Who's Dat Phat Girl with Brooke Hoover

Raise your hand if you're a burnt out caregiver. The two seem to go hand in hand. I'm sharing some self care tips that are working for me and/or that I'm putting into place as a caregiver and while self care has almost become a nails on the chalkboard type of expression to my ears (because it's so overused) the message behind it is important. Listen to those flight attendants y'all because you need to put your own life preserver on first before you put on someone else's. Easy to say in theory, harder to put it into practice. So, let's try together, shall we? Questions / comments / want to chat directly? Email me at contactbrookehoover@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

What do Danny from the hit boy band New Kids on the Block and Banana Pudding have in common? Well, they were initially rejects at the pot luck party in my brain. Banana pudding for its texture and banana flavor and just not being a super Louisiana type of dessert. Danny from New Kids on the Block for not being, well, not being the cutest one. And, for my allegiance to Donny - no wait Jordan - no wait Joey. (It varied on the day. Sorry Jonathan, you were too shy.) But, like a good Southerner, I learned to embrace the pudding which is essentially just a mushy ole trifle when my Aunt Mary brought in her fancier version with the Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies. So long 'Nilla Wafers! And, I also learned to embraced Danny from NKOTB (not literally, yet) because, like a wine, he got FINER with age (IMHO). I also tell tales on how ice box pies can be lower carb and lower sugar too. Mississippi Mud Pie is just one example of something you can easily make (read : "make" NOT bake) that's Keto-friendly. Like a church pot luck, there's a little something for everyone in this episode, y'all! If you would like to read transcripts of this (or any) episode, please check out my YouTube channel www.youtube.com/brookehoover And, for more information and to tell your friends about this, please visit me on TIKTOK https://www.tiktok.com/@whosdatphatgirl INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/br00keh00ver/ and the MAIN WEBSITE www.brookehoover.com/podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Because I have a summer birthday, I've never been a HEY LOOK AT ME IT'S MY BIRTHDAY type of person which is SO not Leo of me but I guess it's because I never wanted to set myself up for disappointment. I usually use my birthday as a reflection time and I thought it was fitting to share with y'all a note I wrote to my younger self when prompted to do so for a writing submission. The only rule was, you had to start your letter with Dear... So, I thought in true PHAT GIRL STYLE we would go backwards to go forwards and GEAUX down memory or is it future lane... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Both Megan Gaul, a Staten Island, NY based health coach and Brooke share in a journey of 100 pound weight loss and reshaping (ha! pun intended) how they approached food, conversations around food and their mental health and they're just a bridge away from each other. (The Bayonne Bridge - or Goethals Bridge, if there's construction, to be exact.) Megan helps empower peeps with one on one coaching as well as offers free weekly group meal planning. How to Reach Megan, or Take Action On This Today: Partake 1-1 Coaching for Weight-Loss Without the Guilt: www.partakemealplanning.com/all-coaching Limited Time: Apply for a free 1-1 strategy session with Megan, & actually DO the thing: https://rb.gy/akh46z Register for the Partake Meal-Planning Club (a free membership): www.partakemealplanning.com/jointheclub Follow Megan on Instagram: www.instagram.com/partake_foodie --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

