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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
Are you struggling to feel "at home" in your body after weight loss surgery? You're not alone — and you're not broken. In this powerful bariatric support group episode, we dive deep into the emotional and psychological shifts that follow rapid weight loss after bariatric surgery. Known as identity shock, this phenomenon can impact your self-esteem, confidence, and even your behavior and relationships. Join Brenda Hoehn, MSN, BSN, RN, CHTP, and Aimee Rothe, BSN, RN, CBN, CEN, TCRN, as they discuss real patient experiences, clinical insights, and practical support tools for navigating post-op body image, mental health, and the emotional journey of life after bariatric surgery. ✅ Key Topics Covered: What is identity shock after weight loss surgery? How body changes affect mental health and confidence Emotional support for gastric sleeve & gastric bypass patients Strategies for reconnecting with your new self after bariatric transformation Peer support resources for post-op patients
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 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 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 336What's the real secret to sustainable fitness, flexible nutrition, and body confidence—without losing your mind or social life?
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?
Are your bariatric labs telling you the full story about your metabolic health? In this BariConnected episode, we're joined by Kate Foose, a passionate bariatric physician assistant, to dive deep into what post-op labs like HOMA-IR, CRP, fasting insulin, and A1C are really revealing — especially when it comes to insulin resistance, blood sugar regulation, and weight regain prevention. Whether you're a bariatric patient, healthcare professional, or someone using GLP-1s for medical weight loss, this episode is packed with science-backed insights, lifestyle strategies, and expert support from Banana Bariatrics and ProCare Health
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?
Book a Free Clarity Call Here Have you ever felt like no matter what you do, the thoughts, cravings, and urges about food just won't stop? That's food noise — and if you've ever felt powerless against it, this episode will give you your power back. So many women regain weight after weight loss surgery not because their pouch failed, but because the food noise never got quiet. They believe the noise is louder than their willpower, they feel like giving in is the only option, and they're disappointed to find that surgery didn't erase the chatter in their head. But here's what I want you to understand: food noise isn't just happening to you. It's something you're creating — through thoughts, emotions, and habits — and that means you also have the power to quiet it. In this episode, I'll break down what food noise really is, why surgery doesn't solve it, and how learning to manage it is a crucial part of the transformational journey. You'll walk away with a new perspective that puts you back in control, so you can lose the regain, follow your plan without the tug-of-war, and finally feel peace around food again. Because you deserve freedom. You deserve peace. And you deserve to love food and love your life.
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
Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I just love food too much”? If you've struggled with weight regain after weight loss surgery (WLS), you're not alone. Many women carry this belief — and I've said it myself. But here's the tough truth: when “loving food” becomes your identity, it can quietly sabotage your success after bariatric surgery. Weight loss surgery can change your stomach, but it doesn't change your brain. That's why so many post-op patients still struggle with food noise, emotional eating, and slider foods like chips, ice cream, or soft breads. These habits slip around restriction, leading to grazing, overeating, and eventually weight regain. In this episode, I'll share: Why simply “loving food” isn't the real problem. How your identity around food is formed — and why surgery can't fix it. The hidden connection between food obsession, emotional eating, and WLS regain. How to reframe your identity so you can enjoy food without losing control. By the end, you'll see that you don't have to choose between loving food and living a healthy, confident life after bariatric surgery. You can enjoy food and stay in control — and I'll show you how to start. Click here if you are ready to book your Free Clarity Call
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.
Regaining weight after weight loss surgery can feel devastating. The scale goes up, and suddenly the shame, the doubt, and the fear of failure all come rushing back. But here's the truth: regain does not mean failure. In this episode, I'm breaking down the four most common reasons women believe regain equals failure — unrealistic expectations, thinking there's a time limit, old shame stories, and expecting surgery to be the full fix. More importantly, I'll show you how to stop believing those lies and start seeing regain for what it really is: feedback, not failure. If you've ever felt stuck, hopeless, or like you've ruined your chance, this episode will help you see your journey in a whole new way. Ready to take the next step? Book a free clarity call here.
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.
