In this episode, we share Wendy’s story of living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). She takes us through the confusing early symptoms, the long road to getting a diagnosis, and how she manages her condition today. With honesty and hope, Wendy offers a patient’s perspective on what it means to live with EoE. Hear Wendy discuss: The first signs that something was wrong with her throat How symptoms disrupted her eating, social life, and mental health The coping strategies she unknowingly develop...
Aug 19, 2025•24 min•Season 4Ep. 22
Feeling drained by IBD—physically and emotionally? Discover how to reclaim your strength beyond the flare with proven strategies from leading clinical psychologist and resilience expert Dr. Laurie Keefer. Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis isn’t just about managing physical symptoms—it’s about coping with the emotional, social, and mental toll that IBD can take. From how you see yourself, to how you eat, connect with others, and face the unknown, the impact can be profound. In thi...
Aug 13, 2025•36 min•Season 4Ep. 21
We’re welcoming back Dr. Ali Navidi, a licensed clinical psychologist, and co-founder of GI Psychology. Today, Dr. Navidi is here to tell us all about the IBD Therapy Group—offered in partnership with the American College of Gastroenterology and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. This 8-week, nationwide, virtual therapy program is designed for patients with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis and uses two proven approaches—Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy—to...
Aug 05, 2025•25 min•Season 4Ep. 20
Living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)—a chronic, often misunderstood condition—can make eating and even swallowing a daily challenge. In this inspiring episode, patient advocate Matt shares his personal journey navigating life with EoE. From the struggle of getting an accurate diagnosis, to identifying and managing daily food triggers, to finding a treatment plan that works, Matt offers an honest look at the physical, emotional, and social realities of living with this condition. His story ...
Jul 31, 2025•20 min•Season 4Ep. 19
Get ready for a tail-wagging adventure! Oliver Super Beardie, our fearless furry hero and member of the Woof Chat Kids, is back on the case—this time to solve a mysterious throat trouble affecting his buddy Sam. Why is swallowing so hard? What’s causing the pain? Oliver’s on the trail… and he’s sniffing out answers!. Joining Oliver is brilliant expert guest Dr. Sophia Patel, a leading Pediatric Gastroenterologist from Cleveland Clinic. Together with host Jacqueline Gaulin, they’ll follow the clu...
Jul 23, 2025•9 min•Season 4Ep. 16
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy, and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have transformed treatment for type 2 diabetes and weight loss — but they can also cause digestive side effects like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and stomach pain that leave many patients confused or worried. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Catherine Hudson from LSU Health New Orleans to separate fact from fiction and provide clear, evidence-based guidance. Dr. Hudson breaks down: How GLP-1 recepto...
Jul 22, 2025•50 min•Season 4Ep. 17
IBS-C (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation) is a chronic condition that disrupts how your gut works—causing abdominal pain, bloating, and infrequent, hard-to-pass stools. It can seriously impact your quality of life, and finding the right treatment is often a journey filled with ups and downs. So, how do you get relief from IBS-C symptoms without feeling like you’re back at square one? In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Bryan Curtin, Director of The Center for Neurogastroenterology and ...
Jun 25, 2025•29 min•Season 4Ep. 15
In the final episode of our 4-part series on GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus, we move beyond awareness to focus on action. What should patients actually do after diagnosis—and how can they take charge of their care journey? We’re joined by Tedra Gray, a seasoned Advanced Practice Provider, who shares real-world examples and practical advice for patients navigating chronic reflux, Barrett’s Esophagus, or treatment follow-up. You’ll learn: Why early diagnosis and follow-up matter What can happen if B...
Jun 17, 2025•23 min•Season 4Ep. 14
In Part 3 of our 4-part series on GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus, we’re joined by Dr. Caitlin Houghton, a foregut surgeon with Keck Medicine of USC, to discuss what happens after Barrett’s Esophagus is diagnosed—and how patients can reduce their cancer risk and manage the condition effectively. From reflux control to endoscopic eradication therapy (EET), and in some cases, surgery, Dr. Houghton breaks down the latest treatment strategies and what patients need to know. This episode offers practica...
Jun 10, 2025•29 min•Season 4Ep. 13
In part 2 of our 4-part series on GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus, we take a closer look at what Barrett’s esophagus is, how it develops from chronic acid reflux, and why early detection is essential to reducing the risk of esophageal cancer. We’re joined by Dr. Raman Muthusamy, a nationally recognized expert in gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy, who explains how Barrett’s is diagnosed, the latest tools and technologies involved, and how a team-based approach improves outcomes. If you or some...
