Our Sleeved Life Podcast

What does it truly take to reverse severe sleep apnea, throw away your CPAP machine, and drop nearly 200 pounds? In this incredibly raw and inspiring patient story, your host Mel sits down with Arthur Shadwick @mypurposefit to talk about what life is really like on both sides of bariatric surgery. Arthur opens up about growing up as a heavy child, hitting his highest weight of 440 pounds, and making the life-saving decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery. This conversation dives straight into the nitty-gritty things nobody warns you about from pushing through the liquid and pureed phases to tackling food addiction head-on and completely changing generational health habits for his kids. Arthur shares how his deep faith, major mindset shifts, and a rock-solid support system completely transformed his relationship with fitness, family, and food. Whether you are considering weight loss surgery, currently in the pre-op phase, newly post-op, or looking to get back on track, this episode is a safe space packed with encouragement, lots of laughs, and pure inspiration. Grab your water, pull up a seat on the winner's bench, and let's get into Arthur's incredible transformation! What we're diving into today: The health wake-up call: Facing severe sleep apnea at 440 lbs. Choosing between VSG and Gastric Bypass (RNY). Overcoming early post-op mental hurdles, gas pain, and learning how to eat again. The reality of food addiction, identifying triggers, and breaking old mental loops. Balancing family life, keeping kid snacks in the house, and staying accountable. Heartwarming Non-Scale Victories (NSVs): Throwing away the CPAP machine and running with his daughter. Finding his "Purpose Fit" through movement, routine, and serving others. Follow Arthur’s Journey: 📸 Instagram: @mypurposefit Connect with Mel & The OSLP Community: 🔔 Subscribe to the channel and hang out with us FOR-EVER! 🌐 Official Website & Resources: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com 🎉 Learn about the Just Be You (JBY) Bariatric Awards: Click Here 🛋️ Join the Winner's Bench: Become an OSLP Benchie on Patreon: Click Here 📧 Join our email list for The Weekly Chew & Our Book Club Plot Holes & Protein Goals: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com 💬 Drop a comment below: What part of Arthur's story resonated with you the most? Let’s support each other in the comments! 👇 Don't forget your non-negotiables: get that damn water in, focus on your protein, move your body, get good sleep, and hit those vitamins! Mel uses ProCare Health use code OSLP at checkout for 15% off! #OurSleevedLifePodcast #BariatricCommunity #WeightLossSurgery #GastricBypass #RNYJourney #BariatricSuccess #SleepApneaReversal #NonScaleVictories #OSLPBenchies

Can you transition from bariatric surgery to a competitive bodybuilding stage? In this episode, host Mel sits down with Jessica Shock @jessica__shock to explore her mind-blowing 170-pound weight loss transformation following RNY gastric bypass surgery. From navigating a complex medical history including childhood cancer, a traumatic brain injury, and a post-op Crohn’s diagnosis to winning "Overall Transformation" in competitive bodybuilding, Jessica proves that weight loss surgery isn't the "easy way out." In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The Reality of RNY Gastric Bypass: Jessica shares her raw experience of the first five days post-op, overcoming buyer's remorse, and navigating early eating struggles like the "foamies" and food intolerances. Overcoming a Complex Medical History: How Jessica managed major health hurdles including psoriatic arthritis, a brain injury, and getting diagnosed with Crohn's disease years after her weight loss surgery. The Mental Side of Bariatric Surgery: Why doing the deep mental work with a therapist to identify food triggers and tackle binge-eating cycles is vital for long-term bariatric success. Life After Skin Removal Surgery: Jessica opens up about the emotional and physical transformation of undergoing two skin removal surgeries (including a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck). Bodybuilding After Bariatric Surgery: How Jessica rebuilt her mindset and physique, hired a bariatric-savvy coach, and ended up taking home first-place trophies on the transformation stage. Practical Post-Op Advice: Real talk on tracking macros, reading food labels, managing "skinny privilege," and why a strong support system changes everything. Connect with the Guest: Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jessica__shock Connect with OSLP & Support the Show: Subscribe & Like! If you enjoyed this patient story, please hit that subscribe button, leave a comment with your favorite takeaway, and give this video a thumbs up. Join the Community: Stay tuned for our upcoming "Just Be You" awards celebrating the bariatric community! Our Favorite Bariatric Vitamins: Keep your post-op health on track. We love ProCare Health! Use code OSLP at checkout to save 15% on your order. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your bariatric surgeon or healthcare team before changing your diet, supplement regimen, or exercise routine. #bariatricsurgery #weightlosssurgery #RNY #gastricbypass #postop #bariatricbodybuilding #skinremovalsurgery #extremeweightloss

