Fat Mermaids w/ Ché Monique

Embracing Fat Liberation and Creative Joy: An Interview with Mermaid Ché MoniqueIn 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 Podcast00:30 Meet Our Guest: Ché Monique02:07 Che Monique's Body Journey10:01 Embracing the Mermaid Identity21:19 Finding Your Mermaid Community21:45 Living Unapologetically23:01 A Day in the Life of a Fat Mermaid23:52 Balancing Multiple Roles29:02 Challenges of Monetizing Mermaiding34:03 The Cost of Being a Mermaid36:37 Embracing Joy and Authenticity38:05 Where to Find Mermaid Cham Monique40:31 Final Thoughts and EncouragementChe' Monique InstagramMetro Mer FolkChe' Monique Webiste Society of Fat Mermaids Get full access to Fat Positive Therapist (Kayla) at kaylastansberry.substack.com/subscribe