Comedian's Perspective on Fatness--Self-Acceptance Over Shame

Tubby · January 01, 2026 · Listen to Original Episode →

Original Title: When There's a Will, There's A Way with Angelo Tsarouchas

TL;DR

Comedians may use self-deprecating humor about their weight as a defense mechanism against societal judgment, turning personal tragedy into relatable comedy over time.
A comedian's ability to attract partners, even at 489 pounds, suggests that confidence and how one treats others can be more influential than physical appearance.
The comedian's experience indicates that societal perceptions of "fatness" can be subjective, as he did not consider himself fat at his heaviest weight.
The comedian's transition to a lower weight (300 pounds) shifted his comedic focus from his size to broader life experiences, prioritizing longevity over humor.
The comedian advocates for fat acceptance, viewing judgment of others as a sign of personal insecurity, rather than shame.
Physical limitations for individuals with significant weight include difficulties with airplane seating, fitting into amusement park rides, and using standard outdoor furniture.

Deep Dive

Comedian Angelo Tsarouchas and host Alan Zweig explore the complex relationship between body size, humor, and personal experience. The central argument is that while fatness has been historically used as a comedic trope, it is a deeply personal experience often involving self-defense mechanisms and significant physical and emotional challenges. The conversation reveals that genuine self-acceptance, rather than shame, is key to navigating these challenges, with implications for how individuals perceive themselves and interact with the world.

The discussion highlights how societal perceptions and personal experiences of weight can shape an individual's identity and comedic output. Tsarouchas, who has experienced extreme weight fluctuations, notes that at his heaviest (489 pounds), he did not perceive himself as fat, attributing this to a combination of active lifestyle and potentially a form of self-protection. This challenges the first-order assumption that extreme weight is always accompanied by self-awareness of being "fat." The second-order implication is that self-perception is not solely dictated by objective physical state but also by psychological coping mechanisms. Furthermore, the conversation touches on the practical difficulties of being overweight, such as fitting into airplane seats or amusement park rides, and the social discomfort these situations can create. This points to a third-order consequence: that these everyday challenges can foster resilience and a unique perspective, which can then be channeled into comedy.

The conversation also delves into the role of fatness in romantic relationships and dating. Tsarouchas shares anecdotes suggesting that confidence and how one treats others are more significant factors in attracting partners than body size alone, challenging the notion that significant weight is an insurmountable barrier to intimacy. He directly addresses the physical aspects of sex with a larger body, stating that "when there's a will, there's a way," and that partners often find means to adapt. This implies that societal anxieties surrounding sex and weight may be overblown, and that open communication and a willingness to adapt are more crucial than physical limitations. The implication here is that a focus on relational dynamics and mutual effort can overcome perceived physical obstacles.

Finally, the discussion pivots towards self-acceptance and the rejection of self-shaming. Tsarouchas advocates for fat acceptance, arguing that judging others often stems from one's own insecurities. He contrasts this with the host's journey of self-fat-shaming, suggesting that a more accepting stance can lead to a healthier relationship with one's body. The second-order implication is that embracing one's physical reality, rather than fighting it through constant negative self-talk, can free up mental and emotional energy. This can lead to a more fulfilling life, where the focus shifts from perceived flaws to enjoying life and relationships. The ultimate takeaway is that while weight presents undeniable challenges, the most impactful approach involves a shift from external judgment and internal shame to a proactive embrace of self-acceptance, fostering greater well-being and resilience.

Action Items

Audit personal weight management approach: Identify 3-5 specific habits contributing to weight gain (e.g., late-night snacking, portion sizes) to address root causes.
Create a "body positive" self-talk framework: Develop 3-5 affirmations to counter negative self-judgment related to weight, promoting acceptance over shame.
Track 5-10 instances of weight-related discomfort (e.g., airplane seating, clothing fit) to identify systemic issues and potential solutions.
Measure correlation between perceived humor and weight: For 3-5 comedians, analyze if weight is a primary driver of their comedic success or a secondary element.

Key Quotes

"Being fat has been the great behind the scenes challenge of my life and I'm not hiding from it anymore no that's not true that's a big lie I'm still hiding from it but I'm also dealing with it and wanting to talk about it"

The speaker, Alan Zweig, introduces the central theme of the podcast, acknowledging his long-standing struggle with his weight. Zweig highlights the internal conflict between wanting to address his weight and the instinct to conceal it, setting a tone of personal vulnerability for the discussion.

"I don't consider myself a funny fat person at all I don't think of myself that way but if that fat people were generally funny america would be the most hilarious place in the world they would just be laughing all day long you know has the obesity epidemic caused more humor in america no not at all"

Angelo Tsarouchas, the guest, expresses his personal view that he does not identify as a "funny fat person." Tsarouchas disputes the notion that the obesity epidemic has increased humor in America, suggesting that the stereotype of fat people being inherently funny is not accurate.

