The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast

In this Q&A-packed episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, Dr. Weiner and Zoe answer listener questions about navigating post-surgery challenges like dumping syndrome, food noise, and pregnancy after weight loss surgery. Here are the highlights:

How to Lower Your Set Point Without Food Noise Sabotaging You

Listener Rain asked about dealing with chocolate cravings after losing just five pounds. The team shared practical tips:

In this heartfelt episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and Zoë explore Raquel’s inspiring story of transformation. Raquel shares her experience undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, navigating emotional and spiritual healing, and embracing her cultural roots, including the meaningful gifting of an Ojo de Venado. Her journey exemplifies resilience, recovery, and the powerful connection between medicine and spirituality.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A Key to Recovery

Raquel’s path to healing began with her decision to pursue gastric sleeve surgery, a life-changing step to address obesity, chronic pain, and l...

In Episode 55 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner explores the complex causes of obesity and shares innovative strategies for achieving lasting weight loss. Drawing from decades of experience as a bariatric surgeon and his deep understanding of physiology, Dr. Weiner delivers actionable insights into weight loss surgery, GLP-1 medications, and the power of healthy food.

Understanding the Root Cause of Obesity

Obesity is not just about overeating or inactivity—it’s deeply tied to our evolutionary biology. While our ancestors thrived with fat-storing mechanisms, modern diets rich in proc...

In Episode 54 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and Zoë Schroeder sit down with Dr. Ethan Larson, a plastic surgeon specializing in lipedema care. Together, they delve into the complexities of lipedema, available treatment options, and the transformative role of plastic surgery for lipedema.

What is Lipedema?

Dr. Larson explains that lipedema is a chronic condition that primarily affects women. It manifests as an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs, arms, and sometimes the abdomen, often triggered by hormonal shifts like puberty or menopause. Unlike normal fat, l...

In Episode 53 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Weiner and Zoe dive into meaningful topics, from celebrating non-scale victories to understanding the limits of BMI and exposing the troubling influence of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) on healthcare costs. This engaging episode not only informs listeners about these issues but also empowers them to advocate for a better, patient-centered healthcare system.

Celebrating Non-Scale Victories on Your Weight Loss Journey

Weight loss is about more than numbers on the scale, and non-scale victories (NSVs) are a powerful reminder of the...

In Episode 52 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, we delve into Vanessa Ruiz’s (@myvanety) personal and transformative journey with sleeve gastrectomy, her experiences with body dysmorphia, and her decision to include compounded semaglutide in her weight management plan. Her story provides insight into the challenges many face with obesity treatment and the importance of the “Choose Your Hard” mindset.

Vanessa’s Journey to Sleeve Gastrectomy

Vanessa grew up struggling with weight, influenced by family dynamics and cultural pressures around food. In her 20s, life changes, depression, and a PCOS diagnosis caused f...

In Episode 51 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and dietitian Zoe Schroeder tackle listener questions on NAION vision, mocktail ideas, limited weight loss after a sleeve gastrectomy, and managing the “murky middle” phase after surgery. Here’s a quick recap of the insightful advice and tips offered in this Q&A episode.

Understanding NAION Vision Risks with GLP-1 Medications

The episode kicks off with a question about the connection between GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic and Wegovy) and NAION vision, a rare eye condition that can cause sudden vision loss...

This episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast follows Denise’s inspiring journey through bariatric surgery, bodybuilding, and discovering the transformative power of muscle and strength. Joined by Dr. Weiner and Zoe, Denise shares how she’s redefined her goals and found lasting wellness, showing that post-surgery life is about much more than just weight loss—it’s about building resilience and confidence.

A Fresh Start with Bariatric Surgery

Denise’s journey began in 2018, six years ago, when she moved to North Carolina and sought bariatric surgery to improve her health. She invest...

In Episode 49 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Weiner and Zoe examine the steep costs of obesity medications like Wegovy, the influence of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and the role of big pharmaceutical companies in shaping healthcare. Highlighting recent Senate hearings led by Bernie Sanders with Novo Nordisk’s CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, this episode sheds light on how the current system prioritizes profit, often at the expense of patients’ access to care.

