The Fat Psychologist

In this episode of The Fat Psychologist Podcast, Ninna is joined by fellow psychologist and self-proclaimed geek, Catherine Richardson, founder of Geek Mental Wellbeing. Together, they explore how representation in media—especially of fat and neurodiverse people—shapes our wellbeing, identity, and sense of belonging. We talk about:How pop culture and gaming can support mental health and self-understandingThe power of seeing yourself in characters, especially for neurodiverse folksFat suits, stereotypes, and the harm of lazy representationPersonal stories of love, acceptance, and wedding dressesTherapy approaches that embrace neurodiversity and challenge diet cultureMindfulness, body autonomy, and reframing unhelpful thoughtsFrom Gilmore Girls to Encanto, Bluey to Stardew Valley, we reflect on the joy of seeing diverse bodies and minds portrayed with care—and the impact that has on our own healing journeys.00:00 Introduction to The Fat Psychologist01:04 Meet Catherine: A Fellow Psychologist02:39 Representation in Media: The Impact on Wellbeing05:18 Positive Representations and Personal Experiences10:24 Gaming and Body Diversity15:00 Challenging Stereotypes and Embracing Differences20:39 Sheldon from Big Bang Theory and Neurodiversity20:53 Autism in Media and Personal Experiences21:51 Anime and Neurodiverse Characters22:23 Geek Culture and Personal Interests23:08 The Hero's Journey in Stories23:42 Bluey and Life Lessons25:55 Therapeutic Approaches to Neurodiversity27:51 Mindfulness and Thought Management29:40 Body Image and Self-Acceptance30:56 Weight Loss and Coaching Experiences36:29 Final Thoughts and Key Messages

Fat Counselling: Therapy and Fat Liberation with Jo Reader and Cat ChappellIn this episodeNinna is joined by Jo Reader and Cat Chappell, known as The Fat Counsellors, for a rich and affirming conversation about therapy, fat liberation, and the need to challenge fat bias in therapeutic spaces.Jo and Cat share how their personal experiences and professional paths led them to create The Fat Counsellors and develop training that supports both therapists and the wider public in unlearning internalised fatphobia. Their work is grounded in compassion, activism, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel safe and seen in therapy.We explore:The story behind The Fat Counsellors and their missionWhat inclusive therapy looks like in practiceHow therapy roles differ across countries and why that mattersFat bias in medical and social systems, and how it shows up in the therapy roomPractical steps for finding or becoming a fat-inclusive therapistWhat it means to be anti-diet and why it is not anti-dieterThe intersections of fatness, privilege, and oppressionThis episode is for anyone navigating therapy, working in mental health, or wanting to better understand how to challenge fat bias and support body liberation.Mentioned in this episodeThe Fat Counsellors: thefatcounsellors.co.ukJo Reader: joreader.com | Instagram: @fatacceptancetherapistCat Chappell: catchappell.co.ukFacebook Group: The Fat Counsellors (for therapists)Aubrey Gordon’s film Your Fat FriendTranscriptAvailable at thefatpsychologist.com/podcast00:05 – Intro01:13 – Today's Episode03:33 – The origins of The Fat Counsellors05:46 – Training Beyond Therapists08:10 – Understanding the Role of Therapists and Counsellors10:00 – Biases in Medical and Social Contexts17:47 – The Importance of Anti-Diet Culture24:47 – Practical Steps for Inclusive Therapy27:48 – Jo, Cat and their bodies30:04 – Oppression: centering fatness31:18 – Find Jo and Cat32:55 – Outro

Happiness at Every Size:Self-Acceptance, Wellbeing, and Challenging Fat BiasJoin psychologist Ninna Makrinov as she explores the concept of happiness at every size in this insightful episode. Ninna, known as The Fat Psychologist, delves into self-acceptance, contentment, and the importance of social support. Reflecting on her personal journey and current research, she examines the relationship between happiness, wellbeing, and fat bias.Discover key insights from the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire, and learn about myths related to weight and health. Whether you’re seeking self-acceptance or interested in psychological perspectives on happiness, this episode offers valuable guidance and thought-provoking discussions.00:00 Intro01:12 Episode structure02:04 The Oxford Happiness Questionnaire03:25 Are you thriving by being yourself?05:10 Am I thriving in being myself?06:36 Happiness at Every Size07:53 Contentment 10:54 Self-acceptance and life satisfaction13:40 Ninna's story: privilege and adverse childhood experiences16:30 Social Support 19:07 Challenging Fatphobia23:12 5 Myths about weight and health - debunked by science26:22 The Risks of Intentional Weight Loss29:01 Outro

