Growing up, Brendan Carpenter was a big kid who yearned to see bodies like his represented in media and online: “I didn’t really know where to look or have anyone to turn to on the internet.” When he started running in 2016, Carpenter decided to document his weight-loss journey on social media to help others feel less alone. “It turned out people did care,” he says.
That support offered more than motivation: it gave him purpose. “I wanted to keep working at it as I shared my ups and downs.”
In the nine years since, Carpenter has branched out into all manner of lifestyle content, from mental health and men’s fashion to cooking and cleaning. “I’m a larger-bodied human, so I love to show that we aren’t confined to being pigeonholed into one space,” he says.
Carpenter’s inclusive, feel-good content has led to partnerships with brands like Air Canada (he took his dad to the 2024 Stanley Cup Finals with the airline), and to shooting a running commercial with SportChek. “I always thought you had to be skinny and model-like to be included in something like that, but over the years, I’ve learned that all bodies are runners’ bodies,” he says. “It showed me that anything is possible.”
We asked Brendan about his favourite spots and hidden gems in the city
What is your favourite Toronto restaurant?
Burger Drops (116 Atlantic Ave.). You can’t go wrong.
What’s your favourite café and what do you order?
Quantum (482 Front St. W.). I just order black coffee or an Americano.
Where do you find inspiration?
The waterfront. You can clear your mind if you’re having a bad day, or even if you’re having a good day: just sitting there, people watching and enjoying the scenery. The waves keep on rolling and you gotta too.
What’s your favourite touristy thing to do?
Take pictures of the CN Tower. You just have to.
Watch the video: We asked all the influencers, what’s the comment that lives rent-free in your head?
