. Their relationships often change as well. This includes friendships, relationships with co-workers, immediate and extended family members, and often… with romantic partners. Reasons for changes in romantic relationships following weight loss are varied and will be discussed in this episode, along with how dating after weight loss is different than dating prior to weight loss. Be sure to listen to the anecdote about a post-op who decided to have a minimum of 50 first dates! Let's get going!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Navigating Relationship Changes After Bariatric Surgery https://www.stvincentcharity.com/radiant/posts/navigating-relationship-changes-after-bariatric-surgeryBariatric Surgery Linked to Doubling Chance of Marriage or Divorce https://www.stvincentcharity.com/radiant/posts/navigating-relationship-changes-after-bariatric-surgeryDating After Bariatric Surgery: 6 Discoverieshttps://discover.hubpages.com/relationships/Dsting-After-Bariatric-Surgery-Things-Will-Be-DifferentPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

In today's episode, I'm talking about we start developing our relationship with food during our first days of life! By the time we're three years old, our belief in our ability to trust ourselves has already begun. Trusting ourselves with food is an issue many people struggle with in their adult lives … do I really trust myself to make healthy choices most of the time? Do I trust myself to stop eating when I am satisfied? Do I trust myself to stick to my grocery list when I go to the store? Do I trust myself enough to have trigger foods in my house? Each stage of our development is critical in determining how we act as adults, not just with food but in our relationships with others and how we feel about ourselves. Today I'll explain one prominent theory about social and emotional development and of course, will tie it all back into our relationship with food! Let's go! Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial DevelopmentPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

In today's 200th episode, I pick up where we left off last week and clearly define and describe the remaining 8 principles of Intuitive Eating as outlined in the book Intuitive Eating: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach, 4th edition, by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch. Last week I spent a lot of time on the first two principles in great detail as they lay the foundation for the remaining principles. There is a lot of great information in this book and as I have said, I like the theory of Intuitive Eating and for those who have not had a surgical procedure to treat their obesity and for people who don't have a complicated mess of a relationship with food … however few in number they may be…  intuitive eating is a great way to have a healthy relationship with food! Listen in… take what you like – and leave the rest! Let's get started! Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Shea Quinn: www.growwithsheaquinn.comTikTok (@growwithshea) Intuitive Eating, 4th Edition: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse ReschPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Last week I had a fun discussion with Shea Quinn, the newest peer mentor for the full BariAftercare online program. Shea and I discussed intuitive eating and how this eating theory fits, or may not fit, persons who have had a surgical procedure to treat the disease of obesity. I got questions from listeners after the podcast dropped, asking what, exactly, intuitive eating means. Oops – apparently we forgot to clearly define intuitive eating! Because intuitive eating is a prominent topic for those who have been chronic dieters, I decided it would be a good idea to clearly define and describe the principles of Intuitive Eating as outlined in the book Intuitive Eating: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach, 4th edition, by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch. In this episode I'll highlight the first two principles of Intuitive Eating described by the authors. This information is relevant to anyone who has hopped on and off the dieting bandwagon for years or maybe even decades! So share it with those you know who fit this description! Let's get started and next week, I'll review the remaining principles of intuitive eating.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Shea Quinn: www.growwithsheaquinn.comTikTok (@growwithshea) Intuitive Eating, 4th Edition: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse ReschPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Intuitive Eating… sounds, well… intuitive, instinctive, automatic. And it is! When we're infants, anyway…. We are built to eat when we're hungry and to stop eating when we are physically satisfied. By the time we're adults, intuitive eating has been interfered with in a whole lot of unnatural ways. We don't just eat when we're physically hungry… we eat because someone brought treats to the office and the treats are just there… to be eaten, whether we're hungry or not! We eat – or don't eat – based on the messages we got at home, which had nothing to do with whether or not we were hungry or physically satisfied … “Eat everything on your plate,” or “Do you really need to have a second helping of that?” And many of us eat in response to unpleasant emotions in an attempt to avoid feeling something we do not want to feel. And emotional eating has nothing to do with physical hunger. Re-learning to eat intuitively is a great goal… and a very lofty one if you've struggled with the disease of obesity, have a history of yo-yo dieting, are an emotional eater, have an addiction to food or certain food groups. Listen to the reasons Intuitive Eating is great in theory and very much worth working toward… and listen also to the reasons it may not be your first goal after having bariatric surgery. Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Shea Quinn: www.growwithsheaquinn.comTikTok (@growwithshea)Instagram (@growwithshea)

