PODCAST · arts
Heavy Conversation
by Heavy Conversation
Join Bruce Sturgell of Chubstr and co-host Jody Koenig for Heavy Conversation, a podcast that dives into topics that matter to the plus-size community. From finding clothes that actually fit to challenging stereotypes around body size, fitness, and lifestyle, Bruce and Jody bring humor, honesty, and real-world advice to every episode. It’s a candid, supportive space for anyone navigating life in a bigger body.
Episodes
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Closing Time: Johnny Bigg Says Goodbye to the US Market
This week, we're diving deep into the news that Johnny Big is closing its U.S. website. What does this mean for the big & tall fashion industry? Bruce and Jody discuss this and more! Read Bruce's Article at Chubstr: https://chubstr.com/industry/johnny-bigg-us-shutdown/ Johnny Bigg's Going Out of...
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Did We Just Find The Best Big & Tall Office Chair?
This week on Heavy Conversation, we’re talking comfort, commutes, and craft beer. Bruce shares his review of the Staples Randolph Big & Tall Office Chair after weeks of testing it out (spoiler: it’s actually built for bigger bodies). Jody talks about how he’s using the Imprint app during his…
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We're Back! Let's Talk About Weight Bias (and How We Deal with It)
After a six-month break, Heavy Conversation is back—and we’re jumping right into it. This week, we’re talking about weight-based discrimination: what it looks like, where we’ve experienced it, and how we’ve learned to push back. From being overlooked in public to dealing with bias in the…
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Who Makes the Best Big & Tall Suits?
We take a look at Chubstr's new list of the best big and tall suit brands. The holidays are coming up—do you need a new suit? Whether you want to rent a tux or pick up a new suit for work, this list has what you're looking for, with sizes up to 72 jackets. Best Big & Tall Suits List:...
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Here's to New Beginnings
This episode was recorded a few days before Jody's big move to Chicago. We talk about the mix of excitement and never that come with moving to a new city, the unpredictable world of Facebook Marketplace, and the fact that this will be our list in-person recording session for a while. Don't worry,...
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From Portland to Chicago: Jody's New Adventure
In this episode of Heavy Conversation, Jody shares some big news—he’s leaving Portland and moving to Chicago to start a new chapter of his life. We dive into the challenges of building meaningful friendships, what he’ll miss most about the city, and the excitement (and nerves) that come with a...
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Amazon's Best Prime Day Big & Tall Deals
Another Amazon Prime Day is here and we're taking a look at the best big & tall deals the company has to offer. Should you shop during Prime Big Deal Days? Listen in and find out. Beer: Jody: Paulaner Munchner Lager Bruce: Hopworks Fresh Hop Abominable Beer list:...
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Is it Still Okay to Put Actors in Fat Suits?
Are you watching The Penguin on Max? Is it still okay to put thin actors in fat suits? PLUS - Bruce went on a group hike with the body-liberating hiking group Unlikely Hikers! Find out how it went! Shop the Gregory x Unlikely Hikers Backpack Collab: https://imp.i185592.net/AWxrvj Beer: Bruce -...
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Our Big & Tall Fall Fashion Picks 2024
Fall is finally here and it's time for a wardrobe change. Join us as we share the big & tall clothing on our list. Beer: Jody: Rogue Ginger Yuzu CBD Seltzer Water Bruce: 1983 Lager, Mcmenamins Heavy Conversation Beer List: https://untappd.com/user/JodyKoenig/lists/362753
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The Best Big & Tall Costumes of 2024
Halloween is upon us and we're telling you about the best big & tall costumes of the year. Find out what's on our list and where to get your favorite! Beer: Jody: Best Day Brewing Kolsch Bruce: Best Day Brewing Hazy IPA https://chubstr.com/best-big-tall-halloween-costumes
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We Need More Positive Male Role Models
There aren't enough examples of positive male role models. We made a very incomplete list of men making positive change in the world today. Check out the big (and not-so-big) guys on our list. Beer: Jody - Galaxy Gazer IPA, by Crux Fermentation Project, Bend, Oregon Bruce - Guinness 0 Non…
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We're Back...Really
It's the end of summer, and Heavy Conversation is back on a regular weekly schedule! Look for new episodes each Tuesday. This week, we're talking about encountering baby goats, epic beer tastings, and big men's clothing. Beer Bruce: Is Fast Fashion Old News? dry Irish stout by Fast Fashion…
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Wait, There Were Plus-Size Male Models at Fashion Week?
