WeightWatchers CEO discusses the changes in the company's approach to weight loss, including embracing telehealth and weight loss drugs. They emphasize the importance of science-based obesity management and member support. The podcast also covers the challenges faced during the pivot, destigmatizing weight management medications, and the advisory role of Oprah in their company.
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Quick takeaways
WeightWatchers is embracing telehealth platforms and weight loss drugs like Wegovy to provide additional support to members struggling with maintaining weight loss.
Weight Watchers is focusing on personalized approaches to weight management, providing different pathways including behavioral programs, medications, and surgical interventions based on individual needs and responses.
Deep dives
Weight Watchers Evolution and Embracing Medications
Weight Watchers CEO, Sima Sustani, discusses the evolution of the company and its shift towards embracing weight loss medications as part of their program. This change was driven by the recognition that some members needed additional support, particularly those struggling to maintain weight loss. By integrating telehealth platforms and working with clinicians, Weight Watchers aims to provide a full spectrum of solutions that combines behavioral programs with medications when necessary.
The Importance of Personalized Approaches
Sustani emphasizes the importance of personalized approaches to weight management. Weight Watchers recognizes that obesity is a complex issue, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. They are committed to providing different pathways, including behavioral programs, medications, and even surgical interventions, based on individual needs and responses. The goal is to move away from a monolithic view of weight loss and focus on what works best for each individual.
Shifting the Perception of Weight and Health
Weight Watchers is actively working to shift the narrative around weight and health. They aim to move beyond the traditional focus on weight and appearance, instead emphasizing the impact of weight on overall health and well-being. By reframing the conversation, Weight Watchers hopes to challenge the idea of diet culture and create a healthier approach to weight management that prioritizes individual health goals and choices.
Long before WeightWatchers became a weight loss empire, the legacy dieting company started as a small support group in the 1960s. The company rose to popularity preaching a message of moderation and making healthy choices. But in what some call a surprising pivot, WeightWatchers is changing the way the company does business. On today’s Chasing Life, CEO Sima Sistani sits down with Dr. Sanjay Gupta to share why she’s making these big changes, namely, embracing telehealth and weight loss drugs like Wegovy.