The Bari Chronicles
by Damien Verner & Tash Jarrett
A weight loss surgery podcast with zero fluff and maximum truth.The Bari Chronicles brings you unfiltered conversations about WLS, obesity, GLP-1 medications, mental health, addiction, relationships, and everything the clinic doesn’t always have time to explain.Hosted by Damo and Tash, two siblings navigating life, loss, and long-term WLS living — each episode dives deep into the realities that shape this journey. Expect expert interviews, lived-experience storytelling, myth-busting moments, and the kind of honesty you only get from people who have been there.Disclaimer: Informational only
Episodes
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The Door Handle Question: “Just One More Thing, Doc…”
Your appointment is wrapping up, your hand is on the door handle, and you turn around: “Oh, and just one more thing…” Most of us have done it. In this episode, Damo and Tash talk about the “door handle question”: why we hold back the thing that matters most, and what it can cost us. Damo shares…
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Forget the Scales: The Life We Got Back After Metabolic Surgery
When we first considered metabolic surgery, we thought the goal was pretty obvious: lose weight. Years later, we realise the scales were only a tiny part of the story. In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Tash and Damo go back to where their journeys began and have an open conversation about...
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I Miss Sourdough: The Foods We Lose After Metabolic Surgery
It started with a confession from Damo: “I miss sourdough toast.” Since having his gastric bypass, every attempt at eating sourdough has ended the same way. His body simply says no. But what sounds like a conversation about bread quickly becomes something much bigger. In this episode of The Bari...
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Nobody Told Me (Part 3): It Wasn't My Fault
Who is responsible for our obesity? Is it our parents? Genetics? The food we grew up eating? Diet culture? Trauma? Doctors? Our environment? Or is it us? In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo and Tash tackle one of the most uncomfortable questions in the obesity and metabolic surgery...
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Nobody Told Me (Part 2): It Would Change Everything
Everyone tells you weight loss surgery will change your life. But no one really explains just how much. In Part 2 of our Nobody Told Me series, Damo and Tash share the unexpected realities that caught them completely off guard after bariatric surgery. From the shock of waking up in pain, learning...
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Nobody Told Me (Part 1): I Wasn't Prepared
Everyone tells you how to prepare for bariatric surgery. Follow the pre-op diet. Pack your hospital bag. Drink your protein shakes. But what if that's only preparing you for the 45-minute operation—not the life that follows? In the first episode of our four-part Nobody Told Me series, Damo and…
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Dignity at Every Size
In this powerful episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo and Tash tackle the ongoing issue of weight stigma in healthcare and why so many people living in larger bodies avoid seeking medical treatment altogether. Recorded at the Digital Health Festival in Melbourne, this honest conversation explores...
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When Food Is More Than Food: Grief, Chocolate & Life After Bariatric Surgery
In this deeply personal episode of Bariatric Support Australia’s The Bari Chronicles, Damien and Tash open up about the emotional relationship many people have with food after bariatric surgery. From childhood memories tied to Easter chocolate, to food noise, grief, shame, addiction, and learning...
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We're Back — Surgery, Life & Easter on The Bari Chronicles
After a bit of a hiatus (life has a way of doing that), Tash and Damo are finally back together for a long-overdue catch-up. In this episode, they get real about what's been going on behind the scenes — Damo's recent surgery and a pretty scary complication with a partially collapsed lung, Tash...
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Loose Skin Isn’t Cosmetic: The Hidden Reality After Massive Weight Loss
For many people, the journey doesn’t end after weight loss surgery… it evolves. In this episode, we sit down with Dr Qiuye Cheng to unpack one of the most overlooked parts of the bariatric journey — excess skin and the reality of skin removal surgery. We go beyond the surface conversation and get...
