BFC Member Stories: Nancy’s Before and After Gastric Sleeve Mindset Story

Steph Wagner MS, RDN

July 23, 2025

Podcast Episode 1: Nancy 11 Year Before and After Sleeve Mindset “Your Body is Your Greatest Asset”

I am thrilled to launch our brand-new podcast series, BFC Member Stories, with none other than one of our founding Premier Access members—Nancy Outenreath.

Nancy is now 11 years post-op from her gastric sleeve surgery and continues to be an inspiring example of what it means to care for your health long-term. In this first episode, she shares her real, honest journey: what’s worked, what’s evolved, and how she keeps showing up for herself with a mindset rooted in self-worth and progress.

If you’re looking for a gastric sleeve before and after story that goes beyond the scale and into mindset, support, and sustainability—this is the one to hear.

“My Health Is My Most Precious Asset.”

Nancy reflects on the shift that changed everything for her before and after her Gastric Sleeve: choosing to see her health as the most valuable thing she owns. That belief became her anchor, helping her stay motivated and positive even when life threw curveballs.

She explains how that perspective helped her let go of guilt or hesitation around investing in herself—whether it was time for meal planning or signing up for Premier Access. “What could be more worthwhile than this?” she asks. It’s a powerful reminder that your health is worth your best effort—not because of perfection, but because you matter.

She noticed it was hard for others to understand. “Is that what you’re eating?” Fielding questions became a daily experience for her. But her confidence in herself is what allowed her to answer the questions and get back to what she was doing.

laptop on a desk with someone typing blog graphic for nausea on Ozempic, Zepbound or Wegovy

Starting Ozempic with Gratitude, Not Shame

In this episode, Nancy also opens up about recently starting Ozempic. As an 11-year post-op patient, she knows the journey isn’t linear. But she chooses to stay open to new tools.

When her doctor recommended the medication for her metabolic health, she didn’t let shame take the wheel. Instead, she embraced it with gratitude: If it helps me live my healthiest life, then I’m thankful to have it.

For anyone navigating decisions about GLP-1 medications after bariatric surgery, Nancy’s approach is a breath of fresh air—compassionate, informed, and centered on long-term wellness.

She mentions how thankful she was for my resources on GLP-1s and the interview I had with Dr. Ogle on the topic. You can find all of those linked below:

7 FDA Approved Medications for Weight Management

Interview with Obesity Medicine Doctor Lindsay Ogle MD

Why Community Matters: Recipes, Challenges & the Five Pillars

Nancy has been part of Premier Access since day one. In this episode, she shares how the 10 Day Habit Reset, the recipe library, and our Five Pillars of Bariatric Living—water, food quality, movement, sleep, and vitamins—have kept her grounded and supported.

But more than any single resource, it’s the positive environment and real connection that keeps her going. “It’s the place I go when I need a reset,” she says. “You never feel like you’re doing this alone.”

Listen Now

If you’ve ever wondered what life looks like a decade after surgery—or how to approach your journey with more grace and less guilt—this episode is for you.

➡️ Click here to listen to Episode 1 on Spotify, or YouTube (will work on Apple next!)
➡️ Not a member yet? Learn more about Premier Access and join Nancy in the community.

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