If you've been listening to this here podcast for the past nine months or so, you know I've been going through the process of getting a dental implant. First off, I know I'm one of the lucky ones in that regard to be able to have the insurance (and the credit card) to be able to even get such an implant. But why is dental health equally luxury AND agony? Why are we so terrified of dentists and, oftentimes, even more terrified of the dental bills. Because dental health IS mental health AND full body health, it's about damn time it be regarded as such. I can't change the medical world, but I can try. My hope in today's episode is to shed some humour (yes, with a u, 'cause I'm fancy and my dog is British) on my own dental plights and traumas and to provide some tips that I've learned over the years including from my aunt Nanny Cile who was a dental hygienist for nearly 50 years and from being someone on a fixed budget but who also needs their teeth, for the biz and just, for life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Cheri Paige Fogelman, Brooke's long-time friend and a personal trainer with a background in modern dance and overall PHAT girl doesn't believe that we should beat ourselves up if we show up with only 10% to give to a workout or, heck, even life on any given day. How many times have you heard THAT from a personal trainer? Usually it's "NO PAIN NO GAIN" and who wants pain? And especially who wants to PAY for PAIN? (Well, some folks might but...thaaaaat's a different podcast episode!) Many of us grew up in the days of The Biggest Loser with the one and only Jillian Michaels who was constantly telling us to push ourselves to the max...or else. Cheri's approach helps us learn to listen to our bodies and minds and their wonderful cues (which aren't always brought out by pushing them). She's still "bad to the bone" (as Brooke's dad would say). Cheri has a background in modern dance, was a rower in college at UNC Chapel Hill, is a mom, wrote a book AND still manages to find time to train her clients and herself. But, the all or nothing or go big or go home approaches aren't how she got there. Listen to some of our tales today for inspiration and, hey, maybe even validation and learn more about Cheri and her offerings at www.bodybycheri.com www.instagram.com/bodybycheri https://goodvibeswellness.com/ Oh! And those marvelous bands you can workout with at home that Brooke goes NUTS over in this episode... CAN BE FOUND BY CLICKING HERE. Like, right HERE. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

The notion of SELF CARE has become a marketing ploy (much like shaving our legs and painting our toe nails). The idea behind it is great : take time for YOURSELF. But, in my HUMBLE yet PHAT opinion, it has now translated into : do all of this time consuming and oftentimes expensive beauty care stuff instead of take time for yourself to just BE. Combine that with the notion of a SUMMER BODY (from its size to its texture and beyond) and we are feeding those hungry sharks. I'm over it. I'm also tired. I also would rather watch "Couple to Throuple" while stretching on the floor with my dogs instead. Who's with me? Anyone? Okay at least hear me out in this episode... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

The ups and downs of life have often been compared to a roller coaster. Amusement parks are bipolar mofos. The day after, it's always super depressing. Or is it just me? I used to LOVE amusement parks : the lights, the colours, the almost dying. That was FUN. Or is it just me? Amusement parks were also scary, death traps where you could get kidnapped? Or is it just me? From Disney World to Dollywood and every rinky dink amusement park in between (I'm looking at you Fun Fair Park), I experienced some STUFF in the 80's and 90's. And, I know one thing is true: I was definitely carny folk in a past life and Coney Island was my home. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Today's special guest HUYEN VU (a Functional Health Pracitioner AND Certified Physician's Assistant) was SICK AND TIRED of feeling SICK AND TIRED. After dealing with many health issues including IBS, Huyen knew there was more to feeling better than simply feeling like she was being bounced back and forth like a ping pong ball in a broken health system. So, she took CHARGE of her health using functional medicine. She not only has helped heal herself with functional medicine, she's helped her husband and so many other patients both as a physician's assistant and in her own practice as a functional health practitioner. I WISH I would have known Huyen when I began my PCOS journey. There is a way out, there is hope and it's within YOU once you feel IN CHARGE of your health and not at the beck and call of a very rushed and harried traditional medicinal system. Visit Huyen's Website: https://www.inchargefunctionalhealth.com Follow Huyen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inchargefunctionalhealth/ Click here to visit the WHO'S DAT PHAT GIRL WEBSITE for more! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

