In this Christmas Day episode, I get real about the week most bariatric patients and GLP-1 users sabotage without even realizing it. I talk through my own holiday patterns, the years I treated this week like a nutritional purge, the post-bariatric season where alcohol took over 22 days of my life, and the year I finally sobered up and got honest about the habits that were holding me back.
I break down why this “dead week” between Christmas and New Year’s becomes a trap for anyone on a bariatric or GLP-1 weight loss journey, and why tiny aligned actions during these seven days matter more than anything you promise yourself on January first. I explain the psychology behind the fresh start effect, how cognitive dissonance shows up when you swear you want change but rehearse old patterns, and why biology pushes us to slow down, eat more, and coast this time of year.
If you’re a bariatric patient, a GLP-1 user, or someone trying to rebuild your life after weight loss surgery, this episode gives you a simple, no-BS plan to protect your progress and enter 2026 with real momentum. I walk you through practical steps, habit-building strategies, and the exact actions I use with clients to stay aligned when everyone else is drifting. This is how you build discipline, create structure, and stop treating January like a magic reset button.
Chapters
00:00 The Holiday Mindset Shift
06:09 Reflections on Alcohol and Nutrition
11:25 Psychology of Fresh Starts
19:03 Building Sustainable Habits
24:41 Taking Action Before January
Keywords
bariatrics, holiday season, new year, habits, alcohol consumption, fitness, nutrition, mindset, fresh start, accountability
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Keywords
bariatrics, holiday season, new year, habits, alcohol consumption, fitness, nutrition, mindset, fresh start, accountability
Midlife can feel like a pressure cooker — career pivots, parenting chaos, and a body that doesn’t bounce back the way it used to. In this episode, I sit down with health coach Regan La Testa to pull back the curtain on the silent struggles no one talks about. We dive into the identity crises, the stress-fueled burnout, and the surprising mistakes most people make in midlife that keep them stuck. And we don’t just vent — we give you the simple, life-changing shifts that can put you back in control. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this all there is?” — this conversation will give you hope, clarity, and a game plan.
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In this episode, I sit down with my longtime client, Erica, to walk through her powerful transformation after bariatric surgery. Erica opens up about the challenges she faced post-surgery, the mental hurdles she had to overcome, and why joining Busy Bariatrics was the turning point in her journey.
We talk about the role of community support, how nutrition and fitness helped her stay consistent, and how she used GLP-1 medications as a tool (not a crutch) for long-term success. Erica also shares the mindset shifts that helped her stay patient when progress felt slow and how that patience ultimately led to incredible results.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated with the ups and downs of bariatric life or questioned whether you can actually hit your goals, this episode will show you what’s possible. Erica’s story is living proof that with the right support and belief in yourself, you can thrive — and we’ll show you exactly how we do it.
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In this episode, I sit down with Taryl — a mom of seven — to talk about what it really takes to prioritize yourself when life never slows down. Taryl opens up about her bariatric surgery journey, the chaos of raising a big family, and how she learned to put self-care at the top of her list without the guilt.
We dive into the strategies that helped her stay consistent: planning ahead, overcoming gym intimidation, and leaning on accountability when motivation faded. Taryl also shares how she celebrates non-scale victories and navigates life’s busiest seasons without losing progress.
If you’ve ever felt like there’s no way to focus on your health with your family, job, and everything else pulling at you, this conversation will flip that belief on its head. Taryl proves that making yourself a priority isn’t selfish — it’s the key to showing up for everyone else.
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I sat down with my team of bariatric coaches and we dug into how to get through Thanksgiving and the entire holiday season without derailing your weight loss after bariatric surgery. We talked about the real stuff people face this time of year… the food pressure, the family comments, the social expectations… and how to stay consistent whether you’re post-VSG, post-RNY, or navigating GLP-1 medications.
We broke down the strategies we personally use to stay on track during the holidays, from planning your plate to understanding normal scale fluctuations to setting boundaries with the people who love you… and sometimes love to push food on you. We covered how to protect your mindset so you don’t spin out after one higher-calorie day, and why communication with your family can make Thanksgiving way less chaotic.
