In this episode, Ben and Amy dive into the latest price drops for Wegovy and Zepbound—finally some relief for cash-paying patients without anti-obesity coverage! They’ll break down where these medications come from, how to access them, and what you need to know.Plus, they’ll discuss Medicare guidelines and the new $2,000 out-of-pocket cap for those with Medicare Part D coverage. This is another must-listen episode to help you advocate for yourself and take control of your health!
In this episode of The Heavy Truth, experts Ben and Amy debunk the myth that obesity is simply a matter of motivation. They discuss how obesity is a complex, multifaceted issue influenced by genetics, environment, mental health, and other factors. The focus of this episode is to challenge the idea of self-blame and criticism, encouraging listeners to recognize that obesity is not just a lack of willpower. Plus, a special shout-out to Ben for completing his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—a major achievement that we’re all incredibly proud of! Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on breaking down the stigma surrounding obesity.
THT- The Chronic Disease of Obesity. This episode will help you understand that obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that needs to be treated long term. Why some clinicians address obesity with their patients and why others do not. Understanding the importance of making small changes that yield significant benefits is the key takeaway with this episode. This is one not to miss. Enjoy!
Ben & Amy discuss in their first episode how they got into weight loss medicine, how they met, and more... Ben Ramirez is a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine. He has been in the field of nursing for more than 15 years, both at the bedside and clinic settings. As a strong patient advocate, he consistently provides evidence-based patient centered care. Currently, he practices in Wisconsin in the area of Medical Weight Management and Bariatrics. Having had bariatric surgery himself, He provides a unique perspective to his patients, not only as a provider, but as a patient with the history of chronic obesity. His direct light-hearted approach in his practice, keeps his patients active and engaged while creating the necessary lifestyle changes needed along their weight loss journey. While evidence-based practice is key, Ben believes in progress over perfection pertaining to weight loss. Amy Paulus is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a certification in obesity medicine. She has been in the nursing field for over 20 years, working in many areas which has helped her gain knowledge and expertise to help her give the best possible care to her patients. Currently, in Health Care in Illinois she works within the Weight Management Program, seeing both bariatric and medical weight management patients. Amy’s empathetic, yet direct approach with her patients is the key to building excellent rapport and relationships with her patients. When it comes to treating the disease of obesity, Amy continues to expand her knowledge in her area of expertise to ensure she is following the latest guidelines to ensure safety and to achieve positive outcomes.
SEASON FINALE!What if every weight loss trend showed up on a dating app? From keto with a flashy profile pic, to intermittent fasting playing hard to get, to GLP-1s sliding in with slick promises—would you swipe right or left? In this episode, we play matchmaker (and heartbreaker) with today’s hottest diet and wellness fads. You’ll hear the red flags, green flags, and those “it’s complicated” vibes that make some trends appealing but maybe not marriage material. By the end, you’ll know which ones deserve a first date, which should be ghosted, and which might just be The One (for now).BEN AND AMY will take a short break to research topics and content. Stay tuned for an exciting Season 3 in October 2025.
In this episode of The Heavy Truth, we’re digging into more than just the scale. If you're on a GLP-1 medication like Wegovy/Ozempic, or Mounjaro/Zepbound, you've probably heard all about the weight loss—but what about the fatigue, nausea, or that weird relationship with food now?
On today’s episode of The Heavy Truth, Ben and Amy open up about the often-overlooked emotional aftermath of weight loss—body dysmorphia.You'd think the number on the scale dropping would bring nothing but celebration—but for many, especially those who’ve carried extra weight for years, the mental baggage sticks around long after the pounds are gone. Ben and Amy share raw personal stories and tough truths about what it feels like to look in the mirror and still see your “before” self, to hear compliments that don’t feel true, and to wrestle with an identity that’s shifting faster than your body can keep up.They’ll also explore the silent grief, unexpected shame, and the strange guilt that can follow weight loss, as well as how to begin healing and learning to trust your reflection again.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like their outsides changed, but their insides didn’t get the memo. Tender, honest, and deeply relatable—this is The Heavy Truth.
This week on The Heavy Truth, Ben and Amy take a gentle detour—nothing too wild, just a little reflective stroll down memory lane. They’re opening up about the messages they picked up about weight while growing up—things their parents said, what they heard from family, friends, maybe even that one nosy neighbor. You know the type.It’s not all sunshine—some moments might tug at old memories or stir feelings you haven’t visited in a while. But hey, that’s part of the journey, right? Whether it hits home or just makes you go “Hmm,” one thing’s for sure: you’re not alone here.So, cozy in, maybe grab a snack (no judgment here), and stay with Ben and Amy as they keep it honest, a little messy, and always real.