Jun 03, 2025•33 min•Season 4Ep. 12
Is your heartburn more dangerous than you think? In this first episode of our 4-part patient-focused series, we break down the serious risks of untreated acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)—including its connection to Barrett’s esophagus, the only known precursor to esophageal cancer. Dr. Dan Lister, a leading Foregut Surgeon and founder of the Arkansas Heartburn Treatment Center, joins us to explain: How GERD can progress silently over time Why Barrett’s esophagus matters—and...
May 27, 2025•30 min•Season 4Ep. 11
In this special episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, we’re giving listeners of all ages a playful, educational sneak peek into the world of Woof Chat Kids—a creative kids education initiative from the Giz Kids Foundation. Now, thanks to a partnership with the Gastro Girl Patient Institute (GGPI), Woof Chat Kids is expanding its mission with Oliver Super Beardie—our fuzzy superhero and digestive health education dog—leading the way to help kids better understand their gut health and overall wellne...
Apr 29, 2025•9 min•Season 4Ep. 10
If you’ve been struggling with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), you know that traditional laxatives don’t always work consistently—and they’re not always ideal for long-term use. But what if there was a drug-free, FDA-cleared alternative designed to support your body’s natural rhythm? In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Darren Brenner, gastroenterologist and motility expert from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, to explore the Vibrant capsule—a new non-drug treatment th...
Apr 22, 2025•25 min•Season 4Ep. 9
Living with IBS-C often means silently dealing with more than just constipation. From missing social events to navigating daily stress and anxiety, the emotional toll can feel overwhelming. In this eye-opening episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin talks with Dr. Sarah Ballou, Director of GI Behavioral Health at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Ballou shares insights from her groundbreaking research on wha...
Apr 08, 2025•36 min•Season 4Ep. 8
In this exciting episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, Suzanne Kline, the inspiring founder of the GIZ Kids Foundation, joins us to discuss how Gastro Girl Patient Institute (GGPI) and GIZ Kids have teamed up to make digestive health education fun and accessible for kids through new Woof Chat Kids programs that are focused on health, nutrition, and wellness. But that’s not all. This episode also gives the audience a sneak peek at Oliver Super Beardie’s new role in Woof Chat Kids. Oliver answers re...
Apr 01, 2025•15 min•Season 4Ep. 7
In this powerful episode, we share a deeply personal story about the devastating impact of early-onset colorectal cancer—and the urgent need for better screening. Our guest, Dr. George Beauregard, is an internal medicine physician and healthcare executive whose world changed forever in 2017 when his newly married 29-year-old son was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer—just a month after his wedding. Through his son’s courageous fight and advocacy, Dr. Beauregard found a renewed purpose: rai...
Mar 25, 2025•24 min•Season 4Ep. 6
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers—when caught early. Yet, screening rates remain too low, and cases in younger adults are rising at an alarming rate. Disparities in access to screening also put certain communities at higher risk, making awareness and early detection more critical than ever. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Reezwana Chowdhury, a leading gastroenterologist at Johns Hopkins and Chair of the American College of Gastroenterology’s (ACG) Public Relations Com...
Mar 18, 2025•31 min•Season 4Ep. 5
In this episode, we’re diving into the latest ACG Clinical Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)—a major update that reflects the most current understanding of this chronic, immune-mediated disease. Joining us to break it all down are two of the experts who co-authored these guidelines: Dr. Amanda B. Muir, Pediatric Gastroenterologist at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Dr. Nirmala Gonsalves, Gastroenterologist at Northwestern University Feinberg Sch...
Mar 11, 2025•44 min•Season 4Ep. 4
Stress affects the body in ways we don’t always realize—especially the gut. In this deeply personal episode of Gastro Girl Unfiltered , Jacqueline Gaulin shares how stress and trauma played a role in her IBS diagnosis and what she’s learned along the way. From navigating life’s challenges to understanding the gut-brain connection, Jacqueline discusses how emotional stress can manifest as physical symptoms and why acknowledging the mind-body link is essential for healing. Whether you’re strugglin...
Mar 04, 2025•13 min•Season 4Ep. 3
Finding the right treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) can feel overwhelming, but understanding how different therapies work can make all the difference. In this episode, we dive deep into two key treatment categories: secretagogues and retainagogues—what they are, how they work, and why they matter for IBS-C patients. Joining us is Dr. Darren Brenner, a leading expert in neurogastroenterology and motility disorders from Northwestern University. He breaks down the sci...