And because bariatric weight loss is never just about the food, we talked about the power of community support and basic self care… the two things that keep most people from sliding backwards during the toughest stretch of the year.
If you’re trying to lose weight after bariatric surgery or while on GLP-1s, this episode will help you walk into the holidays with a plan, a backbone, and your progress intact.
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In this episode, I sat down with chefs Steph Mitchell and Justy Martinez to tackle one of the biggest challenges after bariatric surgery — dining out without derailing your progress. We got real about how restaurant menus can wreck your goals, why meal prep is your secret weapon, and how to handle social situations without feeling like the “weird eater” at the table. Steph and Justy dropped so many pro tips for making meals at home just as craveable as takeout, and we had plenty of laughs (and personal stories) along the way. If you’ve ever wondered how to enjoy food without sabotaging your hard work, this one’s a must-listen.
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In this episode, I sit down with my client, Rhonda Cresie, to break down the exact strategies we use at Busy Bariatrics to create life-changing transformations. Rhonda gets raw about her struggles with weight, the emotional rollercoaster of post-surgery life, and the importance of community support when things get tough.
We dive deep into the mental health work that kept her moving forward, how accountability changed everything, and why nutrition is non-negotiable for long-term success. Rhonda also opens up about her experience using GLP-1 medication, the realities of skin removal surgery, and the lessons she’s learned about gratitude and perseverance along the way.
If you’ve ever wondered how we actually help clients succeed long-term after bariatric surgery, this episode is a must-listen. Rhonda’s story proves that with the right mindset, support, and strategy, you can completely rewrite your story — and we’ll show you exactly how we do it.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rhonda's Journey
02:35 The Decision for Bariatric Surgery
05:15 Challenges and Realizations Post-Surgery
07:42 The Importance of Community and Accountability
10:38 Navigating Health and Fitness Goals
13:21 Addressing Mental Health and Binge Eating
15:36 The Role of Medication in Weight Management
18:37 Understanding GLP-1s and Their Impact
19:59 Navigating Life with GLP-1s
21:08 The Journey to Plastic Surgery
22:45 Body Image and Self-Perception
24:11 Fashion Challenges and Changes
26:10 Celebrating Progress and Wins
28:24 The Importance of Community Support
31:13 The Busy Method: Building Healthy Habits
35:06 Finding Healthy Ways to Relax
36:15 Gratitude and Community
Keywords
bariatric surgery, weight loss journey, community support, nutrition, mental health, GLP-1, skin removal surgery, accountability, fitness, body image
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Connie Stapleton — one of the most respected voices in bariatric psychology — to get real about what it actually takes to transform your life after surgery. We dive into the mental and emotional work that most patients skip (and why that’s the biggest reason they struggle long-term).
Connie and I talk about the role of trauma, how vulnerability accelerates healing, and why finding the right therapist can completely change the game. We also unpack the evolution of bariatric care, the power of community, and the kind of validation we all crave but rarely give ourselves.
If you’ve ever thought “I’ve had the surgery, now I should be fine,” this episode will challenge you in the best way. Because the truth is, lasting success doesn’t just happen in the kitchen or the gym — it starts with your mindset.
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What is goin on Busy Bariatrics… it’s Rob.
In this episode, I open up about losing my dad suddenly and what that moment taught me about taking action before life forces your hand. We talk grief, perspective, and why waiting for the “perfect time” is how goals slip away.
If you’re navigating life after bariatric surgery, rebuilding routines, or struggling to start, this one is for you. Real talk about messy action, honoring your health, and showing up while you still can.
Tune in. Take a step today.
We are alive… let’s act like it.
Ready to take action? Apply Today!
Keywords
action, imperfection, analysis paralysis, personal growth, motivation, productivity, self-improvement, mindset, success, messy action
What is goin’ on Busy Bariatrics… it’s Rob DiMedio, and in this episode I’m taking you inside the chaos, cravings, and curveballs of those first 90 days after bariatric surgery. Yeah, the stretch where your stomach’s tiny, your emotions are loud, and hydration feels like a full-time job.
I’m breaking down everything I wish someone had told me when I was fresh out of surgery — from how to actually get your water in without feeling like a camel, to why cooking isn’t optional, it’s survival. We’re diving into the emotional mess that hits once the “honeymoon phase” fades, the infamous six-week stall, and how to stop treating your progress like a pass/fail test.