Wegovy Cost: Breaking Down High Prices in the U.S.

Wegovy, a GLP-1 medication, costs around $1,349 per m...

In Episode 48 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and Zoe Schroeder explore the future of compounded GLP-1 medications, the dangers of the health halo effect, and debunk common diet myths that often lead to confusion for those trying to lose weight.

Compounded GLP-1 Medications: A Controversial Solution on the Brink of Extinction

Dr. Weiner and Zoe kick off the discussion by addressing the fate of compounded GLP-1 medications. Medications like Zepbound and Wegovy, FDA-approved for obesity, have faced shortages, leading to the rise of compounded alternatives. These non-FDA-regulated...

In Episode 47 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and Zoe Schroeder, RD dive into weight loss topics like compounded GLP-1 medications, ultra-processed foods and their link to heart disease, and processed meat alternatives. 

Ultra-processed Foods: Are Some Worse Than Others?

A recent study published in The Lancet found that ultra-processed foods make up a shocking 73% of the U.S. food supply, with significant consequences for heart health.

Dr. Weiner and Zoe discuss how this study highlighted an 11% increased risk of heart disease for those who consumed t...

In this episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, Dr. Weiner and Zoe explore the key strategies and medical options available for weight loss, focusing on GLP-1 medications, a comparison between gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, and effective obesity treatment plans. This episode provides valuable insights for individuals exploring weight loss surgery, those using GLP-1 medications, and anyone interested in long-term, sustainable weight management.

GLP-1 Medications and Their Role in Obesity Treatment

The episode starts with an in-depth discussion about GLP-1 medications, such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide). Dr. Weiner...

In this episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, we sit down with BethAnn, whose journey through bariatric surgery has completely transformed her life. From struggling with weight her entire life, trying countless diets, and facing health challenges, to finally achieving long-term success after surgery, BethAnn's story is one of determination, resilience, and self-care.

BethAnn didn’t just stop at weight loss—she took additional steps to feel comfortable in her new body, including skin removal surgery. She also navigated the self-pay bariatric surgery route, making informed decisions to get the best results for her pers...

Episode 44 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast offers a deep dive into cutting-edge treatments and strategies for long-term weight management, focusing on GLP-1 medications for weight loss, the emerging technology of duodenal mucosa ablation, and the issue of weight regain after GLP-1 treatment cessation. Hosted by Dr. Matthew Weiner, bariatric surgeon, and Zoe Schroeder, registered dietitian, this episode explores innovative methods to combat weight regain while delivering practical nutritional advice for sustained success.

The episode begins with a light conversation about nutrition, as Zoe highlights how bananas are often unfairly demonized. Dr. Weiner suggests a...

In episode 43 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, Dr. Matthew Weiner and Zoe Schroeder, RD, explore key bariatric surgery weight loss factors, the best diet for weight loss, and how to manage malabsorption after bariatric surgery. The episode emphasizes that post-surgery success involves much more than effort alone.

Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Factors

Dr. Weiner explains that multiple factors influence weight loss after surgery, including age, gender, and genetics. For example, younger patients lose more weight than older people do. And men, tend to lose more weight than women. Diabetes also...

On today’s episode we explore one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of bariatric surgery—the emotional journey. While many focus on the physical transformation, it’s the emotional and mental changes that often determine long-term success. Bariatric surgery isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about reshaping your relationship with food and developing healthier ways to manage emotions.

The Emotional Impact of Bariatric Surgery

We’ll start by diving into the emotional impact of bariatric surgery. Many people use food as a way to cope with stress, sadness, or boredom...

In Episode 41 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast, we explore the growing use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss, particularly focusing on compounded versions of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. These medications, typically found in Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro, have become incredibly popular for their effectiveness in helping patients lose weight. With shortages of these factory-produced drugs, compounding pharmacies have emerged as a more accessible and affordable alternative for many. But what exactly does compounding mean, and is it safe?

We break down how compounding pharmacies create custom versions of medications, often offering a lower-cost option...

