We are Kellie and Mel and we have both had VSG! Mel is 5 years post-op and Kellie is 9 months. We both have leaned on each other for support in this crazy journey and we love to talk about all things WLS!
The Our Sleeved Life podcast is a must-listen for anyone considering or going through weight loss surgery. Hosted by best friends Kelly and Melanie, this podcast provides an open and honest look at the journey of weight loss surgery. As someone who may not know anyone else who has had this procedure, listening to Kelly and Melanie feels like having a conversation with close friends. They are warm, funny, and relatable, which helps create a sense of camaraderie and support for listeners.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the wealth of information it provides about weight loss surgery. Whether you are in the pre-op phase or post-op, Kelly and Melanie cover a wide range of topics that address the various stages of the process. They share their own experiences, as well as invite guests who provide valuable insights into different aspects of weight loss surgery. This creates a well-rounded and informative podcast that answers many questions and addresses common concerns that individuals may have.
Additionally, the authenticity of Kelly and Melanie shines through in every episode. They do not shy away from discussing both the positive and negative aspects of weight loss surgery. This level of transparency is refreshing because it enables listeners to have a realistic understanding of what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Their unfiltered opinions contribute to the genuine atmosphere created by the hosts.
While there are many positive aspects to The Our Sleeved Life podcast, some listeners may find that it lacks in specific medical details about weight loss surgery. Although Kelly and Melanie often share their personal experiences, they may not delve deep into technical information or provide extensive medical advice. However, it is important to note that this podcast serves more as a platform for personal stories rather than a comprehensive guide to weight loss surgery.
In conclusion, The Our Sleeved Life podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in or undergoing weight loss surgery. Kelly and Melanie's genuine approach makes listeners feel supported throughout their journey. The informative and relatable content, as well as the entertaining banter between the hosts, creates a podcast that is not only educational but also enjoyable to listen to. Whether you are seeking motivation, inspiration, or simply want to feel less alone in your weight loss journey, this podcast is worth tuning into.
Epi 12Welcome back to The Cutting Edge Podcast with host Mel featuring Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS (plastic surgeon) and Ashlyn Douglass Barnes, LCSW (therapist and post weight loss patient). In this episode of our Fear Series, we tackle one of the biggest hurdles before body contouring and plastic surgery after major weight loss: the fear of the unknown and the fear of regret.You'll hear what regret actually looks like in real life (hint: it's far less common than the fear of it), how unrealistic expectations can fuel anxiety, why “post op blues” can happen even when everything is going well, and what you can do before surgery to feel grounded, prepared, and confident. We also talk about how people treat you differently in a smaller body, how confidence can impact relationships, and why choosing the right procedure (and the right provider) matters if you want results you won't second guess.If you're researching tummy tuck, skin removal surgery, body contouring after weight loss, 360 lipo, breast lift or breast augmentation, or you're navigating the mental side of transformation, this one is for you.Watch nextIf you're new here, start the Fear Series from the beginning and then work your way through the topics in order for the full picture.What you'll learn in this episode• Why fear of regret is more common than actual regret• The top reasons people feel regret after plastic surgery (and how to avoid them)• How swelling, pain, recovery fatigue, and needing help can trigger “blues”• How to set realistic expectations for healing and final results• Why non invasive “skin tightening” options usually do not solve loose skin after major weight loss• How weight stability affects long term results• How body changes can shift attention, confidence, and relationships• How to choose the right procedure and avoid “internet validation” traps• What board certification and proper training really mean in aestheticsChapters0:18 Intro and Fear Series focus: fear of the unknown1:07 Fear of regret vs actual regret3:07 What plastic surgery means after major weight loss4:19 Post op blues, swelling, recovery expectations6:19 Surgery day realities and “the flip” discussion12:21 Picking the wrong procedure and online trends14:20 Beware unqualified aesthetic providers15:18 Loose skin facts after major weight loss18:04 Fear of social judgment and relationship changes21:46 How people treat you differently after weight loss27:47 Chasing perfection vs unrealistic expectations31:27 The viral “RGB implant” moment and internet misinformation35:26 Implant sizing and why many people wish they went bigger39:53 Weight stability, timing, and how surgeons “read” readiness44:49 Fear of regret and decision making stylesFeatured expertsDr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonFellowship trained in plastic surgery after massive weight lossInstagram: @drbodycontouringAshlyn Douglass Barnes, LCSWTherapist and plastic surgery patient after major weight lossInstagram: @ashlynchange4life2012Host: MelHost of Our Sleeved Life Podcast and Creator of Just Be You AwardsInstagram: @oursleevedlifepodcastWebsite: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.comDisclaimerThis episode is for education and support only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your surgeon and healthcare team for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Epi 11Let's talk about the fear that no one wants to admit out loud — the fear of dying under anesthesia, waking up during surgery, or something going horribly wrong
Epi 10Planning a surgery-cation?