You’ll hear my real-life screwups, the systems that saved me, and what I learned from my recent trip to the Bariatric Retreat in New Orleans — including why the humidity should count as cardio and how community can change everything about your journey.
If you’re in that “WTF did I just do to my body” phase after surgery, this one’s for you. No fluff, no filter, just the truth with a side of sarcasm.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bariatric Surgery Journey
02:56 Navigating the First Days Post-Surgery
05:33 Hydration and Nutrition Essentials
08:40 Mindset and Emotional Adjustments
11:20 Coping Mechanisms and Identity Shifts
14:19 Understanding Physical Changes and Challenges
16:58 The Importance of Cooking and Meal Preparation
19:34 Dealing with Stalls and Progress Tracking
26:26 Hydration and Nutrition Essentials
34:02 Movement and Strength Training Post-Surgery
42:12 Tracking Progress and Building a Routine
52:10 Reflections on the Retreat Experience
Keywords
bariatric surgery, post-op, hydration, nutrition, emotional changes, cooking, meal prep, weight loss, identity transformation, support
In this episode, I sit down with Kylie Hansen to talk about the side of bariatric surgery no one warns you about — juggling motherhood, mental health, and the never-ending push for balance. Kylie opens up about her bariatric surgery journey, the brutal realities of postpartum recovery, and why mental health work is just as important as hitting your protein goals.
We dive into the hot topic of GLP-1 medications, how they can help with food noise, and what sustainable weight loss strategies actually look like when life feels chaotic. Kylie also shares the nutrition hacks, mindset shifts, and community support systems that keep her moving forward, even when things get hard.
If you’re a bariatric patient struggling with balance, or you’ve ever wondered how to navigate surgery, motherhood, and the pressure to “get it all right,” this episode will change the way you approach your journey. Because Kylie proves that success isn’t about perfection — it’s about building a life you can actually sustain.
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In this episode, I sit down with Char Holmes to unpack the real side of bariatric coaching — the wins, the failures, and everything in between. Shar opens up about how vulnerability and lived experience shaped her as both a client and a coach, and why embracing failure was the turning point that changed everything.
We dive deep into the tools that build confidence and lasting change: self-reflection, accountability, asking the hard questions, and building a community that actually lifts you up. Shar also shares how she’s learned to navigate nutrition and fitness in a way that works for real life (not just a perfect plan on paper).
If you’re struggling with self-doubt, afraid to fail, or just want to know what separates a good bariatric journey from a great one, this is the episode you can’t miss. Because the truth is… success isn’t about being perfect — it’s about what you do next.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Community Building in Bariatrics
02:56 The Impact of Vulnerability and Authenticity
05:52 Navigating Life Changes and Embracing Solutions
08:36 Building Confidence as a Skill
11:32 The Role of Resourcefulness in Overcoming Challenges
14:25 The Importance of Lived Experience in Coaching
17:28 Common Themes in the Bariatric Community
20:13 Crafting a Plan for Personal Growth
23:09 The Power of Community and Continuous Learning
31:05 Authenticity in Coaching
33:44 The Role of Coaches in Personal Growth
35:12 The Importance of Community and Connection
38:36 Finding Balance in Life and Work
47:48 Embracing Consistency and Failure
54:13 The Power of Storytelling and Shared Experiences
01:01:02 Asking Questions and Seeking Guidance
Listen… nobody reads podcast descriptions. You’re probably skimming this right now thinking “blah blah blah, just hit play.” But since you’re here — and since Google cares way more about keywords than your attention span — let’s get into it.
This episode is all about how to build muscle after bariatric surgery. Not fake toning, not endless cardio sweat-fests, but real-deal progressive overload, training splits, and resistance training for bariatric patients who want to stop looking “skinny weak” and start looking strong, confident, and sculpted.
I’ll break down:
How often you should lift if you want actual results (spoiler: more than once every time you “feel motivated”).
The truth about nutrition and macros after weight loss surgery if your goal is muscle, not just surviving on chicken air and sadness salads.