Did you know that approximately 20% of women suffer with PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome? It affects women of all sizes and shapes and races. For those who also suffer from obesity, having PCOS makes it very difficult to lose weight without intervention. Fertility can also be affected by PCOS and obesity. In this episode, Kate Fuss, an extraordinarily talented PA in the field of bariatrics, interview a renowned Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility physician, Dr. Carter Owen, about the complex and interrelated issues of PCOS, fertility, insulin resistance and  myriad of issues associated with these struggles. Listen in and learn about how these medical complications are related to obesity, weight loss and fertility. Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Dr. Carter Owen (TikTok): https://www.tiktok.com/@drcarterowen?_t=8qHKZ6mUftb&_r=1Dr. Carter Owen (website): https://www.ccrmivf.com/northernvirginia/carter-owen-md/Kate Fuss: Banana Bariatrics (online bariatric support community):  https://bananabariatrics.com/Instagram: @banana.bariatricsFacebook: Bariatric Weight Loss Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bariatricweightlosssurgerySchedule an appointment at Beltline Health: https://beltlinehealth.com/Phone: (470) 419-4380Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Individu – WHAT? Yeah… it's a big, fancy psychological word… individuation. But it's a word worth knowing and a process well worth going through! Why, you ask? Because individuated people know a lot of things: they know who they are, what their purpose is, what they want, how they feel, what they think, and what they are willing to do and what they are not willing to do… WITHOUT WORRYING what others will think of them. And THAT means, if you are willing to work toward being an individuated person, you'll do things like set healthy boundaries with yourself and other around food, you will follow commitments you make to yourself to exercise, you will decide what people are healthy for you to be with, and you will avoid emotional eating and addictive behavior. AND there's MORE! Listen in and learn what it means to individuate, how to do so, and how this will help you in your bariatric journey!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Living the Truth: Transform Your Life Through the Power of Insight and HonestyThe Individuation Process: A Beginner's Guide to Jungian Psychology by Scott JeffreyHow to Be Your True SelfPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

I saw something on Instagram that caught my eye and am I ever glad it did! The reason is that whatever it was (and I honestly don't remember what it was that I saw) led to this great interview with Jared Gleaton! Jared is a man who knows what it is like to absolutely love food and how food interacts with every one of our senses! He also knows what it is like to carry excess weight. Jared lost 175 pounds in a year's time and has maintained that weight loss for several years. Get this! Jared maintains a healthy weight and continues to enjoy every kind of food. He knows the art of savoring food. Jared finds immense pleasure in the tastes and textures of food. And Jared knows the importance of developing a healthy lifestyle that INCLUDES enjoying the exquisite pleasure of food. Listen in and learn how YOU can do the same!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Jared Gleaton (author) - A Feast for the Senses: The Psychological Art of Eating Well  https://a.co/d/8cgopNGJared Gleaton Instagram: (@jaredgleatoneats)Jared Gleaton YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5ZlEd1k1710Jzk0XZNXAzQPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

She's back with us! Katie Chapmon, who helped me – and hopefully you – better understand some very important information about our gut biome is here with more great information! People had questions after listening to the first episode on the gut biome and wanted more information! Katie enthusiastically shares, in this episode, more fascinating education about how our gut biome interacts with hormones, how insulin resistance and the gut biome intersect, and how medications (to include antacids) change the gut biome in ways that affect our system and our health! And there's more! So much more! Take a listen. I hope this conversation will get your wheels turning like it has mine… and leave me wanting even more information about this powerful biological ecosystem: our gut biome!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Katie Chapmon, RD: https://www.katiechapmon.com/Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Anyone with a chronic disease knows that a host of factors have collided to result in their having that disease. Obesity being a classic example. Addiction, hypertension and heart disease being others. In many cases, there is a genetic predisposition for a disease and factors in the environment along with personal choices lead to the disease taking root in our lives and causing us problems! While we are not responsible for the genetics that predisposed us to a particular disease, we are 100% responsible for managing our disease… or not! We impact, to a large part, the impact the disease will have on our lives. As one of my heroes, Andy Stanley says… and I paraphrase… when we are irresponsible in our lives, the consequences of our irresponsibility eventually become the Responsibility of others… most often, the people we love… and that's usually not a good thing! Let's talk about how to continue to take responsibility for all of the important things in our lives!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Andy Stanley: The RESPONSIBLES:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiCIbBOdPHs (Part 1)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-dlZOkPA_o&t=285s (Part 2)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5O1ZUJNSQ-g (Part 3)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfjEC6GIeU0 (Part 4)