Epi 345Welcome back to Our Sleeved Life Podcast! In this episode, host Mel sits down with Jaylin (MSN, RN), a resilience coach and nurse (and POP expert) to talk about the real reason New Year motivation fades and how to keep showing up for yourself long after the “new year, new me” energy is gone.If you've been feeling burnt out, stuck in all or nothing thinking, overwhelmed by ADHD productivity spirals, or frustrated because the scale isn't moving, this conversation is for you. Jaylin breaks down how to reframe burnout, build small habits that actually stick, lower stress and cortisol, and track progress using non scale victories so you don't quit when results feel slow.We also get into practical tools you can start today like journaling, habit stacking, creating a “top 3” priority list, scheduling your doom scroll, and building a support system so you don't try to do your health journey alone.In this episode, we cover• Why motivation fades in January and how to stop the drop off• Burnout signs vs failure mindset and how to reframe it• “Consistently beats intensity” habit building for real life• How to handle ADHD overwhelm and stop task hopping• How stress and high cortisol can impact weight, sleep, skin, and hormones• How to lower cortisol through hydration, movement, sleep, sunlight, breathwork, and boundaries• Why the scale lies and how to track non scale wins that prove progress• How to stay on budget with food and build high protein meals without guessing• Why support and community matter for long term successWork with POPIf you're traveling for surgery or you want more support before and after a procedure, POP focuses on holistic recovery support including mental health, nutrition, and recovery planning.Connect with us
Epi 9Struggling with loose skin or body changes after major weight loss?
Epi 344What if the real transformation after weight loss surgery isn't physical — but mental? In this deeply honest and empowering episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, therapist and bariatric patient Kristen French reveals the emotional side of WLS no one talks about — and how to retrain your brain after surgery.If you've ever struggled with emotional eating, self-sabotage, or feeling disconnected from your post-op body — this episode is for you.
Epi 8In this powerful episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, Mel and Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes (LCSW & bariatric + skin removal patient) sit down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar E. Beidas to talk about the things no one prepares you for after massive weight loss and plastic surgery.
Epi 344If you're post-op and still grinding on the treadmill… stop right there!
Epi 7 What does plastic surgery really feel like after the operating room lights go off?In this deeply personal and medically-informed episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, we talk openly about the pain, fear, medications, and misconceptions surrounding recovery after procedures like tummy tucks, liposuction, muscle repair, and 360 body lifts. Our host Mel, 10 years post-bariatric surgery, knows that the journey doesn't end with weight loss. For many patients, plastic surgery is the next chapter, and with it comes a new kind of pain—both physical and emotional. She's joined by co-host Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and multi-round plastic surgery patient, who brings both professional and lived experience to this candid conversation. Together with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar E. Beidas, we go beyond the usual “pain scale” talk. We explore how ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols are shifting how pain is managed, why opioids aren't always the answer, and what realistic expectations look like—especially for bariatric patients who may face higher risk with certain meds. This episode is a rare blend of medical expertise, psychological insight, and real-world experience. Whether you're planning your first cosmetic surgery or supporting someone through recovery, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of: Why some patients describe the pain as “brutal” or “burning” even weeks after surgery How medications like Gabapentin, Valium, and Tylenol are used strategically What it means to overestimate your pain tolerance The emotional pressure to recover quickly or "tough it out" How trauma, weight history, and shame can impact healing We don't sugarcoat anything—and that's the point. Because your recovery should be based on facts, not filters.
