Gastro Girl

What’s it really like for a child to live with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jeni and her son Joshua, who share their family’s journey navigating the challenges of pediatric EoE. From the earliest warning signs to Joshua preparing for life at college, their story sheds light on the resilience it takes to manage this condition day-to-day. Together, we explore: Why getting the right diagnosis can take time The pros and cons of today’s treatment options How parents can interpret symptoms when children struggle to describe them Tips for transitioning from pediatric to adult care Whether you’re a parent, patient, or healthcare provider, you’ll walk away with insights, encouragement, and practical takeaways. Resources & Support: Find trusted information and resources on EoE at gastrogirl.com. This episode is sponsored by Sanofi and Regeneron.  

What does preventive care really mean for people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? In this episode, we break down the latest ACG Clinical Guideline Update: Preventive Care in IBD with two of its lead authors, Dr. Francis Farraye (Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL) and Dr. Freddy Caldera (University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health). Together, we explore: Why preventive care is critical in IBD management Key vaccination recommendations for IBD patients How to prioritize cancer and bone health screening The role of mental health and lifestyle in long-term outcomes Produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights for both patients and providers.  

Living with IBS-C often requires more than just medications. In this episode, host Jacqueline Gaulin is joined by Dr. Kumkum Patel, a board-certified gastroenterologist in Newport Beach, CA, who specializes in treating IBS patients (find her at kumkumpatelmd.com or @dr.gut_motility). Together, they explore how to integrate complementary therapies into your care plan to help you feel and function better. You’ll learn: How nutrition can support IBS-C management—and where to start Why stress can make symptoms worse What emerging research says about the gut microbiome and probiotics How to figure out which therapies are right for you Why shared-decision making with your healthcare provider is key This episode is made possible with support from Ardelyx.  

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis sound alike but are very different conditions—and knowing the difference is key to protecting your digestive health. In this episode, host Jacqueline Gaulin welcomes Dr. Lisa Strate, Professor and Chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Wisconsin, and one of the nation’s leading experts in diverticular disease. Together, they clear up common questions and misconceptions about diverticulosis and diverticulitis, including: What causes these conditions and who is most at risk The symptoms and warning signs patients should watch for Whether it’s possible to have one without the other How diet and lifestyle affect treatment and prevention This episode is produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.  

In this episode, we share Wendy’s story of living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). She takes us through the confusing early symptoms, the long road to getting a diagnosis, and how she manages her condition today. With honesty and hope, Wendy offers a patient’s perspective on what it means to live with EoE. Hear Wendy discuss: The first signs that something was wrong with her throat How symptoms disrupted her eating, social life, and mental health The coping strategies she unknowingly developed along the way What it was like to finally receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan Resources & Support:Learn more about EoE and find trusted resources at gastrogirl.com. This episode was made possible with support from Sanofi and Regeneron.

Feeling drained by IBD—physically and emotionally? Discover how to reclaim your strength beyond the flare with proven strategies from leading clinical psychologist and resilience expert Dr. Laurie Keefer. Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis isn’t just about managing physical symptoms—it’s about coping with the emotional, social, and mental toll that IBD can take. From how you see yourself, to how you eat, connect with others, and face the unknown, the impact can be profound. In this powerful episode, Dr. Keefer—author of the groundbreaking American Journal of Gastroenterology article “Beyond Depression and Anxiety in IBD: Forging a Path Toward Emotional Healing”—shares what it truly means to heal beyond the flare. You’ll learn: What emotional resilience really looks like for people living with IBD How trauma, disordered eating, and adjustment disorders can surface with chronic illness How to start building emotional strength today using Dr. Keefer’s Resilience5™ framework This episode is produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.  

