Australian Weight Loss Surgery Podcast

Obesity isn’t just about weight, it's about stigma, access to care, and the power of lived experience to drive real change. In this episode, Andrew Wilson and Theresa Thompson from WIN (Weight Issues Network), an Australian organisation led by individuals with lived experience of obesity, share WIN's mission to challenge weight stigma, improve healthcare equity, and advocate for holistic and accessible treatment options. Andrew and Theresa share insights on the systemic issues surrounding obesity care, including the damaging effects of stigma, the lack of multidisciplinary support, and the eight-year average delay before people seek professional help. They also highlight WIN’s initiatives, such as peer support groups, leadership development, advocacy training, and digital outreach, all aimed at empowering individuals and shifting public and medical perceptions. This will emphasise the power of storytelling and community in creating change and fostering understanding in both healthcare and society at large. Tune in to hear how real stories and advocacy from the Weight Issues Network are reshaping the conversation around obesity and healthcare in Australia. Episode Highlights: * Introduction to WIN (Weight Issues Network) and its origins * The role of lived experience in combating weight stigma and misinformation * Staggering average delay of 8 years before individuals seek professional help for obesity * How stigma—both internal and external—is the biggest barrier to care * The need for a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to obesity treatment * Challenges accessing weight loss treatments like pharmacotherapy and surgery in public healthcare * WIN’s advocacy work in policy, media representation, and health professional training * The psychological toll of weight cycling and internalised shame * Importance of storytelling and lived experience in healthcare reform * Overview of WIN’s support programs, including monthly meetups and leadership groups * Emphasis on safe spaces and empowering people to share their stories * The impact of media and public perception on those living in larger bodies * Discussion on the lack of funding and services tailored for people with obesity * Call for systemic change and more inclusive, compassionate healthcare solutions * How to join WIN and the supportive, cost-free community they provide About Our Guest: Weight Issues Network (WIN) champions the lived experience voice of people who have experienced living in a larger body. They advocate for imperative, effective changes in all systems, particularly healthcare; to ensure obesity is stigma-free and treated appropriately. Andrew Wilson has been involved with WIN since its inception, and has been pivotal in its successes to date. He is a natural advocate and supporter of equality; who's story has influenced many important change-makers already. Theresa Thompson is a business-savvy advocate for equality who's lived experience and leadership skills are helping scale WIN to become an essential tool in not only policy-change, but for the community as a whole. Connect with WIN * Website | weightissuesnetwork.org [https://weightissuesnetwork.org/] * Facebook | www.facebook.com/WeightIssuesNetwork [https://www.facebook.com/WeightIssuesNetwork] * Instagram | @weightissuesnetwork [https://www.instagram.com/weightissuesnetwork/] * Linked In | www.linkedin.com/company/weight-issues-network [https://www.linkedin.com/company/weight-issues-network/] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

What really happens when someone chooses weight loss surgery? Is it a quick fix or the result of years of trying everything else first? In this episode, Jess Unsworth shares her honest journey through weight struggles, medical challenges, and finally, her decision to have bariatric surgery. Jess talks about her work in emergency services, the toll it took on her body, and the frustration of dealing with PCOS and insulin resistance. She opens up about the emotional weight of feeling like she had run out of options after years of trying diets and even experiencing severe side effects from Ozempic. With her husband having undergone the same surgery, Jess had a close-up look at both the benefits and difficulties. Jess breaks down common misconceptions about bariatric surgery, explores what recovery looks like, and talks about the ongoing emotional and physical work involved in healing, eating, and maintaining balance post-op. Jess also discusses the unexpected changes to taste, food tolerance, and her evolving relationship with food after surgery. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to go through weight loss surgery or are considering it yourself, this episode will give you a real-world view—without sugarcoating it.    Episode Highlights: * Jess’s medical background and reasons for surgery * The impact of PCOS and insulin resistance on weight * Side effects and hospital stay after Ozempic * Emotional journey to accepting surgery as a final option * Public misconceptions about weight loss surgery * Differences in post-op food tolerance and cravings * Long-term mental and physical adjustments after surgery * How Jess maintains her health and food mindset now * The importance of community and shared patient stories * How weight and conditions like PCOS and endometriosis affect fertility. * Jess expressed the mixed emotions around receiving compliments post-surgery * Setting boundaries around food, like stopping when full   About Our Guest: Jess Unsworth is an experienced emergency management professional with over 13 years of service across prevention, preparedness, and response roles in the emergency services sector. She brings a deep sense of purpose to her work, finding meaning in supporting communities during crises and helping smooth the path back to normality after major events. As recognition of her contributions, she received the National Emergency Medal for her work during the 2019–2020 Bushfires. She has a strong background in leadership and team management, with proven expertise in stakeholder engagement, policy and procedure development, and operational response. Among her notable achievements are training staff in the activation of Community Fire Refuges following the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, and leading efforts to streamline processes within the State Control Centre to ensure timely delivery of critical information.   