Confronting Shame and Stigma in Obesity Care: Insights from the ASMBS Conference | Ep 255

Are you ready to confront the shame and stigma surrounding obesity? Want to join a community that empowers your bariatric journey? In this episode, straight from the ASMBS conference in Washington, DC, we unpack the Mason Lecture’s powerful insights on easing shame and stigma in obesity care. We delve into how these barriers hinder treatment, fuel weight regain, and even originate from medical providers, while highlighting how our patient community inspires us to overcome these challenges. Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time donation.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:45) The significance of the Mason Lecture and its focus, and how stigma comes from society, family, and medical providers.(02:45) Research shows that shame and stigma can lead to weight recurrence (06:45) Patients are often more stigmatized after choosing obesity treatment(08:00) Emphasis on how peer support and patient community are essential tools for healing and overcoming shame(09:15) Research validates patient experiences with shame and stigma(13:10) Join the BariNation Community to receive the support you deserveKEY TAKEAWAYS:Shame and stigma—especially from medical providers—are significant barriers to obesity treatment. Patients with obesity face both internal and external shame that not only discourages them from seeking care but can also increase the risk of weight regain after treatment. Research shows that a significant portion of this stigma originates from the very healthcare professionals meant to support them.Obesity treatment can ironically increase stigma. Even after choosing medical or surgical intervention, patients often feel greater judgment and isolation, leading many to keep their treatment decisions secret. The societal narrative shifts from blaming people for their weight to blaming them for how they address it, making shame a persistent issue regardless of treatment status. While systemic changes in research, policy, and provider education are crucial, the most immediate and effective support comes from community connection. Sharing experiences with others who understand the journey helps reduce the power of shame, fosters acceptance, and creates a space where patients can truly feel seen and supported.RESOURCES:BariNation Website BariNation - EmailABOUT:If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.We need your help to keep the BariNation Podcast in production. Your one-time or recurring donations help us ensure this free support remains open to everyone. Click Drive To Thrive - Donation to learn more and give....

Are we doing enough to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against obesity? What if bariatric surgery is not just about weight loss, but about treating a chronic, misunderstood disease?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Richard Peterson, the newly elected president of the ASMBS, to talk about his mission to No One Left Behind. From his military roots to his passionate advocacy, Dr. Peterson delves deeply into why obesity is considered a disease, how bariatric surgery is a critical form of medical care rather than a cosmetic procedure, and what must change to ensure equitable access, education, and support for all.Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!   IN THIS EPISODE:(03:47) Dr. Peterson shares his professional background and the mission of ASMBS(10:40) As president, past initiatives will move forward and the discussion of bias toward obesity(18:01) Dr. Peterson’s mission is a call to action to “No One Left Behind,” which stems from his military background(31:06) Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure. Obesity is a disease(40:40) The importance of obesity education and why obesity not being associated with a specific organ was a game changer(49:06) Words matter, you aren’t just losing weight, you are fighting obesity(54:55) If you are suffering from obesity, you can get help. The mission is to remove the barriersKEY TAKEAWAYS:Dr. Peterson’s theme is “No One Left Behind," focusing on ensuring access to obesity treatment for all patients, supporting practices, and fostering unity across the bariatric community.Dr. Peterson continues efforts to reduce shame and stigma by educating medical professionals and the public that obesity is a disease, not a personal failing.Initiatives focus on integrating obesity education into medical curricula and advocating for comprehensive treatment access to enhance patient care.RESOURCES:BariNation Website Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!    OTHER RESOURCES: BariNation - EmailGUEST RESOURCES:ASMBS - WebsiteDr. Richard Peterson LinkedInUT Health San Antonio BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Peterson serves as the Chief of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery for UT Health San Antonio and is the medical director of the Christus Weight Loss Institute at Westover...