In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics related to diabetes, weight loss, and bariatric surgery. We kick things off by talking about the underlying cause of diabetes. Most people believe that diabetes is caused by an over consumption of carbohydrates. But that’s incorrect. In fact, studies show that the consumption of animal fat is what causes your insulin receptors to become less sensitive. 
 
 Next, we answer the question, “How long should you be on the Metabolic Reset Diet?” It’s a question we get asked daily and, as usual, the answer isn’t universal. Ra...

In this episode, Laura, a previous guest on the podcast, returns to share more about her successful peer support group for those who have undergone weight loss surgery. The conversation revolves around the value of community and how it provides a sense of connection and understanding for people on their weight loss journeys. Laura's group, lovingly nicknamed "Laura's Losers," meets regularly to offer emotional support, share personal stories, and discuss tips for staying on track.

Laura emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming, living-room-style atmosphere where participants can openly discuss their struggles, especially around topics like post-op...

In this discussion about bariatric meal prep and bariatric meal plans, Kristen Willard shares valuable tips for both patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and patients who are using a non-surgical approach to weight loss. The main focus is simplicity and practicality in creating meal plans. Kristen suggests starting meal prep with the meal you find most difficult, like breakfast, rather than feeling overwhelmed by prepping every meal at once. This gradual approach helps build confidence.

When it comes to bariatric meal prep, Kristen advocates for a flexible, ingredient-focused method. For example, cooking chicken in a slow...

Can psychiatric medications really lead to dramatic weight gain? Does your socioeconomic status really determine if you’ll end up obese? And is there anything you can do about weight loss plateaus? Join us for an eye-opening episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast.
 
In today’s episode, we touch on a few key topics related to weight gain and weight loss challenges. First off, we dive into the role of medications that can actually cause weight gain. Things like antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and even birth control can seriously impact your body’s ability to maintai...

In this episode, we unpack some fascinating insights from an NBC News article that highlights why most people stop using Wegovy after two years. Dr. Weiner shares his thoughts, explaining that a lack of access due to shortages, high costs, and insurance coverage issues are significant reasons why people discontinue these medications. The Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) who released the data might also have an agenda since they are not keen on covering expensive weight loss medications. Dr. Weiner believes that many people would continue using Wegovy if they had consistent access without these barriers.

We also...

In this episode, we tackle some hot topics and share inspiring stories. We start with a big piece of news: the CEO of Novo Nordisk being brought before a Senate committee. This is huge because Novo Nordisk is a major player in the GLP-1 medication world, and there's a lot of scrutiny on how these drugs are priced and covered by insurance.

We also dive into the incredible story of Leslie, who needed a combination of nutrition, exercise, GLP-1 medications, and bariatric surgery to lose an astonishing 157 pounds. Her journey is a powerful reminder that weight loss...

In this episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast, we dive into the surprising mental health benefits of GLP-1 medications. We discuss recent studies that debunk the myth of increased risk of suicide and highlight the positive impact these medications have on reducing depression, curbing alcohol and binge eating disorders, and slowing the progression of Parkinson’s. 

We dive in to the exorbitant cost of GLP-1 medications and explore potential solutions for affordability. We compare the cost of compounded medications to the FDA approved meds to see whether or not the compounded medications are actually les...

Episode 34 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Will Ozempic Make You Go Blind? The title comes from our In the News segment, where we cover an article from The Hill titled, Ozempic/Wegovy May be Linked to Rare Form of Blindness. If you’re taking this medication, this is probably a very scary headline. And, of course, it’s meant to be so that you click through. So, what is the science behind the headline? Tune in to find out!
 
We are very excited to bring you this week’s Patient Story segment because...

Episode 33 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Do You Have the Obesity Gene? The title comes from our In the News segment, where we dive into an article by CNN titled, Researchers Have Found A ‘Clear Genetic Trigger for Obesity’ that Applies to Some People. According to the University of Exeter, a gene typically responsible for thyroid function and baseline energy expenditure named SMIM1, may be partially to blame for Obesity in those that carry two faulty copies of the gene. So, how does this affect the treatment of Obesity? Tune in to find out!
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Episode 32 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Why We Hate Keto. We cover a lot of material in this episode, including Pharmacy Benefit Managers, over-the-counter supplements for weight loss, Keto and the Lion diet, Glp-1’s, and avocado oil, just to name a few.

