Hey, I'm Toyia.
I'm Jatoyia Armour. Most people call me Toyia. I'm a bariatric patient, the host of the Bariatric Paths Podcast, a speaker, and the author of Roar at the Table.
If you meet me in person, you'll probably say I'm bubbly and fun, and that I explain things so they make sense. I'm also intentional about everything I do, especially health, community, and helping people feel understood.
I'm based in Atlanta. The work reaches anyone looking for real, judgment-free support on their weight loss path.
Your path is yours. You deserve support that respects that.
How my journey began.
My turning point wasn't pretty or inspirational. It was scary. One day I stood too long and my back went completely numb. That moment made me face what my choices were doing to my body.
I wanted to be here for my kids. Fully present. Fully alive. That meant taking my health seriously.
I had real fears before surgery. I worried about failing. I worried I wouldn't be strong enough to follow through.
After surgery, the hardest part wasn't recovery. It was maintenance. Staying consistent. Staying committed. Showing up after setbacks. Nobody warns you about that part.
I still have hard days. Days where I slip. Days where I reset. I keep going, and I want you to know you can too.
Why I created Bariatric Paths.
Too many of us go through this quietly, alone, or with shame. The surgery is one thing. The emotional, mental, and identity shifts that come after are a whole different story.
I wanted a space to talk about the real stuff. The stalls, the grief, the relationship changes, and the wins. No judgment. A community where people aren't afraid of their own journey.
Bariatric Paths launched in winter 2024. Our first podcast episode aired in February 2025. Creating this space is one of the things I'm most proud of.
How we show up for you.
We don't promise perfection. We promise honesty.
Podcast
Real stories from real people on the same path.
Community
A private Facebook group where honesty and humor are welcome.
Resources
Episode playlists and tools for every stage.
Events
Live and virtual experiences that connect you with others on the same path.
My philosophy.
This journey isn't just physical. It's emotional, mental, and sometimes overwhelming. I'm not here to sugarcoat anything. I'm here to tell the truth with compassion and humor, because healing and growth can be serious and joyful at the same time.
When you finish an episode or leave one of my events, I want you to feel inspired, encouraged, and confident that you can keep going. You are capable. You are worthy.
A little about my life.
My life is full in the best, wildest way. I'm a wife and a mom of three. Parenting pushed me into parent advocacy and led me to write my book, Roar at the Table.
I love big events, spontaneous road trips, chaotic family moments, and laughing until I cry.
I'm also neurodivergent. ADHD and Autism. It shows in my creativity, in how I hyperfocus when I'm building something, and in how I connect with people. It's a big part of why building community comes naturally to me.
Above everything else, I love helping people feel seen. It's at the center of everything I create.
Speaking and workshops.
I speak at events, podcasts, workplaces, and community spaces. I talk about bariatric journeys, identity, mental well-being, self-advocacy, and building support spaces that feel safe.
Keynote, panel, workshop, or a real-talk conversation. I bring energy, connection, and clear takeaways your audience can use right away.
Questions? We have answers.
What makes Bariatric Paths different?
We keep it real. We talk about what happens after surgery. The emotions, the mindset, and daily life, not just the before and after photos.
Do I have to be post-op to join?
No. Everyone is welcome. Pre-op, post-op, or exploring non-surgical options. Your path is yours, and you belong here.
How can I get involved?
Listen to the podcast, join our Facebook group, sign up for the newsletter, or share your story. Every voice helps someone else feel less alone.
Is Bariatric Paths medical advice?
No. We are a support community, not a clinic. Always follow the guidance of your medical and mental health providers.
How can I contact you?
Email info@bariatricpaths.com. We would love to hear from you.
This is your space.
Thinking about surgery, recovering, or redefining your path years later. You belong here.