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GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro are changing the conversation around weight loss and diabetes, but behind the headlines, the journey can be emotional, confusing, and full of misconceptions.

In this blog, I share insights from my recent conversation with Dave Knapp, the voice behind  OnThePen.com and @manonthemounjaro. Dave opens up about his personal experience with type 2 diabetes and Mounjaro, the inspiration behind his book Decoding GLP-1, and the importance of reshaping the narrative around these medications. He offers practical tips for supporting loved ones, starting stigma-free conversations, and finding a supportive community—reminding us that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to managing obesity. 

Dave Knapp: The Voice Behind OnThePen.com

Dave Knapp, the founder of OnThePen.com and the voice behind @manonthemounjaro, has made it his mission to transform the conversation around GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro. His personal journey with type 2 diabetes and Mounjaro has not only reshaped his own life but also inspired a growing community that supports others on similar paths.

Dave’s story began when he was prescribed Mounjaro after years of struggling with type 2 diabetes and trying various diets—most notably the keto diet, which he had been yo-yoing on for nearly two decades. Despite making efforts to manage his diabetes, Dave wasn’t seeing the results he hoped for. After a year of trying the keto diet with little weight loss and ongoing high insulin levels, his doctor prescribed Mounjaro, and that’s when things started to change.

He went online to find information about Mounjaro and quickly realized that there was a gap in resources, particularly for people looking for more than just weight loss success stories. This led him to document his experience and eventually create OnThePen.com—a platform dedicated to providing valuable insights and a supportive space for people navigating their own journeys with diabetes, obesity, and GLP-1 medications.

What Dave noticed early on was the stigma surrounding the use of anti-obesity medications, with many people hesitant to share their stories due to fear of judgment. He saw how these medications were often misunderstood and stigmatized, which inspired him to write Decoding GLP-1, a book designed to educate others, break down complex medical information, and provide people with a resource they could share easily to start stigma-free conversations.

How to Talk About Your Transformation

It’s tough when you’ve made a big transformation and you want to share it with loved ones, but you’re scared of being judged or feeling shame. Dave often hears this, especially when someone’s best friend starts noticing the changes, but they haven’t yet opened up about it.

In his book Decoding GLP-1, he shares a section on how to start these tough conversations. One easy way to open up is by saying something like, “I’ve started a new treatment for my health, and I want to share why I think it’s the right choice for me.” Dave also stresses focusing on the health side of things, not just the weight. It’s about overall well-being—better blood work, feeling healthier, and improving other markers, not just the number on the scale.

The key is to frame the conversation around health and longevity, not weight loss, which takes the focus off appearance and removes the pressure.

Building a Supportive Community: Finding Your People on the GLP-1 Journey

A key takeaway from Decoding GLP-1 is the power of community in this journey. For those starting out on their own, it’s easy to feel isolated. Many people don’t realize they’re dealing with a disease rather than something they’ve caused themselves. If you're DIYing it, looking for resources, or trying to learn by piecing things together, seeking out community can make a huge difference.

• Start with Social Media

Social media is a great way to begin, as there are so many creators sharing their experiences with GLP-1 medications, lifestyle changes, and mental shifts. By sampling different content, you’ll find those who really resonate with you, whether it’s shared experiences, lifestyle tips, or motivational messages. Sometimes, the smaller creators with only a few thousand followers are the ones that really speak to you.

• In-Person Support Matters Too

 While online communities are great, don’t forget about the real world. Having people around you who know and understand your journey is invaluable. That’s what the book highlights—finding ways to connect with loved ones in real life. It's essential to break out of that echo chamber of online content and have meaningful conversations with those who physically and emotionally support you.

• Why Community Matters

For the On the Pen community, one of the biggest benefits is simply knowing that you’re not alone. Many people find solace in sharing their struggles with others who truly understand. Whether it’s dealing with ridicule, yo-yo dieting, or trauma, knowing that others have gone through similar experiences makes a huge difference. And when it comes to the latest information, feeling empowered with knowledge reduces anxiety, especially when it comes to medication availability or potential shortages.

• The Power of Information

Patients often feel anxious when they’re uncertain about the future of their treatment. The anxiety can skyrocket if there are concerns about availability or new options. Having access to trusted resources helps ease that worry. That’s where communities like On the Pen come in, offering up-to-date news and information that empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. It’s the kind of reassurance that’s invaluable when navigating such a complex journey.

Dave’s Tips for Managing Expectations and Finding Success

• Don't rely on social media highlight reels: Social media often shows only the best moments, not the full picture. Your journey is unique, and what works for someone else may not be the same for you. Don't set your expectations based on what others are posting.
  
• Define success on your own terms: Instead of measuring success by the dramatic weight loss stories or fast results you see online, define your success by what feels right for you. Even small victories, like maintaining weight loss over time, can be incredibly meaningful.
  
• Beware of one-size-fits-all advice: The path to managing obesity is nuanced. There's no universal solution, so be cautious of advice that suggests one method works for everyone. Each individual's experience with obesity is unique, and your approach should reflect that.
  
• Lean on professionals for guidance: While social media can provide helpful insights, always check the information against what trusted, qualified professionals recommend. There’s a lot of content out there that’s unverified and could lead you astray.
  

Decoding GLP-1 breaks down complex health topics and offers practical advice that’s easy to understand. Whether you’re starting your journey or already on it, this resource can help you make informed decisions with a clearer understanding of what’s best for you.