Beyond My Diagnosis with Michele Weston

Michele Weston
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Alternative Health

Welcome to Beyond My Diagnosis, the podcast that brings real conversations, real stories, and real breakthroughs in health, healing, and hope. I’m your host, Michele Weston—Holistic Health and Wellbeing Coach—and I'm here to help you look past the symptoms and into the deeper story of living with your chronic condition.Each week, we go beyond the chart and challenge the status quo of conventional care. From powerful patient journeys to expert insights in functional medicine and integrative practitioners, using mindset and lifestyle medicine, you’ll get the tools and inspiration to become the most informed, empowered version of yourself.This is not just about managing illness—it’s about reclaiming your health, your voice, and your life.Let’s get curious. Let’s get courageous. And let’s go Beyond My Diagnosis.

  1. 5d ago

    The Brain You Can't See: What It's Like to Live Inside My Brain with MS and ADHD

    Send us Fan Mail What if the hardest part of living with a neurological condition is the part no one can see? People can see a cane. They may notice someone walking more slowly or needing to rest. But they can't see brain fog. They can't see the mental exhaustion that comes from trying to remember words, stay organized, or keep track of conversations. And they can't see the invisible cognitive changes that affect millions of people living with neurological conditions. In this deeply personal episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston opens a window into what it's really like to live with both multiple sclerosis (MS) and adult ADHD. She shares her own experiences with brain fog, executive functioning challenges, memory lapses, and cognitive fatigue, helping listeners better understand what life feels like from the inside. More importantly, Michele offers hope. She shares the practical tools, routines, and mindset shifts that have helped her stop fighting her brain and start working with it. Because while you may not be able to control every symptom, you can learn to adapt—and continue living beyond your diagnosis.  In This Episode You'll LearnWhat cognitive dysfunction really feels likeHow MS and ADHD can affect memory, focus, and executive functioningThe difference between brain fog and everyday forgetfulnessWhy cognitive symptoms are often invisible to othersHow fatigue and heat can worsen cognitive functionPractical strategies for organization and memoryWhy adapting is more effective than "trying harder"How caregivers can better understand invisible neurological symptomsWhy asking for help is a sign of strength—not weaknessHow self-compassion plays a critical role in living well with chronic illness What Does "The Brain You Can't See" Mean?Michele explains that one of the greatest challenges of living with a neurological condition is that cognitive symptoms are often invisible. She shares examples many listeners will immediately recognize: Walking into a room and forgetting whyLosing your train of thought mid-sentenceForgetting names or familiar wordsMixing up dates and appointmentsUnderestimating how long tasks will takeFeeling mentally exhausted after simple decisionsStruggling to organize thoughts or complete multi-step tasksThese aren't character flaws. They're neurological symptoms. And understanding them can help reduce shame while increasing self-awareness and self-advocacy.  Michele's Biggest MessageOne of the most powerful moments in this episode comes when Michele shares that everything changed when she stopped expecting her brain to work the way it used to. Instead of constantly criticizing herself, she learned to build systems that support the brain she has today. That shift allowed her to move from frustration to freedom. Her message is simple: Work with your brain—not against it.  Practical Strategies Michele Uses Every DayThis episode is filled with practical, evidence-informed strategies listeners can begin using immediately. Michele shares how she supports her brain by: Using Google Calendar with color-coded eventsSetting multiple reminders and alarmsKeeping written checklistsBreaking projects into smaller, manageable stepsUsing sticky notes and visual remindersCreating consistent daily routinesWorking with occupational therapists when neededSimplifying her environment to reduce cognitive overloadProtecting her energy throughout the dayGiving herself permission to ask for helpThese aren't shortcuts. They're tools that make everyday life more manageable.  A Message for Caregivers and Loved OnesMichele also speaks directly to family members, friends, and caregivers. Invisible symptoms can be difficult to understand because they aren't obvious from the outside. Patience. Communication. Grace. And a willingness to listen can make an enormous difference for someone navigating cognitive changes. Living with chronic illness isn't just an individual journey—it affects the people who love us, too.  Michele's Closing ThoughtOne of Michele's greatest hopes is that this episode helps listeners feel seen. Whether you're living with MS, ADHD, another neurological condition, or caring for someone who is, you are not alone. Your brain may work differently. That doesn't make it broken. It simply means you may need different tools, different strategies, and a little more compassion—for yourself and from others. Because living beyond your diagnosis isn't about being perfect. It's about learning, adapting, and continuing to move forward.  Resources Mentioned in This Episode CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) https://chadd.org/ National Multiple Sclerosis Society https://www.nationalmssociety.org/ Mayo Clinic – Cognitive Impairment https://www.mayoclinic.org/ Cleveland Clinic – Brain Fog https://my.clevelandclinic.org/ NYU Langone Health – Rusk Rehabilitation https://nyulangone.org/locations/rusk-rehabilitation International Multiple Sclerosis Management Practice (IMSMP) https://imsmp.org/

