From 300 lbs to Competitive Bodybuilding: Jessica’s Gastric Bypass Success Story

What does it truly take to reverse severe sleep apnea, throw away your CPAP machine, and drop nearly 200 pounds? In this incredibly raw and inspiring patient story, your host Mel sits down with Arthur Shadwick @mypurposefit to talk about what life is really like on both sides of bariatric surgery. Arthur opens up about growing up as a heavy child, hitting his highest weight of 440 pounds, and making the life-saving decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery. This conversation dives straight into the nitty-gritty things nobody warns you about from pushing through the liquid and pureed phases to tackling food addiction head-on and completely changing generational health habits for his kids. Arthur shares how his deep faith, major mindset shifts, and a rock-solid support system completely transformed his relationship with fitness, family, and food. Whether you are considering weight loss surgery, currently in the pre-op phase, newly post-op, or looking to get back on track, this episode is a safe space packed with encouragement, lots of laughs, and pure inspiration. Grab your water, pull up a seat on the winner's bench, and let's get into Arthur's incredible transformation! What we're diving into today: The health wake-up call: Facing severe sleep apnea at 440 lbs. Choosing between VSG and Gastric Bypass (RNY). Overcoming early post-op mental hurdles, gas pain, and learning how to eat again. The reality of food addiction, identifying triggers, and breaking old mental loops. Balancing family life, keeping kid snacks in the house, and staying accountable. Heartwarming Non-Scale Victories (NSVs): Throwing away the CPAP machine and running with his daughter. Finding his "Purpose Fit" through movement, routine, and serving others. Follow Arthur’s Journey: 📸 Instagram: @mypurposefit Connect with Mel & The OSLP Community: 🔔 Subscribe to the channel and hang out with us FOR-EVER! 🌐 Official Website & Resources: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com 🎉 Learn about the Just Be You (JBY) Bariatric Awards: Click Here 🛋️ Join the Winner's Bench: Become an OSLP Benchie on Patreon: Click Here 📧 Join our email list for The Weekly Chew & Our Book Club Plot Holes & Protein Goals: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com 💬 Drop a comment below: What part of Arthur's story resonated with you the most? Let’s support each other in the comments! 👇 Don't forget your non-negotiables: get that damn water in, focus on your protein, move your body, get good sleep, and hit those vitamins! Mel uses ProCare Health use code OSLP at checkout for 15% off! #OurSleevedLifePodcast #BariatricCommunity #WeightLossSurgery #GastricBypass #RNYJourney #BariatricSuccess #SleepApneaReversal #NonScaleVictories #OSLPBenchies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Choosing a plastic surgeon can feel overwhelming—but did you know that not everyone performing cosmetic procedures is actually a board-certified plastic surgeon? In this episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, we break down the critical differences between board-certified plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons, why those distinctions matter, and how they can impact your safety, results, and overall surgical experience. If you're considering a tummy tuck, liposuction, BBL, body contouring, breast surgery, or any cosmetic procedure, this conversation could help you avoid costly mistakes and make a more informed decision about who you trust with your care. In This Episode Host Mel sits down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes to discuss one of the most important questions any patient can ask: 👉 How do you choose the right surgeon? They unpack: • The difference between a board-certified plastic surgeon and a cosmetic surgeon • What board certification actually means • The training requirements behind plastic surgery vs. cosmetic surgery • Why American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certification matters • The role of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) • Hospital privileges and why they are important for patient safety • Common red flags when evaluating a surgeon • The truth about low-cost cosmetic surgery centers • BBL safety concerns and the history behind recent regulations • Liposuction risks, complications, and why experience matters • How pricing, qualifications, and outcomes intersect when choosing a surgeon Whether you're researching plastic surgery after weight loss, considering body contouring, or simply want to understand how to verify a surgeon's credentials, this episode provides practical guidance every patient should hear. 🔗 Resources & Links Dr. Omar Beidas: @doctorbodycontouring Ashlyn: @ashlynchange4life2012 Mel: @melunfiltered.vsg The Cutting Edge Podcast: @thecuttingedgepod_ 📌 Subscribe to The Cutting Edge Podcast for expert conversations on plastic surgery, body contouring, bariatric surgery, patient education, mental health, recovery, and everything you need to make informed decisions about your health and aesthetic goals. 