Navigating Change, Deepening Connection
Our first newsletter on Substack—filled with updates, community voices, and what’s ahead for AWSIM.
From the Board: A New Chapter Begins
Hi friends,
We’re so excited to welcome you to our very first newsletter on Substack. This move is part of something bigger—a chance to connect more meaningfully, share resources more easily, and keep our growing community of weight-inclusive practitioners informed and inspired.
March always seems to bring shifts, doesn’t it? Whether you’re starting new projects, feeling overwhelmed, or simply trying to catch your breath—know that AWSIM is here to walk alongside you.
We’re so glad you’re here.
With care,
The AWSIM Board
New! Sarah Unscripted Has Landed
This month, we’re honored to launch Sarah Unscripted—a new monthly column from our very own Dr. Sarah Halter, a founding AWSIM member and a true champion of weight-inclusive care.
With warmth, humor, and vulnerability, Sarah invites us into reflection. Her writing doesn’t just inform—it connects. And we think that’s something our field needs more of.
Read the first edition here
Have thoughts or ideas for the next one? Email Sarah at shalt@uw.edu
Coming Up in April: Save Your Spot
Journal Club with Ragen Chastain
Tuesday, April 8th
5:30pm PT / 8:30pm ET
Topic: Pediatric “Overweight and Obesity” Guidelines
Together, we’ll explore how pediatric guidelines are shaped—and what’s often missing from the conversation. Led by activist and researcher Ragen Chastain, this space is about curiosity, critique, and care.
Free for AWSIM members & students | $35 for non-members
Register here
Speaker Series: Menopause Without Stigma
Tuesday, April 22nd
5:00pm PT / 8:00pm ET
With: Dr. Naomi Busch
Let’s talk about what weight-inclusive menopause care actually looks like. This conversation with Dr. Busch will explore autonomy, evidence-based approaches, and the deep unlearning so many of us are doing together.
AWSIM x Weight Stigma Conference
We’re thrilled to be official collaborators for the 11th Annual Weight Stigma Conference, happening July 6–7, both in Australia and online.
This year’s conference is about making space—for critical research, lived experiences, and collective change. And AWSIM members are part of that.
Call for Abstracts: Still Open
Are you working on something you want the world to hear? Students, practitioners, activists—we need your voice.
Submit yours here
AWSIM Members Get a Discount
Your exclusive code is in the member forum. Don’t miss it.
Support the Bursary Fund
Every dollar donated helps someone attend who might not otherwise be able to.
Donate here
This work is only possible because people like you show up. Thank you for making that real.
Not Yet a Member?
You belong here.
When you join AWSIM, you’re not just getting event access—you’re becoming part of a movement that centers compassion, equity, and truth in healthcare.
Membership includes:
Free Journal Club + Speaker Series access
Member-only case consults and forums
On-demand webinars
A say in shaping our future
Until Next Time
However you're arriving today—excited, tired, skeptical, hopeful—thank you for being part of this community. We’re better because you’re here.
Let’s keep challenging old narratives, showing up for one another, and making space for more inclusive care.
P.S. Want to Get More Involved?
We’d love that.
Interested in joining a committee?
Want to give a webinar, share your work, or lead something you wish existed?
Reach out—we’re listening: info@awsim.org
Let’s Stay Connected
Follow us on Socials → @awsim_official
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