I have an episode for King Cake, an episode for Beignets and an episode for Biscuits. But, I didn't have an episode for something that I eat every day...until now. My beloved Overnight Oats needed a special episode for many reasons: They're easy to make - LEARN how to make more oat-based recipes and how to add in more protein with a few more "hacks" I have for ya. They're resistant starch - HEAR WHY resistant starch is good for you They're full of prebiotics - DISCOVER the role or prebiotics when it comes to probiotics and how they exist in a symbiotic relationship And, of course, stay for all of my tales of breakfast woes of yore while growing up in 1980's Louisiana - from grits to Gatorade and more, I've got some stories for ya. And, of course, I've got some recipes and tips for ya too. If you'd like to hear more about how I get HEALTHY FULL SIZE SAMPLES FOR FREE - CLICK HERE TO EMAIL ME NOW and I'll share it with ya! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Friend and Fashionista Jacqui Getz is telling tales with me today about her journey from high school principal to personal style curator. (You may have seen her on Vogue's Street Style Series - if not click HERE !) Jacqui went back to get her SECOND master's degree in her 60's. Jacqui also has studied at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) and she now specializes in helping women over 50 find and own their personal style. If you ever thought that you don't have style, if you ever thought that you can't do something because of your age, if you ever let fear try to stop you, this is the episode for you (and by "you", I also mean me). To me, Jacqui is true blue New York cool and she's also the kindest, most uplifting person. I am so grateful for our mutual friend Anna for introducing us. I thought Jacqui would be a perfect guest for Who's Dat Phat Girl and I think you will, too. To learn more about Jacqui and to inquire about her services (a fun time is guaranteed) please visit www.TheDetailsofStyle.com And, as always, if you want more of this podcast or to learn more about lil ole phat ole me (Brooke) please visit www.brookehoover.com/podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

I've you've ever experienced chronic pain (which is most likely, considering over 51 million Americans experienced chronic pain just last year) then you know is a real pain in the YOU KNOW WHAT. Today, I'm speaking with Mandy Ryle, a Chronic Pain Specialist and a Certified Nutritionist. Mandy has been a movement instructor for nearly two decades and it is her mission is to empower individuals challenged by persistent pain to reclaim their vitality and independence. Mandy takes a holistic approach that combines nervous system re-education, mindset cultivation, nutrition coaching and exercise in order to help her clients move through their pain. I shed some (kinda unexpected) tears today when I talk with Mandy about her pain journey, my pain journey and those of her clients. If you want Mandy to help YOU on your journey, please visit: https://empoweredself.me/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

"You Gotta Get a Gimmick" can hold true for burlesque, cabaret and Broadway musicals but WHY oh WHY is it the case for health and wellness? I used to be a sucker for a good marketing campaign. I used to be a sucker for anything that told me it would provide me instant relief, weight loss and enlightenment. I used to be a sucker for fat sucking (stay tuned to hear more). And, after so much drama and too much money spent I am now OVER it. (Well, never say never.) In this here episode I'm telling tales about things that definitely did NOT work for me along my health journey from Living Social deals to doctors' recommendations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Today I talk with long-time friend, fellow actor/writer/comedian Ken Perlstein about his road to recovery. Ken and I met two decades ago when we were part of an improv troupe called 8 Is Never Enough during the Bush Kerry era, doing political and non-political comedy sketch, improv and standup. I admire Ken for his fearlessness in being vulnerable about his recovery journey and his ability to help others. We are talking about Ken's success as an actor/writer/comedian today but also as someone who's overcome so much and is an awesome dad, husband, friend and human. Listen to the whole thing if you want to hear some fun impersonations from some of your fave (or maybe not so fave) political figures. Learn more about Ken by clicking HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

While Café du Monde in New Orleans is known as the OG of making and selling beignets (fried leavened dough that becomes a golden angel's pillow topped with powdered sugar) and café au lait (coffee with hot milk), there's another beignet place that I hold near and dear. I grew up having beignets (a fried dough treat, native to Louisiana) every Sunday with my dad after early morning church at Coffee Call in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. But then on my weight loss and PCOS health gain journey I told myself that I could give two shits about beignets. And I (almost) forgot all about them. Hear tales about how I rekindled a healthier relationship with food, one specific food, and with myself. Learn some donut and Louisiana history and fun facts - stay for the feels. To READ the TRANSCRIPT of this episode or any prior episode, please visit www.brookehoover.com/podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