Hey friends—welcome back to The Heavy Truth with your favorite duo, Ben and Amy! This episode? Oh, it’s a fun one. We’re diving headfirst into the world of AI—yep, Artificial Intelligence—and how it's not just for robots and sci-fi movies anymore. Turns out, it can actually be super helpful when it comes to your health and wellness journey.We’re talking apps that can build your workout plan, suggest meals based on your preferences, whip up grocery lists, and even keep you on track with your weight loss goals (without the guilt trips). It’s kind of like having a digital cheerleader-slash-nutritionist-slash-personal-trainer in your pocket.We’ll waffle a bit, we’ll laugh a lot, and by the end, you’ll probably want to open your phone and start exploring what AI can do for you. So pour your coffee, get comfy, and let’s unpack this techy twist on getting healthier!
In this episode of The Heavy Truth, Ben and Amy break down the buzz around intermittent fasting (IF) versus traditional calorie and macro counting.They’ll explore the pros, the pitfalls, and the real-life sustainability of both approaches. Is a 16:8 fasting window right for you? Or does tracking protein, fats, and carbs fit your lifestyle better?The key takeaway? There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to nutrition. It's all about finding what works for you—and what you can maintain long-term. Because at the end of the day, it's not about a "diet"... it's about creating a lifestyle that fuels you, supports your goals, and feels good. Tune in for practical insights, a few laughs, and encouragement to make choices that honor your journey.
Welcome back to another episode of The Heavy Truth! Today, Ben and Amy dive into the frustration of insurance plans changing or eliminating coverage for anti-obesity medications. What are your options when it comes to securing coverage?Dealing with insurance and completing prior authorizations is an entirely different beast—one that providers and their staff spend countless hours navigating, often without compensation. That’s why understanding the limitations ahead of time is crucial.Let’s get into it!
On this episode of The Heavy Truth, Ben and Amy dive into Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)—a chronic and often painful skin condition that causes boils, lesions, and scarring. HS can lead to isolation and emotional distress for those who suffer from it. Join Ben and Amy as they explore the what, when, why, and where of this condition, shedding light on its impact and available options for managing it.
On this episode of The Heavy Truth, Ben and Amy dive into the hot topic of ultra-processed foods, or UPFs. These foods are packed with sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars, making them calorie-dense but low in nutrition. But how exactly do they impact our overall health? And why are they so effective at derailing weight loss efforts? Join us as we break down the science behind UPFs and explore how their convenience comes at a cost. Stay tuned for some eye-opening insights!
In this episode of THT, Ben and Amy tackle some of the most common myths surrounding obesity. From misconceptions about its causes and the "on-size-fits-all" solutions to dietary intake and exercise, we break down the facts with science-based insights. Tune in while Ben and Amy debunk common obesity myths and explore the real factors behind obesity, challenge popular and misleading ideas and offer a more nuanced understand of this complex health issue.
On this episode of The Heavy Truth, Ben and Amy dive into the critical role support plays on your health journey. Whether it’s emotional, practical, or inspirational, having the right people around you is essential for success. They’re joined by a special guest, Jody, a loyal listener and supporter of the podcast, who shares his own health journey. Jody discusses how having the right people in your corner can make all the difference, not just for short-term progress but for long-term success as well. Tune in for valuable insights on building your support system!
The dynamic duo is back again for another episode of THT. Ben and Amy will discuss the limitations and biases of the treatment of obesity. Why are so many individuals not given the opportunity to have their chronic disease of obesity treated such as those who have been diagnosed with hypertension, thyroid disorders, diabetes or even cancer! Why is this the case? Well, you will hear today. Also, learn how to be your own advocate. Tune in!
This episode of The Heavy Truth Ben and Amy will discuss the term "Diabesity". Although this is not a true diagnosis, it is a term that encompasses obesity and diabetes, including insulin resistance and pre-diabetes. Let the dynamic duo educate you on what this mean, how to improve your outcome or help reverse this condition prior to the development of diabetes. Listen in for tips and tricks on how you can improve your health and avoid developing type 2 diabetes.
The Heavy Truth Podcasters, Ben and Amy discuss managing and navigating way to stay accountable while on vacation, business trips or going out socially without derailment. Our duo also discusses their Alaskan Cruise they took together. Vacationing and trips should not be a stressor nor an excuse to have a "free for all" when it comes to dietary intake and exercise while away from home. Listen in for amazing tips, tricks, encouragement on how to make this particular weakness your STRENGTH.
Season 2 of THT discusses co-host Ben's personal experience with his own skin removal surgery. Ben is open and candid about what procedure he had performed, his recovery and even discusses costs associated with his procedure. Ben and Amy talk about risks associated with seeking out discounted surgeons in hopes of saving a buck. An episode to tune into for sure.
On this episode of THT podcast, we have our very first in studio guest speaker. Amy will have a fun and educational chat with a newly certified health coach to discuss the benefits of coaching. Tune in to find out who is in the hot seat on this episode of The Heavy Truth!