Former Fat Friend

Episode 24: Today, Kasey and Lisa have a fantastic guest that Lisa never stops gushing about. They're thrilled to introduce you to Lora Grabow, a bariatric therapist with over 20 years of experience helping folks just like us navigate the mental maze of weight loss surgery. Lora shares her insights on "head work," the often missing piece in bariatric treatment. Kasey, Lisa and Lora dig deep into emotional eating, setting boundaries, and the infamous "phantom fat." Get ready to explore the mental side of your weight loss journey with someone who's been a pillar in the bariatric community. Whether you're considering bariatric surgery, are freshly post-op, or just curious about the mental hurdles of weight loss, this episode is packed with wisdom and real talk. Plus, Lora gives us the lowdown on her resources and how you can join her supportive communities. 🎉 ------ Thanks for being here and supporting us! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and maybe even leave a comment. We'd love to hear from you! More details about Lora’s offerings:  Discover the MISSING Piece: Headwork™ Use code: FFF30 (discount code for your listeners  good for 30 days). Barination: Your ultimate destination for empowerment through community and expert guidance on your bariatric journey! Project Reset: Ready to experience a program that goes beyond the basics? It’s not just about resetting habits—it’s about creating deep, meaningful connections within a supportive community Monthly Headwork Matters Newsletter: Sign up on loragrabow.com If you'd like to follow Lora on Socials, you can here: @Bariatric.Therapist  Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 23: This week, Allie and Kasey are getting cozy with flannel pajamas as they chat about the ever-complicated topic of body image before and after weight loss and surgery. They discuss how body image doesn't magically improve with weight loss and how external factors like workouts and clothes can play a huge role. They also touch on relationships post-weight loss and the challenges that come with such a significant life change. It's not always easy, and sometimes the journey can be a bumpy ride for both partners. Lastly, they delve into the latest social media controversy about GLP-1 boosters, discussing the ethics and responsibility of influencers in promoting these products. They raise important questions about the long-term treatment plans for bariatric patients and the need for accessible and effective solutions. ------ Thanks for being here and supporting us! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and maybe even leave a comment. We'd love to hear from you! Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 22: Welcome back to the Former Fat Friend Podcast. It's Kasey here, and I'm beyond excited to have a truly special guest joining us today. Meet Dr. Steven Reyes, or as many know him, Dr. Steve – a bariatric psychologist with nearly two decades of experience helping people transform their lives through weight loss surgery. In this episode, we dive into Dr. Steve's journey into bariatric psychology and explore the fascinating psychological aspects of weight loss surgery. We chat about the importance of community, overcoming weight loss stigma, and preparing for long-term success as a bariatric patient. Plus, Dr. Steve shares some incredible insights on emotional eating, body image, and setting realistic goals. Dr. Steve is a wealth of knowledge and compassion, and I can't wait for you to hear his unique perspective on the bariatric life. Whether you're considering surgery, have already undergone it, or just want to understand more about this transformative journey, this episode is packed with valuable advice and encouragement. So grab a cozy spot, and let's get inspired together. And don't forget to check out Dr. Steve's upcoming book, The Bariatric Code, for more amazing insights! If you want to follow Dr Steve on Social Media, you can find him @dr.stevenreyes  Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 21: This week, we're diving into everything from new relationships to health journeys, and even some unexpected wardrobe adventures! Lisa's got a boyfriend (cue the squeals!), and she's learning the ins and outs of sharing her life on the internet with him. From vulnerability hangovers to the joys of wearing your partner's clothes, she's navigating it all with humor and heart. Meanwhile, Allie's tackling some back pain woes, but she's finding new ways to stay active and keep her spirits up. She's been hitting the Peloton hard and sharing her adventures in parenting and fashion along the way. And Kasey? She's taking on a new challenge with a personal trainer and embracing the idea of gaining muscle instead of losing weight. It's a whole new world, and she's ready for it! Join us for a laid-back chat that feels like you're sitting down with old friends. We're talking life, love, and everything in between, with a side of laughter and a dash of real talk. Can't wait to catch up with you!   Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 20: This episode is a special one. All three of us, Kasey, Lisa, and Allie, are back together, and we’ve got an amazing guest, Ashley, joining us. Ashley is a mom of three who has faced some tough challenges, including losing both parents to cancer. Despite all this, she's lost 70 pounds and is now sharing her journey with us. We dive into how Ashley and Kasey connected through their weight loss journeys on Instagram and the ups and downs they've faced. Ashley opens up about her struggles with binge eating and how she found support through Weight Watchers and later, a GLP-1 medication. She's all about keeping it real and relatable, and we love her for it! Ashley shares how her approach to weight loss has changed over the years and how she's learned to adapt to life's curveballs. It's a conversation full of honesty, resilience, and a whole lot of inspiration. So grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let's chat it out with Ashley! If you want to follow Ashley on Social Media, you can find her @AshleyTracks   Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 19: This episode of the podcast is extra special because Kasey is joined by her boyfriend, Bill, for a heartfelt conversation right from their cozy home studio. It's Bill's first time on a podcast, and he's got a cocktail in hand to ease the nerves! 🍹 They dive into everything from how they met on the volleyball court, to Kasey's transformative weight loss journey, and how it felt for Bill to learn about her bariatric surgery. They even chat about living together, getting a new puppy, and the challenges and joys that come with sharing a life. If you've ever wondered how to support a partner through weight loss, or what it’s like to date after such a personal journey, this episode is for you. Bill shares his candid thoughts on everything from social media fame to household routines, and even tackles some juicy audience questions. 💬 So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and join us for this intimate and fun episode. You won't want to miss it!   Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 18: Welcome back to another episode of the Former Fat Friend Podcast! Join Kasey and Lisa as they dive deep into the early days, weeks, and months following bariatric surgery. With Allie taking the night off, Kasey and Lisa reminisce about their own experiences and offer invaluable advice for those in the early stages of their weight loss journey. From discussing the diet progression—liquids, pureed foods, soft foods, and eventually regular foods—to sharing personal stories of what worked and what didn’t, this episode is packed with insights. Kasey shares how she documented her journey on Instagram, helping her remember the reality of those early days, while Lisa talks about her friend who just had gastric bypass surgery and the questions she’s been fielding. They also tackle the challenges of eating out, attending social functions, and the importance of planning ahead. Whether you're newly post-op or just curious about the process, this episode provides a comprehensive look at navigating the early stages of life after bariatric surgery. Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 17: Welcome to another exciting episode of the Former Fat Friend Podcast! Today, we are thrilled to introduce Kim Tirapelle, a registered bariatric sports dietitian. Kim shares her incredible story, from playing soccer at the University of Illinois to becoming a leading expert in bariatric nutrition. She offers invaluable insights on merging sports nutrition with bariatric guidelines, addressing common misconceptions, and the importance of personalized approaches. Ever wondered how much protein your body can really handle? Or why you might need more carbs when training for that marathon? Kim breaks it all down, along with the latest research on protein absorption and the significance of resistance training for women. Plus, she tackles the tricky topic of intuitive eating and how to truly listen to your body's cues post-surgery. Whether you're looking to fuel your workouts better, understand the role of protein supplements, or find new ways to measure success beyond the scale, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tips. Don't miss out! Follow Kim at @activebariatric on Instagram.  Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 16: Welcome back to another episode of the Former Fat Friend Podcast. Join Kasey, Lisa, and Allie as they dive into the nitty-gritty of their weight loss journeys, totaling a whopping 370 pounds lost! This week, we're launching into our favorite "chatting about" series where we air out grievances, share some laughs, and discuss everything from bariatric surgery to the controversial world of social media influencers. We're talking about pouch resets, the mixed feelings around body positivity and weight loss, and how sometimes the people closest to us just don't get it. Plus, we tackle the hot topic of BMI and whether it's really a fair measure of health. Spoiler alert: it's complicated! So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and join us for an episode full of real talk, support, and maybe a few laughs along the way. We can't wait to share it with you! Follow us on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 15: Welcome back to the Former Fat Friend Podcast. It's your favorite trio, Kasey, Lisa, and Allie, here to share more insights from our weight loss journeys. Collectively, we've shed over 370 pounds and today, we're bringing you a super inspiring episode! We're thrilled to have a special guest, Rob DiMedio, join us. Rob is a bariatric patient and the CEO of Busy Bariatrics. He’s here to share his incredible transformation story, including his journey from 365 pounds to becoming a fitness coach. Rob dives deep into his experiences, offers invaluable advice for both men and women in the bariatric community, and even shares some hot takes on common misconceptions. We also chat about the importance of taking immediate action, the role of habit formation, and the balance between nutrition and fitness. Plus, Rob is generously offering our listeners exclusive access to his meal planning guide and six months of meal plans when you sign up for his email list here! So, whether you're just starting your journey or looking for that extra push, this episode is packed with motivation and practical tips. Tune in, get inspired, and let's keep pushing towards our goals together! 💪 Follow us on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa @myweightishistory

Episode 14: Join Kasey, Lisa, and Allie as they share their incredible journey of losing over 370 pounds together. They know firsthand what it's like to be the "fat friend," and they're here to dive deep into the myths and fears surrounding bariatric surgery. In this episode, we’re tackling the common misconceptions and anxieties that many people have about weight loss surgery. From the fear of complications and hair loss to concerns about never feeling "normal" again, we're breaking it all down with humor and honesty. We also chat about how our lives have changed for the better, the surprising realities of post-op life, and why finding a supportive community is so crucial. Whether you're considering surgery or just curious about the process, we hope this episode offers some clarity and comfort. Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 13: Welcome back to Season 2 of the Former Fat Friend Podcast! 🎉 It's Kasey, Lisa, and Allie here, and we're super excited to catch up with you all. We took a summer break, but our health journeys and friendships kept going strong. In this episode, we dive into everything that's been going on in our lives. From Allie's shift from home workouts to joining various fitness classes and beginning to work with an online coach, and Lisa's journey towards scheduling her plastic surgery while tackling some weight regain, to Kasey's big move and Operation Get It Together success story—there's a lot to unpack! We also discuss the challenges of balancing life, work, and health goals, and how we've adapted to changes in our routines. Whether it's dealing with regain, adjusting workout plans, or finding that sweet spot between indulgence and discipline, we're here to share it all. Join us as we navigate the ups and downs of our weight loss journeys and offer some real talk on what it takes to stay on track. And stay tuned for what's to come this season—mental health, maintenance tips, and much more! Thanks for being part of our journey. We love hearing from you, so keep those messages coming! Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 12: Welcome to the season one finale of the Former Fat Friend podcast! Join Kasey, Lisa, and Allie as they celebrate an incredible first season and dive into a special Q&A session with questions submitted by you, our listeners. In this episode, the trio reflects on the highlights and challenges of their journeys, shares their tips for overcoming weight loss stalls, and opens up about their personal struggles with body dysmorphia. They also discuss the impact of weight loss on relationships and friendships, and offer heartfelt advice to their former fat selves. From practical travel tips to navigating social situations post-surgery, this episode is packed with valuable insights and candid moments. Whether you're at the beginning of your weight loss journey or well into maintenance, you'll find inspiration and support in this honest and uplifting conversation. Thank you for an amazing first season! We’ll be taking a summer break but will be back in August with more inspiring stories and valuable tips. We’ll miss you and can’t wait to continue this journey together in season two. Until then, take care and keep thriving! Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa  