👍 If you found this episode helpful: • Like this video • Subscribe to the channel • Turn on notifications • Share this episode with someone researching plastic surgery • Leave a comment with your questions or experiences   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can you transition from bariatric surgery to a competitive bodybuilding stage? In this episode, host Mel sits down with Jessica Shock @jessica__shock to explore her mind-blowing 170-pound weight loss transformation following RNY gastric bypass surgery. From navigating a complex medical history including childhood cancer, a traumatic brain injury, and a post-op Crohn’s diagnosis to winning "Overall Transformation" in competitive bodybuilding, Jessica proves that weight loss surgery isn't the "easy way out." In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The Reality of RNY Gastric Bypass: Jessica shares her raw experience of the first five days post-op, overcoming buyer's remorse, and navigating early eating struggles like the "foamies" and food intolerances. Overcoming a Complex Medical History: How Jessica managed major health hurdles including psoriatic arthritis, a brain injury, and getting diagnosed with Crohn's disease years after her weight loss surgery. The Mental Side of Bariatric Surgery: Why doing the deep mental work with a therapist to identify food triggers and tackle binge-eating cycles is vital for long-term bariatric success. Life After Skin Removal Surgery: Jessica opens up about the emotional and physical transformation of undergoing two skin removal surgeries (including a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck). Bodybuilding After Bariatric Surgery: How Jessica rebuilt her mindset and physique, hired a bariatric-savvy coach, and ended up taking home first-place trophies on the transformation stage. Practical Post-Op Advice: Real talk on tracking macros, reading food labels, managing "skinny privilege," and why a strong support system changes everything.   Connect with the Guest: Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jessica__shock Connect with OSLP & Support the Show: Subscribe & Like! If you enjoyed this patient story, please hit that subscribe button, leave a comment with your favorite takeaway, and give this video a thumbs up. Join the Community: Stay tuned for our upcoming "Just Be You" awards celebrating the bariatric community! Our Favorite Bariatric Vitamins: Keep your post-op health on track. We love ProCare Health! Use code OSLP at checkout to save 15% on your order.   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your bariatric surgeon or healthcare team before changing your diet, supplement regimen, or exercise routine. #bariatricsurgery #weightlosssurgery #RNY #gastricbypass #postop #bariatricbodybuilding #skinremovalsurgery #extremeweightloss Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Ana sits down with us to share the REAL side of bariatric surgery, weight loss, emotional eating, food addiction, CrossFit, bodybuilding, and everything in between. 💜 This conversation got deep fast. Ana opens up about struggling with obesity her entire life, dealing with PCOS and hypothyroidism, emotional eating, family trauma, and how food became both comfort and coping. She shares the moment she realized she needed help, what led her to gastric sleeve surgery, the scary complications she faced afterward, and how she fought her way back physically and mentally. And honestly? Her story is going to hit home for a LOT of people. We talk about: ✨ food noise and food addiction ✨ emotional eating and binge cycles ✨ weight regain fears after bariatric surgery ✨ CrossFit and rebuilding confidence ✨ losing over 140 pounds ✨ body dysmorphia and learning to love your body ✨ DEXA scans, muscle gain, and body recomposition ✨ bodybuilding after weight loss surgery ✨ how tracking macros changed everything ✨ learning how to fuel your body instead of punish it One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is this: Weight loss surgery is NOT the easy way out. It’s a tool. The real work happens mentally, emotionally, and physically every single day. If you’ve ever struggled with obesity, emotional eating, food addiction, PCOS, hypothyroidism, bariatric surgery, regain, or just feeling alone in your journey… this episode is for you. And if nobody has told you lately: You are NOT broken. You are NOT failing. And you do NOT have to figure this out alone. 💜 If you ever need support, have questions about bariatric surgery, CrossFit after weight loss surgery, macros, emotional eating, or just need people who get it — message us. Seriously. That’s why this community exists. 📩 Reach out anytime. We’re all figuring this out together. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it today. #BariatricSurgery #GastricSleeve #WeightLossJourney #FoodAddiction #EmotionalEating #CrossFitTransformation #BodybuildingJourney #PCOSWeightLoss #Hypothyroidism #WeightLossTransformation #BariatricCommunity #FoodNoise #DEXAScan #BodyRecomposition #OurSleevedLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Men get plastic surgery too… but nobody really talks about it 👀 In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we’re having a conversation that honestly feels long overdue. From loose skin after massive weight loss to gynecomastia, body contouring, high-definition liposuction, and even the mental side of body image this episode dives into what men actually experience after bariatric surgery and weight loss. Dr. Omar Beidas breaks down the most common plastic surgery procedures for men, including tummy tucks, lower body lifts, chest contouring, male BBLs, fat transfer, and skin removal surgery after weight loss. But what makes this conversation so interesting is how much of it goes beyond the surgery itself. Because for a lot of men, it’s not just about appearance. It’s about confidence, functionality, masculinity, fear of judgment, and trying to feel comfortable in their own body again. We also talk about: male body dysmorphia, unrealistic expectations in plastic surgery, revision surgery red flags, why some men avoid surgery even when they want it, and how societal pressure affects the way men approach cosmetic procedures. There’s a huge misconception that plastic surgery is “just for women,” and this episode challenges that in a really honest, funny, and surprisingly emotional way. Whether you’re considering plastic surgery after weight loss, curious about male body contouring, struggling with loose skin, or just interested in the psychology behind body image and confidence—this episode has SO many important conversations packed into it. 🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio. And let us know in the comments: Do you think men are judged differently for getting plastic surgery?  Dr. Omar Beidas: @doctorbodycontouring Ashlyn: @ashlynchange4life2012 Mel: @melunfiltered.vsg The Cutting Edge Podcast: @thecuttingedgepod_ #MalePlasticSurgery #BodyContouring #WeightLossJourney #PlasticSurgery #CuttingEdgePodcast   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 352 What autoimmune disease REALLY does to your body goes far beyond occasional fatigue or inflammation. In this episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we sit down with resilience coach and medical professional Nikolett Demeter from Pop Recovery to have an honest conversation about chronic illness, lupus, gut health, bariatric nutrition, inflammation, and what it actually feels like to live in a body that’s constantly fighting itself. We talk about why autoimmune diseases like lupus, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Graves’ disease, and other chronic illnesses can leave people exhausted, struggling with brain fog, digestive issues, nutrient deficiencies, chronic inflammation, and flare-ups that impact everyday life. Nikolett explains how inflammation works inside the body, why sleep and hydration matter more than most people realize, and how nutrition, protein intake, omega-3s, gut health, and stress management can help support healing and recovery. This conversation also dives into bariatric surgery recovery, vitamin deficiencies, immune system health, anti-inflammatory foods, hormone balance, and the powerful connection between the gut microbiome and overall wellness. Whether you’re personally dealing with autoimmune disease or supporting someone who is, this episode is full of practical advice, emotional support, and real conversations about resilience and health. If you’ve been searching for ways to reduce chronic inflammation naturally, improve gut health, manage autoimmune symptoms, recover after bariatric surgery, or simply better understand chronic illness and fatigue, this episode is for you. 💙 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who may need encouragement or support on their health journey. #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicInflammation #LupusAwareness #GutHealth #ChronicIllness #BariatricSurgery #AntiInflammatoryDiet #HealthPodcast #ImmuneHealth #WellnessJourney   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Dialysis to VSG Success | Bariatric Surgery After Kidney Transplant 💙 In this emotional and inspiring episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Heather shares her incredible journey through chronic kidney disease, dialysis, organ transplants, and VSG bariatric surgery. Diagnosed with the rare genetic disorder primary hyperoxyluria as a child, Heather battled kidney stones, kidney failure, dialysis, and eventually underwent both a kidney transplant and liver transplant before finding hope through gastric sleeve surgery. This episode dives deep into: ✨ Living with chronic kidney disease ✨ What dialysis recovery is really like ✨ Kidney and liver transplant survival ✨ Bariatric surgery after organ transplant ✨ Weight gain from transplant medications ✨ Mayo Clinic VSG surgery experience ✨ Insurance struggles for weight loss surgery ✨ Gastric sleeve recovery and nutrition ✨ Protein intake after VSG with kidney disease ✨ Mental health and body image after chronic illness Heather’s story proves that even after years of medical challenges, healing and transformation are possible. 