Have you ever wondered what happens when bariatric surgery doesn’t go as planned—or when life throws new challenges your way after weight loss? In this episode, April, Natalie, and Jason openly discuss the realities of obesity, the emotional toll of weight recurrence, and the hope that revisional surgery can bring. Together, they explore how bariatric surgery is not a one-and-done solution, but rather a lifelong medical tool in the treatment of obesity. If you or someone you know is facing the possibility of revisional surgery, this empowering conversation will remind you that you are not alone—and that obesity is a disease, not a personal failure.Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one time donation.  IN THIS EPISODE:(00:29) April announces their panel at ASMBS focused on lifting shame and stigma around revisional surgery(01:49) Natalie shares how losing over 150 pounds after revisional surgery transformed her life(05:59) Three ways to reduce the obesity stigma: build trust, offer peer support, and provide ongoing education(09:42) Jason discusses weight recurrence as a valid medical reason for revision KEY TAKEAWAYS:Revisional surgery can be life-changing and profoundly empowering. Both Jason and Natalie shared how overcoming shame and stigma around having a second or third bariatric procedure opened doors to a fuller life, including travel, physical activity, and self-confidence. These benefits came after initial procedures failed, showing that it's never too late to reclaim your health.Shame and stigma remain major barriers to revisional care. Many patients internalize the failure of a previous surgery as personal failure. Still, weight regain or complications are often due to the chronic nature of the disease of obesity, not personal shortcomings. Honest conversations with compassionate practitioners can break through these emotional barriers.Patients need supportive practitioners and community — lifting shame and stigma takes a team. Surgeons who listen, educate, and normalize revisional options play a crucial role in patient success, and platforms like BariNation help amplify those voices.RESOURCES:BariNation Website Don’t forget to join the BariNation community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!  You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one time donation. BariNation - EmailASMBS - WebsiteABOUT:If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor,...

What if bariatric patients could shift the narrative around obesity from shame and blame to biology and treatment? Today, Dr. Ann Rogers, the current president of the ASMBS, joins us again to help us break down the stigma of obesity, challenge outdated measures like BMI, and openly discuss the truth: obesity is a disease, not a personal failure. This episode is your call to action—start the process, seek support, and share your story to empower others on their journey.Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!    IN THIS EPISODE:(02:42) Dr. Rogers shares her background and discusses the mission of ending the stigma of obesity(04:06) Past ASMBS President Dr. LaMasters believes everyone is deserving of treatment(07:01) Is obesity a disease, and takeaways from the Obesity Summit(12:02) Dr. Rogers references President elect Dr. Richard Peterson comments about there being essentially no training on obesity in medical school(17:25) Getting beyond the concept of BMI and other associated medical problems(31:48) It is essential to educate yourself about the disease of obesity and the ramifications that are not weight-related(35:50) Stick with it, be your advocate, make the appointment with a provider and share your storyKEY TAKEAWAYS:Obesity is a complex, chronic condition that warrants medical treatment, yet stigma remains a significant barrier to care. Many still view obesity as the result of poor personal choices rather than understanding the biological, psychological, and societal factors involved. Improving obesity care requires collaboration among healthcare providers across specialties, including surgery, primary care, endocrinology, and more. Unified efforts are needed to enhance education, expand access to care, and prioritize compassionate communication. BMI alone does not accurately capture an individual’s health status. Alternative diagnostic tools—such as waist circumference, DEXA scans, and assessments of visceral fat—offer a more complete picture. These methods aim to identify obesity-related health risks better and move away from outdated, one-size-fits-all metrics.RESOURCES:BariNation Website Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to the BariNation community to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!    OTHER RESOURCES: BariNation - EmailGUEST RESOURCES:Ep 234 - ASMBS President Dr. Ann Rogers Has a Mission: Ending Stigma and Shame in Obesity and Bariatric Treatment Ep. 250 -

