Australian Weight Loss Surgery Podcast

Understanding the mind is just as important as understanding the body. In this episode, Lareena Brown, a clinical psychologist, and Caroline Shannon, a dietitian dive deep into the world of ADHD, especially when it comes to weight management and bariatric surgery. They discuss the psychological and nutritional side of ADHD, exploring its symptoms, how it can affect our ability to plan and organize...

Food isn't just fuel—it's a story we tell ourselves. From cravings to culture, every bite shapes our habits and mindset. In this episode, Jared Gleaton, a school psychologist turned food critic and author shares his transformative weight-loss journey and insights on food psychology. Jared discusses how losing 176 pounds helped him reconnect with food in a healthier way, viewing it as a blend...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Pennie Taylor to unpack the different approaches to fasting and the science behind each one. Pennie, who’s not only an expert in food research but also played a key role in developing the low-carb diet with CSIRO, walks us through the evidence supporting fasting-mimicking, intermittent fasting, and the 5:2 diet. Together, we explore how each method holds merit...

Success after bariatric surgery goes far beyond the operating room—it’s about building habits, fostering resilience, and redefining relationships with food and health. In this episode, Jennifer Tsoutsoulis, a dietitian from Melbourne Gastro, and counsellor Lisa O’Loughlin discuss the importance of habit formation after bariatric surgery. They emphasise building healthy routines during the first 12...

  Did you know that bariatric surgery patients often face unique challenges when it comes to food and nutrition post-surgery? In this episode, Chef Adam Moore, a Certified Global Executive Chef is here to discuss our collaborative project, titled “Not a Bariatric Cookbook”. This book addresses the different stages of the weight loss surgery journey, providing recipes and nutritional guidance. Chef...

Did you know that combining modern medications with bariatric surgery could be the key to effectively addressing obesity, a condition that affects millions but often receives insufficient attention? In this episode, I am accompanied by  Dr. Harald Puhalla, a bariatric surgeon. Together, we explore the ins and outs of pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery as options for addressing obesity, a condit...

Every person going through bariatric surgery has different experiences, as we are all built differently. In this episode, Francis Olsen shares his weight loss journey, discussing struggles post-bariatric surgery, including battling laxative addiction. He emphasizes the surgery's positive impact despite challenges, advocating for holistic support structures. Engaging with nutritionist Jacqui Lewis,...

They say how you dress is a reflection of who you are and what kind of person you are. In this episode, Ann Whitaker, an Image Consultant, introduced herself and her background, discussing the transformative impact of color and style on personal appearance. She explored the significance of personal branding and its influence on how one is perceived. Ann highlighted the effect of appearance on prof...

Did you know? The transformative effects of GLP-1 agonists are potent allies not only in the fight against diabetes but also key to unlocking weight loss potential in a clinical setting. In this episode, Dr. Angela Kwong, a General Practitioner with a special interest in medically supervised weight loss discusses medical weight loss, particularly through exploring the benefits and mechanisms of GL...

To ease concerns and enhance comfort during medical examinations, it is imperative for patients to conduct thorough research on the attending doctor. However, what specific responsibilities and certifications should one be aware of to make the most informed decision?   In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Justin Perron, a trained specialist, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, and the owner and f...

Losing weight is tough for many aiming to be healthier. But guess what? Hypnotherapy has stepped into the ring as a cool and interesting player among all the methods out there. In this episode, Glenn Mackintosh, a psychologist and hypnotherapist, explores the transformative power of hypnotherapy in weight loss. Glenn explains that it's not magic or brainwashing but a guided process into a receptiv...

Feeling alone and unsure of where to begin on your weight loss surgery journey? Well let me tell you something, you're not alone. In this episode, Mel and Kellie, two lifelong friends in different stages of their vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) journeys, strive to share important information about weight loss surgery (WLS) with the world. They both mention meeting each other in middle school and...

