Leslie Golden, MD, MPH, DABOM
Topics of Expertise
Weight Bias and Stigma in Healthcare and Society, Advocacy for Obesity Care, Pharmacotherapy, Disordered Eating, Motivational Interviewing, Nutrition, Billing and Coding for Obesity Medicine, Practice Management
Dr. Leslie Golden is a dual board-certified physician in Obesity Medicine and Family Medicine and the founder and CEO of Weight In Gold Wellness, a thriving multi-provider medical practice delivering comprehensive, evidence-based obesity and cardiometabolic care across Wisconsin. With locations in Watertown and Madison, her clinic serves children and adults through a multidisciplinary model that integrates medical treatment, nutrition therapy, coaching, and behavioral support. Dr. Golden is deeply committed to reshaping how obesity is understood and treated, ensuring care is grounded in science, empathy, and sustainability.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Golden serves as Chair of the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Advocacy Committee and President of the Wisconsin Obesity Society. She was elected to the OMA Board of Trustees in 2025 and honored that same year with the Dr. Vernon Astler Award for her leadership in advancing OMA’s presence in the media, government, and medical community. She has also been named a Top Obesity Medicine Specialist by Women in Medicine and FindATopDoc.com. Dr. Golden is a national speaker and health policy advocate working to expand access to treatment, reduce stigma, and ensure that obesity care is recognized and reimbursed as the medical necessity it is. Her advocacy efforts have helped advance coverage for FDA-approved medications and build bridges with policymakers, payers, and healthcare systems.
Dr. Golden previously served on the Obesity Society’s Education Committee and the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) Item Writing Committee. She is also an active member of the Obesity Action Coalition. Drawing from her own lived experience with obesity, Dr. Golden brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, personal insight, and visionary leadership to her work. Whether mentoring clinicians, guiding practice growth, or influencing policy, she remains anchored in her mission: to change the way the world thinks about obesity and the way people with obesity are treated.