In life, when we make changes there are often things we gain and things we lose. A new job may mean the loss of some free time or the loss of a previous job you really liked. The new job also brings gains: perhaps an increase in salary, additional education about your profession, and hey – maybe even a new wardrobe! Bariatric surgery most certainly brings losses and gains into your life… the loss of some favorite foods perhaps, or the loss of the emotional comfort you got from food. The weight loss provides gains in mobility, improvements in health and the opportunity to engage in activities you enjoy! Gains and losses. Worth thinking about! And that's what this episode is all about! Let's get started! Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Gain While You Lose online classPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Boy, did I learn a lot of great information in this interview with Katie Chapmon, Registered Dietician, who specializes not only in working with bariatric patients, but also in helping people understand their gut biome and how imbalances in our guts can wreak havoc on how we feel on a daily basis and with our overall health! Listen in and learn things like what the differences are between prebiotics, probiotics, and symbiotics and how you know if you need to take these supplements and if you do need them, which ones? Learn how to address bloating, gas and intestinal health! The more we know about our bodies, the more in control of our health we can be! Let's get started with Katie! Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Katie Chapmon, RD: https://www.katiechapmon.com/Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

The last three episodes of the podcast have focused on Diane Petrella's fantastic book, Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors. The core of the information in these episodes has been trauma resulting from childhood neglect or abuse. There is a great deal of misunderstanding when it comes to what trauma is exactly … what kinds of actions or behaviors define neglect and what specifically counts as abuse? Far too many people who have experienced neglect or abuse as children are not emotionally ready or prepared to acknowledge this and remain in denial about having experienced either themselves. And one of the worst consequences of having been neglected or abused in childhood is becoming an adult who repeats the pattern in that they often neglect or abuse themselves and sometimes others, as well. Let's dig in and get some clarification on these murky topics and see how, if left unaddressed, childhood neglect and trauma can interfere with weight maintenance following surgery and can decrease overall happiness.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Let's pick up where we left off in the last episode, completing the book review of Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors by Diane Patrella. I'll continue sharing insights and wisdom that Diane offers readers to help them heal from emotional eating and from trauma that is likely related to their use of food as a source of comfort. I've gotten great feedback from listeners about the benefits of the past fews episodes and many people have shared that they have purchased Diane's book from Amazon! WAY TO GO! Please be sure to give her a great review on Amazon! Now let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Diane Petrella: https://dianepetrella.com/Diane Petrella, MSW is a clinical social worker and holistic licensed psychotherapist specializing in the effects of childhood trauma, emotional eating, and body confidence. Early in her nearly 40-year career she co-developed the first child sexual abuse treatment program in Rhode Island. She's worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Diane has helped thousands of people overcome early trauma, create a respectful relationship with their body and food, and connect with their inner Wise Self for sustained healing. She is the author of Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors: Trauma-Informed Practices to Nurture a Peaceful Relationship with Your Emotions, Body, and Food. A FREE gift from Diane: Food & Body Freedom: Healing Emotional Eating Mini Coursehttps://dianepetrella.com/trauma-informed-tips-emotional-eating/Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma SurvivorsPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

In the last episode, I interviewed Diane Petrella who wrote this incredible book! Today, I start a thorough book review, sharing with you the insight and wisdom Diane shares with readers to help them heal from emotional eating and from trauma that is likely related to their use of food as a source of comfort. Listen thoughtfully and with an open mind to this episode and discover what information can help you as you proceed in your adventure through the weight loss surgery process. You are sure to find tools in Diane's work to make living a healthy mind and body lifestyle just a little easier! Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Diane Petrella: https://dianepetrella.com/Diane Petrella, MSW is a clinical social worker and holistic licensed psychotherapist specializing in the effects of childhood trauma, emotional eating, and body confidence. Early in her nearly 40-year career she co-developed the first child sexual abuse treatment program in Rhode Island. She's worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Diane has helped thousands of people overcome early trauma, create a respectful relationship with their body and food, and connect with their inner Wise Self for sustained healing. She is the author of Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors: Trauma-Informed Practices to Nurture a Peaceful Relationship with Your Emotions, Body, and Food. A FREE gift from Diane: Food & Body Freedom: Healing Emotional Eating Mini Coursehttps://dianepetrella.com/trauma-informed-tips-emotional-eating/Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma SurvivorsPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