For many years, we have been told that diet is the key to achieving our weight loss goals. However, recent research suggests that it is more complex. While diet certainly plays a role, it may not be the most important factor in achieving sustainable weight loss.   In this episode, we are joined by Kate Berridge, a clinical nurse specialist in Bariatrics RNcP MN (Hons) and founder of Tiaki Whaiaro....

For people who have tried and failed to lose weight through traditional means, bariatric surgery can be a life-changing solution. Bariatric Surgery can help individuals achieve significant and sustainable weight loss, improve their overall health, and reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues.  In this episode,  Dr. Harald Puhalla, a General Surgeon, specialising in Bariatric and Gastric su...

Weight loss is a popular topic, with many methods available to help people achieve their desired weight. However, Weight Loss Surgery still carries a stigma, causing many to avoid it due to fear of judgment and misconceptions.   Karim Boktor, a business coach and mindset expert, sheds light on this issue and emphasises adopting a holistic approach to Weight Loss Surgery. In this episode, we will e...

When patients seek weight loss surgery advice, long-term aftercare is often overlooked. This creates problems affecting the physical and mental health of the patient, including their relationships.  In this episode,  we are joined by Connie Stapleton, a psychologist specialising in bariatric surgery. Today, she will discuss weight loss surgery - its psychological and emotional effects, understandi...

For many people, social media is a significant part of life. While it may seem like something that doesn’t carry too much weight in the world, it most certainly does in our day and age. The pressure to conform to society's standards and the harmful effects of body shaming can be challenging for many. In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Ireland, author of "The Shape of Us," to delve into the insp...

When patients come to see General Practitioners for support and care for their weight management, yet, all they feel is stigma and discrimination. General Practitioners just throw the blame back on them, which is supposed not to be the case.  In this episode,  we are joined by Dr. Angela Kwong, a General Practitioner with a special interest in medically supervised weight loss. Today she will talk...

To succeed in weight management, you must have determination, perseverance, and a respectable dietitian. Jeannie Boyers has been a registered dietitian for nearly 20 years and is board certified in obesity and weight management. Today, Jeannie will talk about how she helps her clients restore their confidence and reconnect with their bari-roots. Even miles away, Jeannie helps many clients through...

When it comes to the topic of care, most of the time, we put ourselves at the bottom of the list. But this isn't how it should be, especially after Weight Loss Surgery. While you are healing, your body needs more care than ever! After surgery, part of the self-care journey is nourishing your body with the right food.  In this episode, I am joined by Nutritional Therapist and CEO of Metabolic Balan...

After surgery, usually comes staying at home and preparing your meals. Part of the weight loss surgery journey is preparing and eating good food, even when you have specific dietary needs to look out for. This also applies to the mums, our home cooks, who often have little time to sit down and are expected to come up with something for the family meals. Considering each family member's dietary nee...

To understand weight loss, we need to understand chemistry. You’re probably wondering what chemistry has to do with weight loss. It's a massive part of the journey because we are chemical machines ourselves! Thankfully, we have great educators, such as our guest today, to demonstrate and explain the scientific side of losing weight in simple, fun, and understandable ways.  Out of curiosity about w...

Any type of surgery is no joke. However, it could be someone's turning point in life, and an integral part of having a successful surgery is having the right support.  Today, I am joined by Jane Stoltze, Bariatric Dietitian and Weight Loss Surgery Coach. She talks about her experiences implementing the common trends to support her clients during surgery until their recovery. Jane also emphasises t...

After Weight Loss Surgery, most people's concerns revolve around excess skin and the risk of scars. However, competing in the bodybuilding arena might be an entirely different story. Rejoining us today is World Beauty Fitness Fashion- Australia Transformation Winner 2022, Natalie Roberts. She shares how her reconstructive surgery not only reshaped her body but also boosted her confidence. With res...

There comes a time in our lives when we get that one huge "Wake Up Call" to change our lives. Often, those changes can be quite overwhelming. After Weight Loss Surgery, you're hyped to change your lifestyle and set new goals for your journey. But then a few days pass, and you find yourself slacking — that's when we start feeling awful about ourselves again. Sebastian Terry, Author and Founder of 1...