  2. Jul 8

    Could Your Eyes Be Warning You? Vision Changes, Optic Neuritis, and Neurological Conditions Explained

    Send us Fan Mail Could your eyes be trying to tell you something about your brain? Many people associate neurological diseases with symptoms like weakness, numbness, fatigue, or balance problems. But for many—including Michele Weston—vision changes are one of the earliest warning signs. In this eye-opening solo episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele shares her personal experience with optic neuritis, the symptom that ultimately led to her multiple sclerosis diagnosis more than 25 years ago. She explains why sudden vision changes should never be ignored and explores how the eyes often provide some of the earliest clues that something may be happening within the nervous system. This episode isn't intended to create fear. It's designed to help you become a more informed and empowered advocate for your own health. Because information is power. In This Episode You'll Learn Why vision changes can be early signs of neurological diseaseWhat optic neuritis is and why it's often associated with multiple sclerosisSymptoms that should never be ignoredHow inflammation affects the optic nerveThe connection between heat and neurological vision symptomsWhy MS isn't the only neurological condition that affects visionConditions including neuromyelitis optica (NMO), Parkinson's disease, stroke, migraines with aura, idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), brain tumors, and giant cell arteritisWhen to seek immediate medical attentionHow to advocate for yourself if symptoms don't seem right Common Vision Symptoms Michele Discusses Vision changes don't always mean you need a stronger eyeglass prescription. Sometimes they can be your nervous system asking for help. Symptoms may include: Blurred visionEye pain, especially with eye movementDouble visionTemporary vision lossLoss of color visionBlind spotsFloatersDifficulty focusingEyes that don't seem to work togetherInvoluntary eye movements (nystagmus)Episodes where vision becomes unusually dark—or unusually brightBecause nearly half of the brain is involved in processing vision, neurological conditions frequently affect how we see. What Is Optic Neuritis? Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve—the pathway that carries visual information from your eyes to your brain. It's one of the most recognized neurological eye conditions and is commonly associated with multiple sclerosis, although it can also occur with neuromyelitis optica (NMO), lupus, infections, and other autoimmune diseases. Common symptoms include: Pain when moving the eyeBlurred visionFaded or dim colorsBlind spotsTemporary vision loss (often in one eye)Many people recover much or most of their vision, although some changes may remain. Heat and Vision Changes Because this episode was inspired by the extreme summer heat, Michele also explains why rising body temperature can temporarily worsen neurological symptoms. She shares practical tips to help reduce heat-related flare-ups, including: Wearing a hat outdoorsUsing cooling neck wraps or cooling vestsDrinking cold beveragesAvoiding prolonged heat exposurePaying attention to how your body responds when moving between hot and cold environmentsFor people living with MS and other neurological or autoimmune conditions, these small strategies can make a meaningful difference during the summer months. Michele's Story Michele reflects on the fear she experienced when optic neuritis first affected her vision and shares the importance of finding specialists who truly listen. She recounts her experience with neuro-ophthalmologist Dr. Kupersmith, whose compassion and commitment to urgent patient care reinforced just how important it is to take unexplained vision changes seriously. Her message is clear: Don't ignore your symptoms. Be curious. Ask questions. Seek second opinions when something doesn't feel right. You are an essential member of your healthcare team. Michele's Closing Message Our diagnosis may shape our lives. But it never defines our potential. There is still joy to experience. Purpose to pursue. And a future worth planning for. Living with a chronic illness isn't just about managing symptoms. It's about managing your life. 🔗 Resources Mentioned National Multiple Sclerosis Society https://www.nationalmssociety.org/ American Academy of Ophthalmology https://www.aao.org/ National Eye Institute https://www.nei.nih.gov/ American Academy of Neurology https://www.aan.com/ National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke https://www.ninds.nih.gov/

