Meet Your Host
If you’re one of the 1 in 4 people who is living with a chronic digestive health condition , you’re not alone. Whether you’re just diagnosed, in remission, or trying to learn what is happening in your body and what you can do about it, then this podcast is for you.
Jacqueline A. Gaulin
Founder, Chief Strategy Officer
In each episode, Jacqueline Gaulin, longtime patient advocate and the Founder of Gastro Girl, Inc. and GI OnDEMAND, will tackle topics that go beyond the basic mainstream coverage of GI health to educate, inform and empower patients and their caregivers. If you crave the inside scoop on the latest news, research and resources related to gastroenterology, and want it all delivered in an engaging, friendly, nonjudgmental and educational way that features leading GI experts, inspiring patients and positive vibes, this podcast is also for you.
Gastro Girl, an official patient-education partner of The American College of Gastroenterology, is committed to providing actionable and evidence-based health information to help empower patients to better health.
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Podcast Episode Archive
November 13, 2025
SIBO and IMO: Understanding Gut Overgrowth, Methane, and Archaea
In this follow-up to one of our most popular episodes, host Jacqueline Gaulin welcomes back Dr. Mark Pimentel, Executive Director of the Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program at Cedars-Sinai, to dive deeper into the science behind SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and IMO (Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth). Dr. Pimentel answers listener questions and explains how these complex conditions relate to IBS-D and IBS-M, why methane and archaea matter for gut health, and how motility and the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) play a crucial role in prevention and treatment. You’ll also learn about the latest insights and therapeutic approaches that can help patients find lasting relief. Produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee, this evidence-based discussion helps you better understand the “why” behind SIBO and IMO—and what steps you can take toward better gut health.
October 30, 2025
From Surgery to Show Ring: How Mel Found Confidence Living with a Colostomy
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.
October 22, 2025
IBS-C Treatment: What to Expect on the Road to Symptom Relief
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.
October 14, 2025
Hemorrhoids 101: What Patients Need to Know
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.
October 9, 2025
Gravity: The Hidden Force Shaping Your Health
Gravity keeps us grounded—but it also shapes our bodies, minds, and even our gut health in surprising ways. In this fascinating episode, Dr. Brennan Spiegel, Director of Health Services Research at Cedars-Sinai and author of PULL: The Science of Gravity and How It Shapes Our Health and Happiness, joins Jacqueline Gaulin, host of the Gastro Girl Podcast, to explore how gravity influences digestion, mood, metabolism, and mental resilience. Discover what “gravity resilience” means, why astronauts help us understand life on Earth, and how this invisible force could hold the key to living longer, standing stronger, and finding balance in body and mind. You’ll learn: • How gravity affects digestion, circulation, and well-being • The surprising link between gravity, depression, and emotional health • Ways to strengthen your “gravity resilience” through movement, nutrition, and mindfulness Listen to more expert insights at GastroGirl.com You can find Pull on Dr. Spiegel’s website or wherever books are sold by clicking the button below.
October 8, 2025
When Eating Isn’t Easy: Understanding Pediatric EoE
When a child has trouble eating, gaining weight, or explaining discomfort while swallowing, it can be heartbreaking for parents and confusing for the child. These may be early signs of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) — a chronic inflammatory condition of the esophagus that affects how food moves through the digestive tract. In this episode, pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Joshua B. Wechsler from Northwestern Medicine shares what families need to know about recognizing EoE early, getting an accurate diagnosis, and navigating treatment options. He also offers guidance on helping children manage EoE at school, during meals, and in social settings — so they can live healthier, happier lives. See related episode: “Growing Up with EoE: A Family’s Journey from Childhood to College”. Find trusted, evidence-based information and resources on EoE at gastrogirl.com. This episode is sponsored by Sanofi and Regeneron.
October 8, 2025
Building Strong APP/MD Partnerships in IBD Care
What happens when physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) truly work as a team in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jennifer Seminerio, Director of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Associate Professor of Medicine, and Megan Pearce, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, from the AdventHealth IBD Clinic in Orlando, FL. Together, they share how collaborative APP/MD relationships enhance patient trust, streamline care, and support shared decision-making for those living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. We’ll explore: – How APP/MD teamwork improves patient experiences – Practical tips to get the most out of clinic visits – Ways to navigate complex treatment decisions together Dr. Seminerio and Megan also highlight the inaugural AdventHealth Crohn’s and Colitis Patient Education Conference, presented by the AdventHealth IBD Program, happening Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld®. This event will bring together patients, caregivers, and experts to share education, support, and community for all impacted by IBD.
September 24, 2025
Growing Up with EoE: A Family’s Journey from Childhood to College
What’s it really like for a child to live with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jeni and her son Joshua, who share their family’s journey navigating the challenges of pediatric EoE. From the earliest warning signs to Joshua preparing for life at college, their story sheds light on the resilience it takes to manage this condition day-to-day. Together, we explore: – Why getting the right diagnosis can take time – The pros and cons of today’s treatment options – How parents can interpret symptoms when children struggle to describe them – Tips for transitioning from pediatric to adult care Whether you’re a parent, patient, or healthcare provider, you’ll walk away with insights, encouragement, and practical takeaways. Find trusted information and resources on EoE at gastrogirl.com. This episode is sponsored by Sanofi and Regeneron.
September 10, 2025
ACG Guideline Update: Preventive Care Essentials for Adults with IBD
What does preventive care really mean for people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? In this episode, we break down the latest ACG Clinical Guideline Update: Preventive Care in IBD with two of its lead authors, Dr. Francis Farraye (Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL) and Dr. Freddy Caldera (University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health). Together, we explore: – Why preventive care is critical in IBD management – Key vaccination recommendations for IBD patients – How to prioritize cancer and bone health screening – The role of mental health and lifestyle in long-term outcomes Produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights for both patients and providers.