New Year, New You Yadda Yadda Yadda If your New Year's Resolution has gone by the way side already then, yay! Welcome to the club - wait I haven't done a resolution in YEARS. (Side bar, did you listen to the Season 2 Episode 28 about New Year's Words Vs. New Year's Resolutions???) Here are FIVE EASY and TANGIBLE organizational tips that are OH so January - and that are easy enough to do in "chunks" that'll leave you feeling organized, accomplished and refreshed instead of overwhelmed. For me, tackling things that are very hands-on often helps with this time of year which can be SUPER heady and inner worky and jerky for me. Transcripts available by clicking HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

I set out to do this podcast in order to share, entertain and inspire. I didn't realize it'd also help me bring up some of my own sh*t including trauma and patterns. Losing the literal weight, the 100 pounds, has only been a minuscule part of the healing journey. The journey (for all of us) gets easier when we start realizing that the physical and the mental health aspects go hand in hand. I think we are always on a healing journey. Wouldn't it be nice to go through that healing journey with a guide? In this episode, I'm speaking with new friend, kindred spirit and healing guide LEAH DREW about healing the past and breaking unhelpful patterns in order to live in the present. Leah Drew is a Mind/Body healing guide whose goal is to inspire you to seek more awareness, empowerment & healing in your life. WORK WITH LEAH - CLICK HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Ah, the new year, 2024 is upon us. For SO long, my new year's resolution was "I will lose weight this year" or "I will not eat cake this year". Too vague, too much punishment and, at the end of the day (at the end of the year?) would those resolutions really make me a better person? So, I started choosing a "word of the year" instead of a New Year's Resolution. Last year, my word of the year was "embrace" which felt SO not-me that I forgot the damn word. This year, I'm choosing something in the vein of embrace but something that feels more gentle and less phony at the same time, "acceptance." Do you want to join me in choosing a word of the year? Let me know what your word is, y'all. I am genuinely curious. Let's follow each other on Instagram and keep the conversation going! Click HERE Transcripts available by clicking HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Growing up in South Louisiana, all I wanted was a White Christmas and WASPy cut out sugar cookies with a perfect presentation. But, we were usually wearing shorts and t-shirts on Christmas Day and because my Momma is 110% Rajun Cajun, we never did those cute little holiday cookies. We made Cajun candy (pralines and gold brick fudge) which tasted great but looked like alligator poop. After years of fighting my heritage and wanting something that looked like magazine perfection, I've finally learned to embrace it and share the candy (and love) with my "Yankee" boyfriend and friends here in New York and New Jersey. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Coach Rita Savoia and I talk about the importance of breath to help with stress and this season is arguably one of THE most stressful times of year so we could all use a little BREATH. Something so simple and yet many of us are doing it incorrectly - including yours truly! Learn some techniques to breathe optimally and to help find peace - even in the line at the airport or mall. We also tell tales about random things from Mariah Carey's “All I Want for Christmas” to Sunday dinners with Rita's Italian family. Find out what makes Rita feel like a PHAT girl (Pretty Hot and Tempting). USE CODE "BREATHE50" to save 50% on Rita's services mentioned in this episode - CLICK HERE to visit her site --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

The Universe, God and/or a Facebook Algorithm connected me with a kindred spirit, Shaele who lives completely across the US (Props to us for handling time zone conversions with ease.) Initially, we connected because have both had success stories in our PCOS journeys, but we also realize throughout this episode that we have many more similarities as well. Sometimes, social media can be a good thing (and I think Martha Stewart would agree). Shaele had success losing weight and keeping it off and most importantly dealing with her PCOS symptoms including brain fog by doing intermittent fasting. Shaele's intermittent fasting calendar is 23:1 meaning she ONLY eats for ONE HOUR out of the day!!! You may be thinking : How is this possible? How is this healthy? Well, she explains her journey. And, while neither of us are medical professionals, we are just two people who are sick and tired of the current state of healthcare in regards to our condition and we took matters into our own hands, I do suggest always consulting with your medical professional (be they a doctor, dietitian, naturopath, herbalist or acupuncturist) when beginning and throughout your journey. Shaele's birthday is the week that this episode launches so show a fabulous Sagittarian some love by giving it a listen! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

