Former Fat Friend

In this episode of the Former Fat Friend podcast, we welcome Zoe Schroeder, MS, RDN, CSCS the lead dietitian at the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Program. Zoe shares her extensive experience in helping bariatric patients and individuals on GLP-1 medications achieve long-term weight loss success through practical and simplified nutrition approaches. Learn about Zoe's journey into the field of dietetics and how her personal experiences fuel her passion for supporting others. We discuss the unique challenges faced by bariatric patients compared to general weight loss populations, and Zoe provides valuable insights into the mental aspects of weight loss. Discover the Pound of Cure program's unique philosophy of focusing on whole, unprocessed foods while adding more nutritional elements rather than restricting. We also explore the integration of GLP-1 medications for weight management and how they complement bariatric treatment plans. Throughout the conversation, Zoe highlights the importance of building sustainable habits and the mental shift needed to maintain success in long-term weight management. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring insights for anyone on a weight loss journey. Find more about Zoe and the Pound of Cure weight loss program here: https://poundofcureweightloss.com/ Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey

Episode 31: In this deeply personal episode of Former Fat Friend, host Kasey is joined by her inspiring mom, Linda, who shares her remarkable weight loss journey and the transformative impact of GLP-1 medication. After losing an impressive 90 pounds over the past two years, Linda opens up about her lifelong struggles with weight, the emotional toll of dieting, and the pivotal moments that led her to embrace this new chapter of her life. Kasey and Linda reflect on their unique mother-daughter dynamic, discussing the challenges of navigating weight issues in a family setting, and how their experiences have shaped their perspectives on health and body image. Linda shares her candid thoughts on the various diets and weight loss programs she tried throughout the years, as well as her initial hesitance towards weight loss surgery before ultimately supporting Kasey through her own bariatric journey. As they delve into the role of GLP-1 medication in Linda's weight loss success, she emphasizes how this treatment has changed her relationship with food, allowing her to enjoy meals without the constant obsession over calories. The discussion highlights the importance of community, support, and self-acceptance in the ongoing journey of weight management. Join us for this heartfelt conversation that underscores the message that it's never too late to make a change and that weight loss is not just a physical transformation, but an emotional and mental journey as well. Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey

Episode 30: In this heartfelt episode of Former Fat Friend, we welcome the courageous Katie Yurow, who shares her transformative journey following gastric sleeve surgery in 2021. After losing 100 pounds, Katie opens up about her experiences with weight regain and the steps she's taking to address it, including her recent introduction to GLP-1 medication. Her candid reflections on the emotional and mental challenges of long-term weight management provide invaluable insights into the complexities of obesity. Join us as Katie recounts her journey from being the "fat friend" to navigating the emotional rollercoaster that often follows significant weight loss. She discusses the importance of community support, the challenges of food addiction, transfer addiction and the necessity of ongoing therapy in maintaining a healthy mindset. Katie's story highlights the reality that weight loss is not just a physical transformation but a profound emotional journey that requires continuous self-reflection and growth. As we dive deeper into her experiences, Katie reveals the role of GLP-1 medications in her recovery and how they have helped her manage cravings and regain control over her relationship with food. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is multifaceted, and finding the right resources and support is essential in the ongoing battle against obesity. Follow Katie on social media: @ladykatie_vsg & @ladykatie_hair Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey

Episode 29: In this enlightening episode of Former Fat Friend, we welcome the esteemed Dr. Eric Smith, a pioneer in bariatric and robotic surgery. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Dr. Smith shares his profound insights into the evolution of obesity medicine and the transformative impact of bariatric surgery. As the Chief of Surgery at Georgetown Community Hospital and Medical Director of the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, Dr. Smith has performed over 5,000 robotic cases, making him a leader in the field. He is also known for his role on the TLC show 1000 Pound Sisters and as co-host of the Pop Culture podcast. Join us as Dr. Smith delves into his journey from training in Dayton, Ohio, to becoming a prominent figure in obesity treatment. He discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in bariatric surgery, the significance of patient trust and support, and the critical role of mental health in achieving successful outcomes. Dr. Smith also sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery, the importance of muscle maintenance for long-term weight loss, and the potential of GLP-1 medications. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the future of bariatric surgery and obesity medicine, highlighting the need for a multifaceted approach to treating obesity. Dr. Smith's dedication to patient care and his innovative work with Pop Recovery Systems exemplify his commitment to improving health outcomes for those struggling with obesity. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges traditional views and inspires hope for a healthier future. Learn more about the work Dr Smith is doing here: https://kentuckybariatricinstitute.com  Learn more about Pop Recovery Systems here: https://www.poprecoverysystems.com  Listen to the Pop Culture podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pop-culture-podcast/id1775983707    Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey    

