In one of the most important conversations of her life, Sacha sits down with pediatric bariatric surgeon Dr. Evan Nadler to unpack the real science of obesity.

Dr. Nadler explains why obesity is a chronic disease—not a lifestyle choice—and why children can’t simply “eat themselves” into type 2 diabetes. Together, they explore how genetics, epigenetics, trauma, and the brain’s hypothalamic set point shape weight from early childhood onward.

If you’ve ever wondered why your body seems to fight your progress—or felt shame for what biology predetermined—this episode will change how you see yourself and your story.

🧭 In This Episode

• What makes childhood obesity different from adult-onset obesity
• Why kids can’t “eat themselves” into type 2 diabetes
• The role of genetics and epigenetics in shaping weight
• How trauma and environment alter gene expression
• What the hypothalamic set point really is—and why the body defends it

🪞 Key Takeaways

• Childhood obesity is a biologically distinct, more aggressive disease.
• Diet and exercise alone rarely overcome genetic and epigenetic drivers.
• Fat cells develop “memory” that resists long-term weight loss.
• Trauma, environment, and even pollution can change gene expression.
• Treating obesity early isn’t extreme—it’s evidence-based compassion.

⚠️ Content Note

Includes discussion of childhood obesity, diabetes, trauma, genetics, and medical interventions such as bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications. Please listen with care and consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Connect:

Where to find Evan:

• Website: [https://www.obesityexplained.com/]
• 📱Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/obesity_explained/]
• 📺YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@obesityexplained]
• 🧠LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanpnadler/]

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• 💜 When I’m not podcasting, I’m also a Scentsy Consultant of 10+ years. If you’re into fragrance and cozy vibes, you can find my shop here: [https://sachasmells.com]

Keywords

Dr Evan Nadler, childhood obesity, pediatric bariatric surgery, obesity treatment, hypothalamic set point, genetics, epigenetics, fat cell memory, GLP-1, Mounjaro, weight loss science, obesity stigma, Sacha Holder, Life in the Bari Lane, Holder Haus Media

Next Time

🎧 In Part 2, Dr. Nadler and Sacha tackle the “easy way out” myth, exploring how surgery and GLP-1 medications can work together, why willpower isn’t enough, and what real care and compassion look like in modern obesity treatment.

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