Host Laura Federico speaks with food and culture writer Alicia Kennedy about her new book, On Eating. They trace how meat has long symbolized masculinity, power, and American abundance, and why we have the ability to create social change through food. They also talk about sibling grief and the role her brother plays in the book.

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On Eating by Alicia Kennedy

Alicia's newsletter

Tomato Tomato

The Cycle Book by Laura Federico

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01:00 — Thinness as purity culture

03:39 — The desire question: Alicia answers as a Scorpio

05:00 — Loving the world while doubting collective will to change

08:09 — "No ethical consumption under capitalism" as a convenient excuse to stop trying

10:32 — Eleven Madison Park and RFK Jr.'s food pyramid

17:19 — Why unlabeled plant-based food works and why labeling it vegan usually doesn't

20:16 — The ruthless omnivore as boys' club entry ticket

22:35 — Women on social media performing hunger while visibly restricting

27:29 — Writing about sibling loss

31:09 — Moving to Puerto Rico and critiquing tourism

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Our music, Hit Her Up, is written by Nakisso Peralta and performed by Chillers.