In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, Ninna is joined by author, activist, and future priest Amanda Martinez Beck to explore the powerful idea of diet culture as a religion. Together, they unpack how societal norms around body size, food, and morality mirror religious structures—and how we can begin to unlearn these harmful beliefs.From shared experiences of Catholicism and fat liberation to reflections on disability, theology, and representation, this conversation is rich with insight, vulnerability, and hope. Amanda and Ninna challenge the cultural narratives that equate thinness with virtue and fatness with failure, offering instead a vision of radical self-acceptance, spiritual abundance, and embodied joy.Mentioned in This EpisodeAmanda’s books:Lovely: How I Learned to Embrace the Body God Gave MeMore of You: The Fat Girl’s Field Guide to the Modern WorldAmanda’s Substack: The Fat DispatchFat and Faithful by Nicole MorganFearing the Black Body by Sabrina StringsLife of the Beloved by Henri NouwenPoodle Science by Stacy Bias (animated video)Connect with AmandaWebsite: thefatdispatch.comInstagram & Threads: @thefatdispatchConnect with NinnaWebsite: thefatpsychologist.comInstagram, Threads, Facebook, BlueSky: @thefatpsychologistLinks on shownotes💌 Get InvolvedWant to be a guest? Reach out via the website or socials.Have a question or topic idea? Send it in!Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Ninna is actively seeking sponsors—get in touch!00:00 Intro to The Fat Psychologist Podcast01:31 Today's Episode: Diet Culture as a Religion 08:55 Amanda's Background and Fat Liberation Work14:35 Diet Culture and Body Positivity 22:49 Diet Culture as Religion  31:18 Fat Representation in Religion34:35 Embracing Fatness and Disability37:31 Finding Happiness and Acceptance40:41 Outro

Feel It to Heal It: Emotions with Juan Pablo KalawskiWelcome to another episode of The Fat Psychologist Podcast. This week, Ninna Makrinov, aka The Fat Psychologist, is joined by psychologist and Alba Emoting master teacher Dr Juan Pablo Kalawski for a deep and heartfelt conversation about emotions—what they are, how we experience them, and how we can use them to heal and grow.We explore:What emotions really are (and why defining them is so tricky)The connection between body, breath, and feelingsWhy anger isn’t bad—and how it can fuel positive changeThe Alba Method: how breathing patterns can evoke real emotionsHow to listen to your body and uncover emotional truthsWhy therapy matters and how to reclaim your emotional powerWhether you're a psychology enthusiast or just trying to make sense of your own emotional world, this episode is for you.Connect with Juan Pablo Kalawski on Facebook and find his work on ResearchGateFind me at: https://www.thefatpsychologist.comInstagram, Threads & BlueSky: @TheFatPsychologistLike, comment, and share if this episode resonated with you.Want to be a guest or sponsor? Get in touch.0:00 Introduction to The Fat Psychologist00:23 Exploring Happiness at Every Size01:17 Guest Introduction: Juan Pablo Kalawski03:14 Defining Emotions and Their Impact05:00 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. Emotion Focused Therapy19:08 The Alba Method: Breathing and Emotions24:19 The Complexity of Human Emotions29:34 Final Thoughts and Key Messages32:17 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