"When there's a will there's a way and you figure it out and I a big belly whatever but you know what it was never an issue we made it work and a lot of times I tell them all I down and you play mountain that's that's it"

Angelo Tsarouchas discusses navigating intimacy with a large belly, emphasizing a pragmatic and adaptable approach. Tsarouchas asserts that physical challenges related to weight can be overcome with effort and creativity, framing it as a matter of "will" and finding solutions.

"I don't like my name I don't like hearing my name that often you don't have to say alan every time you address me so here's the deal I was in sales and I was in marketing and okay I see what happens is when you repeat somebody's name enough times the connection between you and that person gets closer"

Angelo Tsarouchas explains his technique of repeating the host's name, Alan, as a sales and marketing strategy to build rapport. Tsarouchas details how this repetition aims to create a closer connection, a tactic he learned and applied in various professional contexts.

"And I look like luca brasi from the godfather big so if you lost weight would you have to write all new material so I'm still at that weight now it's a good question I'm at that weight now I'm about like I'm hovering around 300 pounds and for me that's great I feel better"

Angelo Tsarouchas reflects on his wedding photos, comparing his appearance to a character from "The Godfather," and then discusses his current weight. Tsarouchas notes that at around 300 pounds, he feels better and has adjusted his comedy material accordingly, making it less focused on extreme weight.

"I admire that I mean the dividing line let's say between the guests I've had on my show so far is there's some like me who fat shame themselves and there's some who are into the fat acceptance movements which which are you into shaming or acceptance acceptance for sure"

Alan Zweig identifies a spectrum of approaches among his guests regarding weight, contrasting self-fat-shaming with fat acceptance. Zweig asks Angelo Tsarouchas which side he aligns with, to which Tsarouchas firmly states his preference for "acceptance for sure."

Resources

External Resources

Books

"Planes, Trains and Automobiles" - Mentioned as an example of a film featuring John Candy, whose character was fat and made funny.
"Uncle Buck" - Mentioned as an example of a film featuring John Candy, whose character was fat and made funny.
"The Godfather" - Mentioned in relation to the narrator's wedding photo appearance, comparing himself to Luca Brasi.

People

John Candy - Mentioned as a comedian and actor whose fatness was part of his shtick.
Fatty Arbuckle - Mentioned as a comedian whose fatness was part of his identity.
Jackie Gleason - Mentioned as a comedian who was funny, but not necessarily considered a "funny fat person."
Angelo Tsarouchas - Guest on the podcast, a Canadian comedian who jokes about his fatness.
Alina - Angelo Tsarouchas's wife.
Luca Brasi - Character from "The Godfather," used as a comparison for Angelo Tsarouchas's appearance in his wedding photos.
Kevin Sexton - Producer, sound designer, and mixer for the podcast.
Brett Lam - Illustrator of the podcast's artwork.
Michael Zweig - Host's brother, who produced the podcast's scoring.
Fats Domino - Performer of the podcast's theme song, "The Fat Man."
Dave Bartholomew - Writer of the podcast's theme song, "The Fat Man."
Alan Black - Executive producer of the podcast.

Organizations & Institutions

Weight Watchers - Mentioned as a diet program the host participated in and disliked.
Tops (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) - Mentioned as a diet club in Canada that the guest found to be a good dating club.
Harvey's - Mentioned as the type of fast-food restaurant Angelo Tsarouchas's father owned.
George Richards - Mentioned as a place where Angelo Tsarouchas rented a tuxedo.
Moore's - Mentioned as a place where Angelo Tsarouchas rented a tuxedo.
Dolphin Mall - Location where Angelo Tsarouchas rented a tuxedo from Moore's.
Pura - Company offering a wellbeing collection with smart home fragrance.
Left of Dial Media - Production company for the "Tubby" podcast.
Tim Hortons - Mentioned as a coffee shop where a TOPS meeting attendee suggested going for coffee.

Websites & Online Resources

pura.com - Website to explore moods and find Pura's fragrance products.
sarukus.com - Website to find Angelo Tsarouchas's upcoming tour dates.

Podcasts & Audio

Tubby Podcast - The podcast being discussed, hosted by Alan Zweig.

Other Resources

Fat joke - Requested by the host from the guest.
Comedy is tragedy plus time - A principle mentioned regarding the nature of comedy.
When there's a will, there's a way - A phrase used to describe overcoming challenges, particularly in relation to sexual intimacy.
Fat acceptance movement - A perspective on body image discussed on the podcast.
Fat shaming - A perspective on body image discussed on the podcast.
Ozempic - Mentioned as a medication that the host cannot afford.
Mounjaro - Mentioned as a medication that the host cannot afford.