How Do Weight Loss Medications Work?

GLP-1 medications are everywhere—on your FYPs, on the evening news, and, as JVN shares, in your own weekly routine. But what do these drugs really do? In this no-holds-barred conversation with Dr. Terry Simpson, a surgeon and culinary medicine expert, JVN dives deep into the science, the side effects, and the cultural firestorm surrounding GLP-1s like Ozempic. Are they the future of weight loss and metabolic health—or just another wellness trend? Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about eating disorders, body image, and weight loss medications. Please listen with care. Dr. Terry Simpson, MD is a physician, research scientist, weight loss surgeon, cook, author, dad, and a proponent for healthy eating. "And not in that order.” He received his undergraduate, graduate, and medical degrees from The University of Chicago. When he became a fellow of the American College of Surgeons he was the 22nd Native American to become a surgeon and the first Alaska Native to become one. He was the first surgeon to be certified in the field of Culinary Medicine - which means not only is he up to date with the latest nutrition research but he can cook too! When not in clinic, you’ll find him on social media with more than 1 million followers, battling medical misinformation, inspiring healthy habits. You can find Dr. Terry Simpson on Instagram @drterrysimpsonmd and TikTok @drterrrysimpson Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN. Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com. Find books from Getting Curious guests at bookshop.org/shop/curiouswithjvn. Our senior producer is Chris McClure.  Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall. Our theme music is “Freak” by QUIÑ; for more, head to TheQuinCat.com. Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected]. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices