Charlene Holmes | Trauma-Informed Life Coach

As a bariatric patient who has lost over 150 pounds following a revision from Lap-Band to sleeve gastrectomy surgery, I bring both lived experience and professional insight to the conversations surrounding weight loss surgery. My journey has not only transformed my body, but also reshaped my purpose and it’s this dual perspective that fuels my passion for supporting others navigating the bariatric path.

Before stepping into coaching and advocacy, I spent over a decade working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture on national anti-hunger initiatives. That experience opened my eyes to the deep connection between food disparity, nutrition education, and long-term health outcomes, including obesity. It’s a perspective that continues to inform my work today as a trauma-informed life coach, where I help bariatric patients develop a sense of worthiness, confidence, and self-trust tools that are essential for sustainable success before and after surgery.

I’m also the host of Talk Bari To Me, an award-winning weekly live podcast that explores the real and often emotional layers of the bariatric journey. Each episode features honest conversations with patients, professionals, and experts in the field, from doctors and dietitians to therapists and surgeons.

In addition to contributing to respected health and wellness publications, I work directly with bariatric clients to help them reframe limiting beliefs, navigate mindset shifts, and uncover the deeper “why” behind their transformation. While the physical changes are powerful, I believe the mental and emotional shifts are the real driving force of this journey, and no one should have to do that alone.

-Certified Trauma-Informed Life Coach: Specializing in mindset, confidence, and post-op support for individuals navigating life after bariatric surgery.

-Certified Workshop Facilitator: Transformation Academy Trained to lead empowering, results-driven workshops focused on personal development, healing, and transformation.

-JBY Award Winning Podcast Host: Host of Talk Bari To Me, a globally recognized bariatric podcast and recipient of the Just Be You Award for Leading Bariatric Podcast.

-Keynote Speaker & Speaking Coach: National speaker with a focus on confidence-building, identity healing, and mental resilience in the bariatric and wellness space.

-Health & Wellness Contributor: Published writer for respected health and wellness outlets, covering topics related to bariatric surgery, trauma recovery, and mental health.

-Bariatric Patient & Advocate: Post-op patient who lost over 150 pounds after a revision from Lap-Band to sleeve gastrectomy surgery, offering clients a powerful blend of lived experience and professional guidance.

-Former USDA Anti-Hunger Program Coordinator: Over 10 years of experience in public service, addressing food insecurity and its link to obesity through national nutrition initiatives.