We've all heard of the concept of SPRING CLEANING but what about cleaning up and reorganizing that cave before a few months of hibernation ?!?! (Or, for my Louisiana folk, why not do something productive other than the usual holiday stuff between LSU Football and Mardi Gras?) As an actor, I've had many "side hustles" but my main one is a PERSONAL ORGANIZER. I've seen a variety of types of situations - from hoarders to fashionistas and my goal is to individualize organization and help empower people to feel organized and know where all there things are as opposed to achieving perfection. I'll share my TOP SEVEN ORGANIZATION TIPS for a good ole FALL CLEANING and tell some organizational tales of yore. ***MENTION THAT YOU LISTENED TO THIS PODCAST EPISODE FOR 20% OFF YOUR FIRST VIRTUAL ORGANIZATION COACHING OR IN PERSON ORGANIZATION SESSION. Email me at WhosDatPhatGirl@gmail.com*** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Come trick or treat with me and play connect the dots (with all my face moles) in this week's episode, y'all! Halloween inspired me to talk about one of my dirty little not so secrets - my chin mole (which sprouts hairs on command) that I'm not so proud of along with my other more strategically placed by God moles that I've come to accept. I'm telling tales about moles through the ages and why it seems easier to accept some "flaws" while some will always be flaws (without the air quotes). How do we (and by "we" I mean "I") come to accept something that's been (for so long) branded as belonging to a stereotypical evil woman? Can I use my magic powers to get some mole acceptance? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

If you're like me and all the Basics, then you love FALL. Everything about FALL. Especially FALL FOODS. But, ain't it a shame that so many of the fall foods which naturally pack a lot of nutrients are full of inflammatory causing foods (white flour and sugar) that aren't good for insulin resistance ?!?! If you want to enjoy that apple cider donut or that PSL, go for it !!! NO SHAME HERE - EVER! However, add these principals to the long-haul because you can eat them every day without spiking your blood sugar which can lead to all weird kinds of feelings whether you have PCOS (like me), are a Basic B or not! So, here are many of my hacks on how I'm savoring the fall flavor, getting those dense nutrients (hello fiber, antioxidants and protein!) and NOT adding sugar, white flour or bullshit. I'm not saying you can't have a pumpkin spice latte...but switching to pumpkin rooibos is going to be a better bet to get us through the long-haul and help us beat those winter colds. I'm talking about the benefits of apple, pumpkin and all the wonderful fall spices. I'll share my "hacks" that are quick, friendly on the wallet, simple and cleaner than most of the fall foods surrounding us right now. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

(or, Woes of a Private School Kid & Her School Cafeteria) For years, my momma brought me my school lunch HOT AND FRESH every day - EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Until I changed schools to the school of hard knocks which also had a cafeteria whose food was DEFINITELY NOT Louisiana caliber. When Momma's invited to my school cafeteria to "see how bad the food really is", will I have to eat my own words? Listen to the tale and find out, y'all... SIDE BAR : Griping about school cafeteria food is a completely privileged thing to do. I hope you understand I'm making fun of my own drama while not undermining how we as a society need to help make sure NO KID goes HUNGRY. Please donate or share if able by clicking HERE --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

I'm telling tales with one of my best pals who's also a yoga teacher, Amy Fulgham!!! Amy and I met at 4:45 in the morning en route to a brothel over a decade ago (Well, the SET of a brothel) 'cause we were portraying HOOKERS in a beloved HBO show about the Prohibition Era (name to remain anonymous due to the SAG-AFTRA strike) and we've been friends ever since. Amy has transitioned from actor to yoga instructor and I've been #blessed to work with her as a private student and on her Zoom classes. (More about that below!) In this episode, we'll learn more about Amy's health journey, tell tales about the importance of rest and the different types of yoga from Vinyasa Yoga to Yin Yoga to Yoga Nidra and talk about making yoga practice your own, no judgments attached. There's that expression, "They've found their calling." Well, every time I see Amy teach yoga or talk about yoga, I get chills. Because, I know this PHAT girl has found her calling to help others inhabit their bodies and relax their minds. Amy has an upcoming YIN YOGA / YOGA NIDRA series on Sundays (8pm EST) starting 9/24 and going for Seven Weeks - SEVEN WEEKS FOR SEVEN CHAKRAS! (No class on Sunday October 8th) LEARN MORE / CONTACT / FOLLOW AMY : Email : AmyFulghamYoga@UnderTheSameMoonYoga.com and/or AmyFulgham@aol.com INSTAGRAM --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