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“Reflux, Regain, and Reality: What Actually Happens After Bariatric Surgery”
A raw and honest conversation filmed inside Austin Health with surgeon Dr Alex Craven about what really happens after bariatric surgery. This isn’t the polished version people usually see. We unpack long-term reflux, weight regain, and the emotional spiral that can come with it. The part where…
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Reactive Hypoglycaemia After Gastric Bypass: What You Need to Know with Dietitian Daniella Di Benedetto
In this episode, we sit down with leading bariatric dietitian Daniella Di Benedetto to unpack one of the most misunderstood and often overlooked complications after gastric bypass surgery: reactive hypoglycaemia. In this episode we cover: What reactive hypoglycaemia is Why it happens after…
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Sleeve Gastrectomy Explained: Expectations, Realities and Complications with Dr Alex Craven
Thinking about a sleeve gastrectomy, or already living with one? What patients expect from the sleeve and what actually happens are not always the same thing. In this episode, bariatric surgeon Dr Alex Craven joins The Bari Chronicles to talk honestly about the realities of sleeve gastrectomy…
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I Did Not Think I Would Be Back Here: Preparing for Revision Surgery 12 Years On
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo talks about something he never thought he would be doing again: getting ready for bariatric surgery a second time. Twelve years after his original sleeve, ongoing reflux, anatomical issues and worsening health have made revision surgery unavoidable....
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Lipoedema: When “Just Lose Weight” Is the Wrong Answer with Nurse Sally Baker
Lipoedema is one of the most misunderstood and under-diagnosed conditions affecting women today — and for many, it takes decades to be recognised. In this episode, Sally Baker, a nurse who works closely with patients living with lipoedema, joins us for a grounded, evidence-informed conversation...
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Lipoedema Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Management with Physio Nadia Walton
Lipoedema is still widely misunderstood, under-recognised, and too often dismissed as “just weight.” In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, we’re joined by Nadia Walton, physiotherapist and lymphoedema practitioner from Laneways Physiotherapy & Lymphoedema, to unpack what lipoedema actually is —...
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When a GP's Personal Belief Collides With Evidence-Based Care
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo and Tash unpack a confronting and deeply unsettling healthcare experience that many people living in larger bodies know all too well. What should have been a simple GP appointment to update a referral for revision surgery became a stark example of how...
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Metabolic Surgery Isn’t Extreme. Ignoring Obesity Is. with Dr Alex Craven
In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, bariatric surgeon Dr Alex Craven joins The Bari Chronicles to dismantle the myths that continue to shape how obesity is treated — and mistreated — in Australia. From the false belief that people can simply “eat less and move more,” to the idea that...
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Steve’s Story: Alcohol After Weight Loss Surgery and Losing His Licence
In this powerful episode, Damo sits down with Steve — a lived-experience legend who’s bravely opening up about something many bariatric patients never see coming. After having gastric bypass surgery, Steve thought he understood his limits with alcohol. But one ordinary dinner out with friends…
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Handling Grief After Weight Loss Surgery — Finding Healing Beyond the Scale
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion about grief, loss, and the death of a loved one. If this topic is distressing or triggering for you, please take care while listening. You can choose to skip this episode or reach out for professional support if you need it. 🎧 Episode...
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GLP-1s and Weight Loss Surgery with Dr Cheng | The Bari Chronicles Podcast
This week, Dr Cheng returns to The Bari Chronicles to unpack the hype around GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Are they miracle fixes or long-term tools? We dive into what makes these medications effective, why short-term use is “just a party trick,” and how combining surgery...
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“Reflux After Weight Loss Surgery: What You Need to Know with Dr Craig Taylor
Reflux can be uncomfortable, frustrating — and for many bariatric patients, life-changing. In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo speaks with leading upper GI surgeon Dr Craig Taylor to unpack why reflux happens after weight loss surgery, why medication isn’t always enough, and what…
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The Risks of Vitamin Overload Post-Surgery
In this episode of The Barry Chronicles, Dr. Terry Lin discusses the critical role of supplementation after bariatric surgery, focusing on the importance of individualized approaches to multivitamins. The conversation highlights the risks associated with excessive vitamin B6 intake, the necessity...