Epi 341 In this episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with Rebecca Robbins to explore the powerful connection between ADHD, dopamine, food, and weight struggles. Rebecca shares her journey through diet culture, grief, weight loss surgery, insulin resistance, and finally finding answers that helped her understand her body instead of fighting it. This conversation breaks down how ADHD affects eating behaviors, emotional regulation, executive function, and why willpower has never been the problem. Mel and Rebecca also discuss post surgery stalls, GLP-1 medications, rejection sensitivity dysphoria, and practical ADHD friendly strategies that support long term health. If you've struggled with weight loss, regain, emotional eating, or feel like your brain works differently, this episode will help you feel seen, validated, and informed. You can find the Our Sleeved Life Podcast on all major podcast platforms and on YouTube. For bonus content, exclusive episodes, community support, and deeper conversations, you can become a Patron at patreon.com/oslp. Resources and helpful links mentioned in this episode are included below. Adult ADHD assessment:https://add.org/adhd-test/ My email:rebeccarobbinsciaching@gmail.com Other resources:https://add.org/https://www.additudemag.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Epi 340Feeling triggered, lonely, or stuck during the holidays? You're not alone—and this episode is here to help you THRIVE
EPI 6On this episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, Mel is joined by bariatric therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW, and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas for a deep, honest, and much-needed conversation about something patients rarely talk about out loud:What do you do when the people you expected to support your plastic surgery… don't?This episode breaks down the real reasons partners, spouses, and family members struggle with your decision — and trust us, it's almost never the reason they're saying out loud. We dig into the psychology, the fears, the passive-aggressive comments, the emotional triggers, and the communication breakdowns that happen before and after surgery.Whether you're preparing for skin removal, reconstructive surgery, or any post-weight loss procedure, this episode gives you the mindset tools and practical strategies to protect your peace, get the support you deserve, and feel empowered every step of the way.
EPI: 339Today on Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with Kimberly for a powerful and emotional patient story you'll never forget. After surviving long-haul COVID, battling cardiomyopathy, going through a hysterectomy, and reaching her highest weight of 360 lbs, Kimberly made the life-changing decision to undergo VSG (Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy).Now, 14 months later, she has lost 145 pounds, reversed major health risks, and completely transformed her daily life.In this episode, we dive into:• What long-haul COVID really feels like• How cardiomyopathy and high blood pressure became Kimberly's turning point• The emotional toll of weight gain after hysterectomy• The bariatric surgery approval process and choosing the right surgeon• Stress eating, emotional triggers, and food addiction• Building habits during the honeymoon phase• Life-changing non-scale victories• How therapy and mental health play into sustainable weight loss• Daily weigh-ins, accountability tools, and managing fear of regainWhether you're researching weight-loss surgery, considering VSG, looking for real patient experiences, or trying to understand obesity and post-op mental health, this episode is packed with insight, hope, and relatable moments.Watch the full conversation to learn how Kimberly reclaimed her freedom, her mobility, and her life.Listen on all major podcast platforms + watch the full video on YouTube! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Epi 5Think you're ready for plastic surgery? Think again.In this eye-opening episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, Mel sits down with Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes and Dr. Omar E. Beidas (MD, FACS) to reveal the raw truth about post-op recovery — the stuff you won't hear during a consult.Whether you're prepping for lipo 360, skin removal, or bariatric plastic surgery, this is the real talk you need.
Epi 338In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Jefe shares his raw and unfiltered story — from battling trauma and unhealthy food habits to reclaiming his health after gastric sleeve surgery.
Epi 4Considering plastic surgery after major weight loss? Not sure where to start or what procedures actually give the best results? In this episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, host Mel dives deep with expert plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas, MD FACS and licensed clinical social worker Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW, to unpack the essential truths about body contouring, extended tummy tucks, 360 procedures, muscle repair, and avoiding regret after surgery.You'll learn:✅ How to choose the right plastic surgery for your body goals✅ What surgeons should be telling you (but often don't)✅ Extended vs. standard tummy tuck: which is best for massive weight loss?✅ Why lipo is underrated and cool sculpting is often a waste✅ Real talk on insurance, dog ears, belly buttons, and scar placement✅ The dangers of choosing unqualified cosmetic surgeons✅ The surprising role of visceral fat and how it impacts your surgery planWhether you're prepping for surgery or already navigating revision procedures, this episode is packed with value, lived experience, and expert clinical insights that will save you time, money, and heartache.
Epi 337 In this value-packed episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, host Mel welcomes licensed dietitian Melanie Crum from Pop Recovery Systems to dive deep into strategies for surviving (and thriving!) during the holiday season after weight loss surgery. From emotional eating triggers to smart holiday portion control, they share powerful advice for anyone navigating Thanksgiving after gastric sleeve, bypass, or bariatric revision.
Epi 336What's the real secret to sustainable fitness, flexible nutrition, and body confidence—without losing your mind or social life?
