3 Podcast Episodes that Unpack Weight and Health Research
Healing your relationship with food starts by challenging the myriad of messages you’ve absorbed about weight and health. For many of us, the idea that weight gain is inherently bad feels like an unshakable truth… but what if it’s not?
Enter: Maintenance Phase, the delightfully nerdy, laugh-out-loud podcast hosted by Michael Hobbes and Aubrey Gordon. These three episodes—Is Being Fat Bad For You?, The Body Mass Index, and The Obesity Epidemic—break down the myths behind BMI, the “obesity epidemic”, and fatness—with humor, compassion, and sharp weight science that just might blow your mind.
If looking at PubMed articles puts you to sleep, here is simplified weight science that will give you all the facts and a few laughs! Let’s dive in.
“The Body Mass Index”
Maintenance Phase, Episode from 8.3.21
If you’ve ever had your health summed up by a single number, this one’s for you! In this episode, Michael and Aubrey tear into the Body Mass Index (BMI) like it’s a soggy diet granola bar—and wow, it deserves it. They trace the bizarre origins of the BMI and explain how it somehow morphed into a cornerstone of modern healthcare.
Michael and Aubrey bust myths and explain why the BMI is about as medically useful as your astrology sign. This episode is sharp, hilarious, and the perfect listen for anyone who’s ever been told they’re unhealthy because of their weight.
“The Obesity Epidemic”
Maintenance Phase, Episode from 8.17.21
Strap in, because Michael and Aubrey are diving headfirst into the so-called “obesity epidemic”. Spoiler alert—it’s just as fear-mongering and flawed as you might think! This episode unpacks how a mix of junk science, political theater, and diet industry drama whipped up a moral panic.
They break down who declared this an “epidemic,” why the data doesn’t hold up, and how this framing conveniently distracts from actual health issues. It’s a rollercoaster of rage, receipts, and very well-placed sarcasm. This episode is perfect for anyone who’s tired of headlines screaming about weight like it’s contagious.
“Is Being Fat Bad for You?”
Maintenance Phase, Episode from 11.16.21
Ever wonder if being fat is actually bad for you—or if that’s just a story we’ve been fed with a side of kale chips and shame? In this episode, Michael and Aubrey dig into the science behind the idea that fat automatically equals unhealthy. With their usual wit and righteous rage, they unpack how flawed studies, media panic, and weight-loss industry nonsense have turned body size into a moral battleground.
They cover everything from the BMI’s shady history to why weight stigma might be worse for your health than weight itself. Spoiler: the problem isn’t fat—it’s fatphobia! If you’ve ever felt bad after a doctor’s visit, this episode is for you. Come for the facts, stay for the jokes, and leave with a little more fire in your anti-diet belly.
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Unlearning years (or decades) of diet culture isn’t easy—but it’s possible, and it’s worth it. These episodes are a great place to start if you’re ready to question the assumption that weight equals health.
If you are tired of feeling bad, I am here to support you in healing your relationship with food and your body. As a weight-inclusive, non-diet dietitian I provide compassionate care that is based in actual science not weight myths. I offer virtual sessions, accept insurance, and meet you where you are—no scales, no shame, just compassionate care. Ready to take the next step? Schedule an appointment today. Your deserve to let go of junk science and feel good in your body!