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Beyond the Scale with Jennifer from Melbourne Weight Loss Solutions
What if your weight isn’t telling the whole story? In this episode, Damo visits Jennifer, a Dietitian at Melbourne Weight Loss Solutions, to explore the power of body composition scanning and what those deeper measurements reveal about your health after bariatric surgery. From understanding the...
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Mindset Matters: The Psychological Aspects of Weight Loss: Dr Rachel Gold
In this conversation, Damo and Tash from Bariatric Support Australia engage with Dr. Rachel Gold, a clinical psychologist specializing in eating disorders and body image. They discuss the importance of mindset in relation to body image, the impact of weight stigma, and the challenges faced by...
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Dr Craig. The o Clinic
This conversation delves into the complexities of bariatric surgery, exploring the psychological and physiological aspects of comfort eating, the transformative potential of surgical interventions, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to weight management. The discussion highlights...
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Weight Loss Surgery, Aftercare & The Truth About “Good” Weight Loss
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, we sit down with Dr Craig Taylor — one of Australia’s most experienced bariatric surgeons — to unpack the realities of weight loss surgery, aftercare, and the myths that hold people back. From why losing just the first third of your excess weight can...
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Q & A With Dr George
Join us for an engaging Zoom session with Dr. George Balalis as he answers pressing questions from the community about weight loss surgeries. In this episode, we spotlight the comparison between gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, exploring their weight loss outcomes, benefits, and potential...
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The Power of Community in Health Journeys
In this episode of the Bari Chronicles podcast, hosts Tash and Damo share personal updates, discuss the challenges of navigating health issues, and emphasize the importance of lived experiences in the bariatric community. They explore the unique anxieties faced by those who have undergone…
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From Setbacks to Strength: Our Journey of Healing
In this episode of the Bari Chronicles, hosts Tash and Damo dive into the personal journeys and health challenges faced post-bariatric surgery. From unexpected health scares to the ongoing importance of medical check-ups, they share candid insights into life after weight loss surgery. Tune in to...
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Episode Title: From Purees to Progress – Bariatric Nutrition with Jane Stoltze
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo and Tash sit down with bariatric dietitian Jane Stoltze to unpack the emotional and practical realities of post-op nutrition. From navigating the puree phase to embracing lifelong habit changes, Jane shares her personal journey into bariatric dietetics...
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Understanding the Psychology of Eating Disorders
In this conversation, Dr. Rachel Gold, Tash and Damo explore the complexities of psychology, particularly in relation to eating disorders, body image, and mental health. They discuss the role of psychologists in helping individuals make sense of their experiences, the challenges of navigating...
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The Truth About Body Image and Surgery
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo and Tash delve into the complex relationship between body image and weight loss surgery. They discuss the often-unrealistic expectations surrounding post-surgery body image, the psychological challenges that accompany significant weight loss, and the...
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Real Life Medicine: Ditching Diets and Finding What Works
In this episode, Dr Lucy opens up about her own experiences with dieting, body image, and metabolic health. She highlights the importance of uncovering the "why" behind eating habits and how mindfulness can support long-term change. The discussion explores the challenges of behaviour change, the...
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The Role of Plastic Surgery With Mr Ian Holten (Plastic Surgeon)
In this conversation, Tash, Damo and The amazing Plastic Surgeon Mr Ian Holton discuss the complexities of plastic surgery following bariatric surgery, emphasising the psychological and physical transformations patients undergo. They explore the importance of experienced surgeons, the necessity…
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A/Professor Michael Talbot
In this conversation, A/Professor Michael discusses his journey into bariatrics, the evolution of surgical techniques, and the impact of weight loss surgery on patients' lives. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the outcomes of procedures like sleeve gastrectomy and the common…
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Mastering the Puree Stage After Bariatric Surgery
The puree stage after bariatric surgery can feel a bit daunting—especially when you're trying to figure out what to eat, how much, and how to make it enjoyable. That’s why we’re excited to share insights from Jane Stoltze, an experienced Bariatric Dietitian and member of ANZMOSS and ASMBS, in her...
