Ep 2. Tender Belly

In Dietland season 1 episode 2, titled "Tender Belly," we follow the story of Plum Kettle, a ghostwriter for the editor of a popular women's magazine. Plum has struggled with her weight for her entire life and believes that once she reaches a certain number on the scale, her life will truly begin.

The episode begins with Plum visiting a weight loss support group, where she meets a woman named Leeta who is struggling with her own weight loss journey. Plum is skeptical of the group's tactics and beliefs, specifically their use of "Fat Tuesday" parties where they indulge in their favorite foods before starting a new diet.

Meanwhile, we see flashbacks of Plum's interactions with her therapist, Dr. Jacqueline, who encourages Plum to embrace her true self and not let her weight define her. However, Plum struggles to see herself as anything other than a "before" picture in a weight loss ad.

Back at the magazine, Plum is given the task of writing a feature on "FrontGirl" - a new brand that encourages women to flaunt their belly rolls and other supposed "flaws" with confidence. Plum is initially dismissive of the concept, believing that shame is a necessary motivator for weight loss. However, as she researches the brand and interviews its creator, Verena Baptist, she begins to question her own beliefs.

Verena invites Plum to attend a meeting of the "Waist Warriors" - a group of women who have undergone weight loss surgery and are now embracing their new bodies. Plum is uncomfortable with their outspoken confidence and struggles to find common ground with them.

As the episode progresses, we see Plum begin to question the messages that society has been sending her about her body and her worth. Will she be able to break free from these beliefs and embrace herself fully?

Overall, "Tender Belly" is an engaging and thought-provoking episode that tackles weight loss, body positivity, and the harmful messages that women receive about their bodies. With complex characters and nuanced storytelling, Dietland is a show that is not to be missed.