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

January 14, 2026

MASH Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Testing, and What Patients Need to Know

MASH—metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (formerly known as NASH)—is a progressive form of fatty liver disease that often develops silently, without obvious symptoms. Many people don’t realize their liver is being damaged until the disease has already advanced. In this episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin is joined by Dr. Pooja Singhal, a board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, obesity medicine specialist, and founder of the Oklahoma Gastro Health and Wellness Center. Dr. Singhal explains: – The difference between MASLD and MASH – Why MASH is frequently missed or diagnosed late – Why testing—not symptoms—is the only reliable way to assess liver health – Who is at risk for developing MASH – How MASH is diagnosed and what liver testing involves – Why fibrosis (liver scarring) matters – Current treatment, prevention, and long-term management strategies – How early identification can help reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer This episode focuses specifically on MASH, the progressive form of fatty liver disease. MASLD is discussed only to help listeners understand how MASH develops and why timely testing matters. Designed to reduce confusion, raise awareness, and empower patients, this conversation equips listeners with the knowledge they need to have informed discussions with their healthcare providers. Thank you to Madrigal Pharmaceuticals for supporting this episode.

December 16, 2025

Understanding Fecal Incontinence in Adults: What Patients Need to Know

Fecal incontinence (FI) affects nearly 8% of adults worldwide, yet many people suffer in silence due to embarrassment, confusion, or the belief that nothing can be done. This episode aims to change that. We’re joined by Dr. John William Blackett, gastroenterologist and lead author of the recent article “Fecal Incontinence in Adults: New Therapies,” published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology. Dr. Blackett shares a compassionate, patient-centered perspective on FI—covering common causes, diagnostic testing, and the full spectrum of treatment options available today, including newer therapies. If you’ve experienced unexpected leakage, urgency, staining, or difficulty controlling bowel movements—or if you support someone who has—this episode offers clarity, hope, and practical guidance. Effective treatments exist, and help is available. This episode is produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology Patient Care Committee.

December 16, 2025

How Fear Impacts IBS-C and Strategies to Take Control

Living with IBS-C isn’t just about managing physical symptoms, it’s also about navigating the fear, worry, and emotional toll that often come with the condition. In this powerful episode, host Jacqueline Gaulin is joined by Dr. Sarah Ballou, clinical psychologist and Director of the GI Psychology Service at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, to explore how fear shows up along the IBS-C journey and what you can do to face it with confidence and support. In this episode, you’ll learn: – The most common fears IBS-C patients experience and how they influence daily life and treatment decisions – Why fear can sometimes hold you back from finding relief – Practical tools to help you feel more in control, confident, and hopeful – How to talk openly with your provider about the fears that affect your care Whether you’re newly diagnosed or feeling stuck after years of symptoms, this episode offers real-world guidance, emotional validation, and a reminder that you’re not alone on this journey. This episode is sponsored by Ardelyx.

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.

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