While we're in that back to school time of year, I thought I'd tell some tales about my uniform woes in school. While navigating wearing a uniform (and all the criteria that came with it) while being a FAT girl wasn't easy, I learned some uniform loopholes to make my uniform more fitting for a PHAT (pretty hot and tempting) girl. We all still wear uniforms in a sense even after we graduate from school. My uniform of choice nowadays, in the school of life, has one criteria : It can't show camel toe. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

For me, working as a Standardized Patient became more than a good side hustle for an actor or a way to make a quick(ish) buck and definitely more than that episode of Seinfeld, it is how I learned to see doctors as human and how I got over (or at least learned how to handle) my fear of doctors. If you prefer to READ the FULL TRANSCRIPT of this episode, I transcribe them all myself and they're available for download at: www.brookehoover.com/podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Salads : For so long, they've been seen as a diet food and almost a punishment. But, I say, they're a party. (Unless you're my dad back in the 90's who nearly needed stitches from a salad.) Let's transform the way we think about foods. I'm talking about some ways to jazz up your salad (I am from Louisiana after all) including easy and affordable tricks. You can always watch or read an episode at www.brookehoover.com/podcast I transcribe the episodes myself so that you can read how I actually talk without any typos (versus using AI to type it.) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Too skinny to be fat? Too fat to be skinny? Nah, just too PHAT to fit in is what I'll keep telling myself until I believe it. Not fitting in (literally and figuratively has been my theme). So is THAT my elevator pitch? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

While I take supplements because I aim to avoid prescription drugs at all costs because I am terrified of their side effects, the "au naturel" things can come with their own baggage and cons as well. But, there's also so much good. In this episode, "SUPPLEMENT JUNKIE" I'm telling tales about my journey of relying on a supplement as if it were a magic pill to understanding the positive and negative effects and learning to listen to my body. I share the supplements that I've taken, what's worked and hasn't and what I'm currently taking on my journey to PHAT-dom. Want a transcript of this episode to read? I personally transcribe ALL of my episodes and they're available within five days after air-date HERE: www.brookehoover.com/podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Having PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) has caused me to deal with unwanted facial hair ever since I was a freshman in high school. I knew I was a Carnie folk in a past life, I just didn't want to be The Bearded Lady. Then, I was asked to audition for the role of The Bearded Lady...twice. And instead of focusing on the craft, the acting, being in the moment, I allowed being called "Sideburn Lady" in high school take precedence over being in the moment. I learned my lesson and am still dealing with unwanted facial hair. Hell, I'm still actually learning all the lessons. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Being someone who used to be 100 pounds heavier, one of the FAQ's I get is : HOW DID YOU LOSE THE WEIGHT? HOW CAN I LOSE WEIGHT? There's no magic answer. There's no magic pill (and, in fact, beware the magic pills, y'all.) The most important thing is to approach it from a gaining your health and adding in nutrition standpoint, from a positive perspective as opposed to something that society tells us you SHOULD do. And to LISTEN to your body and mind. This is my trajectory told in a somewhat timeline standpoint. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Tales about how a lil magical medicinal mushroom tincture is saving my life (or at least, helping me live with less anxiety and lowering my blood pressure). If you've ever been interested in mushroom tinctures but hesitant to try, here I am, your Phat Girl Guinea Pig talking about my experience and results. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