Episode 28: In this episode of Former Fat Friend, we sit down with the vibrant and candid Sara, known on Instagram as FatGirlTalking. Sara shares her transformative journey after undergoing gastric bypass surgery nearly three years ago, resulting in a remarkable weight loss of over 200 pounds. She opens up about how adding a GLP-1 medication to her regimen has impacted her progress and her life. Sarah's story is one of resilience, humor, and a relentless pursuit of a fuller life beyond the confines of obesity.   Dive into Sara's past, from her early struggles with weight that began in childhood to the pivotal decision to undergo bariatric surgery at age 50. Discover how societal perceptions and personal experiences shaped her journey and how she overcame the shame and stigma often associated with obesity. Sara's insights into the mental and physical challenges of weight loss, the role of humor in healing, and the newfound freedom she experiences are both inspiring and enlightening.   Join us for this engaging conversation as Sara and Kasey discuss the complexities of weight loss, the importance of self-compassion, and the evolving landscape of obesity treatment. This episode is a testament to the power of personal transformation and the impact of community support in navigating life's challenges.   Follow Sara on social media: @fatgirltalking   Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey

This week, we dive into part two of Jamie Mills' extraordinary journey. In this episode, Jamie candidly shares her insights on using GLP-1 medications for weight management, her experiences transitioning off and back on after childbirth, and how these medications complement her bariatric surgery. Jamie also opens up about her series of plastic surgeries, detailing her experiences and how these choices have impacted her life before and after pregnancy. This episode offers a heartfelt conversation about navigating weight loss, stigma, support systems, and empowering personal health decisions.   Follow Jamie on social media: @thesleeveddietitian Learn more about Jamie's TRIBE membership program: https://thesleeveddietitian.com/the-tribe-membership/   Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey

Join us for an insightful episode as we welcome our incredible guest, Jamie Mills, known on social media as The Sleeved Dietitian. Jamie, an award-winning registered dietitian nutritionist and a best-selling author, shares her extraordinary journey from struggling with weight and PCOS to undergoing bariatric surgery in 2017. This decision led her to lose over 135 pounds and transform not only her own life but also the lives of countless others. In this first part of a two-part episode, we delve into Jamie's inspiring story. Jamie shares about dealing with PCOS and childhood obesity, having bariatric surgery, and pursuing a career as a dietitian focused on helping pre- and post-op bariatric patients. She discusses use of GLP1s in her journey and what is what like experiencing pregnancy and motherhood. She also shares candidly her thoughts on the bias and stigma surrounding obesity and body positivity within the dietetics community. Tune in to hear Jamie's unique insights, the challenges she faced in her personal and professional life, and her passion for making a difference in the lives of bariatric patients. Don't miss this engaging and empowering conversation, and make sure to join us for part two of Jamie's story next week.   Follow Jamie on social media: @thesleeveddietitian Learn more about Jamie's TRIBE membership program: https://thesleeveddietitian.com/the-tribe-membership/   Follow us on social media: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey  

Today, Kasey is diving into a hot topic: regain after major weight loss and bariatric surgery. With her background in cognitive neuroscience and social psychology, Kasey dives into the science of obesity, focusing on the hot topic of weight regain. She breaks down the research on bariatric surgery, comparing it to other weight loss methods, and explores factors predicting success and challenges like regain. Kasey shares her personal experience with weight regain, offering empathy and insights into how she navigated this challenging phase. She discusses the importance of realistic expectations, patient adherence, and the role of social support in long-term success. The episode is packed with valuable information and encouragement for anyone on a weight loss journey, emphasizing that you're not alone and there's always hope for a healthier future. Join Kasey as she continues to explore the complexities of weight loss and the power of community in achieving lasting change.   Follow Former Fat Friend on Socials: @FormerFatFriendPod @MaintainingKasey  

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