Fat Positive... Everything

Mental Health, Fatness & Social Justice

Fat Positive... Everything Podcast Hosted by Kayla Stansberry, The Fat Positive Therapist, this podcast is your go-to space for all things related to fat positivity, liberation, and intersectionality. Join Kayla each week as she dives deep into discussions about body acceptance, challenges against anti-fatness, and the rich tapestry of experiences within the fat-positive community. From expert interviews and personal stories to insightful explorations of how fatness intersects with race, gender, and disability, Fat Positive... Everything Podcast is here to empower, educate, and celebrate all bodies. Whether you're a fat activist, an ally, or simply curious about fostering a more inclusive world, tune in for thought-provoking conversations and inspiring content that challenge societal norms and champion true body liberation. Subscribe now and be part of a community that’s redefining beauty, challenging stigmas, and embracing every curve along the way. kaylastansberry.substack.com

  1. Healing with Inclusive Community w/ Angel Austin (SSFB)

    10/02/2025

    Healing with Inclusive Community w/ Angel Austin (SSFB)

    In this week’s episode of the Fat Positive Everything podcast, host Kayla Stansberry, a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified intuitive eating counselor, delves into a crucial discussion on fat liberation and disability inclusion with Angel Austin, the owner of Sacred Space for Fat Bodies. They explore topics such as regressions in the fat liberation movement, its intersections with disability, and the necessity of mutual aid. Both share their personal experiences, emphasizing individual and community efforts in creating inclusive spaces, addressing systemic oppression, and fostering collective healing. The conversation also touches on the importance of finding purpose, joy, and rest amidst advocacy and struggle. 00:00 Introduction to the Fat Positive Everything Podcast 00:32 Guest Introduction: Angel Austin 0:47 Intersectional Identities and Personal Introductions 02:18 Angel’s Journey and Sacred Space for Fat Bodies 03:23 Challenges and Pivots During COVID-19 05:05 Advocacy and Education Initiatives 05:57 Intersectionality in Fat Liberation 06:49 Regressions in Social Movements 10:34 The Role of Disability in Advocacy 20:54 Call to Action: Creating Inclusive Spaces 28:30 The Power of Small Contributions 29:43 Understanding Individualism and Healing 30:28 Building Community and Fighting Oppression 41:12 The Importance of Rest and Purpose 48:12 Navigating Personal Challenges 49:32 Final Thoughts and Future Plans SSFFB Website Angel Austin Instagram SSFB Donations Resources Mentioned! Imani BarBarin Sami Schalk- Black Disability Politics What it Takes to Heal by Prentis Hemphill Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe

    52 min
  2. Fat Nervous System Regulation w/ Michelle Sandoval, LMFT

    09/25/2025

    Fat Nervous System Regulation w/ Michelle Sandoval, LMFT

    In this episode of the Fat Positive Everything podcast, host Kayla Stansberry introduces Michelle Sandoval, LMFT a therapist who specializes in nervous system regulation and trauma-informed care. The discussion explores the intersectionalities of body size, queerness, and autism, delving into how these aspects influence one’s nervous system and overall well-being. Michelle shares her journey, from working in non-profit and school systems to focusing on private practice, where she serves neurodivergent clients. The conversation includes insights on the impacts of trauma, the importance of understanding nervous system states, and practical strategies for achieving regulation. They also touch upon the significant role of co-regulation and community support in healing. The episode emphasizes the systemic oppression that contributes to chronic dysregulation and highlights the necessity of addressing these issues within therapeutic practices. 00:00 Introduction to the Fat Positive Everything Podcast 00:33 Meet Michelle Sandoval: Therapist and Advocate 01:15 Intersectionalities and Personal Background 01:51 Journey into Trauma-Informed Care 02:59 Discovering Autism and Private Practice 04:48 Body Positivity and Diet Culture 08:56 Understanding Nervous System Regulation 17:39 Impact of Discrimination on the Nervous System 21:18 Understanding the Body’s Response to Stress 21:47 Personal Experience with Medical Anxiety 23:23 Nervous System Dysregulation and Chronic Illness 25:54 Mapping the Nervous System with Clients 29:23 Working with Autistic Clients on Nervous System Regulation 33:29 The Importance of Co-Regulation 35:12 Community and Healing 38:10 Resources and Training for Therapists 42:35 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Michelle Sandovals Instagram Website Dr. Christy Harrison Deb Dana- Polyvagal Theory Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe

    42 min
  3. Fat Mermaids w/ Ché Monique

    09/18/2025

    Fat Mermaids w/ Ché Monique

    Embracing Fat Liberation and Creative Joy: An Interview with Mermaid Ché Monique In this episode of the Fat Positive Everything podcast, host Kayla Stansberry, a licensed clinical professional counselor, welcomes Ché Monique, an African American, mid-to-large fat, professional mermaid. Ché shares her body journey, from childhood experiences with weight and body image to embracing her full self through activities like belly dancing, burlesque, and ultimately becoming a professional mermaid. The conversation delves into themes of fat liberation, intersectionality, finding joy in creative pursuits, and the challenges of monetizing a niche hobby like mermaiding. Ché Monique also offers advice on how to connect with the mermaid community and live authentically. The episode highlights the importance of representation and the liberating power of imagination. 00:00 Introduction to the Fat Positive Everything Podcast 00:30 Meet Our Guest: Ché Monique 02:07 Che Monique's Body Journey 10:01 Embracing the Mermaid Identity 21:19 Finding Your Mermaid Community 21:45 Living Unapologetically 23:01 A Day in the Life of a Fat Mermaid 23:52 Balancing Multiple Roles 29:02 Challenges of Monetizing Mermaiding 34:03 The Cost of Being a Mermaid 36:37 Embracing Joy and Authenticity 38:05 Where to Find Mermaid Cham Monique 40:31 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Che' Monique Instagram Metro Mer Folk Che' Monique Webiste Society of Fat Mermaids Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe

    38 min
  4. Fatties Who Boudoir

    09/04/2025

    Fatties Who Boudoir

    Hey Friends, woah is life really f*****g hard right now. Honestly, at times I have felt conflicted about doing this work when daily people’s lives are at risk and we are all actively fighting fascism. BUT AND I try to remind myself that the intersections of fatness, race, gender, disability and fiscal access is incredibly important to the larger picture. Thus, this work through extension is important. This isn’t to pat me on the back but just to gently remind all of us that it’s okay to take in information that supports you on your journey. Even when the world is on fire. Plus, the more fatties we free from tyranny the more we can fight the system! With that being said, welcome to Season 2 of The Fat Positive Everything Podcast!! Episode Summary: Join host Kayla Stansberry as she welcomes Alicia Schmitt, owner of Buxom Boudoir, to discuss the journey of body positivity and empowerment through boudoir photography. Alicia shares her personal experiences and insights on creating an inclusive and affirming space for all body types. Key Topics: The impact of societal beauty standards and diet culture. The importance of representation and inclusivity in photography Tips for finding a body-positive boudoir photographer . How to create a safe and empowering environment for clients. Guest Information: Alicia Schmitt owns Buxom Boudoir, a full service, body affirming boudoir studio in Wisconsin. She spent a huge part of her life hating her body. Boudoir helped her heal. She wants the same for her community.She opened her self love boudoir studio in 2017 and moved to her downtown Port Washington WI studio in 2021. In those years, she's photographed hundreds of people, each one with their own story and struggle. And each one was ready to heal. Her studio advocates for diversity, making sessions at Buxom Boudoir a joyful experience for all shapes, sizes, races, sexualities and physical abilities. Buxom Boudoir Instagram Tailored Jewelry Call to Action: Visit Alicia's website to learn more about her work and explore the world of body-positive boudoir photography. Share this episode with friends who might benefit from its empowering message. Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe

    40 min
  5. Fatties in the Wild w/ Andrea DiMaio Founder of Ample Movement

    05/08/2025

    Fatties in the Wild w/ Andrea DiMaio Founder of Ample Movement

    *GUYS!!!!!!! it’s the last episode of the season. I could cry. As most of you know I jumped into this with just a deep love for the fat community and learning. This process involved so much learning, humility and shooting my shot w/ idols. I just wanted to thank you guys for supporting me this season. The fat community means everything! Don’t worry season 2 will be released in August. Have a wonderful summer! Im honored to be apart of this community! FATTIES WITH FEELINGS In the final episode of season one of the Fat Positive Everything podcast, I interview the adventurous Andrea (she,they), a passionate advocate for fat positivity and inclusivity in outdoor activities. We discuss Andrea's personal journey from striving for a smaller body to embracing their identity as an outdoors person. The conversation highlights the importance of representation, community support, and the barriers faced by fat individuals in outdoor spaces. Andrea shares her experiences leading inclusive hiking groups and adventure travel for plus-size individuals, emphasizing the need for safe and supportive environments. The episode concludes with a call to action for more representation and inclusivity in outdoor gear and advertising, encouraging listeners to embrace their bodies and enjoy the outdoors. Guest BIO Andrea DiMaio (she/they) is a fat, queer hiker, backpacker, traveler, cyclist, camper, yoga teacher, and speaker. Andrea teaches accessible yoga classes, leads inclusive hikes and other outdoor adventures in western New York with Ample Movement. In 2019 Andrea climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania with the Curvy Kili Crew which led to being employed by adventure travel company, Whoa Travel and leading multiple trips for Whoa Plus. Andrea offers accessible yoga classes in western NY and online. Andrea’s passion is for sharing joyful movement and community through outdoor activities and yoga, with an emphasis on making space for fat people who aren’t used to seeing themselves represented in those spaces. Resources * Website * Instagram:@amplemovement * Facebook * TikTok Jess Baker - Go and Tell Fat Girls Jenny Bruce / Unlikely Hikers Fat Girls Hiking Women High On Adventure (WHOA) Body Liberation Outdoor Club Philly FatCon Roz the Diva Audio/Video editing by Suzy Hooker Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe

    36 min
  6. Creating Accessible Spaces w/ Diana Dimmock

    04/24/2025

    Creating Accessible Spaces w/ Diana Dimmock

    Summary In the 33rd episode of Fat Positive Everything Podcast, I met Diana Dimmok (She/her) Founder of Accessibility 4 Every Body Consulting, about the importance of fat liberation and accessibility. We explore Diana's personal journey into fat liberation, the intersectionality of disability and body size, and the need for inclusive spaces. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, empathy, and understanding in creating accessible environments for all bodies. Diana shares practical tips for individuals and businesses to improve accessibility and highlights the significance of community support in the fat liberation movement. Takeaways Advocating for oneself can benefit the entire community. Accessibility is essential for everyone, not just those with disabilities. The stigma around body size can hinder self-advocacy. Creating inclusive spaces requires intentionality and awareness. Businesses must consider the needs of larger bodies in their design. Empathy is crucial in understanding the challenges faced by marginalized bodies. Self-worth is a key component of effective self-advocacy. Community support can empower individuals in their advocacy efforts. Accessibility should be viewed as a necessity, not a luxury. Everyone will likely need accommodations at some point in their lives. Resources Linkedin Link Tree Instagram Audio and Video edited by Suzy hooker Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe

    36 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Fat Positive... Everything Podcast Hosted by Kayla Stansberry, The Fat Positive Therapist, this podcast is your go-to space for all things related to fat positivity, liberation, and intersectionality. Join Kayla each week as she dives deep into discussions about body acceptance, challenges against anti-fatness, and the rich tapestry of experiences within the fat-positive community. From expert interviews and personal stories to insightful explorations of how fatness intersects with race, gender, and disability, Fat Positive... Everything Podcast is here to empower, educate, and celebrate all bodies. Whether you're a fat activist, an ally, or simply curious about fostering a more inclusive world, tune in for thought-provoking conversations and inspiring content that challenge societal norms and champion true body liberation. Subscribe now and be part of a community that’s redefining beauty, challenging stigmas, and embracing every curve along the way. kaylastansberry.substack.com