Field Trip: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To Encore - Ologies with Alie Ward Recap

Podcast: Ologies with Alie Ward

Published: 2026-03-17

Duration: 37 min

What Happened

Alie Ward embarks on a personal journey to get a colonoscopy, prompted by her family's history with colon cancer. She shares the detailed preparation process, including dietary restrictions and the infamous bowel-cleansing liquid, Gavilite G. Ward emphasizes the importance of the procedure, especially for those with a family history of colorectal issues, highlighting that early detection can be life-saving.

During the preparation, Ward explores different flavoring options to make the Gavilite G more palatable, ultimately finding that Crystal Light lemonade improves the taste. She also visits a bar to gather advice from strangers about colonoscopies, receiving tips on using Pedialyte for hydration and replenishing electrolytes.

Ward describes the procedure day, focusing on her experience with sedation and the unexpected ease of the process. She shares that the doctors found and removed a precancerous polyp, which reinforced the importance of regular screenings.

The episode includes practical advice on colonoscopy preparation and recovery, such as eating a low-fiber diet before the procedure and replenishing electrolytes afterward. Ward also discusses the stigma around discussing colon health and encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being by getting screened.

Ward intersperses personal anecdotes, including a humorous memory of her father related to colonoscopies, to make the topic more relatable. The episode balances educational content with humor and vulnerability, aiming to demystify the colonoscopy experience.

Sponsors for the episode include Hotels.com and Strawberry.me, with Ward sharing personal insights into how these services have benefited her. She also thanks her Patreon supporters and provides a special shoutout to a friend recently diagnosed with colon cancer, to whom she will be donating proceeds.

Key Insights

• Alie Ward highlights that a colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer by allowing doctors to remove precancerous polyps during the procedure. This proactive step is crucial, especially for those with a family history of colorectal issues.
• The preparation for a colonoscopy involves consuming a gallon of a bowel-cleansing liquid called Gavilite G, which is often flavored to improve palatability. Ward finds that adding Crystal Light lemonade makes it more tolerable.
• Ward notes that colorectal cancer is the second or third leading cause of cancer mortality in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of starting regular screenings at age 45 or earlier for those with a family history.
• The episode addresses the cultural stigma around discussing colon health, with Ward encouraging openness about such topics to promote health and prevent potential embarrassment from hindering life-saving procedures.