Alan Zweig Launches “Tubby” Podcast – Honest Conversations on Weight & Self-Image
The conversation about weight, body image, and self-acceptance has never been more relevant. In a culture obsessed with appearance and perfection, filmmaker and podcaster Alan Zweig is bringing something refreshingly different to the table with his new podcast, “Tubby.”
Released in September 2025, Tubby is not just another health or fitness show. It is a raw, thoughtful, and often humorous exploration of what it means to live in a body that feels “too big,” “not enough,” or simply “different” from the socially accepted norm. Zweig’s mission is to break the silence around weight stigma and help listeners understand — and maybe even embrace — their complicated relationships with their own bodies.
Alan Zweig is no stranger to taking on challenging and deeply personal subjects. Known for critically acclaimed films like:
Vinyl – A documentary about record collectors and the psychology of obsession
When Jews Were Funny – A thoughtful exploration of Jewish humor and identity
Hurt – A raw look into trauma and recovery
The Worst Podcast – His earlier podcast project with a quirky, honest style
Zweig has built a reputation for blending humor, vulnerability, and cultural commentary. With Tubby, he continues this tradition — this time focusing on a subject that has shaped his own life.
The Concept Behind Tubby
More Than a Podcast About Weight
Unlike traditional wellness podcasts that focus on quick fixes, diets, or fitness regimes, Tubby is a safe space for honest conversations about weight and self-image.
Alan Zweig has openly said that his goal is not to tell listeners how to lose weight or change themselves. Instead, he wants to explore:
The emotions tied to body image
Cultural expectations around size and appearance
How weight impacts confidence, relationships, and mental health
The intersection of humor and vulnerability in dealing with insecurity
In Zweig’s own words:
“I wanted to talk about something that has always been there in my life but mostly unspoken. Tubby is a way to share that and invite others to share too.”
What Makes Tubby Unique
1. Candid Storytelling
Zweig uses his own personal experiences as the foundation of each episode. He speaks openly about living in a body that doesn’t always feel accepted by society and about the lifelong struggle to reconcile that reality with self-worth.
2. Diverse Guest Voices
Season one of Tubby brings in an impressive roster of guests, each contributing unique perspectives on weight, culture, and acceptance:
Alex Goldman – Host of Hyperfixed
Ronald Young Jr. – Host of Weight for It
Kimberly Dark – Author of Fat, Pretty and Soon to Be Old
Shane O’Neill – Washington Post style writer
These guests provide insight into how weight and body image influence everything from media representation to dating, professional life, and personal happiness.
3. Humor Meets Heart
Although Tubby tackles heavy topics, Zweig’s signature wit and humor keep the conversations accessible and relatable. Listeners can expect moments that are touching, funny, and thought-provoking — sometimes all at once.
Why Conversations Like This Are Important
Body image is not just a personal issue — it is a social one. Studies show that weight stigma can impact:
Mental health – Leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
Healthcare experiences – People with larger bodies often report receiving worse care
Workplace opportunities – Biases can affect hiring and promotions
Social relationships – From dating to family dynamics, body size can shape interactions
By opening up about these issues, Zweig and his guests are helping to challenge harmful stereotypes and encourage self-compassion.
Episode Breakdown: What to Expect in Season One
While Zweig has teased that the podcast will evolve with time, here is what you can expect in the first season:
Episode 1: “Living in a Body” Zweig introduces listeners to the central theme — what it feels like to move through the world in a body that feels “too big.”
Episode 2: “The First Laugh” An exploration of humor as both a coping mechanism and a cultural commentary on body size.
Upcoming Episodes: Listeners can look forward to more deep dives into topics like dating while fat, the diet industry’s grip on society, and how we can collectively push back against shame-based narratives.
Release Schedule and Where to Listen
The first two episodes of Tubby are already available, with new episodes dropping every second Thursday.
You can stream the show on:
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Google Podcasts
Other major podcast platforms
Audience Reactions and Early Buzz
Since its release, Tubby has been receiving praise from early listeners who appreciate its honesty and humor. Many have commented that it feels like sitting down with a friend who understands what they’re going through.
Final Thoughts: Why Tubby Deserves Your Attention
In a media landscape crowded with quick-fix health tips and unrealistic body ideals, Alan Zweig’s Tubby offers something refreshing — an honest, thoughtful, and human look at weight and self-image.
If you have ever struggled with how you look, questioned whether you fit in, or simply want to hear deeply human stories told with humor and compassion, this is the podcast for you.
Key Takeaways
Tubby is not about dieting — it’s about honesty, acceptance, and real conversations.
Alan Zweig uses humor and vulnerability to break the silence around weight stigma.
Season one features a diverse set of voices, offering listeners multiple perspectives.
New episodes release biweekly, making it easy to follow along and join the discussion.