Epi 3Welcome back to The Cutting Edge! In this episode, Mel sits down with Dr. Omar Beidas, MD FACS (Plastic Surgeon) and Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW (Bariatric & Trauma Therapist) for a deep dive on one of the most overlooked steps in plastic-surgery readiness after weight loss: protein intake, healing nutrition, and how your body actually recovers after surgery.If you're preparing for skin removal surgery, tummy tuck, arm lift, back lift, breast lift, lipo, or ANY post-weight-loss plastics… this episode is your new bible.We cover the exact protein targets, why low protein causes wound-healing complications, how seromas form, how drains work, why compression affects blood pressure, and why your surgeon keeps yelling “Get your protein in!”Plus: weird protein sources, vegetarian struggles, bug-based protein (yes, really), GLP-1 nausea tips, food noise vs cravings, and why bariatric patients struggle with solid protein.
Epi 2Are you truly ready for plastic surgery after weight loss?In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we sit down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW to answer the biggest post-op question:
Epi 335New from Our Sleeved Life PodcastWelcome to the newest episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast! Today, we sit down with Josie Wilson, a bariatric patient who's 3.5 years post-op — and she's keeping it real about life after surgery.This isn't the before-and-after fantasy. This is what happens when the honeymoon phase ends — and the emotional, physical, and mental battles begin.
Epi 1Welcome to the first episode of our NEW series on The Sleeved Life Podcast!If you've had bariatric surgery, are considering plastic surgery after weight loss, or struggling with mental health during your transformation — this is for you.
Epi 337 In this value-packed episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, host Mel welcomes licensed dietitian Melanie Crum from Pop Recovery Systems to dive deep into strategies for surviving (and thriving!) during the holiday season after weight loss surgery.From emotional eating triggers to smart holiday portion control, they share powerful advice for anyone navigating Thanksgiving after gastric sleeve, bypass, or bariatric revision.
Epi 334Are carbs the enemy—or the answer—after weight loss surgery?In this explosive episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, host Mel sits down with bariatric dietitian Kim Tirapelle, MS, RD, CSSD, to uncover the real science behind carb intake after bariatric surgery. Learn how carbohydrates can actually help you build muscle, prevent fatigue, and fuel your post-op workouts—without sabotaging your weight loss. If you've ever felt guilty for eating a potato or scared of adding fruit back into your diet, this episode is for you
Epi 333Can you imagine going through weight loss surgery and never tracking protein or water—not once? In this jaw-dropping clip from Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with Jenna from The Sleeve Cub, who reveals how she lost over 100 pounds after gastric sleeve surgery without measuring a single ounce or gram. Instead, she learned to listen to her body, trust her hunger cues, and rebuild her relationship with food after VSG.
Epi 332What do most bariatric surgeons NOT tell you about reflux, GERD, and hidden hernias?
Epi 331 Did you know up to 75% of patients experience weight regain after weight loss surgery (WLS)?
Epi 330 In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Jess—also known as @Time4Change365—shares his deeply personal journey through bariatric surgery, weight regain, and rediscovery through GLP-1 medication.
Epi 329How can Let Them Theory help your mental health after weight loss surgery?
Epi 328Welcome back to Our Sleeved Life Podcast!In today's empowering episode, Mel sits down with Jatoyia Armour, founder of Bariatric Paths, to explore her life-changing gastric bypass journey. From gastric sleeve vs. bypass surgery comparisons to the raw truth about post-op support groups, skin removal surgery, and bariatric mental health, we cover it all. Discover how Jatoyia went from 387 pounds to dropping 178+ pounds and creating a positive, non-judgmental support system for those navigating bariatric weight loss surgery. We also dive into: How bariatric communities can feel isolating & judgmental What led her to create BariatricPaths.com Overcoming mom guilt and balancing bariatric lifestyle with motherhood The emotional and mental readiness for plastic surgery after weight loss What it really feels like after losing over 170 pounds If you're preparing for or recovering from gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, looking for bariatric support networks, or exploring weight loss surgery options, this episode is packed with authentic insights
Epi 327The Nutrition Secrets Every Bariatric Patient Needs to Know (from a Registered Dietitian!)In this transformative episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, host Mel sits down with Registered Dietitian Andres Ayesta to uncover the REAL truth behind weight loss after bariatric surgery. From the #1 mindset shift to sustainable post-op nutrition strategies, this episode is your blueprint for long-term success — whether you've had a gastric sleeve, bypass, or taking a GLP1.