Connect with Jess Unsworth * Instagram | @its_jessunsworth [https://www.instagram.com/its_jessunsworth/] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Obesity is one of the risk factors affecting fertility—and tackling it together as a couple can make all the difference. In this episode, Dr Toby Angstmann, an experienced fertility specialist at Flinders Fertility, explores the intricate relationship between obesity and fertility. Dr. Angstmann discusses how factors like age, PCOS, and hormonal disruption linked to obesity can significantly impact reproductive health, with both female and male fertility facing notable challenges. He emphasises the importance of tailored medical advice, collaborative weight loss efforts among partners, and the critical role of nutrition and metabolic health in pregnancy preparation. Dr. Angstmann also highlights bariatric surgery's potential to reverse fertility complications, the importance of fertility preservation strategies, including egg freezing, and the collaborative approach involving various healthcare providers to support individuals on their fertility journeys. Listen now to learn how to navigate the journey to parenthood with confidence and get the expert advice you need from Dr. Toby Angstmann, a leading fertility specialist.   Episode Highlights: * About Dr Toby Angstmann * Obesity and fertility challenges * Medical consequences of obesity on fertility * Treatment approaches and support on fertility in obesity * Nutrition and pregnancy preparation * About bariatric surgery and pregnancy * Fertility preservation and future planning   About Our Guest: Dr Toby Angstmann is an experienced fertility specialist at Flinders Fertility, Adelaide, SA. His interests are in metabolic fertility disorders, male factor subfertility, endometriosis and complex infertility.  After time in the Defence Forces, he gained his medical degree at the University of Sydney and holds a Master's in Reproductive Medicine from the UNSW. Something of a polymath, he also has qualifications in forensic medicine and clinical ultrasound. In addition to his medical pursuits, he also set up an award-winning gin and vodka distillery! Toby follows the latest science and techniques around IVF and firmly supports complementary therapies for wellbeing.  Connect with Dr Toby Angstmann  * Website | flindersfertility.com.au [https://flindersfertility.com.au/] * Instagram | @doctor.tobyangstmann [https://www.instagram.com/doctor.tobyangstmann/] * Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/tobias-angstmann [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobias-angstmann-180514133/] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Obesity is not a simple matter of willpower, it is a complex, multifactorial disease influenced by genetics, environment, and biology, requiring a shift in both perception and treatment. In this episode, Dr. Alex Craven, a highly skilled general surgeon with a specialisation in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery discusses the evolving understanding of obesity and metabolic health, highlighting the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the condition. He explains how new research is shifting perspectives on obesity from being a simple lifestyle issue to a complex medical condition requiring individualized treatment. He covers the role of medical and surgical interventions, the importance of including lived experiences in discussions, and the need for a more holistic and patient-centered approach to obesity care. Dr. Craven also emphasizes the necessity of proper long-term support for patients, whether through metabolic surgery or emerging medical therapies, and critiques the current healthcare system’s lack of accessibility and resources for individuals with obesity. Listen in as Dr. Alex Craven unpacks the latest insights on obesity, metabolic health, and the future of treatment—breaking myths, sharing expert perspectives, and advocating for real change in patient care.   