Episode 11: This week, we have a truly special guest on the Former Fat Friend podcast—Allie's mom, Suzanne! Join Kasey, Lisa, and Allie as they dive into Suzanne's incredible 17-year journey post-gastric bypass surgery. With candid reflections and heartfelt moments, Suzanne shares her experiences from the initial challenges and triumphs of losing over 100 pounds to the long-term success and lifestyle changes that have kept her healthy and happy. Listen in as she discusses the emotional and physical hurdles, the impact of her transformation on her family, and the unexpected joys of fitting into her beloved Lily Pulitzer clothes. In a touching conversation, Suzanne opens up about the importance of perseverance, the support of loved ones, and the practical tips that have helped her maintain her weight loss for nearly two decades. Whether you're considering bariatric surgery or looking for inspiration to stay on track, this episode offers valuable insights and a powerful message of hope. Join us for an episode filled with wisdom, laughter, and a few tears. Suzanne's story is a testament to the enduring power of determination and the support of a loving community. Don't miss this intimate and inspiring conversation. Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 10: This week, Kasey, Lisa, and Allie dive into the juiciest topic yet—dating and relationships post weight loss surgery. With over 370 pounds lost between them, they share their unique experiences and how their love lives have evolved. From navigating first dates while learning to eat again, to dealing with newfound confidence, and even the emotional rollercoaster of sharing their weight loss journeys with their partners—it's all on the table. And don't miss the sweet surprise when Kasey's boyfriend and Allie's husband share their thoughts on their transformations! If you've ever wondered how weight loss surgery impacts dating or if you're just here for the heartfelt stories and laughs, this episode is for you. Grab your tissues (and maybe a glass of wine), and join us for an intimate, real, and uplifting conversation.

Episode 9: In this intimate episode of the Former Fat Friend podcast, we delve deep into the world of loose skin and plastic surgery, a hot topic in the weight loss community. Kasey, Lisa, and Allie get real about their personal battles with loose skin following significant weight loss and the complex feelings that come with it. Allie candidly shares her unexpected emotional journey towards considering breast surgery, a decision she once thought was purely vanity-driven. Meanwhile, Lisa opens up about her insecurities surrounding her legs and her determination to pursue a thigh lift, despite her concerns about the outcome. Kasey recounts her own transformative plastic surgery experience, offering a raw and detailed account of her challenging recovery. From the initial pain and swelling to the gradual, rewarding improvement in her body's appearance, Kasey's story is a testament to the mental and physical journey that plastic surgery entails. The conversation takes a practical turn as the hosts discuss the importance of selecting the right surgeon, managing expectations, and the financial aspects of undergoing plastic surgery. They emphasize the value of personal referrals and consultations in making informed decisions. Join us for a truly intimate and informative episode that sheds light on the lesser-discussed aspects of life after massive weight loss. Whether you're considering plastic surgery or just curious about the process, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt advice from those who've walked the path.   Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 8: In this episode of the Former Fat Friend podcast, we are thrilled to have the remarkable Laura Flusche, also known by her Instagram handle @fluscheeitaway, join us for an intimate conversation about her transformative weight loss journey. Laura opens up about her life before and after bariatric surgery, detailing the emotional and physical challenges she faced as a new mother during the pandemic, leading up to her highest weight of 384 pounds. With authenticity and grace, Laura shares her experience with the modified duodenal switch, which helped her lose over 270 pounds. The discussion takes an inspiring turn as she talks about her evolving weight loss goals, the realities of post-op life, and the importance of setting realistic expectations, especially when it comes to plastic surgery after massive weight loss. Laura also delves into the complexities of managing a rapidly growing social media presence, navigating the balance between sharing personal triumphs and maintaining boundaries. She offers sage advice for those looking to share their own journeys online, emphasizing the power of authenticity and engagement. The conversation doesn't shy away from the tough questions either, as Laura addresses how she manages discussions around food, nutrition, and body image with her children in a household where both parents have undergone bariatric surgery. Join us for an episode that's as informative as it is inspiring, filled with candid moments and valuable insights into weight loss, social media, and the enduring power of community support. Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 7: In this candid and exploratory episode of the Former Fat Friend podcast, hosts Kasey, Lisa, and Allie switch things up and dive into a spontaneous "Chatting About" series. Unscripted and unrestrained, they delve into a wide array of topics that are top of mind, ranging from the nuances of trigger warnings on weight-related content to the often humorous interactions with others as it relates to food and food choices.  Kasey, Lisa, and Allie don't shy away from the personal either, as they share heartfelt stories that reveal the unexpected emotional hurdles they've encountered post-weight loss. Allie's poignant reflection on motherhood and the physical changes that come with significant weight loss is a raw testament to the deep-seated connections between body image and family dynamics. The conversation takes a turn towards the concept of goal weights, where the hosts question the importance and practicality of setting a specific target number. They unpack the psychological drive to keep pushing for new milestones and the realization that success isn't always a fixed point, but rather a flexible and evolving state of being. Join us for an episode that's as much a group therapy session as it is a podcast. It's an honest, unfiltered discussion that will resonate with anyone who's ever grappled with the emotional complexities of weight loss, the pressures of societal expectations, and the journey towards self-acceptance.   Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa

Episode 6: In this episode of the Former Fat Friend podcast, we're thrilled to welcome our first-ever guest, Carolin Tyler, an Instagram sensation in the weight loss community. Carolin, known to her followers as @carolin_rny, joins hosts Kasey, Lisa, and Allie to share her incredible journey of shedding over 200 pounds post-gastric bypass surgery and navigating life on GLP-1 medications. With a starting weight of over 400 pounds, Carolin's decision to undergo bariatric surgery was a life-altering one, leading to the best years of her life thus far. She delves into the realities of chronic obesity, the challenges she faced as her weight loss plateaued, and the pivotal role GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro) have played in her ongoing battle against the disease of obesity. In a candid conversation, Carolin addresses the complex emotions surrounding food and the necessity of additional tools in her weight loss arsenal. She also broaches the controversial topic of GLP-1 medications within the bariatric community and the criticism some face for choosing that treatment plan. This episode is a deep dive into the multifaceted nature of weight loss, the stigma surrounding obesity and its treatments, and the power of community in fostering understanding and support. Carolin's story is a testament to the courage required to ask for help and the resilience needed to manage a chronic condition like obesity. For anyone struggling with their weight, considering bariatric surgery, or curious about the role of GLP-1 medications in weight management, this episode is a must-listen. It's a raw and honest look at the complexities of weight loss, the power of self-advocacy, and the strength found in community.   Connect with us and join the conversation on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa  

Episode 5: In this raw and reflective episode of the Former Fat Friend podcast, Kasey, Lisa, and Allie venture into a stark yet vital subject which often manifests in weight loss transformations - unhealthy comparisons. Our hosts, who've collectively lost over 370 pounds with bariatric surgery, open up about their unique journey. They recount personal experiences, shedding light on their battles with self-doubt and insecurities engendered by comparisons. They discuss the resilient mindset necessary to foster self-acceptance and personal growth against a backdrop of constant physical and psychological transformation. In an era dominated by social media, this episode broaches the dual role it plays in fostering motivation and occasionally sowing seeds of insecurity. Our hosts discuss the importance of ethical narratives on social platforms and stress on the significance of focusing on personal progress, driving home the inherent truth about the uniqueness of every health journey. Join us in this enlightening podcast episode as we uncover the intricacies of battling unhealthy comparisons in weight loss and lifestyle transformations. Learn from personal experiences, get insights, and transform your struggles into tools of growth. Whether you're navigating post-surgery life, struggling with comparison, or seeking a community that gets it, this episode offers a candid look at the emotional hurdles of weight loss and the unspoken battles that come with it. Embrace the solidarity and support of the Former Fat Friend community by connecting with us on Instagram: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey @allieslosingit_rny @leaningintolisa Don't forget to tune in next week for another dose of empathy, encouragement, and empowering conversations.