"Pleasure is going to be my ultimate beacon in this life." – Erica SosaSeason 1 Episode 8In this episode of the Fat Psychologist Podcast, host Ninna Makrinov is joined by guest Erica Sosa to discuss body positivity and the impact of societal stigma on mental health. They delve into topics such as desirability politics, the harmful effects of diet culture, and the importance of embracing pleasure at any size. Erica shares her experiences as a fat femme advocating for body inclusivity and challenges the stigmatization of fat bodies. The discussion is backed by research linking stigma to psychological distress, particularly depression. Ninna emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and making informed decisions about one's body. Listeners are encouraged to interact and share their thoughts on social media. Key TopicsRevolutionary Hotness: What it means to embody desirability as a fat femmeDesirability Politics: Challenging the idea that fat people should be grateful for attentionPleasure as a Right: Reclaiming joy in food, fashion, movement, and intimacyStigma and Mental Health: A look at new research linking weight stigma to depressionVisibility vs. Bravery: When showing up is radical, and when it’s just livingCultural Narratives: How media and cultural expectations shape our self-worthLiberation Through Community: Finding strength in shared stories and solidarity📚 Research HighlightWe discuss a 2024 systematic review by Aisling O'Donnell and Aoife-Marie Foran, which found that 100% of studies on weight stigma included in the review showed a link to depression. This underscores the urgent need to challenge harmful narratives and support mental wellbeing at every size.💡 Erica’s Message to Listeners“Pleasure is going to be my ultimate beacon in this life. You deserve it now—not when you’re thinner, richer, or more accomplished. Right now.”📲 Connect with UsErica SosaInstagram & Threads: @ericasosaofficialSubstack: Revolutionary HotnessNinna MakrinovWebsite: thefatpsychologist.comInstagram, Threads, BlueSky, Facebook: @thefatpsychologist🎧 Listen & SupportIf you enjoyed this episode:Follow and rate the podcast on your favorite platformShare it with someone who needs to hear this messageConsider sponsoring or recommending a size-inclusive brand💌 Want to be a guest? Reach out via the website. Priority is given to fat and marginalized voices, but all are welcome.00:00 Introduction06:29 Visibility: is it brave?11:40 Claim our body's power: take up space13:37 Trolls, bravery and boundaries15:38 We need to free ourselves22:46 You deserve pleasure now24:28 Outro

In this powerful and deeply validating episode, Ninna Makrinov explores the political nature of fat bodies and the systems that shape our perceptions of them. Joined by the brilliant Erica Sosa, writer of Revolutionary Hotness, they unpack how fatness intersects with systems of power like religion, capitalism, and white supremacy. Together, they reflect on personal journeys, cultural expectations, and the radical act of simply existing in a marginalized body.This episode is a call to embrace who we are, challenge diet culture, and reclaim our space unapologetically.Listen & SupportSubscribe, rate, and share wherever you listen to podcasts.Watch the video version on YouTube.Support the podcast via Buy Me a Coffee.Interested in sponsoring the show? Ninna is looking for values-aligned brands, especially inclusive fashion labels.📣 Next Episode TeaserStay tuned for Part 2 with Erica Sosa, where we dive into revolutionary hotness, desire, and pleasure—especially from the perspective of fat women. You won’t want to miss it!00:00 Fat bodies are political06:35 Personal journeys to body acceptance09:22 Cultural and religious influences11:01 Systems of oppression13:54 Our bodies are political14:51 Health, time poverty and structural barriers16:53 It't not about health18:35 Is oppression on the rise?21:09 Challenging diet culture22:42 Outro

In this heartfelt episode, Ninna Makrinov, The Fat Psychologist, delves into the complexities of embracing authenticity and the courage it takes to be oneself. Ninna shares her personal journey, exploring themes of self-acceptance, vulnerability, and the impact of societal expectations on our sense of self. She discusses the importance of inclusivity and how we can be happy at every size, backed by research and personal anecdotes.Call to Action:Share your stories of daring to be yourself with Ninna, be a guest on my podcast.Follow Ninna on Bluesky and Instagram @TheFatPsychologist.Visit thefatpsychologist.com for precise transcripts and more resources.Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Get in touch to join the journey.Production Credits: This episode was recorded, edited, and created by Ninna Makrinov.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:57 Embracing Authenticity05:30 Accepting myself as accepted10:13 Exploring Courage and Vulnerability17:51 Understanding Self-Esteem and Self-Efficacy18:12 Self-esteeem20:49 Self-efficacy23:35 We are part of a bigger whole24:47 Changing our Beliefs26:38 Adding social support27:33 When we are down29:41 Conclusion and Call to Action

Ninna and Sheri explore the power and necessity of laughter, especially in times of sadness. Ninna emphasizes the importance of laughing for its own sake and finding moments of joy even in difficult circumstances. 00:00 Intro to The Fat Psychologist podcast01:08 The Power of Humor and Laughter03:58 Sheri's Standup Comedy Journey09:58 Americana: Being a migrant10:51 A bit of politics 12:27 Exploring Multipotentiality and Career Shifts16:06 The West Midlands are great17:33 Enjoying the process and the destination 21:22 The Impact of Laughter on Wellbeing23:11 The pressure to be thin: TV and expectations24:01 Discrimination and power28:37 Wellbeing as a comedian33:02 Outro