Men get plastic surgery too… but nobody really talks about it 👀 In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we’re having a conversation that honestly feels long overdue. From loose skin after massive weight loss to gynecomastia, body contouring, high-definition liposuction, and even the mental side of body image—this episode dives into what men actually experience after bariatric surgery and weight loss. Dr. Omar Beidas breaks down the most common plastic surgery procedures for men, including tummy tucks, lower body lifts, chest contouring, male BBLs, fat transfer, and skin removal surgery after weight loss. But what makes this conversation so interesting is how much of it goes beyond the surgery itself. Because for a lot of men, it’s not just about appearance. It’s about confidence, functionality, masculinity, fear of judgment, and trying to feel comfortable in their own body again. We also talk about: male body dysmorphia, unrealistic expectations in plastic surgery, revision surgery red flags, why some men avoid surgery even when they want it, and how societal pressure affects the way men approach cosmetic procedures. There’s a huge misconception that plastic surgery is “just for women,” and this episode challenges that in a really honest, funny, and surprisingly emotional way. Whether you’re considering plastic surgery after weight loss, curious about male body contouring, struggling with loose skin, or just interested in the psychology behind body image and confidence—this episode has SO many important conversations packed into it. 🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio. And let us know in the comments: Do you think men are judged differently for getting plastic surgery? Dr. Omar Beidas: @doctorbodycontouring Ashlyn: @ashlynchange4life2012 Mel: @melunfiltered.vsg The Cutting Edge Podcast: @thecuttingedgepod_ #MalePlasticSurgery #BodyContouring #WeightLossJourney #PlasticSurgery #CuttingEdgePodcast

From Dialysis to VSG Success | Bariatric Surgery After Kidney Transplant 💙 In this emotional and inspiring episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Heather shares her incredible journey through chronic kidney disease, dialysis, organ transplants, and VSG bariatric surgery. Diagnosed with the rare genetic disorder primary hyperoxyluria as a child, Heather battled kidney stones, kidney failure, dialysis, and eventually underwent both a kidney transplant and liver transplant before finding hope through gastric sleeve surgery. This episode dives deep into: ✨ Living with chronic kidney disease ✨ What dialysis recovery is really like ✨ Kidney and liver transplant survival ✨ Bariatric surgery after organ transplant ✨ Weight gain from transplant medications ✨ Mayo Clinic VSG surgery experience ✨ Insurance struggles for weight loss surgery ✨ Gastric sleeve recovery and nutrition ✨ Protein intake after VSG with kidney disease ✨ Mental health and body image after chronic illness Heather’s story proves that even after years of medical challenges, healing and transformation are possible. 💙 👇 SHARE your experience in the comments: Have you or a loved one dealt with dialysis, organ transplants, or bariatric surgery? 👍 Like, Subscribe & Turn On Notifications for more inspiring VSG journeys, bariatric surgery tips, patient stories, and weight loss support. 📲 Follow Us: Instagram: @thisisheather.vsg Website: oursleevedlifepodcast.com 💌 Join our newsletter at oursleevedlifepodcast.com for exclusive freebies, bariatric resources, podcast updates, discounts, and special community perks! #VSG #WeightLossSurgery #KidneyTransplant #Dialysis #BariatricSurgery #GastricSleeve #ChronicKidneyDisease #TransplantRecovery #VSGJourney #PatientStory

