Thriving As A Physician: How to Lose Weight & Love Your Life - podcast cover

Thriving As A Physician: How to Lose Weight & Love Your Life

Physicians… Ready to lose weight and manage emotional or binge eating while loving your life more? Hosted by Dr. Siobhan Key, an Obesity Medicine Physician and Certified Coach, this podcast teaches you practical, sustainable tools to lose weight and thrive in your life at the same time. Each episode will show you how to move away from always feeling restricted and frustrated to discovering what really works for lasting weight loss. You deserve to thrive. [Previously the Weight Solutions for Physicians podcast.] Learn how to kickstart your weight loss with tools that will actually last with the free Weight Loss Kickstart Course at https://weightsolutionsforphysicians.ca/kickstart
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Episodes

Real Doctor Food Challenges, Real Solutions (Q&A Part 1)

This is Part 1 of my live Q&A session where I tackled the real food struggles women physicians face every day. No BS, just honest answers to honest questions. In this episode, I answer: How to manage emotional eating when you're dealing with ongoing chronic stress (like caring for a teen with chronic health issues while working as a physician) What to do about those 2 AM call room binges when you're exhausted and surrounded by treats Why starting feels so hard even when you "know what to do"...

Jun 30, 202545 minSeason 1Ep. 332

Why You Rebel Against Your Diet Plans

Ever make a perfect eating plan and then rebel against it by Thursday? You're not broken. You're not self-sabotaging. You're rebelling against diet culture telling you to do shitty stuff to yourself - and that rebellious streak is actually powerful. In this episode, I explain why rebellion shows up in our eating and how to harness it so it works FOR you instead of against you. Because that same rebellious part that got you through medical school? It's trying to protect you from unfair diet rules...

Jun 23, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 331

The Self-Care Paradox: Why Physicians Skip What They Know Would Help

Ever notice how you know exactly what would make you feel better, but somehow never actually do it? This episode tackles the self-care paradox that's messing with every physician I know. We're wired to respond to urgency, but self-care isn't urgent - so it gets pushed to "later" and later never comes. I'll tell you why your medical training is working against you here, how to think about outcomes instead of tasks, and share my simple morning routine that creates spaciousness even on tough days. ...

Jun 16, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 330

Monday Mornings Without the Guilt Trip

Ugh, another Monday morning promising yourself "this week will be different"? Yeah, I've been there too. That whole song and dance where you beat yourself up about all the stuff you ate this weekend and swear you'll be "good" this week. Here's the thing - that approach is keeping you stuck. And it's not because you suck at willpower. It's because the whole process is messed up. In this episode, I'm breaking down why that Monday morning shame spiral doesn't work and what to do instead. Spoiler al...

Jun 09, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 329

The 3 Skills That Work Better Than Willpower

Forget everything you think you know about reaching your goals. Willpower? Please. Perfect eating? Yeah, right. I'm sharing the three things that actually make the difference between spinning your wheels forever and getting where you want to go - and staying there. After years of working with physicians and my own messy journey, I've figured out what really works. It's not what diet culture sells you. It's not about trying harder or being more perfect. These three skills will make willpower comp...

Jun 02, 202536 minSeason 1Ep. 328

From Binge Eating to Weight Loss: A Physician's Guide

Think losing weight will fix your binge eating? Think again. In this myth-busting episode, I explain why trying to diet your way out of binge eating actually makes the problem worse, not better. I break down the binge-restrict cycle that keeps so many physicians trapped, and why traditional weight loss approaches intensify this cycle rather than stopping it. You'll learn why you need to stabilize your eating FIRST (for 3-6 months) before addressing weight, and how restriction comes from your tho...

May 12, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 327

Eating in Secret: Why it happens, how to regain control

Ever thrown away fast food wrappers before getting home so no one would see them? You're not alone. In this episode, I dive into why so many physicians eat in secret and what it REALLY means (spoiler: it's not about willpower or the food itself). I share my own journey with drive-thru French fries and the shame that made me hide the evidence, plus the breakthrough realization that changed everything. This isn't about "a food problem" - it's about unmet needs your brain is trying to fulfill. Perf...