We’re welcoming back Dr. Ali Navidi, a licensed clinical psychologist, and co-founder of GI Psychology.  Today, Dr. Navidi is here to tell us all about the IBD Therapy Group—offered in partnership with the American College of Gastroenterology and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. This 8-week, nationwide, virtual therapy program is designed for patients with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis and uses two proven approaches—Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy—to help manage stress, anxiety, and inflammation, which can all contribute to IBD flare-ups.  Hear Dr. Navidi discuss… The brain-gut connection and how it can impact IBD The benefits and patient outcomes of CBT and Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy What patients can expect from the IBD Therapy Group  The IBD Therapy Groups starts on August 14. To learn more, see if you qualify, or sign up for a free consultation, visit https://www.gipsychology.com/ibdgroup/.  

Living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)—a chronic, often misunderstood condition—can make eating and even swallowing a daily challenge. In this inspiring episode, patient advocate Matt shares his personal journey navigating life with EoE. From the struggle of getting an accurate diagnosis, to identifying and managing daily food triggers, to finding a treatment plan that works, Matt offers an honest look at the physical, emotional, and social realities of living with this condition. His story sheds light on the resilience, trial-and-error, and determination it takes to keep moving forward. In this episode, we discuss how to: Overcome the challenges of getting a proper EoE diagnosis Tackle daily triggers and make smart dietary changes Fine-tune a treatment plan to get real results Navigate the emotional and social toll of a chronic swallowing condition Whether you’re living with EoE, supporting someone who is, or just want to understand this condition better, you’ll gain valuable insights, practical tips, and a sense of hope from Matt’s journey. Resources & Support: Learn more about EoE and find trusted resources: gastrogirl.com This episode was made possible with support from Sanofi and Regeneron.  

Get ready for a tail-wagging adventure! Oliver Super Beardie, our fearless furry hero and member of the Woof Chat Kids, is back on the case—this time to solve a mysterious throat trouble affecting his buddy Sam. Why is swallowing so hard? What’s causing the pain? Oliver’s on the trail… and he’s sniffing out answers!. Joining Oliver is brilliant expert guest Dr. Sophia Patel, a leading Pediatric Gastroenterologist from Cleveland Clinic. Together with host Jacqueline Gaulin, they’ll follow the clues to uncover what’s really going on inside Sam’s esophagus—and introduce kids (and grown-ups!) to a condition called Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). You’ll learn what symptoms to watch for, how EoE is diagnosed, and what steps can help kids like Sam feel better—all in a fun, kid-friendly way that mixes science and heart. A huge shout-out to the incredible John Kennedy, the puppeteer and voice behind Oliver Super Beardie, whose creativity and heart make every episode unforgettable. This special episode is brought to you by Dupixent.  

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy, and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have transformed treatment for type 2 diabetes and weight loss — but they can also cause digestive side effects like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and stomach pain that leave many patients confused or worried. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Catherine Hudson from LSU Health New Orleans to separate fact from fiction and provide clear, evidence-based guidance. Dr. Hudson breaks down: How GLP-1 receptor agonists work Common digestive side effects—and how to manage them Why lifestyle changes still matter What you need to know before surgery or GI procedures when taking these medications Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, this episode offers practical insights to help you navigate the GLP-1 journey with confidence. This episode is presented in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.  

IBS-C (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation) is a chronic condition that disrupts how your gut works—causing abdominal pain, bloating, and infrequent, hard-to-pass stools. It can seriously impact your quality of life, and finding the right treatment is often a journey filled with ups and downs. So, how do you get relief from IBS-C symptoms without feeling like you’re back at square one? In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Bryan Curtin, Director of The Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at The Melissa L. Posner Institute for Digestive Health & Liver Disease at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD. Together, we discuss: Why managing IBS-C often requires some trial and error What to do when progress isn’t perfect Signs it might be time to adjust your treatment plan Practical tips to prepare for your next appointment—so you can have more productive conversations with your provider This episode is made possible with support from Ardelyx.  