This podcast episode is absolutely one of my favorite ever! It was a complete honor talking with Diane Petrella, author of Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors. Diane has been a therapist for the past 40 years and is a therapist anyone would be fortunate to work with! Her years of experience led to her writing the incredible book, Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors. Not only did I learn some new information reading this book, I was so encouraged by the compassionate, creative strategies Diane presented for dealing with emotional eating. The book is a must read and this interview is a must-share – so please do that and share it with anyone you know who struggles with emotional eating. Let's get started.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Diane Petrella: https://dianepetrella.com/Diane Petrella, MSW is a clinical social worker and holistic licensed psychotherapist specializing in the effects of childhood trauma, emotional eating, and body confidence. Early in her nearly 40-year career she co-developed the first child sexual abuse treatment program in Rhode Island. She's worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Diane has helped thousands of people overcome early trauma, create a respectful relationship with their body and food, and connect with their inner Wise Self for sustained healing. She is the author of Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma Survivors: Trauma-Informed Practices to Nurture a Peaceful Relationship with Your Emotions, Body, and Food. A FREE gift from Diane: Food & Body Freedom: Healing Emotional Eating Mini Coursehttps://dianepetrella.com/trauma-informed-tips-emotional-eating/Healing Emotional Eating for Trauma SurvivorsPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Whether you are getting ready to have bariatric surgery or are one, two or twenty years out from surgery, you can always increase your readiness for ongoing change! Thinking about change and creating change are two different things, as most of us have figured out! Sometimes we talk about making changes but maybe we're not ready to actually follow through with the changes! Are there things about your bariatric lifestyle that you say you'd like to change right now in your present journey? Do you think you're ready? Let's find out…  Listen in and learn about what indicates an actual readiness to change and then get ready to take action… the only real way to bring about lasting change.Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)What Is Readiness for Change? https://positivepsychology.com/readiness-for-change/What Is the GROW Coaching Model?https://lattice.com/library/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-grow-coaching-model#:~:text=The%20name%20is%20an%20acronym,plans%20alongside%20their%20direct%20reports.The Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change) https://sphweb.bumc.bu.edu/otlt/mph-modules/sb/behavioralchangetheories/behavioralchangetheories6.htmlPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

One day I'm going to turn this episode into an ebook… I've had that in the back of my mind for years now, actually! So here you go – a sneak peek at the ebook that will one day be available to one and all! For now, listen to this lighthearted but really relevant comparison between what goes into having bariatric surgery and what goes into having a wedding! While it's a fun and rather funny comparison, the serious message is that planning a wedding is not the same as creating a healthy marriage! Similarly, getting ready for bariatric surgery isn't at all the same as creating and living a post-op healthy lifestyle! Listen in to this episode for some really good … pardon the lame expression, but … really good food for thought! Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

Getting used to the bariatric lifestyle following surgery can be like a full time job! There are bariatric specific vitamins to take at certain times of the day, there's a lot of water to be consumed, more than a lot of protein to take in, movement goals to squeeze into the day, and so much more! It can be overwhelming for sure! As soon as it seems you've gotten into a good routine, the honeymoon bliss takes over and the surgery does its work … the weight seems to fall off and you may slack off from some of the good habits you'd gotten into. Until the worst of the worst happens and not only do you stop losing weight but there are a few pounds of regain every now and then! For many, panic sets in and they feel lost, crying, “I don't know what to do! Where do I start?” The answer, my friends, every time, is at the beginning. Go back to the basics: the bariatric basics. That's what this episode is all about. If you're new to bariatric surgery or if you're many years out from your procedure, a good review of the basics is always helpful. Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

BariAftercare's movement contributor, Kelsey, who is a personal trainer and Burn Boot Camp instructor, met a post-op who is shaking things up in the best way, not only at the gym but in her life as a mom, a teacher, and through her posts on social media! In this episode, Amy highlights the fact that each of us is born to shine in this world! Listen as Amy shares how she made the choice to create a life rich in non-scale victories, how she shares her wisdom, her positive attitude and her understanding that each day is filled with difficult moments that we can work to handle in a healthy way because we CAN do hard things! Both Amy and Kelsey share the reasons they chose to overcome the physical and emotional hurdles they faced as they began their movement routines and how the accomplishments they experienced in their physical workouts translated to improvements in their overall confidence and self-esteem, which in turn, led to positive changes in other areas of their lives! We can all learn some great life lessons in this episode. Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

The Butterfly Effect. You may or may not have heard of this, but the butterfly is commonly recognized in the world of bariatrics to represent the transformation people go through as they modify their bodies through significant weight loss. The transformation of a butterfly is sometimes thought of as being symbolic of rebirth and personal growth. Transformation is thought to represent self-discovery and the ability to change and evolve. When people go through significant weight loss following surgery or with the aid of medications, they have the opportunity to experience either modification, or changes in their body, or they can choose transformation, a whole person personal growth opportunity that brings with it improved self-confidence, increased awareness of healthy personal power and a host of life adventures, along with the weight loss. And yet – transformation requires much more effort than modification. Which will you choose? Listen in for more information about the differences between modification and transformation!  Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)The Bert Show podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bert-show/id1498200241Dr. Dharius Daniels https://dhariusdaniels.com/Please subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