May 05, 202533 minSeason 1Ep. 326

What to Eat: Simplifying Food Choices for Physicians

Ever feel like you're obsessing over what to eat? In this episode, I tackle the age-old question that plagues so many physicians: "What should I eat to lose weight?" As doctors, we think we should have this figured out. Yet many of us bounce between diets, chase every Netflix documentary promise, and still feel stuck. I share my personal experience with this frustrating cycle and offer a refreshing approach to food choices that actually works long-term. You'll learn why consistency trumps perfec...

Apr 28, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 325

The 3-Minute Happiness Fix for Burned Out Doctors: Interview with Dr. Greg Hammer

If you're a physician who can't remember the last time you felt genuinely happy at work, this episode is for you. In this intimate conversation with Dr. Greg Hammer, Stanford professor, author and fellow physician, we explore a simple path back to joy that doesn't require changing jobs or adding more to your already impossible schedule. Dr. Hammer shares his GAIN method - a 3-minute morning practice specifically designed for the physician mind. It's not about toxic positivity or pretending medic...

Apr 14, 202543 minSeason 1Ep. 324

When World Events Make You Stress Eat: How to find peace

Feeling like each news alert sends you straight to the pantry? You're not alone. In this episode, I offer a heartfelt pep talk for physicians struggling with stress eating during challenging times. I share why your brain turns to chocolate when doom-scrolling about threatened rights and freedoms (and why that 10pm cookie binge makes perfect neurological sense). More importantly, I explain why adding self-criticism about your eating only makes things worse. You'll learn practical ways to be kinde...

Apr 07, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 323

Create Your Own Weight Loss Menu

Tired of diets that don’t work and leave you feeling defeated? In this episode, I share a total mindset flip that changed everything for me and hundreds of physicians I've coached. Instead of trying to fit into someone else's "fixed menu" diet plan, I show you how to shift your focus to putting you at the centre of your plan. Selecting and adapting tools so they meet you exactly where you are right now (and work way better for you). You'll discover why you're already amazing (not broken!), how t...

Mar 24, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 322

From Burned Out Doc to World Traveler (While Still Practicing Medicine!): Interview with Dr. Kristine Goins

Dr. Kristine Goins was burned out, overwhelmed, and literally having chest pains at work. Her body was sending emergency signals—but like so many physicians, she ignored them. Until one day, she didn’t. In this episode, we dive into Kristine’s incredible journey from stress-induced physical symptoms to designing a career as a digital nomad psychiatrist. She didn’t quit medicine—she reinvented how she practices it. If you’ve ever told yourself you’ll figure things out “someday,” this conversation...

Mar 11, 202534 minSeason 1Ep. 321

Why Can’t I Lose Weight? What Every Woman Physician Needs to Know

Ever thought “Maybe I just won’t ever be able to lose weight..”? Then this episode is for you. I’m tackling that deep fear many of us have: what if your body will never respond to weight loss efforts? Learn what to do when it feels like your body's not responding.. This isn't about plateaus where you've seen some success and it stalls - it's about that gut-level fear that maybe it's never gonna work. Most physicians who come to me share this belief: "I don't know if I'll ever be able to lose wei...

Mar 05, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 320

Why Physicians Eat Past Full (And How to Stop)

Can’t stop eating when you are full? This episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: The seven hidden reasons why we as physicians tend to eat past full (and none of them have to do with willpower!) Why our medical training might actually be working against us when it comes to eating Practical strategies that work with our unpredictable schedules How to rebuild your relationship with food without feeling restricted Simple ways to reconnect with your body's signals (even during busy clini...

Feb 24, 202532 minSeason 1Ep. 319

The Secret to Sustainable Weight Loss (That Actually Fits a Physician’s Life): Interview with Dr. Matthea Rentea

Ever feel like you’re all in on a new plan—only to hit a busy week, fall off track, and feel like you’re starting over again? It’s not your fault. Most weight loss advice was never built for physicians with unpredictable schedules, high stress, and zero extra time. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Matthea Rentea, obesity and internal medicine physician, to talk about how to finally make weight loss sustainable—without burnout, restriction, or relying on willpower. We’re breaking down: ✅ Why ...