Why consistency is sexier than motivation — and how bariatric patients can finally build a body they love long-term.
Whether you’re fresh out of surgery or years into maintenance, this episode will show you exactly what it takes to go from “I lost weight” to “dang, I lift.”
And hey, if you actually read all this? Congratulations — you’re one of six people in podcast history who made it past line three.
In this episode, I sit down with Mel Godfried to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to build a thriving bariatric community. From running massive events like JVY to securing sponsorships and keeping a platform alive when the odds are stacked against you, we talk about the side of bariatric support no one else sees.
Mel shares her personal bariatric journey and why staying connected to others who “get it” is everything when it comes to long-term success. We also dig into the nitty-gritty of event planning, fundraising, and the financial realities that make most people quit before they ever see real impact.
If you’ve ever wondered how bariatric communities come together (and stay alive), or you’re curious about the behind-the-scenes chaos of big events, this conversation is a must-listen. We talk resilience, personal growth, the evolution of bariatric podcasting, and how to maintain healthy habits while juggling it all.
Because the truth is: building a bariatric platform isn’t easy — but when you hear how Mel does it, you’ll realize why it’s worth every second.
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In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Gittleman, and we go deep into her incredible transformation — from bariatric patient to one of our powerhouse Busy Bariatrics coaches. Lisa gets real about the struggles no one warns you about: navigating perimenopause, dealing with injuries, and staying consistent when life tries to knock you off track.
We also dig into the secret sauce that helped her not just lose the weight but actually build muscle, change her mindset, and thrive in a way that lasts. Plus, Lisa talks about how community played a huge role in her success and why innovative coaching (and some serious tough love) is the key for clients who want results.
If you’ve ever wondered how to keep momentum when hormones, injuries, and life get in the way — or how someone goes from struggling post-op to coaching others — this is the episode you can’t miss. Because Lisa proves that no matter where you are in your journey, your next level is still waiting for you.
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What is goin’ on Busy Bariatrics?! In this episode, I’m breaking down how to lose 20 pounds before 2026 without turning your life into a 24/7 episode of Survivor. Spoiler: it’s not about eating celery until you cry or buying another $300 gadget that promises to melt fat while you nap.
I dive into the science (the real stuff, not the TikTok nonsense), share how to stop sabotaging yourself when the seasons change, and talk about why your environment might secretly be plotting against your waistline. I even drag myself a little with some personal stories—because if I can laugh at my own mistakes, you can definitely laugh at yours.
But listen, if you’re here thinking I’m about to hand you the entire blueprint in the show notes? Wrong podcast, Brenda. The only way to get the actual strategies is to hit play and listen all the way through.
Go grab your headphones, laugh a little, maybe cry a little, but definitely get BUSY.
Keywords
bariatric coaching, weight loss, habits, accountability, nutrition, bariatric surgery, fitness, lifestyle changes, community support, seasonal challenges
Takeaways
Losing 20 pounds is achievable with the right strategies.
Understanding the science of weight loss is crucial.
Tracking behaviors can help align actions with goals.
Engineering your environment can facilitate better choices.
Psychological barriers often hinder weight loss efforts.
Routine and support are essential for long-term success.
Seasonal challenges can impact weight loss; plan accordingly.
Building solid habits is key to maintaining weight loss.
Community support can enhance accountability and motivation.
It's important to take action and not just collect awareness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bariatric Coaching and Events
02:14 Losing 20 Pounds: The Challenge Ahead
07:01 Understanding the Science of Weight Loss
10:14 Behavioral Insights: Tracking and Accountability
15:59 Engineering Your Environment for Success
19:07 Overcoming Psychological Barriers to Weight Loss
23:39 The Importance of Routines and Support
27:07 Navigating Seasonal Challenges in Weight Management
30:37 Personal Updates and Reflections
36:22 Looking Ahead: Insights from Industry Leaders
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In this episode, I sit down with Lora Grabow to tackle one of the most overlooked pieces of the bariatric puzzle: your head. We’re talking about the mental and emotional work it takes to actually succeed long-term after weight loss surgery — and why skipping it can set you up for failure, even if the scale is moving at first.