There were less plus-size male models at Milan and Paris Fashion Week this year. We discuss the state of big men's fashion and why the outlook isn't so pretty right now. https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/the-vogue-business-spring-summer-2025-menswear-size-inclusivity-report Beer: Jody -...
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Big & Tall Bike Shorts, Wardrobe Revamps, and Beer for a Cause
We're talking about finding big & tall bike shorts IN AN ACTUAL STORE, how we're approaching our wardrobe revamps, and Paulaner USA's Big Cans for Big Heroes National Campaign in support of Operation Homefront. Paulaner USA: https://www.paulaner.com Operation Homefront:...
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Get the Shell Out of Here
This week, we’re talking about learning to shuck oysters, the new big & tall work shirt from 100 Brawn, and our favorite new beers from Best Day Brewing. Listen in! Shop 100 Brawn: https://100brawn.com/ Beer: Bruce - Kolsch, by Best Day Brewing Jody - West Coast IPA, by Best Day Brewing...
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Bald is Beautiful
This week on the Heavy Conversation Podcast, Bruce goes full Travolta and shaves his head. Plus: Did you know it's Masturbation May? Neither did we! We share the list of the top 10 most sex-confident states in the U.S. Links Get Yourself Some Bear Skn Swimwear:...
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Do Big Guys Really Like Their Bodies?
This week, we talk about getting older and how that translates into how they feel about their bodies. Listen in as we share what we love and don't love about our bodies, and how we deal with feelings of negative self image. PLUS: We talk massages for big bodies AND Bruce was nominated for an…
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A Pants Malfunction, New Swimwear for Big Guys, and a Lesson on Hydration
This week, Bruce tells the story of almost losing his pants on stage that the 2023 FFIAS. Jody talks about the new Bear Skn Swimwear releases, and we discuss how HydrateSpark makes drinking more water fun. New Bear Skn Swimwear: https://www.bearskn.com Chubstr $500 Gift Card Giveaway:...
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Heavy Conversation Returns!
We're back! The guys talk about what they've been up to, and share a few new brands you need to know about. Links and info from the episode: Bear Skn: NEW: Beartooth Camo print: https://bearskn.com Towel: Bath towels made for plus size people w/ sizes 3X, 5X, 7X. Get 15% off your 1st purchase…
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Shop these Big & Tall Brands on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday '23
We're back after a long break with a few big and tall brands you should shop for Small Business Saturday. We also talk about what we've been up to this fall. NOTE: Heavy Conversation is releasing new episodes every other Tuesday. Our next episode drops Tuesday, December 5th. Bear Skn Black Friday...
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Will Technology Fix Big & Tall Clothing Fit Issues?
An article in the Wall Street Journal takes a look at some of the companies trying to solve clothing fit problems by creating apps to help customers get their exact measurements. We take a look at these options and discuss our past fit app experiences. WSJ Article:...
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On a Very Special Episode of Heavy Conversation
This week, we're discussing ways to take care of yourself by prioritizing your mental health. PLUS: Bruce shares the coolest beer in his beer fridge. Anxiety Resources: https://www.bswhealth.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-anxiety Massive Face Artist Page: https://massivefaceart.com…
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What's New in Big & Tall Clothing?
We're taking a look at what's new and what you need to know about from the world of big & tall clothing! Find out what needs to be in your closet right now. - Bear Skn Jerseys: https://www.bearskn.com/collections/jersey - BRIC Socks for Big Feet: https://tidd.ly/3qTE8gk - One Bone Everywear Pant...
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Good Counsel Gives Big & Tall Guys More Options
Good Counsel recently changed up their business plan, letting customers shop for stylish clothes with sizes to 8XL. We talk about Chubstr's recent review of the changes and what Good Counsel has to offer. Links: - Good Counsel in-depth review:...
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Heavy Convo Live at the Body Positive Block Party
We're recording live from the Chub Hub PDX Body Positive Block Party! This week, Jody talks about attending Lazy Bear Week in Guerneville, CA, and Bruce talks about doing some international big & tall modeling. Listen in for some special guests! Links: Chub Hub PDX: http://chubhubpdx.com Whole...
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Two Big & Tall Brands You Should Know About
We're taking a look at two brands that might not be on your radar: the new big & tall t-shirt launch from BRIC and JCPenney's Mutual Weave big & tall line. - BRIC Website: https://tidd.ly/3rOlSFd - Chubstr BRIC Review: https://chubstr.com/style/bric-big-tall-sweaters-review/ - JCPenney Mutual...
