Hi Reader, Today is Giving Tuesday, we want to share something important, something simple, something powerful: $5 really can make a difference. When you think about everything BariNation produces—podcasts, classes, expert interviews, education on social platforms, expert-led support groups, resources—it might feel like a small contribution couldn’t possibly move the needle. But it does. It always does. Learn More and Donate Here’s how your $5 High Five creates real, measurable impact: ✨ $5...
6 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the shower drain wondering “Um… is this normal?”, you are SO not alone. This week on the BariNation Podcast, we sat down with the ever-amazing Dr. Edmund Chen to talk about one of the most common (and most emotional) parts of the bariatric journey: ✨ HAIR LOSS. ✨ Why it happens, what you can do, and how to actually grow it back — for real. And honestly? This episode is the definitive guide so many of us wish we had on day one. 💬 What You’ll...
18 days ago • 3 min read
Hi Reader, When you think about your personal battle with the disease of obesity, did your primary care provider or medical specialist ever talk with you about it? Was it a friend, family member, or co-worker who told you they were worried about your health? Or were you the one who initiated the conversation? Turns out, people will wait -on average- 9 years to talk with their doctor or care team about their excess weight. NINE YEARS. How long did you wait before pursuing bariatric surgery?...
25 days ago • 4 min read
Hi Reader, This week, we are excited to share an encore of episode 229 with Dr. Sarah Hayek, who shares profound insights from her husband's bariatric surgery journey. The emotional and mental hurdles faced when considering bariatric surgery are great and Dr. Hayek has had a front row seat to those barriers, guiding her husband through the pre and post-op process. She saw firsthand how powerful curiosity and community are, how pivotal they are in overcoming personal barriers, as well as the...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, In our latest episode, we explore the empowering BariNation mantra of "space and grace" with Jonathan Cleveland, a dedicated member of the BariNation Support Community. You might be wondering what space and grace means. Or maybe you want to understand how it can be a powerful tool we use to shift our mindset around facets of life impacted by the disease of obesity. Space and grace is about giving yourself room to grow and forgiving your own missteps, which can lead to lasting...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, When it comes to your bariatric journey, curiosity isn’t just a nice trait, it’s a game-changer. Instead of judging a choice, a feeling, or a setback, curiosity invites you to notice what’s happening with kindness and without shame. Curiosity sounds like: “Why might my body be asking for this right now?” “What can I learn from this moment?” “How could I support myself differently next time?” This gentle shift helps turn guilt into growth, fear into clarity, and confusion into...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, Have you been disappointed in the care you have received from your current bariatric provider? Or are you in the preoperative stage and looking for a bariatric center that will be your partner for life? We know that finding a new provider is not an easy task. But the payoff is worth the effort because when we find a truly integrated team, our care feels personal and meaningful. Join us as Heidi Bednarchuk, a seasoned expert, shares her journey from a casino pit boss to a leader in...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, Every story has a turning point, the moment the hero decides to step forward, no matter the fear. This is your moment. The Bariatric Hero’s Journey begins October 9th inside BariNation, and we’d love for you to join us. Over 14 weeks, you’ll: 🌟 Discover how each stage of the Hero’s Journey mirrors your bariatric path. 🌟 Gain tools and reflection prompts to navigate stalls, regain, or setbacks. 🌟 Connect with others who understand and are walking the same road. 💙 You are not lost....
2 months ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, You are on a hero's journey, even if you dont think you are a hero. Why? Becuase we tend to focus on the struggles, not the story behind them. You have already made a brave decision to embark on a bariatric journey. You did your research, you talked with medical professionals and dove into as much education as you could find. Maybe you have even connected with people who have already had bariatic surgery to help you better understand the road ahead and what to expect. Without...
2 months ago • 1 min read