  3. Jul 1

    How to Age Well with a Chronic Illness: Healthy Aging, Independence, and Living Beyond Your Diagnosis

    Send us Fan Mail Can you age well while living with a chronic illness? It's a question many of us don't ask when we're first diagnosed. In the beginning, we're focused on getting through today, understanding our symptoms, navigating treatments, and simply figuring out what life looks like now. But eventually another question begins to emerge: How do I continue living well as I grow older? In this inspiring solo episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston shares what she's learned after more than 25 years of living with multiple sclerosis, nearly two decades after bariatric surgery, and years of working as a health and wellness coach and patient advocate. Drawing from current research, her personal experiences, and practical coaching strategies, Michele explores how healthy aging is absolutely possible—even with a chronic illness. This isn't about pretending chronic illness is easy. It's about learning to adapt, advocate for yourself, and make daily choices that support your health, independence, and quality of life. Because while many of us cannot control our diagnosis, we can influence many aspects of our health through the choices we make every day. In This Episode You'll Learn How chronic illness changes as we ageWhy healthy aging is still possible with autoimmune disease and MSThe difference between lifespan and healthspanHow to preserve your independenceWhy movement matters—even if it looks different than it used toHow mindfulness and stress management support long-term healthThe importance of disease self-managementWhy personalized nutrition becomes increasingly important as we ageHow to build a healthcare team that supports your goalsWhy resilience, purpose, and adaptability are essential for living well Michele's Biggest Message Aging with a chronic illness is not simply a story of decline. It's also a story of: AdaptationResilienceGrowthWisdomPurposeJoyAs Michele reminds listeners: A diagnosis may be part of your story, but it is never your whole story. Living well isn't about turning back the clock. It's about continuing to move forward with intention, caring for the body you have today, and creating a meaningful life—one choice at a time. Practical Strategies Michele Shares This episode is filled with practical, evidence-informed strategies that listeners can begin using immediately, including: ✔ Staying active with realistic movement goals—even 4,500 daily steps can improve health. ✔ Building strength through activities like Pilates, yoga, resistance bands, or swimming. ✔ Working with your healthcare team to personalize nutrition for your specific condition. ✔ Prioritizing quality sleep and stress reduction. ✔ Using mindfulness and meditation to improve resilience. ✔ Following your prescribed treatment plan and staying engaged with your medical team. ✔ Focusing on healthspan—how well you live—not simply how long you live. ✔ Taking an active role in your own disease self-management. Memorable Quotes "Healthy aging is still possible." "A diagnosis may be part of our story, but it is never our whole story." "It's not just about living longer. It's about living well." "Science is finally catching up to what patients have known for years. Living with a chronic illness isn't just about managing symptoms. It's about managing a life." Resources Mentioned Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Chronic Disease https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/ National Institutes of Health https://www.nih.gov/ National Institute on Aging https://www.nia.nih.gov/ National Council on Aging https://www.ncoa.org/ Better Choices, Better Health® https://www.selfmanagementresource.com/programs/small-group-programs/better-choices-better-health/ Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program https://patienteducation.stanford.edu/programs/cdsmp.html Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging https://www.benrose.org/ MyFitnessPal https://www.myfitnesspal.com/

  4. Jun 24

    The Future of Nutrition: Why One Diet Doesn't Work for Everyone and the Rise of Personalized Nutrition