Epi 351 If you're struggling with weight loss after bariatric surgery, this episode is a MUST-watch. In this powerful conversation, Coach Rob shares how he went from 365 lbs and a life-threatening diagnosis to building a successful coaching business helping others lose weight, keep it off, and stay consistent long-term. We break down the REAL reasons people regain weight, why summer is the most dangerous time for bariatric patients, and how to build habits that actually stick. If you’ve ever asked yourself “why can’t I stay consistent?” or “how do I maintain weight loss after surgery?” — this video gives you practical, science-backed answers. You’ll learn: How to lose weight before and after bariatric surgery The truth about weight loss plateaus and regain Why mindset, structure, and community support are critical How to stay consistent during summer, holidays, and busy seasons The importance of protein, workouts, strength training, and habit building How coaching and accountability can transform your results Ready to take action? Start here: 👉 Join the Bariatric Summer Camp Program 2026 10 Free recipes every month Who this is for: Bariatric surgery patients (pre-op & post-op) Anyone struggling with weight loss motivation or consistency People dealing with weight regain after surgery Busy parents trying to balance fitness and life Anyone interested in sustainable fat loss, mindset, and coaching Let’s talk:What’s been your biggest struggle with weight loss or staying consistent? Drop a comment below If this helped you, LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more bariatric tips, weight loss strategies, and real-life transformation stories! #bariatricweightloss #weightlossjourney #fatloss #bariatricsurgery #fitnessmotivation #weightlosstips #glp1 #healthjourney

Epi 19 Plastic surgery won’t fix everything… and that’s the truth most people aren’t prepared to hear. If you’re considering plastic surgery after weight loss, bariatric surgery, or procedures like liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), or body contouring, this video will completely change how you think about the journey. In this episode, we break down the biggest myths about plastic surgery, including the belief that it’s the final step or a permanent solution. The reality? Plastic surgery is not a weight loss solution, not a shortcut, and not a guarantee of confidence or long-term results. Drawing from real patient experiences and expert insights, we explore what actually happens after procedures like VASER liposuction 360, Renuvion skin tightening, arm lift surgery, breast reduction, and lower body lift. 💬 Have you considered plastic surgery or already gone through it? Share your experience in the comments — your story could help someone else on this journey. 👍 If this video gave you clarity, like & subscribe for real, honest conversations about weight loss, plastic surgery, and body confidence. 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss expert insights, real patient stories, and myth-busting episodes. 📲 Share this video with someone who’s thinking about surgery — it might change their perspective.

Epi 18 What do you actually need after plastic surgery… and what are people forgetting to tell you? In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we break down the real-life essentials for plastic surgery recovery—from must-have supplies to unexpected things that can make or break your healing process. If you’re preparing for body contouring after weight loss, a tummy tuck, breast surgery, or any cosmetic procedure, this episode will help you feel prepared, confident, and ahead of the game. We’re joined by expert plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, who shares her real patient experience through multiple surgeries, so you get both medical insight AND real-life tips you can actually use. You’ll learn: What supplies you really need after plastic surgery The most overlooked recovery items patients forget How to manage drains and what to expect Why compression garments matter and how long to wear them How to reduce swelling, bruising, and fluid buildup Tips for sleeping, showering, and daily comfort after surgery What to eat after surgery for better healing and recovery How to prepare your home before surgery day From wedge pillows and compression garments to drainage care and recovery hacks, this is your complete guide to plastic surgery recovery essentials. Whether you’re pre-op, post-op, or just researching your options, this episode gives you the tools to recover smarter and avoid common mistakes. 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms 📺 Watch more episodes on YouTube 💬 Drop your recovery questions in the comments If this helped you feel more prepared, make sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone getting ready for surgery.