In this episode of the Fat Psychologist Podcast, I explore the concept of resilience, rebranding it as 'bouncing back' from adversity, failure, and trauma. I critique the traditional view of resilience as a personal trait, advocating instead for a process-oriented perspective that includes social and environmental factors. I delve into recent wellbeing research, including systematic literature reviews, and highlight the importance of social support and positive psychology. I argue for group interventions and a holistic approach to creating environments where individuals can thrive. I also emphasize the role of counseling and positive relationships in fostering resilience.If you like my podcast, follow @TheFatPsychologist , visit my website or buy me a coffee Find the full transcript and links to materials on the shownotes. 00:00 Welcome to the Fat Psychologist Podcast00:17 Introduction to Resilience01:25 Defining Resilience01:55 Research on Resilience 03:59 Resilience as a Process06:19 Coping Strategies and Social Support13:04 Positive Psychology and PERMA20:12 Critique of Resilience as a Personal Trait27:42 Group Interventions and Social Belonging29:18 Final Thoughts and Call to Action#Resilience #AdversityToStrength #PersonalGrowth #HealingJourney #OvercomingChallenges #SelfReflection

Ninna talks with author and nurse Angela Mae Morrison about resilience and her book Coming Out of a Dark Place. They discuss the importance of social support and sharetheir stories of supporting their children through difficult times in their lives.If you like my podcast, follow @TheFatPsychologist , visit my website https://thefatpsychologist.com and sponsor me at https://buymeacoffee.com/thefatpsychologist

Ninna talks about the history of fat activism, fat liberation, fat positivity and body neutrality. She considers all the aims that all these movements share. For the newbies, Ninna talks about some of the lingo used in the fat community and the terms she hates people using (spoiler alert: avoid overweight, plus size... and most definitely ban "morbidly obese"). She delves into research that demonstrate the discrimination faced by fat people, how we are perceived and the income gap we face. She calls us all to be activists, because there is hope that fat bias can be reduced and hopefully eliminated.

Ninna and Nina talk about our identities and how they link to happiness and belonging. Faith shares her research on how fat liberation and Health at Every Size are portrayed on social media.Faith Stadnyk is an academically-trained intersectional feminist, critical health, fat studies, critical disability studies, and critical eating dis/order studies researcher and advocate for social justice. Nina Robinson is CEO of the media production company Soundtruism, which aims to tell diverse and authentic stories in audio as factual narrative podcast formats.Nina Makrinov, aka The Fat Psychologist, is a teacher, trainer, coach and the author of The Fat Psychologist Podcast. A critical thinker by nature, Ninna is an activist who questions knowledge from a feminist, fat inclusive, disability informed, anti-racist perspective.Read more in the show notes.

Listen to hear why you should listen to my podcast. A little bit about me and the first season Happiness at Every Size.Transcript:Hi, I’m Ninna Makrinov. I’m a psychologist. And, yes I am fat. I am The Fat Psychologist.I struggled with my weight for almost as longs as I can remember. As a child, my family had me on a calorie restricted diet since I was 8. I was told no-one would ever love me unless I lost weight, no-one would ever hire me, no-one would ever accept me.But over the years I have come to love who I am. I gave up on the constant fight with my body and surprise: I am loved, I have a great job, I am accepted... and most importantly I accept myself most of the time.Saying all of this sounds easy, doing it has been hard. There is where this podcast comes in. Join me to decode wellbeing research so it can have a real impact in our lives. Let's make decisions based on information we understand and question, not based what others say we should think of ourselves.In this first season, I explore the idea of “Happiness at every size”. I want to share the somehow crazy idea that thinness does not create happiness. That we can be happy however we look like. I will invite guests to discuss a theme as it relates to happiness: health, belonging, service, sex, contentment, laughter. I will share my passion for research, my stories, my fears, my goals.I would love to hear about you too. Do you have stories to share? Questions to ask? Would you like to co-host or share your research? Read the show notes for links to how you can contribute.Look out for The Fat Psychologist Podcast on our website TheFatPsychologist.com and your favourite podcast app.