    Send us Fan Mail Why does the exact same diet work for one person and completely fail for another? If you've ever followed a nutrition plan perfectly and still didn't get the results you expected, this episode may completely change how you think about food, health, and wellness. In this episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston explores one of the most exciting emerging areas in healthcare: personalized nutrition and precision health. Drawing on research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Michele discusses why scientists are beginning to move away from one-size-fits-all nutrition advice and toward nutrition recommendations tailored to an individual's genetics, lifestyle, culture, environment, and health history. This episode is especially relevant for people living with: Multiple sclerosis (MS)Autoimmune diseaseDiabetesRheumatoid arthritisInflammatory bowel disease (IBD)ObesityHeart diseaseOther chronic health conditionsBecause what if your body simply responds differently than someone else's? And what if that difference matters? In This Episode, Michele Discusses: Why one diet doesn't work for everyoneThe emerging field of personalized nutritionPrecision health and individualized healthcareWhy genetics influence nutrition responsesThe impact of culture, environment, and health history on food choicesWhy two people can eat the same meal and have completely different outcomesThe NIH Nutrition for Precision Health StudyThe NIH All of Us Research ProgramPersonalized nutrition and chronic illnessFuture advances in nutrition scienceHow personalized healthcare may improve outcomesWhy diverse health research mattersWhy Personalized Nutrition Matters One of the most fascinating concepts Michele explores is that two people can eat the exact same food and experience completely different biological responses. One person may: Experience stable blood sugarFeel energizedDigest the meal easilyWhile another person may: Experience a blood sugar spikeFeel sluggishHave digestive symptomsResearchers are now studying why these differences occur and how nutrition recommendations may eventually become personalized to the individual. The Nutrition for Precision Health Study Michele highlights the NIH's Nutrition for Precision Health Study, an ambitious research initiative designed to understand why people respond differently to food. Researchers are examining factors including: GeneticsLifestyleCultureEnvironmentMedical historyExisting health conditionsThe goal is to create more personalized nutrition recommendations rather than relying solely on broad population guidelines. The All of Us Research Program The episode also explores the NIH's groundbreaking All of Us Research Program, one of the largest and most diverse health studies ever conducted in the United States. Since launching, more than 880,000 participants have enrolled, helping researchers better understand: Disease riskMedication responsesDiabetes outcomesCardiovascular healthCognitive healthPersonalized medicine"What if recommendations could better reflect different genetic backgrounds, different health conditions, and different life stages?" Michele's Biggest Takeaway This episode isn't really about diets. It's about possibility. It's about recognizing that our differences matter. And it's about creating a future where nutrition and healthcare become more precise, more inclusive, and more effective for everyone. For those of us living with chronic illness, that's an exciting future to imagine. Resources Mentioned in This Episode NIH Nutrition for Precision Health Study https://commonfund.nih.gov/nutritionforprecisionhealth All of Us Research Program https://www.joinallofus.org/ National Institutes of Health (NIH) https://www.nih.gov/ Contact the All of Us Research Program 📞 844-842-2855  📧 help@joinallofus.org 🌱 Michele's Message If you've ever felt like your symptoms were dismissed, or you've spent years experimenting with diets, elimination plans, supplements, and nutrition approaches without clear answers, you're not alone. The future of nutrition may not be about finding the perfect diet. It may be about discovering what works best for your unique body. "Wellness isn't about perfection. It's about learning, adapting, and discovering what helps your unique body flourish and thrive."

  5. Jun 21

    Food Is Not the Enemy: Autoimmune Nutrition, Anti-Inflammatory Foods, and Better Health with Chronic Illness