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What We're Watching, Loving, and Wearing
Summer is in full swing, and we're making the most of it. We talk about the show we're both loving, Portland's Pride Celebration, and Chubstr's $250 Johnny Bigg gift card giveaway. Chubstr - Johnny Bigg 20% Off & $250 Gift Card Giveaway: https://bit.ly/chubstr-johnny-bigg Beer: - Jody -Tropic…
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When Will Companies Learn How to Do Big & Tall Right?
We love when companies want to cater to plus size customers, but not when they don't put real thought into it. This week, we're talking about how companies get their extended size collections wrong and how to do it the right way. Beer: Jody: Symphonic Chronic Double Dank IPA, by Deschutes…
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Introducing Chubstr's New Podcast, Life in Your Size
We're introducing the new podcast from Chubstr, called Life in Your Size. It's the audio version of Chubstr.com! Each week, you'll hear interviews with compelling plus size people, stories about living life in a bigger body, and you'll get tips to help you live your best life. This week, the guys...
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The Best Mattresses for Bigger People
This week, we're talking about what to look for in a mattress for plus size people. There's a growing number of mattresses on the market, but which ones are the best. Let's discuss! Titan Mattress Review: https://chubstr.com/resources/titan-mattress-review-by-big-guy/ Best Mattresses for Plus…
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Best Big & Tall Shorts for Summer '23
We're back from break with a list of the best big & tall shorts for summer. PLUS - Chubstr's Behind the Brand video series is back! This time, we head to Toronto to visit George Richards Big & Tall Menswear. Bear Skn Shorts: https://www.bearskn.com/collections/shorts Best Big & Tall Shorts List:...
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The Laryngitis Episode
We're back after a week off to talk about Bruce's bout with laryngitis, shoes made with CBD, piano lessons, and a new app to help you get things done. The 8000 Kicks CBD Hemp Shoe: https://www.8000kicks.com/pages/cbd-hemp-shoes-signup Motion Productivity App: https://www.usemotion.com New Goodies...
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H&M Has Added Men's Plus Size Clothing
H&M has expanded their men's and women's plus size offerings with a ton of clothing available in sizes to women's 4X and men's 3X. Here's what we love about it and what we want to see from the company in the future. Beer: Jody - Czech Style Pilsner, by Little Beast Brewing, Portland, OR Bruce…
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Replay of How to Be Fat & Active This Spring
This week, we're talking about getting back out there and doing activities we love now that the weather is getting warmer. We discuss the intimidation factor for bigger folks when going to the gym, or being active in public, and ways to deal with it. cock Drinks: Bruce - Big Swell, by Maui…
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DXL Gets New Branding, Wide the Brand Introduces Big & Tall Belts
This week, we're talking about DXL's new brand positioning, "Wear What You Want." ALSO - Wide the Brand has introduced a line of Big & Tall Belts. We take a closer look. Join Us for Heavy Conversation Live on 3/30 at 9pm EDT/6pm PDT: https://www.facebook.com/events/1391437428271237 Jody's Beer:...
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Harvey Guillen's Plus Size Oscars Look Was Fire!
Did you see actor Harvey Guillen's Oscars look? He was sporting Christian Siriano's first plus size menswear design made for the red carpet, and boy, was it a whopper. PLUS - Bruce recounts being attacked by a hawk and Chubstr's 12th anniversary! Beer: Jody - Holy Grail, by Black Sheep Brewery,...
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Does Removing the Word "Fat" Make a Book More Inclusive?
Roald Dahl's books are being updated to remove terms like "fat" in a new focus on inclusivity. Do changes like this make a difference? We discuss. PLUS - do hair thickening products really work? Bruce puts the new thickening shampoo and conditioner from hims to the test. Portland Sisters of...
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Fat Shaming Rears its Head at the Super Bowl
Terry Bradshaw fat shames Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Neal after his team's win at Super Bowl LVII. We watched the video and discuss. PLUS - here's how you can volunteer at the 2023 Full Figured Industry Awards - listen in! FFIAS Volunteer Info:...
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Valentine's Day for Procrastinators
It's Valentine's Day and we're talking about the dating apps people want to get rid of, the best cities for this lover's holiday, and why you need to go to White Castle today. Listen in! valentine's - White Castle Valentine's Day:...
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Meet JIM, the New Inclusive Fitness Platform
Have you heard about Joyful Inclusive Movement, aka JIM? It's a new fitness platform made for everybody, regardless of your skill or ability level. We take a closer look at the new platform and discuss. PLUS - Bruce tries WILDFANG's plus size coveralls for the first time. JIM:...