Lora and I dive into the tough stuff: grief, old habits, emotional relationships with food, and why so many patients avoid the “headwork” even though it’s the key to keeping their results. We also break down the role community and support groups play in healing (and how to find the right ones), plus the exact mindset shifts you need to start making now.
If you think bariatric success is just about protein and portion sizes, you’re going to want to hear this. Because the truth is… the surgery can’t fix what’s going on between your ears.
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In this episode, Robert DiMedio introduces Stacy Ironfield, a foundational figure in Busy Bariatrics, who shares her personal journey with bariatric surgery. Stacy discusses her struggles with health, including fatty liver disease and mobility issues, leading to her decision to undergo surgery. She reflects on her post-operative experience, emphasizing the importance of community support and the lessons learned from her journey. The conversation highlights the significance of maintaining healthy habits and the role of Busy Bariatrics in providing guidance and support to individuals on their weight loss journey.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Busy Bariatrics and Stacey Ironfield
02:18 Stacy's Journey to Bariatric Surgery
04:38 Post-Op Experience and Lessons Learned
05:34 Finding Support and Community in Busy Bariatrics
In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into one of the most underrated superpowers in the bariatric world: community. I’m hanging out with Nerissa and Chris from the Bariatric Society, the dynamic duo behind those legendary retreats that leave everyone laughing, crying, and somehow doing both at the same time.
We’re pulling back the curtain on how they create these life-changing experiences — from the “oh-crap-I’m-getting-surgery” phase all the way through the messy middle and the big wins after. You’ll hear how having the right people in your corner can keep you moving forward when life (or your head) tries to knock you flat.
Whether you’re pre-op, post-op, or just lurking in a Facebook group wondering what this whole bariatric thing is about, this episode will hit. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod, and you’ll probably feel a little less alone on this rollercoaster ride.
Tune in and find out why community might just be the missing piece in your journey — and no, it’s not just about the group selfies.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Bariatric Society Retreat
01:03 Meet the Founders: Nerissa and Chris
02:31 The Passion Behind Event Planning
03:05 Creating Community in Bariatrics
03:16 Introduction to the Bariatric Retreat
04:48 Meet the Hosts: Nerissa and Chris
07:50 The Evolution of the Bariatric Retreat
13:38 Planning the Retreat: A Year-Round Effort
20:18 Behind the Scenes: The Teamwork Required
22:57 Memorable Moments from Past Retreats
27:07 The Unique Vibe of New Orleans Retreat
28:29 The Unique Vibe of New Orleans
31:56 Exploring the City: Food and Culture
35:53 Creating Connections: The Retreat Experience
40:14 Balancing Work and Personal Life
45:58 The Importance of Presence and Enjoyment
49:55 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
In this episode, I sit down with one of my rockstar clients, Abby Coffin, to talk about what it really looks like to balance bariatric success with a high-powered career and family life. Abby is a full-time executive, a mom, and someone who knows what it feels like to be pulled in a hundred directions at once — and still found a way to make her health a priority.
We get into everything: how she uses meal planning to stay on track, why perfectionism almost derailed her, and the exact habits that keep her consistent (even when her schedule is chaos). Abby also opens up about the mindset shifts and accountability strategies that changed the game for her post-surgery.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re too busy to focus on your health or that “something’s gotta give,” this conversation is going to hit home.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bariatric Coaching and Client Journey
01:23 Abby's Background and Initial Struggles
02:59 Balancing Work, Family, and Nutrition
04:42 Overcoming Perfectionism in Nutrition
06:59 Adapting Meal Planning Strategies
08:28 Simplifying Nutrition for Busy Lifestyles
09:20 The Importance of Flexibility in Meal Choices
11:26 Home Gym Benefits and Fitness Routine
13:28 Accountability in Weightlifting and Progress Tracking
14:31 Building Confidence Through Weightlifting
16:50 Understanding Sleep and Its Impact on Fitness
19:54 Managing Nutrition During Travel
22:53 Finding Balance During Road Trips
24:04 Navigating Food Choices on Vacation
29:03 Shifting Mindset: Scale vs. Body Composition
32:31 Building Sustainable Habits for Success
39:23 Maximizing Time: Making Every Minute Count