Epi 17 What really happens to your belly button and nipples after plastic surgery… and why is nobody talking about it? In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we’re getting into the real conversations people are afraid to ask during their consultations. From blood supply and healing risks to sensation changes and surgical staging, this is the unfiltered truth about body contouring after massive weight loss. If you’ve ever worried about losing sensation, having complications, or just want to understand what surgeons are actually looking for during procedures like tummy tucks, breast lifts, or augmentations… this episode is for you. We’re joined by expert plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes as we break down what’s fact, what’s fear, and what you need to know before going under the knife. You’ll learn: What surgeons mean by “blood supply” and why it matters Why procedures sometimes need to be staged The real risk of complications like tissue loss or numbness What affects nipple sensation after surgery How belly buttons are reshaped and why some look unnatural What to ask your surgeon before plastic surgery Why previous surgeries can impact your results This is your go-to guide if you’re researching plastic surgery after weight loss, considering a tummy tuck, breast surgery, or just want honest answers without the sugarcoating. 🎧 Listen to the full episode on all podcast platforms 📺 Watch more episodes on YouTube 💬 Drop your questions in the comments for future episodes If this helped you feel more informed and confident, make sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this.

Epi 348 What happens when you hit 601 pounds and realize your life may depend on changing everything? In this powerful episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Adrian shares the moment that forced him to face reality—when hospital staff couldn't weigh him normally and had to use a laundry scale in the ER. That moment became the turning point that started his life-changing weight loss journey. Adrian opens up about his experience with morbid obesity, hitting over 600 pounds, struggling to walk just 88 steps, and the emotional toll that came with it. After years of battling his weight and facing serious health risks, he made the decision to undergo gastric sleeve bariatric surgery and rebuild his life. Today, Adrian is more than 250 pounds down, active in the gym, part of a run club, and inspiring thousands by sharing his journey online. This episode dives deep into the realities of bariatric surgery, massive weight loss, mental health, body image, dating after weight loss, loose skin, fitness, and finding confidence again. If you're considering weight loss surgery, currently on your bariatric journey, or searching for motivation to change your health and your life, Adrian’s story proves that transformation is possible—even when it feels impossible. Go Follow Adrian and OSLP Instagram: @itsthisguyAZ @oursleevedlifepodcastPhotography: Big Bear Media 512

Epi 348 Scared of plastic surgery pain? You’re not alone. For many people considering a tummy tuck, body lift, or post-weight-loss skin removal, fear of pain is the #1 thing holding them back. In this episode, a board-certified plastic surgeon and licensed bariatric therapist explain what recovery really feels like — including drains, swelling, muscle repair, Exparel, narcotics, and realistic pain expectations. We cover:• How bad is plastic surgery pain really?• What drain removal feels like• How pain is managed safely• Why most patients never hit 10/10 pain• When discomfort is normal — and when it’s not If you’re researching tummy tuck recovery, body contouring after weight loss, or wondering if surgery pain is worth it — listen to this first. 💬 Need support or have questions? Message us anytime: @thecuttingedgepod_@melunfiltered.vsg@drbodycontouring@ashlynchange4life2012 We’re here for you. 💛 #PlasticSurgeryRecovery #TummyTuckPain #BodyContouring #BariatricLife #SurgeryRecovery

Epi 13 Can you die from plastic surgery? In this episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we break down the real death risk of plastic surgery, including tummy tuck, liposuction, and anesthesia complications. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes explain: ✔️ The actual plastic surgery mortality rate ✔️ Can anesthesia kill you? ✔️ Blood clots (DVT) after tummy tuck ✔️ What really causes surgical deaths ✔️ Bariatric vs cosmetic surgery risk ✔️ How to reduce complications before elective surgery If you’re researching plastic surgery safety, elective surgery death rate, tummy tuck blood clot risk, or anesthesia risks explained, this episode gives you clear, factual answers. We also address the fear of dying during surgery—especially for moms and post-weight loss patients—and how modern surgical protocols make cosmetic surgery extremely low risk for healthy candidates. Our Sleeved Life Podcast explores bariatric surgery, plastic surgery after weight loss, mental health, and surgical safety through honest conversations and expert insight. We discuss tummy tucks, liposuction, body contouring, anesthesia risks, and life after weight loss surgery. If you're researching elective surgery safety or navigating transformation yourself, this podcast provides balanced, educational guidance. This show is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