Epi 326This ONE mindset shift changed everything in their weight loss journey. In this powerful episode of the OSLP, we reveal the mental transformation that helped real people achieve sustainable weight loss after bariatric surgery. Whether you're exploring all complications that can happen and has happened to Stephanie - Bariatric Warrior.Join us as we share vulnerable, authentic stories from the bariatric community, and dig deep into what truly drives long-term weight loss success. From emotional eating and identity shifts to real strategies for staying motivated — it's all here.
Epi 325Emotional Eating, Hormones & Digestion After Surgery – Real Talk with Amber & Shea Why do we emotionally eat even after surgery? What's really going on with our hormones and digestion? In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we sit down with two incredible guests — Amber
Epi: 324 Welcome back, OSLP family! In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we welcome Rob Rafanan from The Weighting Table—aka @theweightingtable, @weightinginvain, and @trans4m.bariatric.bodybuilding—to share his raw and inspiring bariatric journey. Rob opens up about his personal struggles with morbid obesity, chronic health conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and how hitting nearly 400 pounds forced him to reevaluate everything—from his physical health to being a present father.We dive deep into:How Rob battled hypertension, sleep apnea, and back pain while trying to maintain a careerWhat it was like living as a "present but absentee" dad and how that shifted after surgeryWhy he finally said yes to Roux-en-Y (RNY) gastric bypass surgery after years of failed attempts to lose weight on his ownThe moment a chiropractor changed his life with one simple, hard questionHis journey through Canada's bariatric surgery systemLosing over 100 pounds with cycling and dealing with setbacks like tendonitisHow mindset coaching, therapy, and practicing gratitude and mindfulness helped reframe his post-op journeyWhy emotional eating isn't shameful—and how to build healthier coping tools that work long-termThe role of community support, Radical Body Transformation prep, and learning how to balance discipline with real lifeRob and Mel discuss everything from post-op plastic surgery to how guilt and generational trauma affect weight regain and emotional eating triggers. You'll walk away with real-life strategies for managing setbacks, building resilience, and redefining your relationship with food.
From Oxygen Tanks to Jeans & Joy: Lashandria's Powerful Bariatric Surgery JourneyIn this deeply personal and transformational episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we sit down with Lashandria Peek—known as @GracefullyFitJourney—who shares her incredible path from over 578 pounds to reclaiming her independence, her mobility, and her joy.
How One Shake Could Simplify Your Entire Morning RoutineIn this inspiring episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with Michael Tecku, the creator of Momentum Shake—a revolutionary protein shake designed to simplify your health, optimize your nutrition, and support bariatric recovery
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) are reshaping how we treat obesity — but there's so much confusion and stigma. That's why we sat down with leading obesity specialist Dr. Spencer Nadolsky for an honest, empowering conversation.We break down how GLP-1s actually work, why food noise is real, and what people aren't being told about compounded semaglutide, weight regain after bariatric surgery, and long-term success.If you've felt frustrated, misunderstood, or stuck — this episode is for you. Whether you're post-op, on medication, or considering your options, this episode brings science, support, and real talk together.
In this episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast (OSLP), we're diving into the wonderful world of food, nutrition, and all things meal planning!
From 407 lbs to free, Jessica's bariatric journey is more than just weight loss—it's about reclaiming life, identity, and joy.
Murph's story isn't just about pounds lost—it's about reclaiming life. In this deeply personal episode of The Obese to Beast Podcast by OSLP (Our Sleeved Life Podcast), we dive into Murph's rollercoaster journey through weight loss surgery, mental health challenges, and the truth behind transforming your body as a man in today's world.
“I couldn't even walk around the block.” That's what Frank said before he had gastric sleeve surgery.Now? He's down over 100 pounds, mentally stronger than ever, and finally reclaiming his life.
She kept her weight loss surgery a secret—even from her kids. Now she's down 140 lbs and living life on her terms. In this powerful new episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, co-host Mel (@melunfiltered.vsg) sits down with Staci Renee (@stacirenee82)—a hilarious, fierce, and inspiring single mom of 3 from Kentucky who shares her raw and real VSG transformation story.
Thinking about plastic surgery after weight loss? Wondering if you're mentally ready for the change?In this powerful episode of Bari Connected, host Mel sits down with Dr. Ashley Steinberg, a renowned board-certified plastic surgeon from Houston, to dive into everything you NEED to know before going under the knife post-bariatric surgery.
Bariatric regain is real—and it's time we talk about it. In this raw and relatable episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with a bariatric therapist Ashlyn Douglass Barnes to unpack the emotional rollercoaster that follows weight loss surgery (WLS).
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