World Cup Joy, Ranch Dressing Fever & America Is NOT the Fattest Nation on Earth

Mac Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reflects on the joy and surprises of covering the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sharing why hosting in North America has exceeded every expectation. From Arlington’s AT&T Stadium hosting more matches than Los Angeles, Miami, and New York to the hilarious reactions of international visitors discovering bottomless chips, free refill fountain drinks, and ranch dressing, this episode captures what makes American food culture uniquely fascinating to the world. Mac also digs into the real data on global obesity rankings, revealing that despite our supersized portions, the United States is not actually the fattest nation on earth. A fun, wide-ranging solo episode perfect for World Cup fans, sports media enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a good deep dive into American culture.
00:00:14 – Welcome & Birthday Reflections
Mac Engel kicks off a brief solo episode, shares a reader’s amusing accusation about his appearance, and previews the episode’s topic.
00:01:06 – The 2026 World Cup Experience
Mac Engel reflects on how the FIFA World Cup has exceeded all expectations and become one of the most enjoyable events he’s covered in his career.
00:02:00 – How North America Won the World Cup Bid
Mac Engel recounts the history of FIFA’s bidding process, the controversial awards to Russia and Qatar, and the long road to North America finally hosting.
00:05:32 – Dallas-Fort Worth’s Unlikely World Cup Success
Mac Engel highlights how Arlington, Texas outpaced iconic tourist cities in total matches hosted thanks to AT&T Stadium.
00:09:08 – Foreign Visitors Discovering America
Mac Engel shares his delight in watching international World Cup fans experience American culture, food portions, and hospitality for the first time.
00:10:54 – Fountain Drinks, Bottomless Chips & Ranch Dressing
Mac Engel recounts the viral moments of foreign travelers encountering oversized sodas, endless Tex-Mex chips, and an obsession with ranch dressing.
00:14:14 – Is America Really the Fattest Nation on Earth?
Mac Engel looks up the global obesity rankings and discovers the surprising truth that the U.S. comes in nineteenth, not first.