Steph Tisdell: Fat is a Show About Healing

Comedian Steph Tisdell has returned to standup with her show "Fat," a performance that delves into her personal experiences with body image and the complexities of the wellness industry. Tisdell openly discusses her struggles with yo-yo dieting and disordered eating, recounting a pivotal moment when a doctor advised her to focus on strength rather than weight loss. The show critically examines the wellness industry and its often superficial promises, as well as the societal fatphobia that persists.

Tisdell also leverages her platform to address critical issues faced by First Nations communities, noting disproportionate health outcomes and rising suicide rates. She points out how wellness strategies she encountered were often derived from Indigenous knowledge, highlighting a broader pattern of appropriation. Despite addressing serious themes, Tisdell delivers her message with humor and generosity, even promoting fellow First Nations artists. The show is framed as a triumphant and joyous return, offering a powerful message on health, race, and class.