Feb 25, 2025•29 min•Season 4Ep. 2
Ever found yourself mindlessly scrolling through bad news, stress rising with every swipe? You’re not alone! In this episode of Gastro Girl Unfiltered, Jacqueline breaks down the science behind doomscrolling, chronic stress, and gut health. Learn how the constant flood of negativity impacts digestion, gut-brain communication, and overall well-being. Plus, Jacqueline shares her personal experience breaking free from the doomscrolling cycle—and we answer a listener question! Like, subscribe, and s...
Feb 18, 2025•15 min•Season 4Ep. 2
Do you ever feel like nothing you do is ever good enough? Like you’re constantly chasing an impossible standard, carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? You’re not alone—and perfectionism could be taking a serious toll on more than just your mind. We’re thrilled to welcome back our dear friend, Dr. Tara Cousineau, to explore this very topic and discuss her latest book, The Perfectionist’s Dilemma: Learn the Art of Self-Compassion and Become a Happy Achiever —available wherever books ...
Feb 13, 2025•37 min•Season 4Ep. 1
Join Jacqueline Gaulin as she breaks down the latest news, expert insights, and myth-busting facts—quick, unfiltered, and straight to the point. This week, we’re diving into the Ask Gastro Girl App—your AI-powered digestive health coach, now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Get expert knowledge, personalized support, and exclusive premium content—all evidence-based and patient-focused. Future episodes will explore hot topics, bust common myths, and share expert-backed tips. And ...
Feb 05, 2025•9 min•Season 3Ep. 52
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Ilaria Montagnani, a trailblazer in the fitness world, to explore her remarkable journey of resilience, healing, and self-discovery. From battling cancer to redefining strength beyond the gym, Ilaria shares powerful insights on the mind-body connection, the role of movement in recovery, and how wellness can be a source of empowerment. Her story is a testament to perseverance, making this a must-listen for anyone facing health challenges—whether navigat...
Jan 31, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 51
Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) presents unique challenges, but it doesn’t have to define your life. In this episode, we’re joined by Jessie Wong, MAcc, RDN, LD—an IBS expert and Monash FODMAP Certified Dietitian—who has guided countless individuals toward effective symptom management and improved quality of life. Through evidence-based diet and lifestyle strategies, Jessie shares practical tips to help you navigate the complexities of IBS, make informed food choices, and find relief ...
Jan 22, 2025•46 min•Season 3Ep. 50
Navigating pregnancy can be a challenge on its own, but for those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), there are additional factors to consider. From fertility to pregnancy complications, managing IBD throughout this journey is crucial. How do these issues affect both women and men with IBD? We spoke to an expert to find out. In this episode, Dr. Sunanda Kane, MD, FACG, a world-renowned gastroenterologist and IBD expert from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, breaks down the latest pregn...
Jan 16, 2025•42 min•Season 3Ep. 49
Colorectal cancer is striking young adults at an alarming rate, with a surge in metastatic (Stage 4) cases that defies expectations. Why is this happening, and what can young adults do to protect themselves? In this urgent and eye-opening episode, Dr. Kimmie Ng, a world-renowned expert and Director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, breaks down the latest research, the hidden risks driving this crisis, and the critical warning signs everyone should recog...
Dec 27, 2024•36 min•Season 3Ep. 48
Are eczema, asthma, and Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) connected? Parents often notice their children experiencing symptoms of more than one condition, but what’s the link? In this episode, pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Sophia Patel from the Cleveland Clinic explains the relationship between these conditions, how to recognize the symptoms of EoE, and why early diagnosis matters. Learn what signs to watch for, how doctors approach diagnosis and treatment, and what parents can do to support the...
Dec 19, 2024•40 min•Season 3Ep. 47
The food we eat has a powerful impact on our gut health, but with so much conflicting information—from fad diets to social media influencers—it’s hard to separate fact from fiction. That’s why we turned to a trusted expert to break it all down. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, also known as Dr. B (@guthealthMD), a board-certified gastroenterologist, gut health expert, and New York Times bestselling author of Fiber Fueled and The Fiber Fueled Cookbook . Dr. B explains why fib...
Dec 12, 2024•51 min•Season 3Ep. 46
Managing IBS-C can be challenging, with symptoms that vary greatly from patient to patient. Personalizing treatment is essential for achieving the best outcomes, but how can providers effectively tailor care? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Bryan Curtin, Director of The Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at The Melissa L. Posner Institute for Digestive Health & Liver Disease at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD. With extensive expertise in managing complex motility dis...
Dec 11, 2024•49 min•Season 3Ep. 45