    Send us Fan Mail Can food improve your quality of life when you're living with a chronic illness? If you've ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice, you're not alone. One expert tells you to cut carbs. Another says avoid fat. Someone recommends the Mediterranean diet. Someone else says eliminate entire food groups. For people already managing autoimmune disease, chronic illness, medications, appointments, fatigue, and daily symptoms, trying to figure out the "perfect diet" can feel exhausting. In this solo episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston shares an evidence-informed and empowering perspective on nutrition, chronic illness, autoimmune disease, and sustainable wellness. Drawing on her experience as a health and wellness coach, patient advocate, and someone who has lived with multiple sclerosis and maintained a 130-pound weight loss following bariatric surgery, Michele explores a simple but powerful truth: Food is not the enemy. Food is one of the most powerful health tools available to us. And while food may not cure autoimmune disease, it can influence many aspects of our health and quality of life. In This Episode, Michele Discusses: Why food should be viewed as nourishment instead of restrictionThe difference between dieting and sustainable wellnessAnti-inflammatory nutrition principlesNutrition and autoimmune diseaseHow food affects energy, digestion, sleep, and overall healthWhy protein becomes increasingly important as we ageThe truth about carbohydrates and why they're not the enemyWhy fiber may be one of the most overlooked nutrition toolsThe connection between gut health and immune healthHealthy fats and brain healthPractical nutrition strategies for chronic illnessSmall lifestyle changes that create long-term results Food Is a Tool, Not a Cure One of Michele's most important messages is that food should never be viewed as a miracle cure. Instead, food is a powerful tool that supports: Energy levelsBlood sugar balanceDigestive healthWeight managementCardiovascular healthImmune functionHealthy aging"Food isn't a cure. It's a tool." And for many people living with chronic illness, nutrition is one of the few areas where we can actively make choices that support our well-being. Michele's Key Nutrition Priorities Prioritize Protein Michele explains that many people unintentionally under-eat protein. Protein helps support: Muscle maintenanceRecoveryImmune healthStrengthHealthy agingEspecially when fatigue is already part of daily life, maintaining strength becomes increasingly important. Stop Blaming Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are the body's preferred source of energy. Instead of fearing carbs, Michele encourages listeners to focus on nutrient-dense options such as: OatsBeansLentilsSweet potatoesWhole grainsFruitThese foods provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, and sustainable energy. Increase Fiber If Michele could recommend one nutrition habit, it would be increasing fiber intake. Fiber supports: Gut healthBlood sugar balanceCholesterol managementDigestive healthImmune health"Your gut is your second brain." Don't Fear Healthy Fats Healthy fats support: Brain healthNervous system functionCell healthCardiovascular healthExamples include: SalmonSardinesWalnutsChia seedsOlive oilAvocados Michele's Most Important Message This episode delivers a simple but empowering reminder: While many of us cannot control our diagnosis, we can influence many aspects of our health through the choices we make every day. "Nutrition is not about being perfect. It's about nourishing the body you have today." Living well with chronic illness isn't built on one perfect meal. It's built on thousands of small choices that support your well-being over time. 🔗 Resources Mentioned Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) https://www.cdc.gov National Institutes of Health (NIH) https://www.nih.gov MyPlate Nutrition Resources https://www.myplate.gov

  6. Jun 10

    What happens when autoimmune disease meets real life?

    Send us Fan Mail A diagnosis is one thing. Living with it every day is something entirely different. In this deeply personal solo episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston shares what she's learned after more than 25 years of living with multiple sclerosis and decades of working as a patient advocate and healthcare navigator. From navigating healthcare barriers and managing symptoms to finding purpose, meaningful work, and personal fulfillment, Michele explores what happens after the diagnosis—when chronic illness becomes part of everyday life. This conversation is for anyone living with: Multiple sclerosis (MS)LupusRheumatoid arthritis (RA)Psoriatic arthritisGraves' diseaseFibromyalgiaOther autoimmune or chronic health conditions 💡 In This Episode, Michele Discusses: How to navigate healthcare systems and advocate for yourselfCommon barriers to care for people with chronic illnessWhy patient advocacy mattersHow autoimmune disease impacts work and career choicesFinding purpose after a life-changing diagnosisManaging fatigue, brain fog, and fluctuating energyRedefining success after chronic illnessBuilding resilience and emotional well-beingWhy asking for help is not failureHow to pace yourself and protect your energyRebuilding confidence and self-sufficiencyTurning lived experience into advocacy and support for others 🧠 One of the Biggest Questions Michele Explores How do you rebuild your identity after diagnosis? Michele shares that many people living with chronic illness struggle with redefining who they are when life no longer looks the way they expected. She discusses: Redefining achievementAdjusting expectationsFinding meaningful goalsPursuing purpose while honoring your body's limitsCreating a life that works with your condition instead of against it"You need to encourage yourself to think about how can I be independent." ⚡ Managing Energy and Avoiding Burnout One of the most practical sections of the episode focuses on recognizing when you're pushing too hard. Michele discusses warning signs such as: Persistent fatigueWorsening autoimmune symptomsDisrupted sleepIncreased anxietyDepressionFrequent flare-upsShe encourages listeners to build routines, use tools like calendars and reminders, pace themselves, and learn how to say "no" when necessary. "No is not a dirty word." ❤️ Purpose Matters Research continues to show that people living with chronic illness often experience greater psychological well-being when they find meaning and purpose despite adversity. For Michele, purpose came through: Patient advocacyCoachingEducationMentoringSharing stories through Beyond My DiagnosisAnd she encourages listeners to explore their own path toward fulfillment, whether through work, volunteering, creativity, family, or community involvement. 🔗 Resources Mentioned in This Episode Immune Confident Institute Founded by Kara Wada Immune Confident Institute International Multiple Sclerosis Management Practice (IMSMP) IMSMP Program Positive Psychology Resources Martin Seligman Positive Psychology Center at University of Pennsylvania Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn Center for Mindfulness and MBSR Resources Narrative Medicine Created by Rita Charon Columbia Narrative Medicine Program

