In this inspiring episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with Mel, an award-winning dog enthusiast from Valrico, Florida, who has earned more than 40 American Kennel Club titles with her beloved Schnauzers.

After life-changing surgery that left her with a permanent colostomy, Mel refused to let fear or stigma hold her back. She shares how she reclaimed her confidence, advocated for her own healthcare, and found strength through her passion for dogs.

This episode offers hope and insight for anyone learning to live fully after surgery—and a reminder that resilience, love, and purpose can shine through even the toughest challenges.

Starting a new IBS-C treatment can bring a mix of hope and uncertainty. How soon will it work? What if side effects appear? Should you keep going or call your doctor?

Host Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with Dr. Brian Lacy, gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, to answer the real questions patients ask when starting treatment.

In this episode, we discuss:
• What patients can realistically expect in the first days and weeks of treatment
• What "feeling better" truly means for each individual
• Common challenges and side effects patients may experience
• How to stay encouraged and avoid stopping treatment too soon without consulting your doctor

Relief takes time—and you're not alone on this journey.

This episode is made possible with support from Ardelyx.

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common—and misunderstood—digestive conditions, yet many patients still suffer in silence. In this candid, patient-focused episode, host Jacqueline Gaulin talks with Mitch Guttenplan, MD, FACS, a general surgeon and Medical Director for the CRH O'Regan System, to break the stigma and share clear, evidence-based guidance about hemorrhoids.

Dr. Guttenplan explains the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids, how to recognize common symptoms, and which lifestyle changes can help reduce discomfort and prevent recurrence. He also walks through current treatment options—including the CRH O'Regan System—so patients can better understand what's available and when it's time to seek medical care.

This episode is sponsored by the CRH O'Regan System.