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Unlikely Hikers x Merrell Launches a New, Inclusive Boot, PLUS: Get Paid to Eat Cheese
Jenny Bruso's Unlikely Hikers has teamed up with Merrell for a second size-inclusive hiking boot. We take a look and discuss. Love cheese? Want to get paid to eat it? A company wants your cheese-eating expertise. We talk about all this, Bruce's birthday, and more! Listen in. Unlikely Hikers x...
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Get In On This Big & Tall Model Search
Want to be a big & tall model? Get in on The Bigger Picture Big & Tall model search. Plus, we share tips for aspiring models and Bruce talks about his latest modeling gig in Canada. Finally, we talk about Westport Big & Tall's scholarship for big & tall college students. The Bigger Picture Model...
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Making Videos, Modeling & Big Guys at the Golden Globes
It’s a busy week! We’re making big & tall videos, modeling internationally, and talking about the stylish big guys at the Golden Globes. Listen in! Beers: Bruce; Free Wave IPA, Athletic Brewing Jody; Run Wild IPA, Athletic Brewing Read the Heavy Conversation Beer List:...
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Make Dry January Fun with these Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Are you in the middle of a dry January? You're in luck - there are a ton of non-alcoholic beers, spirits, and cocktails on the market. We share a few of our favorites. PLUS - we cut the top off our beer cans and drink from them (safely) with Draft Top. Beers: Jody: All Out Extra Dark, by Athletic...
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Big & Tall Brands to Watch (and Wear) in 2023
It's a new year and you need new looks! We're discussing a few big & tall brands to watch and wear in 2023. Bric - https://www.shopbric.com Wide the Brand - widethebrand.com One Bone - https://onebonebrand.com Fabletics - https://www.fabletics.com/collections/big-and-tall Flag & Anthem -...
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Big Plans for 2023
We're taking a look back at 2022 and sharing highlights and things we've learned. PLUS - we discuss our goals for the coming year. Take a listen! Beer: Jody - Shoveling Rain, by Ruse Brewing / Block 15 Brewing Company Bruce - Celebration Fresh Hop IPA, by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Check out…
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Heavy Conversation's Live Holiday Episode
We held our very first live episode of Heavy Conversation! We answered listener questions, talked about our top beers of the year, and had a glorious winter beer tasting. You're gonna love this one. Happy holidays! Beers: Pray for Pow, by 10 Barrel Brewing, Even More Jesus, by Evil Twin Brewing,...
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Best of 2022
Bruce and Jody share their favorite big & tall brands, movies, music, and TV shows of 2022. Listen in for all their recommendations Best of 2022 Playlist & More: https://chubstr.com/entertainment/best-of-2022 Beer: Jody - Black Butte Porter, by Deschutes Brewing Bruce - Fear Movie Lions, by Stone...
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Heavy Conversation (& Matty Matheson?!) Talk Big & Tall With Fast Company
Fast Company interviewed Bruce and Jody, Matty Matheson, and Zach Miko about the way mainstream brands overlook the big & tall industry, and how new brands are taking matters into their own hands. We chat about the article! PLUS - we announced our first Heavy Conversation Live Show - December…
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Here Are The Best Big & Tall Black Friday Deals
We found all the best Black Friday big & tall deals so you don’t have to! Listen in as we choose our favorites and go shopping. Bear Skn Black Friday Deal: https://bearskn.com Chubstr Black Friday Deals Roundup: https://Chubstr.com/shop Beer: Jody - Horchata Yeti, Great Divide Brewing
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Join Bruce Sturgell of Chubstr and co-host Jody Koenig for Heavy Conversation, a podcast that dives into topics that matter to the plus-size community. From finding clothes that actually fit to challenging stereotypes around body size, fitness, and lifestyle, Bruce and Jody bring humor, honesty, and real-world advice to every episode. It’s a candid, supportive space for anyone navigating life in a bigger body.
HOSTED BY
Heavy Conversation
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Heavy Conversation have?
Heavy Conversation currently has 259 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Heavy Conversation about?
Join Bruce Sturgell of Chubstr and co-host Jody Koenig for Heavy Conversation, a podcast that dives into topics that matter to the plus-size community. From finding clothes that actually fit to challenging stereotypes around body size, fitness, and lifestyle, Bruce and Jody bring humor, honesty,...
How often does Heavy Conversation release new episodes?
Heavy Conversation publishes regularly with 259 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Heavy Conversation?
You can listen to Heavy Conversation on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Heavy Conversation?
Heavy Conversation is created and hosted by Heavy Conversation.
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