In our In the News segment, we dive into an article from The New York Times titled, The Opaque Industry Secretly Inflating Prices for Prescription Drugs. As the title suggests, there are behind-the-scene shenanigans going on that needlessly and greedily add to the cost of prescription drugs. It’s an i...

Episode 31 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Obesity Discrimination is Alive and Well, Just Ask Chris. The title comes from our In the News segment where we talk about an article from The Maine Wire that examines a lawsuit filed against Cigna claiming that obesity is a disability and Cigna’s failure to cover GLP-1 medications constitutes discrimination based on disability. 

 In our Patient Story segment, we talk to Nikki. Though not a patient of ours, Nikki had a gastric bypass back when the procedure was done by opening up the stomach to oper...

Episode 30 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, GLP-1 Supplement Scams.
 
 In our In the News segment, we cover an article in Today titled, Poppi Prebiotic Soda Brand Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Over Gut Health Claims. Poppi is a brand of soda marketed as a prebiotic and this lawsuit is questioning the validity of the claim. 
 
 In our Patient Story segment, we talk to Graham who had a highest weight of 311 pounds. He opted for the gastric bypass and we included GLP-1 medications along the way. He is now comfortable sitting at 16...

Episode 29 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Wegovy for the Long Run. The title comes from our In the News segment where we discuss an article in US News titled, More Studies Support Wegovy's Long-Term Weight-Loss Benefits. This article details the outcomes of the Select trial which showed that long-term use of Wegovy provided continued weight loss and cardiovascular benefits. 
 
 In our Patient Story segment, we talk to Armetta - one of my most memorable patients. She ended up having surgery in Mexico because of an exclusion policy on her insurance plan. After a s...

Episode 28 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, How a Gastric Bypass Could Ruin Your Life. 

The title comes from our In the News segment we cover an article in Medscape titled, Alcohol to Blame: Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery. It should come as no surprise that alcohol consumption could lead to weight gain. What could be surprising is the 5x increased risk of alcoholism after a gastric bypass and 2x increased risk of alcoholism after a sleeve. Tune in to learn why!

In our Patient Story, we talk to Janet about h...

Join us as we dive in on our most recent episode of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast titled, Ozempic, baby!

Episode 27 kicks off with our In the News segment where we discuss an article by CNN that discusses how GLP-1’s are increasing fertility. This comes as no surprise considering we saw the same results after weight loss surgery. So why do GLP-1’s and weight loss surgery cause increased fertility? Tune in to find out!
 
 In our Patient Story, we talk to Lacey who came to us for help after she re...

Episode 26 of the Pound of Cure Weight Loss Podcast is titled, Ablation Conflation and Healthcare Inflation. The title comes from our In the news segment where we discuss an article from Forbes about a new bariatric procedure called Gastric Mucosal Ablation. This procedure uses a laser to burn the Fundus Mucosa. Does it work? And, will this procedure cause long-term weight loss? Tune in to find out! 

In our Patient Story, we talk to Barb who is our Bariatric Coordinator. Barb is unique in that she is a Registered Nurse, has worked in the industry for decades, a...

Episode 25 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast is titled, From 369.5 to 19,341: Lynsey’s journey to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. The title comes from our Patient Story where we talk to Lynsey who came to us at 369.5 pounds. She lost a ton of weight after her gastric bypass but she didn’t stop there. She embraced physical activities that led her to the tallest free-standing mountain in the world! Her story is truly inspiring!
 
 Our In the News segment features an article from US News that talks about another beneficial side effect of taking Zepbound. In cli...

Episode 24 of The Pound of Cure Weight Loss podcast is titled, Zepbound to happen: More Drug Shortages. The title comes from our Economics of Obesity segment where we discuss the Zepbound shortages and offer strategies that you can use to ride out the shortage. 

In our In the news segment, we discuss an article from the New York Times titled, The Miracle Weight-Loss Drug Is Also a Major Budgetary Threat. In the United States, we pay more for medication than any other country in the world - often 3...