Whether you're considering bariatric surgery, recently post-op, or years into your weight loss journey, questions about food, hunger, and confidence after surgery are completely normal—and you're not alone! In this episode of BariConnected, bariatric dietitian Steph Wagner MS RDN dives deep into post-surgery nutrition guidance and food clarity at every stage post-op, helping you navigate pre-op preparation, the first 6 months after surgery, long-term maintenance, and everything in between. Steph breaks down the common food challenges post-bariatric surgery, the mindset shifts needed in each stage, and practical strategies to rebuild confidence when life gets busy or the scale stalls. If you've ever wondered, “Should I be eating this by now?” or “Am I doing this right?”, this episode is packed with actionable advice, expert insights, and encouragement for every step of your weight loss surgery journey. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Patient priorities at each post-op stage: pre-surgery, 0-6 months, 6 months-2 years, 2-5 years, and 5+ years post-op Common questions and guidance for food, portions, and mindset at every stage How to identify normal struggles versus when to seek additional support or professional help Tips for breaking through plateaus, managing rebound weight, and rebuilding confidence around food About Steph Wagner MS RDN: Steph is the founder of Bariatric Food Coach, a comprehensive nutrition library and support community for bariatric patients established in 2015. With over a decade of experience, she has helped thousands of patients navigate post-op food challenges, break through weight loss plateaus, and feel confident about their food choices again. Grab her free ebook, Food Clarity at Every Stage Post-Op, for a practical guide to living your best life before and after bariatric surgery.
Ready to break free from the chains of obesity? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bill Streetman, a renowned bariatric athlete and motivational speaker, who shares his life-changing story of losing 234 pounds through gastric bypass (RNY). Discover how his weight loss transformation wasn't just about diet and exercise, but a complete mental, physical, and spiritual overhaul. ⚡ From surviving obesity to becoming the 2017 Male BariAthlete of the Year, Bill dives deep into: ✅ The real motivations behind weight loss surgery success ✅ The emotional and mental challenges post-op patients often overlook ✅ The concept of Living by Design and Election — taking control of your life's direction ✅ How to build an intentional lifestyle filled with energy, creativity, and purpose
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.
Why do I sabotage my weight loss—even when I'm trying so hard? If you've asked yourself this, you're not alone. In this powerful session with wellness expert Rodolfo Alvarez, we uncover the real reasons behind self-sabotage in weight loss. From emotional eating triggers, limiting beliefs, and the fear of success, to hidden subconscious behaviors, this video will help you make sense of it all. Learn how to identify the mental blocks holding you back and discover tools that support long-term success, including mindset shifts and practical steps to end the cycle. Whether you're just starting or have been stuck in a loop of dieting and disappointment, this episode is packed with insight, hope, and actionable strategies.
Unlock the true meaning of self-care and transform your wellness journey with insights from Dr. Steven Reyes, EdD, in this eye-opening episode of Bari Connected—sponsored by ProCare Health, your partner in post-bariatric wellness. In “The Nature of Self-Care”, we dive into:
Welcome to the newest episode of Bari Connected, brought to you by ProCare Health!
Struggling with fat loss and tired of diet myths?
Join BariConnected and ProCare Health for an empowering episode featuring the Wellness Warriors—a panel of bariatric experts and passionate voices in the weight loss surgery (WLS) community. Whether you're fresh into your journey or navigating years post-op, this discussion is packed with practical tips and heartfelt inspiration.
Absolutely! Here's a YouTube-friendly SEO-optimized description with your main keyword “Just Be You Awards” used early on, a natural flow, and infused with that OSLP magic
On the latest Bari Connected episode, sponsored by ProCare Health, brings you an exclusive episode featuring Mel & Kellie from Our Sleeved Life Podcast as we dive into the Just Be You Bariatric Awards Show!
Welcome to Episode 79 of the Bariatric Nutrition Coach podcast, In this podcast, I'm joined by Bailey from @blondiee_vsg, a VSG patient who has been on her weight loss journey since 2020. We're diving deep into the role of movement, exercise, and mental health after bariatric surgery. Bailey shares how she used surgery as a total lifestyle reset, her experience with weight loss and maintenance, and how she shifted her mindset from exercise as a form of punishment to movement as a way to improve mental and physical well-being. Links and Resources: 1. Follow Bailey on Instagram @blondiee_vsg2. Apply to work with me today3. Sneak peek on The Bariatric Nutrition Bootcamp Video Here4. Follow me on Instagram5. Download FREE my mini course - Supercharge Your WLS Success Starter Kit6. Visit The Bariatric Nutrition Coach Website to learn more7. ASK JANE.Have a question or want to suggest a topic? Ask Jane: Submit HereMake sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on any of my podcasts coming up soon. And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a rating and a review? Thanks!GENERAL ADVICE WARNING This podcast delivers general advice and is not intended to provide treatment in anyway. Please consult with your medical team for personalized advice.