Are you still relying on the scale to measure your health? Have you ever wondered what your body is made of?Today, we’re exploring a topic that’s revolutionizing the way we approach weight loss, fitness, and long-term health: body composition. What is it? Why does it matter? And where do we even begin?Dr. Nina Crowley, a clinical expert in bariatric care and weight management, discusses what body composition reveals, beyond just the pounds on a scale. She explains how bioimpedance technology works, why BMI isn't the whole story, and how understanding your muscle mass and fat mass can completely change your approach to health.Whether you’re newly post-op, years into your journey, or just getting curious about what’s under the surface, this conversation is for you.IN THIS EPISODE:(01:01) Dr. Crowley shares her professional bariatric and weight loss background(03:12) Discussion of body composition, muscle mass, and fat mass and bioimpedance technology and analysis explained(09:15) Why it is critical to know your body composition and the limitations of using BMI as a health metric&nbsp;(13:30) Why some providers hesitate to use body composition tools and how to overcome those barriers.(17:58) Dr. Crowley shares how to work toward your goals once you have the dataKEY TAKEAWAYS:Dr. Nina Crowley emphasizes that traditional weight measurements, such as stepping on a scale, only tell part of the story. Body composition analysis reveals what the body is made of—primarily fat mass versus fat-free mass (including muscle, bone, and water). This deeper understanding enables patients to make more informed decisions about their health and wellness, particularly during the aging process or following bariatric surgery.Crowley explains how bioimpedance analysis offers quick, reliable, and clinically validated results on fat and muscle mass by sending a low electrical current through the body. It provides a point-of-care tool for clinicians and patients to receive meaningful data in under a minute, enabling more effective, real-time conversations about health goals.Understanding internal health drives better lifestyle choices. This data empowers individuals to focus more on nutrition, movement, and aging-related health concerns, rather than obsessing over a single number on the scale.RESOURCES:BariNation Website&nbsp;Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OTHER RESOURCES:&nbsp;BariNation - EmailGUEST RESOURCES:Dr. Nina Crowley LinkedInseca websiteBeyond BMI: Understanding Body Composition &amp; Obesity YouTube Video<a...

Have you ever wondered if you're getting the correct diagnosis regarding your weight?What if the number on the scale or your BMI doesn’t tell the whole story about your health?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jaime Ponce, President and Medical Director of the Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about how obesity is diagnosed, why BMI is outdated, and how we can approach treatment more effectively and compassionately.We talk through how obesity is a complex, chronic disease—not just a matter of willpower or size—and how you can be overweight without technically having a diagnosis of obesity. But here’s the truth: excess weight can still impact your health. It’s not something to brush off or wait to treat. Dr. Ponce explains that conditions like preclinical obesity—when the damage is starting even before a formal diagnosis—can be just as serious and deserve clinical attention. If you’ve tried to lose weight for years or decades with no lasting success, you’ll walk away from this episode with one clear message: this is not your fault, and more effective and personalized treatment options exist. Let this conversation be the start of your transformation.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Opening and introduction(00:55) Dr. Ponce shares his professional journey and discusses obesity rates worldwide(08:32) Discussion of the disease called obesity, and BMI is not a good indicator of obesity(15:01) Identifying obesity, overweight, and preclinical obesity(25:21) Quality of life is a part of clinical obesity, and a thorough evaluation with your doctor(37:20) The healthcare system doesn’t recognize obesity for what it is(39:53) Time to spread the word—bariatric surgery changes lives.(49:30) Dr. Ponce advises anyone considering bariatric surgeryKEY TAKEAWAYS:You don’t need an official obesity diagnosis to take excess weight seriously—any amount can affect your health, even as outdated views still delay proper treatment.Obesity is a complex, individualized disease that requires tailored treatment approaches — not every person with obesity has the same internal damage or health risks.Managing obesity is a lifelong process, not a one-time fix — even after initial success with surgery or medication, the disease can persist or recur.Stigma and fear often keep people from seeking obesity treatment, but real patient stories are powerful tools to raise awareness and break down those barriers.RESOURCES:BariNation Website&nbsp;Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OTHER RESOURCES:&nbsp;Patient Case Study Graphic 1Patient Case Study Graphic 2<a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noopener...

