About this episode
Are GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound changing how we define successful weight loss? And is the number on the scale telling us the whole story?
What about muscle loss, strength, physical activity, long-term health, and access to obesity treatment?
In this special episode of Weight & Measure with Mike and Zach, recorded in connection with FNCE 2026, we sit down with three experts to explore a fundamental question: Are we measuring GLP-1 success the wrong way?
Joining us:
Dr. Angela Fitch, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of knownwell, discusses what successful obesity treatment should look like beyond pounds lost and why individualized, long-term care matters.
Dr. John Jakicic, Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center, breaks down the science of GLP-1 medications, lean mass, muscle loss, strength, and exercise.
Dr. Tracy Zvenyach, Vice President of Advocacy & Research at the Obesity Action Coalition, explores the barriers patients face in accessing treatment, including insurance coverage, affordability, Medicare, Medicaid, and obesity care policy.
Are we too focused on weight loss when measuring GLP-1 treatment success?
What's the difference between losing lean mass, muscle mass, and strength?
Do GLP-1 medications cause muscle loss, and what should patients understand about the research?
How can resistance training and physical activity support health during obesity treatment?
What improvements should patients look for beyond the number on the scale?
Why do people with similar medical needs have different access to GLP-1 medications?
What could Medicare coverage changes and the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act mean for patients?
How can patients advocate for better access to comprehensive obesity care?
The bigger question: If successful obesity treatment is about improving health and quality of life, shouldn't we measure more than pounds lost?
Whether you're currently taking a GLP-1 medication, considering treatment, living with obesity, or working in healthcare, this conversation offers a broader perspective on what meaningful treatment success can look like.
Hosted by Mike Donnelly-Boylen and Zach Niemiec, Weight & Measure translates obesity science for the people living it.
We explore obesity medicine, GLP-1 and other obesity management medications, metabolic & bariatric surgery, nutrition, physical activity, and patient advocacy through evidence-based conversations with researchers, clinicians, and people with lived experience.
More science. Less stigma.
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What does successful obesity treatment mean to you beyond weight loss?
Have improvements in your strength, mobility, health, or quality of life changed how you measure your progress?
Share your perspective in the comments. We want to hear from you.
#GLP1 #WeightLoss #ObesityMedicine
Disclaimer: This episode is intended for educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice. Medication and treatment decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.