Mayo Clinic on Nutrition The F Word: Navigating Fatphobia in Healthcare and Beyond
Dec 16, 2025
In this discussion, Ronald Young Jr., the audio producer and host of the Wait For It podcast, tackles the complexities of fatphobia in healthcare and society. He shares personal experiences revealing weight bias in medical settings and critiques societal definitions of health tied to body size. Ronald debates the use of the word 'fat' and its implications, discusses harmful social media trends, and emphasizes the importance of trust in healthcare. Ultimately, he encourages valuing oneself beyond societal standards and fostering inclusive communities.
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Health Is Often Coded As Smallness
- Ronald critiques how “health” is coded to mean smaller bodies, not just absence of illness.
- He points out skinny people also get sick, so size doesn't equal immediate health status.
The Word “Fat” Carries Cultural Venom
- Ronald argues the word “fat” carries venom because society weaponizes it as an insult.
- He supports reclaiming the word but says context and tone still make it painful.
How Peer Fatphobia Damaged A Relationship
- Ronald recounts a college hookup where peer fatphobia led him to treat the partner poorly.
- He later recognized how internalized bias affected his behavior when he gained weight.