This week I conclude this two-part series on establishing and utilizing a sense of personal power that will facilitate you in defining and reaching your goals, not only related to your bariatric adventure, but your life beyond bariatrics, as well! Having a healthy sense of personal power is an attitude, a way of approaching all areas of your life, with confidence and a can-do, will-do attitude. Learn what some professionals have to say about developing and demonstrating the amazing way of life associated with personal power. Use YOUR personal power to make it easier to maintain weight loss and live the life you dream of creating!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton) https://procarenow.com/?ref=conniestapleton9 Ways for You to Keep Your Personal Power by Amy Morin https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201601/9-ways-you-keep-your-personal-powerStepping into Your Personal Power by Sarah-Len Mutiwasekwa https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-upside-things/202006/stepping-your-personal-power“Laws” of Personal Power by George Everly, Jr.https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-disaster-strikes-inside-disaster-psychology/202405/laws-of-personal-powerPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

As part of the full online BariAftercare program, we have a word of the week that corresponds to our word of the year, which is accountability. One of the words we recently discussed is the word POWER. This word has a lot of definitions, which I hadn't thought about until I actually looked on dictionary.com. For our purposes, we are talking about PERSONAL POWER, which is the ability you have within yourself to create the life you want for yourself. UNLESS… you don't believe you do … have that sort of power within. We need to develop the skills and self-esteem to create and use our own sense of personal power if we are to create the life we want. The life I want includes physical health, of course, as health truly is wealth, as they say. In addition to a healthy body, I want healthy relationships and a healthy sense of being disciplined, to be accountable and follow through when I say I am going to do something, and to believe in myself enough to carry on with the going gets tough! Listen to this episode and think about your own sense of personal power and how you use that in your bariatric journey!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton) https://procarenow.com/?ref=conniestapleton9 Ways for You to Keep Your Personal Power by Amy Morin https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201601/9-ways-you-keep-your-personal-powerStepping into Your Personal Power by Sarah-Len Mutiwasekwa https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-upside-things/202006/stepping-your-personal-power“Laws” of Personal Power by George Everly, Jr.https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-disaster-strikes-inside-disaster-psychology/202405/laws-of-personal-powerPlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

In this episode I pick up where we left off last week, only in this episode I provide a number of five to ten-minute practical exercises you can use to help ensure your long-term success as a post-op. These exercises are ones the author of Mental Toughness for Young Adults suggests for kids so if they are easy enough for kids…. You and I can certainly manage them! AND these exercises are directly related to skills post-ops can use to reach their long-term goals, not just related to the bariatric aspect of their lives, but in all areas! Tune in for some amazing tools you can learn and practice in five-minute increments! Invite your friends and family members to join you and grow together! Let's get started!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton) https://procarenow.com/?ref=conniestapletonMental Toughness for Young Athletes by Moses and Troy HornePlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.

This episode has been so much fun to record! I have been reading a book called Mental Toughness for Young Athletes to two of my grandsons. As I've been reading it aloud to them, I've found myself regularly saying, “I need to share this with my bariatric patients!” And so I did! In this episode, I share the beginning of the information that the authors have prepared for young kids to develop some mental and emotional toughness to get through the struggles and “failures” related to playing sports. My daughter, their mother, reminds us, “Baseball is a game of failure,” meaning that even professional players strike out more often than they hit the ball. Kids need to learn not to turn these “normal” failures in sports into negative self-talk or the fast track to low self-esteem. This relates to bariatric patients, many having felt like “failures” in the past when it comes to losing and regaining weight, struggling with weight fluctuations after surgery, continuing to struggle with the behavior changes required to live a healthy post-op life, and comparing themselves to others in the bariatric community. Join me for the first part of what has turned into a two-part podcast series and learn what mental toughness for young athletes and life as a post-op patient have in common!Resources:BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.comConnie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.comBariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercareBariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercareKevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/peopleInstagram: @cale101 (Caleshia Haynes)Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton) https://procarenow.com/?ref=conniestapletonMental Toughness for Young Athletes by Moses and Troy HornePlease subscribe to the show and rate it on Apple Podcasts, download free information at www.conniestapletonphd.com, and follow me on Twitter (@cstapletonphd), Instagram (@cstapletonphd), YouTube, LinkedIn, and on Facebook.