A few months back, while scrolling through my TikTok feed, I stumbled upon an engaging video featuring a charming plus-size woman enjoying a glass of wine. She was addressing the glaring absence of body diversity on ABC’s The Bachelor. With a compelling point, she expressed her disappointment at not seeing anyone who resembled her throughout the show’s history, emphasizing that this lack of representation perpetuates the myth that larger women can’t experience love and happiness.
Her message resonated deeply, but it was her warm and inviting personality that prompted me to explore further. This TikTok account belongs to Emma Collins, a body-positive influencer from the Chicago area, and her “fat best friend,” social media coordinator Mia Rivera. Together, they co-host the podcast “Swipefat,” which delves into the intricate realities of dating as a plus-size person.
To be honest, dating is not something I often think about. Having been married for many years and meeting my husband at eighteen, I never had to navigate the dating scene. However, there was something incredibly relatable about Emma and Mia’s TikTok that led me to tune into their podcast. Even without firsthand experience in online dating, I found myself nodding along, as their discussions felt relevant to me as a fat woman, regardless of my current relationship status. I even felt a twinge of envy that they get to share a friendship in person while I can only listen in.
Fortuitously, Emma and Mia took the time to chat with me about their podcast, their journeys, and the challenges of dating in 2021.
On the Inspiration for That Viral TikTok:
Emma stated, “We’re beginning to see more representation in media, but reality TV still lacks fat bodies. How is that an accurate reflection of real life? Seeing ourselves in these fairytales matters. Ultimately, we all crave love and happiness, and when we don’t see ourselves in those scenarios, it becomes challenging to envision that for our own lives.”
On Building Confidence in Fat Bodies:
“I’ve been plus-size my entire life. My background in radio exposed me to public bullying, which deeply affected me,” Mia shared. “After losing weight, I still struggled with self-acceptance. It wasn’t until I focused on loving myself that I truly thrived.”
Emma added, “Confidence didn’t come naturally. I always had faith in my personality, but my body positivity journey began on Instagram. It’s rare to find a fat food blogger willing to showcase their body while enjoying food!”
On Their Preference for the Term “Fat”:
Emma explained, “It’s just as valid as calling someone thin. We’ve labeled it negatively, associating it with laziness or poor health. That needs to change; you can be fat and healthy, just like you can be skinny and unhealthy.”
On the Complexities of Dating While Fat:
“Dating is tough for everyone, but being fat adds an extra layer. We often feel the need to warn potential matches about our bodies, even if we show them in our profiles. We worry about being perceived as catfishing, and the disappointment on a date is tough to handle,” Mia noted.
Advice for Dating in a Fat Body:
- Just Go For It. Mia encourages, “Even if you’re apprehensive, taking that first step is essential. Know your worth; you bring so much more than just your appearance to the table.”
- Create Your Profile with Friends. “Make a fun night out of it with friends while you sip wine,” she suggests.
- Use Honest Photos. “Choose images that reflect how you truly look but also make you feel confident,” Emma advises.
In addition to their podcast, Emma and Mia star in a FreebieTV series called “Dating in the Modern Age,” providing insight into their experiences as plus-size women navigating the dating landscape during a pandemic. They also manage a private Facebook group for plus-size women seeking dating advice and support. “It’s a space where members can share their first date outfits and get feedback,” Emma shares.
Emma Collins and Mia Rivera are remarkable women using their platform to empower others. They remind us, “Being fat doesn’t diminish your right to a fulfilling relationship.”
For more insights on navigating relationships, you can check out our home insemination kit blog post. Additionally, for those interested in community support, visit Intracervical Insemination for valuable resources. If you’re looking for pregnancy-related information, NHS offers excellent guidance on IVF and insemination options.
Search Queries:
- Dating tips for plus-size individuals
- How to build confidence in dating
- Body positivity in dating
- Navigating online dating as a plus-size person
- Support groups for fat women
In summary, the “Swipefat” podcast is a refreshing exploration of love and self-acceptance for plus-size individuals. Emma and Mia create a supportive community through their shared experiences, offering valuable insights and fostering empowerment.