Have you ever wondered if eating just 1200 calories a day could be the key to success after bariatric surgery?&nbsp;In this episode, we dive into this burning question with our guest, Kayla Girgen, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer. Join us as we explore the truth behind obesity management and calorie-restricted diets. Kayla tackles whether 1,200 calories a day is sustainable for bariatric patients, and we break down the science of calories, energy, and resting metabolic rate, revealing how your body uses fuel. She also uncovers the hidden dangers of diets that are too calorie-restricted, from mental strain to metabolic slowdowns. Finally, we discuss whether the marketing of packaged foods misleads us into thinking we’re eating healthy. With the support of our BariNation Community, this episode debunks calorie myths, empowers you with personalized nutrition strategies, and highlights the mental and physical impacts of low-calorie diets.&nbsp;IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Opening and introduction(01:13) Kayla answers the big question: Can I just eat 1,200 calories a day for the rest of my life and be successful?(03:38) Discussion of calories, energy and resting metabolic rate(06:39) Kayla talks about the dangers of a diet that is too calorie-restricted(08:54) Does marketing of packaged foods mislead the consumer to believe they are eating healthy in their journey of obesity management(09:59) Kayla advises where to start to determine the correct amount of calories for youKEY TAKEAWAYS:A 1,200-calorie restricted diet approach often fails. Kayla offers insights into how the body’s metabolism and the disease of obesity complicate calorie management, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating post-surgery nutrition.There are practical ways to manage obesity, like focusing on protein to curb hunger and using tools like resting metabolic rate testing to understand and meet unique caloric needs. The episode provides actionable steps to combat the disease of obesity effectively.Extreme calorie restriction has hidden dangers, from mental stress and grazing habits to metabolic slowdowns that can stall weight loss. This episode offers a balanced perspective on achieving sustainable health.RESOURCES:BariNation Website&nbsp;Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;GUEST RESOURCES:Ep. 225 - Slider Foods and Blood Sugar: Managing the Roller Coaster Effect with Kayla GirgenKayla Girgen - Instagram<a...

Have you ever wondered if you're truly ready—mentally and emotionally—for bariatric surgery? Or how much support matters throughout your bariatric journey?In this episode of the BariNation Podcast, we talk with Dr. Kati Duncan, a licensed psychologist and owner of Assessment &amp; Therapy Associates (ATA). We explore how the pre-op evaluation is a tool for success, not a barrier, and why working with a therapist who understands bariatric life makes all the difference. We also dive into emotional prep, connection, and the decisive shift when the physical and emotional weight is finally lifted.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Opening and introduction(01:39) Discussion of working with therapists who see bariatrics from a patient's perspective and discounted benefits for members of the BariNation Community(07:11) Insurance companies' requirements and being mentally ready for the bariatric journey(15:05) Preparing for pre-op and post-op surgery and bariatric life(23:16) Disaster planning and writing a letter to yourself before surgery(35:13) Natalie explains how she approached the period before her last surgery(41:04) The power of faith in believing bariatric surgery will work(46:47) Dr. Kati predicts the future of the bariatric space and leaves parting words for listenersKEY TAKEAWAYS:The pre-surgical psychological evaluation isn’t a barrier—it’s a support tool designed to ensure patients are mentally and emotionally prepared for surgery and long-term success. When paired with a therapist who specializes in bariatrics, the guidance becomes even more impactful, offering relevant support rooted in a deep understanding of obesity and disordered eating.Connection is a biological necessity, not a luxury—and in the bariatric journey, preparing with self-compassion and surrounding yourself with people who truly understand can be just as vital to healing as the bariatric surgery itself.Obesity quietly consumes emotional and physical energy, often unnoticed until that weight is lifted. After surgery, many experience a profound peace and clarity, realizing how much space the constant struggle had occupied. Support groups and shared vulnerability play a vital role in recovery, offering a safe space to receive and eventually give back, creating a powerful healing cycle.Dr. Duncan commends Dr. Ann Rogers, President of the ASMBS, for prioritizing reducing stigma and improving access to obesity care during her presidency. There's a hopeful shift in how obesity is discussed—as a disease rather than a personal failing—encouraging more people to seek treatment. Finally, the Access to Care Committee, is dedicated to  making sure that every patient has access to obesity care.RESOURCES:BariNation Website&nbsp;Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to <a href="https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Could bariatric surgery change your life? Do you wish you had a community to support you on your weight loss journey?&nbsp;On today’s episode of the BariNation podcast, we’re honored to introduce you to Dr. Sachin Kukreja, a new BariNation practice partner and the director of DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. Dr. Kukreja shares how he discovered the life-changing power of bariatric surgery, explains why he believes obesity is a disease that deserves long-term care, and discusses the importance of finding support through the BariNation Community.Click the link to keep connecting and learning from Dr. Kukreja in the BariNation Membership Community! https://bit.ly/DFWBariNationIN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Opening and introduction(01:00) Dr. Kukreja shares his professional journey(03:00) Dr. Kukreja admits that he fell in love with bariatric surgery because of how it transformed his patients on their weight loss journey(07:57) Dr. Kukreja explains that obesity is a disease with no cure(09:05) Dr. Kukreja shares his excitement for becoming a partner with BariNation(12:13) Keep the conversation going by using the tools provided by the BariNation Community&nbsp;KEY TAKEAWAYS:Dr. Sachin Kukreja emphasizes a highly individualized approach to bariatric care, recognizing obesity as a chronic, multifactorial disease that requires long-term relationships and tailored treatment plans, not one-size-fits-all solutions.Dr. Kukreja didn’t initially set out to become a bariatric surgeon but discovered its life-changing potential through experience. He now finds joy in helping patients “reverse the clock” and transform their health and lives.Dr. Kukreja views BariNation as a crucial extension of his practice. It offers patients consistent, safe, and specialized support beyond what a surgical team can provide alone, highlighting the importance of community in long-term success.RESOURCES:BariNation Website&nbsp;Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast to get more and support the podcast for as low as $5 per month!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OTHER RESOURCES:&nbsp;Click the link to keep connecting and learning from Dr. Kukreja in the BariNation Membership Community! https://bit.ly/DFWBariNationGUEST RESOURCES:DFW Bariatrics and General SurgeryDFW Bariatrics Store - Hand-Picked for Weight Loss PatientsDr. Kukreja - LinkedInBIOGRAPHY:&nbsp;Dr. Kukreja is proud to direct DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. He truly loves...