  7. Jun 3

    Can Summer Heat Trigger Autoimmune Flare-Ups? Living with MS, Lupus, and Autoimmune Disease in Hot Weather

    Send us Fan Mail If you live with multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjögren's syndrome, psoriasis, Graves' disease, or another autoimmune condition, you've probably wondered why your symptoms sometimes feel worse during the summer months. In this solo episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston explores the connection between autoimmune disease, heat sensitivity, humidity, dehydration, UV exposure, and fatigue. Drawing from more than 25 years of living with multiple sclerosis, Michele shares practical strategies she's learned to help manage symptoms and enjoy summer without living in fear of a flare-up. This episode is packed with actionable tips, personal experiences, and resources to help you navigate hot weather with greater confidence and comfort. In This Episode, Michele Discusses: Why heat sensitivity affects many people with autoimmune diseasesUthoff's Phenomenon and its impact on MS symptomsHow heat can temporarily worsen neurological symptomsThe connection between humidity, barometric pressure, and joint painUV photosensitivity and lupus flare-upsWhy dehydration increases inflammation and fatigueSummer fatigue versus neurological fatigueCooling strategies for people with MSThe benefits of cooling vests and cooling accessoriesHow to plan outdoor activities around heat and humidityHydration, electrolytes, and summer wellnessSunscreen, clothing, and skin protection tipsHow autoimmune diseases respond differently to weather changesThe impact of climate and rising temperatures on autoimmune conditionsWhat Is Uthoff's Phenomenon? One of the most important topics Michele discusses is Uthoff's Phenomenon, a temporary worsening of neurological symptoms caused by increases in body temperature. For many people living with multiple sclerosis, even small increases in core body temperature can trigger: Extreme fatigueBrain fogBlurred visionWeaknessNumbnessTinglingDifficulty processing informationBalance and mobility challengesThe good news? These symptoms are often temporary and improve once the body cools down. Resources Mentioned in This Episode American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA)  https://autoimmune.org/National Multiple Sclerosis Society  https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Lupus Foundation of America  https://www.lupus.org/Lupus Photosensitivity & Sun Safety  https://www.lupus.org/resources/photosensitivity-and-lupusArthritis Foundation  https://www.arthritis.org/American Academy of Dermatology (Sun Protection & Skin Health)  https://www.aad.org/ ☀️ Michele's Summer Heat Survival Tips Stay hydrated • Replace electrolytes • Limit exposure during peak heat hours • Wear lightweight clothing • Use cooling products such as cooling vests, scarves, or wraps • Protect your skin with sunscreen and UV-protective clothing • Listen to your body and rest when symptoms increase. The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

  8. May 27

    The The Weight-Loss Dance: GLP-1 Medications, Obesity, and the Truth About Long-Term Weight Loss