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Transforming Bariatric Nutrition
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo, Tash, Sally, and Justine discuss the evolution of nutrition resources for bariatric patients, emphasising the importance of community involvement in recipe development, practical meal solutions, and understanding food labels. They explore how to…
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OMG I have to have a Fizz CT scan
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, hosts Tash and Damo share personal updates on their health journeys, discussing upcoming medical procedures and reflections on weight loss surgery. They emphasize the importance of positive interactions with health professionals and the value of community...
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Navigating Life After Bariatric Surgery
In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damo and Tash dive deep into their personal bariatric surgery journeys. They explore the long-term effects, complications, and the mental health impacts of such a significant lifestyle change. With honesty and vulnerability, they highlight how success isn't...
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It's not a one and done
In this episode, Tash and Damo discuss their personal journeys with bariatric surgery, the evolving landscape of obesity treatment, and the importance of self-worth in health decisions. They reflect on the challenges of accessing medications like GLP-1, the realities of revision surgeries, and…
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Fueling Success: Nutrition, Mindset and Life after Metabolic Surgery
The Bari Chronicles – Episode Summary In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, hosts Tash and Damo sit down with dietitian Jennifer Tsoutsoulis to unpack the complex relationship between diet, metabolic surgery, and the psychological aspects of food. They discuss the importance of establishing...
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Losing weight naturally. What does that even mean
The Bari Chronicles – "Losing Weight Naturally! WTF Does That Even Mean?" We hear it all the time—"Just lose weight naturally!" But what does that actually mean? In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Damien and Tash dive into the loaded phrase that gets thrown around far too often in the...
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The Lancet Report with Professor Wendy Brown
Episode Description:In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Tash and Damo sit down with Professor Wendy Brown to delve into the findings and implications of The Lancet Report. This landmark study provides groundbreaking insights into metabolic surgery and obesity management, shaping the future of...
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Menopause, Perimenopause & Weight Loss Surgery – What You Need to Know
Menopause, Perimenopause & Weight Loss Surgery – What You Need to Know Menopause and perimenopause are often overlooked when discussing weight loss surgery, yet they play a crucial role in overall health, weight management, and wellbeing. In this episode of The Bari Chronicles, Tash and Damo sit...
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10 min coffee chat. It's a whole lifestyle change
Inthis episode we discuss the lifestyle changethat comes with Metabolic surgery
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Bariatric Surgery: Myths and Realities
In this insightful episode of The Bari Chronicles, the hosts sit down with Associate Professor Michael Hii, a leading bariatric surgeon, to explore the realities of metabolic surgery. The discussion tackles some of the most common myths and misconceptions about bariatric procedures, emphasizing...
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Understanding Pre-Operative and Post-Operative Nutrition
In this episode, Tash and Damo engage with Megan, a dietitian specialising in bariatric care, discussing the intricacies of pre-operative and post-operative dietary practices. They explore Megan's journey into dietetics, the importance of specialized knowledge in bariatrics, and the common...
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It's not a shortcut It's a Bypass
In this episode of Coffee Chats, Damo and Tash discuss the complexities of gastric bypass surgery, emphasizing that it is not just about weight loss but a significant lifestyle change. They explore the historical context of gastric bypass, the importance of mental health support, and the…
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Reflux after Weight loss surgery: Dr Roy Hopkins
In this conversation, Dr. Roy Hopkins, an upper GI surgeon, discusses the complexities of reflux, particularly in relation to weight loss surgery. He explains the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic procedures for reflux, emphasizing the importance of understanding the anatomical and structural...
About this show
A weight loss surgery podcast with zero fluff and maximum truth.The Bari Chronicles brings you unfiltered conversations about WLS, obesity, GLP-1 medications, mental health, addiction, relationships, and everything the clinic doesn’t always have time to explain.Hosted by Damo and Tash, two siblings navigating life, loss, and long-term WLS living — each episode dives deep into the realities that shape this journey. Expect expert interviews, lived-experience storytelling, myth-busting moments, and the kind of honesty you only get from people who have been there.Disclaimer: Informational only
Hosted by
Damien Verner & Tash Jarrett