Episode 228: The body grief of surviving breast cancer with Veronica Kautz

The Diet Diaries

What happens when your body no longer looks, feels, or moves the way it used to—and you didn’t get a say in the matter?
This week on The Diet Diaries, I’m talking with Veronica Kautz—a breast cancer survivor, wife, sister, mom of two and worker of 2 full time jobs (she’s the founder of Scotch Plains City Lifestyle Magazine)—about her experience living in a body that’s been through a double mastectomy and breast reconstruction.
We talk about:
* The grief of losing her breasts
* How to advocate for your health
* How her diagnosis impacted her tween daughter
* The unexpected feelings after having breast reconstruction
This conversation is raw, honest, and so needed. If you've ever struggled with body image—especially after illness, surgery, or any major physical change—hope you’ll listen in. This one’s for you. 💛
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A lifelong builder and believer in people, Veronica brings over 25 years of experience scaling high-performing sales orgs in the Talent Acquisition space. Today, she’s championing AI-driven hiring as CRO at OptimHire while also co-publishing Scotch Plains City Lifestyle, a hyperlocal magazine connecting brands with community.

Born on Long Island and now proudly rooted in Scotch Plains, NJ, Veronica is the youngest of five sisters, married 19 years, and mom to two incredible kids — one boy, one girl. She’s walked 60 miles for a cause, pitched CHROs by day and local businesses by night, and believes deeply in doing good work with good people.

Off the clock, you’ll find her front row at a concert, cracking up at a comedy show, or cheering on anything live — because for Veronica, it’s all about connection, whether across a table, a Zoom call, or a stage.

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