Epi 11 Let’s talk about the fear that no one wants to admit out loud — the fear of dying under anesthesia, waking up during surgery, or something going horribly wrong 😳 In this unfiltered episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Ashlyn sits down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas to talk about the truth behind anesthesia in plastic surgery — especially for patients undergoing tummy tucks, skin removal, BBLs, or body contouring after extreme weight loss. From stats to red flags to funny fears (yes, pooping is mentioned 💩), this conversation is real, informative, and totally judgment-free 💬 💉 What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The actual risk of death from anesthesia (way lower than you think)✅ Why “waking up during surgery” is basically a Hollywood myth✅ What board-certified surgeons do to keep you safe✅ What your operating room team looks like (you’re never alone!)✅ How to advocate for yourself if you have fear, trauma, or anxiety✅ Red flags to look for in budget clinics or unlicensed facilities✅ The difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon✅ How to pay for safe surgery: CareCredit, Cherry, and more✅ Ashlyn’s tips as a coach and surgery patient herself 💡 🔍 If you’ve searched: “Is anesthesia safe during plastic surgery?” “Can you die under anesthesia?” “What to expect before surgery anesthesia” “Best plastic surgeons for weight loss patients” “CareCredit for surgery financing” You’ll get ALL the answers here 💯 👩‍⚕️ About Our Hosts: Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS💎 Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon✨ Fellowship-trained in plastic surgery after massive weight loss📍 Compassionate care, real results for bariatric patientsInstagram → @drbodycontouring Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW🧠 Licensed Clinical Social Worker💬 Bariatric + Plastic Surgery Patient — here to keep it real🌟 Coach, advocate, and safety-first educatorInstagram → @ashlynchange4life2012 Mel🎙 Co-Host of Our Sleeved Life Podcast🏆 Creator of the Just Be You Awards💖 Champion for body positivity, healing, and patient supportFollow → @oursleevedlifepodcastWebsite → https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com 💳 Mentioned in This Episode: CareCredit: https://www.carecredit.com Cherry Financing: https://www.withcherry.com More episodes & community → https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com 💬 Let’s Talk: What’s YOUR biggest fear about surgery or anesthesia? Tell us below — we’re answering your questions and might share your comment in a future ep! 💌

Epi 345 Welcome back to Our Sleeved Life Podcast! In this episode, host Mel sits down with Jaylin (MSN, RN), a resilience coach and nurse (and POP expert) to talk about the real reason New Year motivation fades and how to keep showing up for yourself long after the “new year, new me” energy is gone. If you’ve been feeling burnt out, stuck in all or nothing thinking, overwhelmed by ADHD productivity spirals, or frustrated because the scale isn’t moving, this conversation is for you. Jaylin breaks down how to reframe burnout, build small habits that actually stick, lower stress and cortisol, and track progress using non scale victories so you don’t quit when results feel slow. We also get into practical tools you can start today like journaling, habit stacking, creating a “top 3” priority list, scheduling your doom scroll, and building a support system so you don’t try to do your health journey alone. In this episode, we cover • Why motivation fades in January and how to stop the drop off• Burnout signs vs failure mindset and how to reframe it• “Consistently beats intensity” habit building for real life• How to handle ADHD overwhelm and stop task hopping• How stress and high cortisol can impact weight, sleep, skin, and hormones• How to lower cortisol through hydration, movement, sleep, sunlight, breathwork, and boundaries• Why the scale lies and how to track non scale wins that prove progress• How to stay on budget with food and build high protein meals without guessing• Why support and community matter for long term success Work with POP If you’re traveling for surgery or you want more support before and after a procedure, POP focuses on holistic recovery support including mental health, nutrition, and recovery planning. Connect with us 🎙️ Our Sleeved Life PodcastWebsite: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.comInstagram: @oursleevedlifepodcast Disclaimer: This episode is for education and support only and is not medical advice. Always consult your medical team for personal guidance.