Episode Highlights: * The evolving understanding of obesity as a complex disease rather than a lifestyle issue * The significance of genetic and environmental factors in obesity development * Importance of including people with lived experience in discussions on obesity care * The role of metabolic and bariatric surgery in long-term obesity treatment * Challenges in addressing obesity within the current healthcare system * The growing impact of GLP-1 medications and concerns about long-term follow-up * Why obesity should be treated with the same urgency as other chronic diseases * How personalized treatment plans can improve patient outcomes * The need for multidisciplinary care * Future advancements in obesity treatment, including phenotyping and precision medicine * The importance of shifting public perception and reducing obesity stigma About Our Guest: Dr Alex Craven is a highly skilled general surgeon with a specialisation in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery. He offers consultations and performs surgeries through Advanced Surgical and Darebin Weight Loss Surgery and also serves as an Obesity and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon at Austin Hospital. Born and raised in the country, Dr Craven brings a down-to-earth and approachable style to his practice, making patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey. A devoted family man, he balances his professional life with raising his family alongside his wife, who is a paramedic. Dr Craven earned his medical degree from the University of Queensland and completed his general surgery training at Austin and Northern Hospitals under the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS). He further honed his expertise through post-fellowship training in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery. Dr Craven has been recognised as a leading contributor for his ongoing support of the Bariatric Surgery Registry. Passionate about helping patients manage obesity and its associated health conditions, Dr Craven is dedicated to improving their quality of life. At Darebin Weight Loss, he provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary obesity care, which includes supervised lifestyle interventions, obesity medication, and surgical solutions.   Connect with Dr Alex Craven * Website | dralexcraven.com.au [https://dralexcraven.com.au/] * Facebook | facebook.com/dralexcraven [http://facebook.com/dralexcraven] * Instagram | @dralexcraven [http://instagram.com/dralexcraven] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

The key to sustainable weight loss isn’t just shedding pounds, it’s understanding the science behind it and making lasting lifestyle changes. In this episode, Dr. Arun Dhir, a Bariatric Surgeon and Associate Professor at La Trobe University, discusses obesity management, gut health, and GLP-1 medications. Dr. Dhir shares insights from his research on how gastric bypass surgery affects the gut microbiome, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. He also explores the role of GLP-1 medications in weight loss, emphasizing their benefits and potential side effects like gastroparesis and muscle loss. Highlighting the importance of lifestyle changes, strength training, and mindful eating, Dr. Dhir stresses that sustainable weight management requires a holistic approach beyond surgery or medication. Tune in to discover expert insights from Dr. Arun Dhir on the latest in obesity management, gut health, and the truth about GLP-1 medications—because lasting weight loss starts with the right knowledge!    Episode Highlights: * Dr. Arun Dhir’s research on how gastric bypass surgery affects the gut microbiome * The role of gut bacteria in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation reduction * Understanding GLP-1 medications * Why weight maintenance is the real challenge * The impact of environment, stress, and lifestyle on obesity and overall health * The link between gut health, skin conditions, and systemic inflammation * The importance of strength training to prevent muscle loss during weight loss * The influence of environmental toxins and microplastics on metabolic health * Why education, empowerment, and mindful eating are key to lasting weight loss * Dr. Dhir’s books and resources for a holistic approach to health and wellness About Our Guest: Associate Professor Arun Dhir an Upper GI and Bariatric Surgeon, Yoga & Meditation Teacher and a researcher. Dr Arun is also an Australian Army Officer and has been a researcher of the Mind-Body-Gut connection and how it can empower us to lead healthy, more fulfilled and meaningful lives. He runs a busy surgical practice and has authored several scientific articles and written four books covering the subjects of Weight Management, Gut Health, Journaling and Building Resilience. Dr Arun has appeared several times in the media on both radio and TV and runs a popular YouTube Channel that has had over a million views. He has delivered talks in Australia and in the US on the topics of tackling obesity, building resilience and leadership, finding purpose and how it is linked to our physical, mental and spiritual well being.    Connect with Dr. Arun Dhir * Website | www.DrArunDhir.com [http://www.drarundhir.com] ; www.BodyGenesis.com.au [http://www.bodygenesis.com.au] and                   www.MelbourneGastroSurgery.com.au [http://www.melbournegastrosurgery.com.au] * Facebook | www.facebook.com/youradicalwellness [https://www.facebook.com/youradicalwellness/] * Instagram | @dr_arun_dhir [https://www.instagram.com/dr_arun_dhir/] * Youtube | www.youtube.com/@drarundhir159 [http://www.youtube.com/@drarundhir159]   Resources mentioned: Happy Gut Healthy Weight [https://amzn.asia/d/0lt0kyo] Creating a New You  - Health and Wellness Journal [https://www.bnhealthy.com.au/products/creating-a-new-you-journal?utm_source=Body%2BGenesis%2BInstitute&utm_campaign=a1d485bbbb-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_05_02_07_10&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-a1d485bbbb-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=a1d485bbbb&mc_eid=6d7e0deb48] Your Mess Has a Message  (Self Help, Personal Development) [https://amzn.asia/d/5aPZwv3]   Listen to Dr. Arun Dhir’s Audible audiobook click here 👉 Happy Gut Healthy Weight [https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Happy-Gut-Healthy-Weight-Audiobook/B0DYK9DPG8?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.