The Big Flop Jenny Craig: Cashing In On Crash Diets with Ronald Young Jr. and Emmy Blotnick | 90
Jun 2, 2025
Join Ronald Young Jr., a vibrant host known for his pop culture insights, and Emmy Blotnick, a talented comedian and writer, as they dissect the rise and fall of Jenny Craig. They explore the humorous yet sobering moments of dieting culture, from deceptive marketing tactics to the ironic fallout of legal troubles. The duo shares engaging anecdotes about celebrity endorsements and financial pitfalls in the weight loss industry while reflecting on the bizarre legacy of fads like Fen-Phen. Prepare for a mix of laughter and insight!
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Jenny Craig's Early Obsession
- Jenny Craig started as Genevieve Marie Goudros who, after struggling to lose weight post-pregnancy, became obsessed with fitness and dieting.
- She was so evangelically active in gyms that managers were impressed by her enthusiasm and focus.
Diet's Key Was Restriction
- Jenny Craig's diet meals were not healthier, just smaller.
- Their main strategy was calorie restriction, typically 1,200 to 1,700 calories daily, much less than the 2,000 to 3,000 many adults require.
Ad Tactics and Weight Ideology
- Jenny Craig's advertising used before-and-after photos with scripted testimonials.
- These ads suggested a 'thin person inside you' waiting to break out, promoting an unrealistic weight loss ideal.