In the final episode of our 4-part series on GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus, we move beyond awareness to focus on action. What should patients actually do after diagnosis—and how can they take charge of their care journey? We’re joined by Tedra Gray, a seasoned Advanced Practice Provider, who shares real-world examples and practical advice for patients navigating chronic reflux, Barrett’s Esophagus, or treatment follow-up. You’ll learn: Why early diagnosis and follow-up matter What can happen if Barrett’s Esophagus is left untreated How shared decision-making helps build the right care plan The different approaches for patients at low, moderate, or high risk Whether you're newly diagnosed or managing long-term reflux, this episode offers compassionate, expert-backed guidance to help you feel informed and empowered. Missed the earlier episodes? Catch up here: Part 1 – From Reflux to Risk: How Heartburn and GERD Could Lead to Esophageal Cancer https://gastrogirl.com/podcast/from-reflux-to-risk-how-heartburn-and-gerd-could-lead-to-esophageal-cancer/ Part 2 – Barrett’s Esophagus: The Hidden Risk of Chronic Heartburn https://gastrogirl.com/podcast/barretts-esophagus-the-hidden-risk-of-chronic-heartburn/ Part 3 – Managing Barrett’s Esophagus: Treatments and Risk Reduction https://gastrogirl.com/podcast/managing-barretts-esophagus-treatments-risk-reduction/  This series is sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading clinicians and researchers committed to improving patient outcomes.    

In Part 3 of our 4-part series on GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus, we’re joined by Dr. Caitlin Houghton, a foregut surgeon with Keck Medicine of USC, to discuss what happens after Barrett’s Esophagus is diagnosed—and how patients can reduce their cancer risk and manage the condition effectively. From reflux control to endoscopic eradication therapy (EET), and in some cases, surgery, Dr. Houghton breaks down the latest treatment strategies and what patients need to know. This episode offers practical advice, expert insights, and real hope for those navigating life with Barrett’s. Topics include: What Barrett’s Esophagus is and why it matters How doctors decide when and how to treat The role of EET, medications, and lifestyle changes When surgery may be necessary Tips for patients to advocate for their care Missed the earlier episodes? Catch up here: Part 1 – From Reflux to Risk: How Heartburn and GERD Could Lead to Esophageal Cancer https://gastrogirl.com/podcast/from-reflux-to-risk-how-heartburn-and-gerd-could-lead-to-esophageal-cancer/ Part 2 – Barrett’s Esophagus: The Hidden Risk of Chronic Heartburn https://gastrogirl.com/podcast/barretts-esophagus-the-hidden-risk-of-chronic-heartburn/ This series is sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading clinicians and researchers committed to improving patient outcomes.  

In part 2 of our 4-part series on GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus, we take a closer look at what Barrett’s esophagus is, how it develops from chronic acid reflux, and why early detection is essential to reducing the risk of esophageal cancer. We’re joined by Dr. Raman Muthusamy, a nationally recognized expert in gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy, who explains how Barrett’s is diagnosed, the latest tools and technologies involved, and how a team-based approach improves outcomes. If you or someone you care about struggles with long-term heartburn or GERD, this episode offers critical insights to help you take action before it becomes something more serious. Missed Part 1? Listen or watch  now:From Reflux to Risk: How Heartburn and GERD Could Lead to Esophageal Cancer https://bit.ly/3Fvzf4o This series is sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading clinicians and researchers dedicated to improving patient care and outcomes.

Is your heartburn more dangerous than you think? In this first episode of our 4-part patient-focused series, we break down the serious risks of untreated acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)—including its connection to Barrett’s esophagus, the only known precursor to esophageal cancer. Dr. Dan Lister, a leading Foregut Surgeon and founder of the Arkansas Heartburn Treatment Center, joins us to explain: How GERD can progress silently over time Why Barrett’s esophagus matters—and how it’s detected What red flags to look out for (including when reflux suddenly disappears) The latest treatment options that could help prevent cancer Whether you’ve been living with reflux for years or are newly diagnosed, this episode is packed with life-saving insights. This special 4-part series is sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading clinicians and researchers dedicated to improving patient outcomes.  