Are you struggling to see obesity as more than a number on the scale? Do you wonder why shame and stigma still dominate the conversation around bariatric surgery?&nbsp;In this episode, we explore the truth about obesity as a chronic disease and how we can shift the narrative to one of compassion, education, and long-term support. Our guest, Carah Horn, brings her clinical expertise and lived experience to the table in an eye-opening and empowering conversation. We talk about the outdated perceptions surrounding bariatric surgery, the crisis in obesity care, and why finding the right provider makes all the difference. Carah shares powerful analogies—like her “lawn care” metaphor—to help us understand why long-term maintenance and ongoing support matter. She also explains the dangers of anti-obesity medications without proper oversight and how the BariNation Community provides a unique space for education, encouragement, and behavior change. Whether you are post-op, pre-op, or still considering surgery, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and more equipped for the road ahead.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) Introduction and opening(01:24) Carah shares her professional background in obesity disease and bariatric surgery(12:19) The narrative surrounding obesity needs to change, and finding the correct doctor(19:14) Carah speaks to the crisis of care, anti-obesity medications and comorbid conditions(33:03) Each patient is different, and she encourages going back to your surgeon when health changes occur(39:31) Carah shares the word picture she tells her patients(56:12) Making your bariatric journey positive rather than negative and using the tools provided by the BariNation Community&nbsp;KEY TAKEAWAYS:Obesity is a complex, chronic disease affecting every aspect of a person’s life—physical, emotional, and social. It should be promoted as a legitimate medical condition that requires real treatment. Unfortunately, shame and stigma surrounding obesity prevent many people from seeking treatment.&nbsp;Treating obesity is about improving health, not appearance. Viewing it through the lens of disease management—similar to diabetes or cancer—can help shift public perception and lead to better care. Medications and surgery are tools to treat the underlying condition, not just to achieve a certain weight.The lack of long-term support and education around obesity medications is dangerous. When prescribed without proper medical oversight or behavioral support, these medications can lead to serious health risks. Without a comprehensive program—including nutrition guidance, mental health care, and consistent follow-up—patients are more likely to misuse medications, relapse, or face complications, especially if access to treatment is suddenly lost.RESOURCES:BariNation Website&nbsp;Join the BariNation Membership community meetups to support you on your journey with obesity treatment. https://barination.com/pages/join-our-communityWant to see bonus content? Head over to <a href="https://www.patreon.com/BariNationPodcast" rel="noopener...