💙 👇 SHARE your experience in the comments: Have you or a loved one dealt with dialysis, organ transplants, or bariatric surgery? 👍 Like, Subscribe & Turn On Notifications for more inspiring VSG journeys, bariatric surgery tips, patient stories, and weight loss support. 📲 Follow Us: Instagram: @thisisheather.vsg Website: oursleevedlifepodcast.com 💌 Join our newsletter at oursleevedlifepodcast.com for exclusive freebies, bariatric resources, podcast updates, discounts, and special community perks! #VSG #WeightLossSurgery #KidneyTransplant #Dialysis #BariatricSurgery #GastricSleeve #ChronicKidneyDisease #TransplantRecovery #VSGJourney #PatientStory Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 21: She got illegal injections… and years later, everything changed In this episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we expose the truth about black market plastic surgery, silicone injections, and “biopolymer” fillers that can lead to serious complications. If you’re thinking about a BBL, fillers, or cosmetic surgery, this is something you NEED to hear first. ⚠️ In This Episode: *   The dangers of illegal silicone & biopolymer injections *   What happens when your body reacts years later *   Why some patients need multiple corrective surgeries *   The risks of Botox/filler parties & unlicensed providers *   How to choose safe, legal plastic surgery options 💡 Real Talk: Not everything labeled “medical” is safe, and not every provider is qualified. 🎯 Call to Action: *   👍 Like this video if this shocked you *   💬 Comment: Did you know this was happening? *   🔔 Subscribe for real, unfiltered plastic surgery conversations *   📌 Share this – it could save someone from a huge mistake #PlasticSurgery #BBL #PlasticSurgeryRisks Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 351 If you're struggling with weight loss after bariatric surgery, this episode is a MUST-watch. In this powerful conversation, Coach Rob shares how he went from 365 lbs and a life-threatening diagnosis to building a successful coaching business helping others lose weight, keep it off, and stay consistent long-term. We break down the REAL reasons people regain weight, why summer is the most dangerous time for bariatric patients, and how to build habits that actually stick. If you’ve ever asked yourself “why can’t I stay consistent?” or “how do I maintain weight loss after surgery?” — this video gives you practical, science-backed answers. You’ll learn: How to lose weight before and after bariatric surgery The truth about weight loss plateaus and regain Why mindset, structure, and community support are critical How to stay consistent during summer, holidays, and busy seasons The importance of protein, workouts, strength training, and habit building How coaching and accountability can transform your results Ready to take action? Start here: 👉 Join the Bariatric Summer Camp Program 2026 10 Free recipes every month    Who this is for: Bariatric surgery patients (pre-op & post-op) Anyone struggling with weight loss motivation or consistency People dealing with weight regain after surgery Busy parents trying to balance fitness and life Anyone interested in sustainable fat loss, mindset, and coaching Let’s talk: What’s been your biggest struggle with weight loss or staying consistent? Drop a comment below If this helped you, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more bariatric tips, weight loss strategies, and real-life transformation stories! #bariatricweightloss #weightlossjourney #fatloss #bariatricsurgery #fitnessmotivation #weightlosstips #glp1 #healthjourney Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 20 Perfectionism is silently ruining more weight loss journeys than you think… If you’ve ever felt like you had to be “perfect” to succeed after bariatric surgery or plastic surgery, this episode is going to hit HARD. In this powerful conversation, we dive into the hidden connection between perfectionism, weight loss, and body image and how it can actually hold you back from seeing your progress, appreciating your body, and enjoying your results. From obsessing over the scale to chasing unrealistic results after body contouring, tummy tuck, or skin removal surgery, we break down why the “all-or-nothing” mindset is one of the biggest obstacles in long-term success. 💬 Do you struggle with perfectionism on your journey? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it. You’re not alone. 👍 If this episode helped shift your perspective, like & subscribe for real, honest conversations about weight loss, plastic surgery, and mindset. 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes with expert insights and real patient experiences. 📲 Share this video with someone who needs to hear this, especially if they’re being too hard on themselves. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.