In this special episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, we’re giving listeners of all ages a playful, educational sneak peek into the world of Woof Chat Kids—a  creative kids education initiative from the Giz Kids Foundation. Now, thanks to a partnership with the Gastro Girl Patient Institute (GGPI), Woof Chat Kids is expanding its mission with Oliver Super Beardie—our fuzzy superhero and digestive health education dog—leading the way to help kids better understand their gut health and overall wellness. Join host Jacqueline Gaulin, expert guest Dr. Neil Stollman, and Oliver,  as they explore belly bugs (a.k.a. the gut microbiome), explain how food fuels good gut health, and take on the “Battle of the Bugs” in true superhero style. This episode blends science, storytelling, and silliness to make health education fun for kids—and the grown-ups who love them. Special thanks to John Kennedy, the incredible puppeteer and voice behind Oliver Super Beardie, whose creativity and heart bring our superhero pup to life in every adventure.  

 If you’ve been struggling with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), you know that traditional laxatives don’t always work consistently—and they’re not always ideal for long-term use. But what if there was a drug-free, FDA-cleared alternative designed to support your body’s natural rhythm? In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Darren Brenner, gastroenterologist and motility expert from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, to explore the Vibrant capsule—a new non-drug treatment that uses gentle vibrations to stimulate natural gut motility. Tune in as we discuss: What makes Vibrant different from traditional constipation treatments  Who may benefit most from this new approach How it works with the body—not against it What this could mean for the future of constipation care As always, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if the Vibrant capsule is right for you.  

Living with IBS-C often means silently dealing with more than just constipation. From missing social events to navigating daily stress and anxiety, the emotional toll can feel overwhelming. In this eye-opening episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin talks with Dr. Sarah Ballou, Director of GI Behavioral Health at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Ballou shares insights from her groundbreaking research on what IBS-C patients are willing to sacrifice for symptom relief—and why the answer often lies in the gut-brain connection. We also explore the power of multidisciplinary care in IBS-C management. For many patients, the best outcomes come from combining medications, nutrition strategies, and gut-brain behavioral therapy—a team-based approach that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. Dr. Ballou explains how GI psychologists work alongside gastroenterologists, dietitians, and other specialists to create personalized care plans that help patients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you’re living with IBS-C or supporting someone who is, this episode offers real hope, expert guidance, and practical strategies for managing symptoms without giving up the things you love. Sponsored by Ardelyx.

In this exciting episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, Suzanne Kline, the inspiring founder of the GIZ Kids Foundation, joins us to discuss how Gastro Girl Patient Institute (GGPI) and GIZ Kids have teamed up to make digestive health education fun and accessible for kids through new Woof Chat Kids programs that are focused on health, nutrition, and wellness. But that’s not all. This episode also gives the audience  a sneak peek at Oliver Super Beardie’s new role in Woof Chat Kids. Oliver answers real questions from kids and shows just how his playful personality, endless curiosity, and infectious humor will help kids of all ages understand why digestive health is so important—expertly puppeteered and voiced by the esteemed and incredibly talented John Kennedy. Tune in to discover how this exciting collaboration is empowering kids and families to make healthier choices—and catch a glimpse of Oliver Super Beardie in action as he makes gut health learning fun, relatable, and actionable—helping kids build lifelong healthy habits.  

In this powerful episode, we share a deeply personal story about the devastating impact of early-onset colorectal cancer—and the urgent need for better screening. Our guest, Dr. George Beauregard, is an internal medicine physician and healthcare executive whose world changed forever in 2017 when his newly married 29-year-old son was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer—just a month after his wedding. Through his son’s courageous fight and advocacy, Dr. Beauregard found a renewed purpose: raising awareness about the alarming rise in early-onset cases and the need for improved screening and research. He also shares insights from his memoir, Reservations For Nine: A Doctor’s Family Confronts Cancer, blending his personal and professional perspectives. Join us as we discuss his son’s lasting legacy, the emotional and medical lessons from their journey, and the fight for earlier detection. This conversation is a call to action for greater awareness, earlier intervention, and meaningful change.