May is Mental Health Month as many of us know. And, when there are months dedicated to things, I'm always like, "But no, it should be every damn day!" HOWEVER, it is good to have a dedicated time and space to bring awareness. I've dealt with anxiety and depression for a while. Much of it is related to PCOS. And, I have family members who suffer from mental illness. And, in order to keep my mental health stable at times, I need to take a step back from pushing myself and "do, do, doing" (doo-dooing? pooping?!?!) and even take a break from this here podcast. We all do. (Wait, no, don't take a break from the Who's Dat Phat Girl? Podcast. Just take a mental health break from your to-do list.) Usually I have an outline for my episodes but in this one, I'm going ROGUE and full on adult ADD and I do NOT have an outline. My brain farts are real. My general annoyance with the mental health industry is real, too (and I'm telling tales about my own struggles and journey). But, still, my hope in the progress of where we CAN and WILL go with mental health awareness in the future is real, too, y'all. So, if you want to ride this random roller coaster and here me tell some tales and vent some vents, come along with me. Maybe we'll help each other out. I should note that on my website CLICK HERE I have mentioned the SAMHSA website before but I will post it right here after this here sentence if you or your loved one needs immediate health with mental health and/or substance abuse. (Click here for SAMSHA.GOV) While they say help is out there and help is available, in my journey, it's out there but is it always quality? NO. Is it always affordable? NO. Is it always easy? NO. Is this at all fair or helpful for someone who is currently struggling with a mental illness? HELL NO. But, help. Is. Out. There. And, we are treating mental illness with a lot more severity and respect than even 15 years ago, so there's that, y'all. THERE. IS. THAT. Remember, being PHAT (pretty hot and tempting) isn't just about your physical self, it's about your mental wellness too. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

I'm a sucker for wellness products. Since 1980 something I've probably tried all the products. But, these are my tried and true, some of them for over a decade. A Shakti mat, a Gua Sha stone, Plastic Cups, a Handheld Massager (used in an unconventional way - don't worry, it's G-rated!) and my make-shift Eye Mask are on my line-up. To download and read the full transcript, you can click these words here. Like, right here, y'all. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

Throwing together a last minute Halloween costume (a baby) teaches me a valuable lesson that sometimes "your good", NOT your best is more than good enough. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

I have no WILLPOWER !!! Do you ever find yourself saying that after practically swallowing a whole jug (tub? container?) of Kirkland brand chocolate covered almonds? Well, what if I told you it was time to say F*$# the concept of beating ourselves up for having "no willpower" and instead taking the power back to eat the feeds (even the "bad" feeds) without the judgment and the antiquated concept of constantly beating ourselves up. It'd leave us freer to make more nutrient-rich choices, embrace indulging and let go of the baggage of having to punish ourselves when temptation strikes. Because maybe making something so off-limits is what tempts us in the first place? Why are we SO tempted to berate ourselves? Let's gain back our POWER and tell WILLPOWER where to go. Downloadable transcript available here! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whosdatphatgirl/support

To most 6 year olds, waking up to your momma making pralines for three Australian men who were in a car crash with your dad the night before MIGHT seem a little odd. For me, it was just another Tuesday morning. I'm telling tales about how we Cajun peeps have a knack for making the best out of nothing and turning anything into a festivity. To DOWNLOAD the FULL TRANSCRIPT Click HERE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

To each their own, but growing up in a bigger body, learning that cleanliness was even Godlier than Godliness and with diet culture being shoved down my throat, I am personally grossed out by anything involving a food mess. From food fights (especially with condiments) to food fetishes (especially with salty food) and especially when society depicts a person in a slender body with food in a sexy or cute way while poking fun at people in bigger bodies eating, I'm so over it. To READ MORE of the DOWNLOADABLE TRANSCRIPT, click HERE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

Ah, cartoon mascot sugar filled cereals of childhood. They weren't so "Grrrrrreat" for us. But, they still seem to fill our soul to this day. In this episode, I tell tales about how it was forbidden in my house and how I personally find my nutritional balance for a breakfast that will sustain me for the morning - instead of causing a sugar crash. For full downloadable transcripts, click HERE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

I'm joined by the one and only MOMMA ANNE, my partner in crime and maker of all of my Halloween costumes as we discuss my Flapper Costume when I was 8 or maybe 9 years old and trying to feel our fabulous selves all the while breaking free from the constraints society has placed on us or worse, that we have placed on ourselves. FOR FULL TRANSCRIPTS TO READ AND DOWNLOAD, PLEASE CLICK HERE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

A little trip with my friends to Judaculla Rock in Western, North Carolina and getting my '95 Ford Mustang literally stuck in a big rut taught me a thing or two about letting go, having faith and giving up control. Note: Y'all, this is a secular (or shall I say no religion pushing) podcast. This is no attempt to push anyone into Christianity or any other religion. It's actually an attempt to make us all stop pushing, in general. TO READ THE FULL TRANSCRIPT, CLICK HERE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

Ah, coffee. Iced. Hot. Decaf. Caffeinated. Laced with chicory. Served with powdered creamer. I wanted it however I could get it. Until I realized like the bad boy the good guhl tends to chase after, it wasn't right for me (and my anxiety). So, I'm telling tales on my journey of CUTTING THE CAFF and giving up coffee for (almost) good. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

A "sexy" nurse costume taught me a lot about boundaries and that my inability to say "NO" to something acting related or otherwise is deep rooted in fear. Full transcript of episode - CLICK HERE ! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

Stressing over New Year's Eve Plans and New Year's Resolutions is SO 2021, y'all. I'm over the pressure, I'm over the stress but I'll never ever be over the New Year's Day superstition of eating black eyed peas for health and greens for wealth. Let's tell some tales about how I finally kicked the pressure of having a fabulous New Year's Eve to the curb, told New Year's Resolutions to F-off and how I'm embracing entering into the new year with health, wealth, clarity and 8 hours of sleep under my belt - instead of a raging hangover. FULL TRANSCRIPT LINK AVAILABLE HERE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

What happens when Hollywood or the Holiday Season expect JOLLY from you when all you want to do is relish in your resting bitch face ?!?! It's time to give ourselves a break and a bit of grace from having to put on a jolly face just because you feel like you "have" to. Who's with me?!?! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

For me growing up in a larger body, the whole menswear fashion thing wasn't a choice but a necessity. I dove into my dad's closet because plus size clothing was FAR from cute and FAR from mainstream. Leave it to my dad's swimming trunks, mesh lining and all, to be the Godsend for my thigh rub and 1990's fashion woes. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

There's SO much pressure to stay healthy during the holidays and also SO much pressure to BEAST during the holidays. So, how do we stay healthy - literally and figuratively - y'all ??? These are five things I'm doing from focusing on sleep and hydration to Stephanie Mansour's 50-50 rule to not labeling holiday foods as "bad" and therefore making them the forbidden fruit (cake). Who's with me? READ the TRANSCRIPT at my OFFICIAL WHO'S DAT PHAT GIRL WEBSITE --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

Unwanted hair - the bane of my existence and yet when I was thinking of a theme of an episode to kick off holiday season, hair removal was the first thing that inspired me. Over time, I learned to make something that is super embarrassing and oftentimes taboo to talk about fun entertainment for the whole family! From laser hair removal to waxing in various forms to electrolysis and everything in between (including a weird Slinky looking tool) I have tried it all. Join in on the fun with me to learn what's worked and what hasn't keeping in mind that the most important thing to know is that we are all beautiful regardless of our unwanted hair growth or loss, y'all. FULL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE TO READ AT WWW.BROOKEHOOVER.COM/PODCAST --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support

Here's a healthier take on Thanksgiving, y'all. First off, stop beating ourselves up if we DO overindulge on the food-iest holiday of the year. Second off, I'm sharing some ways I've made some of my Thanksgiving faves healthier over the years such as Crab C'est Si Bon (crab meat and artichoke based) instead of bread stuffing, sweet potatoes candied with only juice and hunks of pineapples and using monk fruit and Stevia in my pies. That way, I can still indulge on Thanksgiving day (AND the days after) with less brain fog, less carb comas, less sugar highs and lows and MORE nutrients. FULL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE TO READ AT WWW.BROOKEHOOVER.COM/PODCAST --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whosdatphatgirl/support