The Body Collective Podcast: Conversations On Weight, Body Positivity & Body Image

The Body Collective podcast, which began in late September, is a perfect example of how video and audio podcast formats can clash.

But first, the elevator pitch for the show is: "The Body Collective is here to change the conversation about weight — to take everything we've learned about shame, unlearn it, and transform it into a source of power."

 

  The Body Collective asserts that the podcast is here to change the conversation about weight — to take everything we’ve learned about shame, unlearn it, and transform it into a source of power. That's a noble goal and a welcome change from the diet and nutrition podcasts where size zero is the goal of the show. 

Weight Watchers is the sponsor and that is smart by the organization. Body image and weight control are two sides of the same coin.

 

The show has four hosts: Katie Sturino, Hunter McGrady, Ashley Longshore, and Tracy Moore. 

Herein is the issue between audio and video versions of the show. I watched several episodes in both formats. In video, the four hosts are clearly defined as to their identities and who's talking. On audio, trying to decipher the four voices is difficult.

Still, the show is a welcome addition to podcasting due to its well-done execution and unique focus on body image. The show tackles that objective in its first episode.

 

" In our first episode, we’re tackling shame head on! The hosts bring us back to their childhoods and discuss some of their earliest body memories. Plus, we hear what shame they’ve had to unlearn to come into their own as women today. You’ll hear more about how they self-talk to start the day, how they’re teaching their kids about body image, and why they relate to Venus sculptures carved 300 centuries ago. 

 Join hosts Katie Sturino, Hunter McGrady, Ashley Longshore, and Tracy Moore for a series of hilarious and informative conversations about everything from weight-loss medications to dating while plus-sized. With the help of some friends and expert guests, we’ll be creating a judgment-free zone to ask the tough questions and have the hard conversations so we can listen to our bodies, advocate for ourselves, and – ultimately – feel more comfortable in our skin.

 

 In episode two, the four co-hosts ask: "What does it mean to be healthy? We’ll talk about how to find a doctor who treats you with respect, and we chat about GLP-1s from the perspective of a doctor and a patient. Dr. Melanie Jay will share her experience as director of the NYU Langone Comprehensive Program on Obesity. And writer and editor Samhita Mukhopadhyay discusses her firsthand experience going on and off GLP-1s. Plus, they talk about whether or not we should ditch BMI altogether."

 

 In episode three, the co-hosts talk love, sex, and dating with Ronald Young Jr., the host of Weight For It podcast. The co-hosts discuss how they met their partners and alongside Ronald Young, they give advice on dating, IRL and on the apps. In the process, the co-hosts debunk what society tells us is attractive, and the co-hosts offer tips on how listeners can find their own spark.  

 

 The Body Collective communicates important messages about body image, body positivity, and obsessive weight control. It's a strong message sponsored by Weight Watchers, which is a natural fit. I do suggest watching it because the four co-hosts voices on audio can be confusing.