Feb 17, 202551 minSeason 1Ep. 318

4 Steps to Overcome Weight Loss Obstacles as a Physician

Ever feel like you’re making progress with your eating and weight goals, only to hit a roadblock that throws everything off? You’re not alone. Obstacles like stress, chaotic schedules, and exhaustion are normal, especially for busy physicians. But without the right skills to handle them, it’s easy to feel stuck and defeated. In this episode of Thriving as a Physician, I share 4 simple steps to overcome obstacles without spiraling into guilt or panic. You’ll learn how to stop thinking setbacks me...

Feb 11, 202536 minSeason 1Ep. 317

Obesity Medicine Pearls

I found some game-changing research while renewing my obesity medicine certification, and I’m sharing the best pearls with you! In this episode, I cover: How low-carb eating can stabilize blood sugar and prevent hangry crashes. Why sticking to a regular exercise schedule helps maintain weight loss. How more sleep can naturally reduce cravings and calorie intake. The latest on anti-obesity medications like semaglutide. Plus, hear how participants in my Rewire Your Cravings workshop reduced their ...

Feb 03, 202525 minSeason 1Ep. 316

Breaking Free from the Hamster Wheel: With Dr. Sunny Smith, Dr. Karen Leitner and Dr. Sonia Wright. Thriving in 2025 Part 4

Craving rest but afraid to slow down? In this final episode of the Thriving in 2025 series, I’m joined by Dr. Sonia Wright, Dr. Sunny Smith, and Dr. Karen Leitner to explore why slowing down feels so scary for physicians—and how it can transform your well-being. If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck on a hamster wheel—doing more, giving more, but never feeling like it’s enough—this episode will resonate. We discuss why rest and self-compassion are essential, not just for preventing burnout, but ...

Jan 27, 20251 hr 6 minSeason 1Ep. 315

Adventure, Connection, and Reclaiming Joy with Dr. Jessie Mahoney and Dr. Sarah Smith: Thriving in 2025 Pt 3

Feeling stretched thin by the demands of medicine? In this third episode of the Thriving in 2025 series, I’m joined by Dr. Jessie Mahoney and Dr. Sarah Smith to explore how we, as physicians, can replenish our energy, embrace change, and reconnect with what truly matters. Here’s what you’ll gain: ✅ Simple strategies to feel less drained by the day-to-day grind. ✅ A fresh perspective on navigating challenges like new EMRs or shifting roles. ✅ Permission to prioritize you—whether that means more c...

Jan 20, 202550 minSeason 1Ep. 314

Navigating Uncertainty in 2025 with Dr, Farayal Michaud & Dr. Wendy Schofer - Thriving in 2025 Pt 2

If 2024 left you feeling like the world was spinning out of control, this episode is for you. In Part 2 of the *Thriving in 2025* series, Dr. Fariel Michaud and Dr. Wendy Schofer share practical advice on handling uncertainty, letting go of perfection, and finding joy even when life feels overwhelming. You’ll learn how to: - Stop being weighed down by what you can’t control. - Find clarity and strength in life’s toughest moments. - Create space for joy and connection in your busy life. Listen no...

Jan 13, 202549 minSeason 1Ep. 312

[Bonus] How to Change Your Eating

In this bonus episode I’m sharing how to change your eating in a way that feels natural and easy, not like a constant fight. For years, I struggled with cravings (Wendy’s fries were my kryptonite) and felt like I was using all my energy just trying to resist food. Sound familiar? I’ll walk you through the layers of change—why focusing only on willpower doesn’t work and how to tap into deeper parts of your brain to make food less of a battle. I’ll also share the tools that finally helped me let g...

Jan 10, 202532 minSeason 1Ep. 312

The Truth About Physician Wellness with Dr. Kathy Stepien - Thriving in 2025 Pt 1

“If I could just get through this week… If the system would change… If I had more time… then I’d feel better.” Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Physicians everywhere are carrying the weight of impossible expectations, exhaustion, and a system that often feels broken. But what if the path to feeling better isn’t as far away as it seems? In this powerful kickoff to the "Thriving in 2025" series on Thriving As A Physician, I sit down with Dr. Kathy Stepien, pediatrician and founder of the Institut...