    Send us Fan Mail Are GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and the newest experimental obesity drugs changing the future of weight loss? Or are they simply another tool in a much bigger journey? In this honest, educational, and deeply personal episode of Beyond My Diagnosis, Michele Weston sits down with licensed social worker Tammy St. Clair to talk about what they call “The Weight-Loss Dance”—the lifelong reality of managing obesity, maintaining weight loss, and learning how to create sustainable lifestyle change. Both Michele and Tammy bring lived experience to this conversation. Tammy worked in a bariatric surgery office for 10 years, has maintained over 100 pounds of weight loss for two decades, and now supports clients navigating obesity, emotional eating, behavior change, and long-term weight management. Michele shares her own 16-year journey after bariatric surgery and the ongoing realities of maintaining weight loss while living with chronic illness. Together, they unpack the growing conversation around: GLP-1 medicationsObesity as a chronic medical conditionBariatric surgeryWeight stigma and shameLifestyle change versus “diet mentality”Why maintaining weight loss is often harder than losing it“Losing the weight is so much easier than maintaining your weight loss.” This episode explores the science, the emotions, and the mindset behind long-term obesity treatment in a way that is compassionate, realistic, and empowering.  Inside this episode, Michele and Tammy discuss: What new obesity medications like GLP-1s and GIPs actually doThe newest experimental weight loss drug and why researchers are excitedWhy obesity is not about laziness or lack of willpowerHow hormones affect hunger, appetite, insulin, and metabolismWhy long-term maintenance is harder than rapid weight lossThe difference between “diet mentality” and lifestyle changeHow bariatric surgery and medications are tools—not magic fixesWhy emotional eating and behavior patterns still matterThe emotional impact of weight stigma and shameWhy obesity should be treated as a chronic medical conditionThe importance of realistic expectations and long-term supportWhy mindset, self-awareness, and daily choices matter 🧠 One of the most powerful themes in this episode This isn’t about finding a “magic pill.” It’s about learning how to live differently. “It becomes lifestyle and it’s learning that.” Tammy explains that many people can lose weight temporarily through diets, restriction, or short-term programs—but maintaining weight loss requires ongoing behavioral change, emotional work, and support systems. Michele and Tammy also discuss the shame many people experience around obesity and weight loss medications. “This is a medical diagnosis and it takes a village to work this through.” They emphasize that obesity is not simply a matter of discipline or pushing away from the table. Research continues to show that genetics, hormones, metabolism, emotional health, and brain chemistry all play a role. GLP-1 medications, Ozempic, Wegovy, and obesity treatment Michele and Tammy explain how medications like: OzempicWegovyZepboundGLP-1sGIP medications…work by helping regulate appetite, insulin response, metabolism, and other hormonal systems connected to obesity and weight management. The conversation also explores: Why some people lose more weight than othersWhy medications can improve cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, and A1C levels even without dramatic weight lossWhy side effects and medical supervision matterThe future of obesity medicine and genetic research The reality of “The Weight-Loss Dance” One of the most relatable moments in the episode comes when Michele explains that every day still involves conscious choices. Not perfection. Choices. “Every day, every meal, I get to make a decision.” This episode is not about quick fixes. It’s about sustainability, compassion, education, and understanding that managing obesity is often a lifelong journey—not a temporary one. 🔗 About Tammy St. Clair Tammy St. Clair is a licensed social worker with extensive experience supporting individuals navigating obesity, bariatric surgery, behavior change, emotional eating, and long-term weight management. She worked in a bariatric surgery office for 10 years and has personally maintained over 100 pounds of weight loss for more than 20 years. Tammy combines professional expertise with lived experience to help clients better understand the emotional, behavioral, and medical realities of obesity treatment. 🔗 Stay Connected with Michele Weston micheleweston.substack.com

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About

Welcome to Beyond My Diagnosis, the podcast that brings real conversations, real stories, and real breakthroughs in health, healing, and hope. I’m your host, Michele Weston—Holistic Health and Wellbeing Coach—and I'm here to help you look past the symptoms and into the deeper story of living with your chronic condition.Each week, we go beyond the chart and challenge the status quo of conventional care. From powerful patient journeys to expert insights in functional medicine and integrative practitioners, using mindset and lifestyle medicine, you’ll get the tools and inspiration to become the most informed, empowered version of yourself.This is not just about managing illness—it’s about reclaiming your health, your voice, and your life.Let’s get curious. Let’s get courageous. And let’s go Beyond My Diagnosis.

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