Jan 06, 202542 minSeason 1Ep. 311

A New Year’s Approach That Feels Good & Works Better

If you’ve ever started a New Year with big goals and strict plans, only to feel burned out and disappointed a few weeks later, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. In this episode, I’ll show you a better way to approach your goals—one that feels kind, realistic, and actually works. Instead of focusing on what’s “wrong” or trying to “fix” yourself, I’ll help you set goals from a place of trust and self-compassion. I’ll share how choosing one simple guiding word—like replenishment—helped me reco...

Dec 30, 202441 minSeason 1Ep. 310

Stop Obsessing About Food

Do you feel like food takes up too much space in your brain? You’re between patients, driving home, or sitting with your family, and your thoughts keep circling back to what you ate—or what you should eat next. As physicians, we’re trained to fix problems with effort and focus. But when it comes to food, working harder doesn’t help. It just leaves us feeling frustrated, exhausted, and stuck. In this episode of Thriving As A Physician, I’ll show you how to: Break free from food obsession and stop...

Dec 24, 20241 hr 12 minSeason 1Ep. 309

Holiday Survival Series Pt 4: Self-Care for Busy Physicians

This is the fourth and final episode of the Holiday Survival Guide for Physicians, and it’s all about self-care that works for your busy life. This isn’t another lecture about doing more—it’s a practical guide to creating small moments of self-care that actually fit into your day. You’ll learn: • Why physicians are trained to sacrifice self-care (and how to change that). • Quick, time-efficient tools you can use during packed clinic days or call shifts. • How these tools help you feel more in co...

Dec 16, 202445 minSeason 1Ep. 308

Holiday Survival Guide Part 3: Treats Without Guilt

Holiday treats everywhere? Feeling out of control? In part three of the Thriving as a Physician Podcast holiday series, Dr. Siobhan Key dives into how to navigate holiday treats without guilt or frustration. You’ll learn: How to enjoy your favorite treats while feeling in control. Why treating holiday food as scarce or forbidden leads to overeating—and how to stop. How stress (not the food itself) fuels cravings, and simple steps to manage it. The mindset shift that helps you stay aligned with y...

Dec 09, 202427 minSeason 1Ep. 307

Holiday Survival Guide Part 2: Dealing with Food Pushers

Have you ever felt trapped by holiday food pushers? In this episode of the Thriving as a Physician Podcast I'm sharing practical strategies to handle those well-meaning relatives or colleagues with confidence. You’ll learn how to enjoy holiday treats while staying true to your goals—without guilt or stress. This is Part 2 of my *Holiday Survival Guide* series, designed specifically for women physicians navigating the challenges of holiday eating. 🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast player today a...

Dec 02, 202433 minSeason 1Ep. 306

Holiday Survival Series Pt 1: Recognizing Your Triggers

Welcome to the Holiday Survival Guide for Physicians! This 4-part podcast series is designed to help you navigate the holiday season with confidence, calm, and control. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by breakroom cookies, family food pushers, or the all-or-nothing mindset, you’re in the right place. In this first episode, Recognizing Your Triggers, we’ll dive into why the holidays feel so challenging. From exhausting days at the clinic to family gatherings where everyone insists you “just try o...

Nov 25, 202435 minSeason 1Ep. 305

Lasting Weight Loss As A Physician: What Does It Really Take?

Feel like weight loss is a battle you keep losing as a doctor? In this episode of Thriving as a Physician, I’m sharing the four essential steps to achieving lasting weight loss, without the pressure of a “perfect” diet or the need to push yourself harder. This is about finding a path that actually works for you and fits the reality of life as a busy physician. We’ll cover the basics—consistency, patience, and belief—and show how these steps can help you reach your weight loss goals for good. ***...

Nov 18, 202441 minSeason 1Ep. 304

Stay on Track During the Chaotic Weeks

Let’s talk about those chaotic weeks—the ones that turn our eating plans upside down and leave us feeling like we’re always starting over. As physicians, we know that these weeks come and go, and they’re just part of our reality. But to reach your goals and stay there, you’ll need to learn how to stay on track during these super busy weeks. Which is what I'll teach you to do in this episode. Listen in to learn how to set yourself up for success, even when life feels like a whirlwind! *** Are you...

Nov 11, 202450 minSeason 1Ep. 303
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