PLANTSTRONG Podcast

At age 49, Rip's guest, Robert Band, had a stent because he had 95% blockage in his carotid. Surgery "fixed" him, but at age 60, he discovered that the blockage was returning. Four years ago, through the recommendation of a Lifestyle Medicine physician, he found the work of the Esselstyn family, including PLANTSTRONG. Today, thanks to a radical change in his diet and lifestyle, he now has 0% blockage and lives a vibrant, active life in Colorado. In this live session with Rip, we'll learn a thing or two from Robert's personal "Plantstrong Playbook." (and why he loves salsa dancing!)Watch the Original Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Plant-based physician, Dr. Laurie Marbas, joins Rip LIVE to answer your health questions! Dr. Marbas is a renowned board-certified Lifestyle and Family Medicine physician. She is licensed to practice in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Questions and highlights from this Q&A include:Is it bad to combine berries with bananas?Should we wait to shower for optimum vitamin D absorption?Is there anything that can help with COPD?Is vital wheat gluten (used to make seitan) too processed? How can I get more protein and collagen after surgery?What are your thoughts on plant sterols to get cholesterol down?Can you address hair loss on a transition to whole food, plant-based?Recommendations for osteoporosis? Thoughts on coffee and green tea? Is it best to take B-12 with or without food?Does intermittent fasting with whole-food plant-based eating help with weight loss? Do all sugars affect your body in the same way? (stevia, maple syrup, etc.)Is a plant-based diet making my legs hurt? What is the best way to get rid of visceral fat?With the weather starting to change, what dishes are you looking forward to?Thoughts on supplementing EPA and DHA? Any thoughts on what can help with tinnitus? Does roasting sweet potatoes affect their nutrition?What are the benefits of wearing continuous glucose monitors (if you’re not diabetic)?Watch the Original Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode of the PLANTSTRONG Podcast, Rip Esselstyn speaks with Dr. Chris Miller, a former emergency room physician who shares her journey with autoimmune disease and her commitment to a whole food plant-based diet.Imagine being a young and rising emergency room physician when you start to notice alarming changes in your own body- including chest pains and stiff, painful joints. At the age of 36, Dr. Chris Miller started experiencing these and other symptoms and her subsequent bloodwork lit up with many autoimmune markers, including systemic lupus. Dr. Miller discusses the challenges she faced and why some individuals may not experience immediate improvement on a plant-based diet. She emphasizes the importance of individualizing the diet and eliminating pro-inflammatory foods. Dr. Miller also highlights the role of stress management, mind-body work, and incorporating micronutrient-rich foods like leafy greens and sprouts. She provides insights into gut health and the importance of addressing triggers and making necessary changes to heal the gut.As challenging and frustrating as it was, Dr. Miller played the long game with her health. She knew that a whole food plant-based diet was the best path, but it took time to figure out what worked best for her and her healing journey certainly wasn't linear.Today, she practices telemedicine where she is well equipped to uncover the many nuances of autoimmune disease and get her patients on their own paths back to health. As she says, "There is hope! Even though that path may not be easy, it’s always worth it."Watch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Dr. Michael Greger is back with a barnburner of a new book, How Not to Age: The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older. None of us loves the idea of feeling older, but it doesn’t mean getting sicker. As we say here at PLANTSTRONG, we do have a powerful influence on our aging process with what we eat – and the 13,000 studies that Dr. Greger cites in his new book show us that, once again, it’s plants for the win! Today, Dr. Greger shares some of this research and a slew of great advice to improve your longevity and healthspan, and keep you feeling vibrant for years to come.Dr. Greger's book covers multiple strategies for slowing the aging process and offers practical advice based on the overwhelming evidence and research. With so much misinformation in the anti-aging industry, his goal is to separate fact from farce and provide readers with reliable information. Rip and Dr. Greger discuss the details of preserving various aspects of our health, including bones, teeth, circulation, hair, vision, immune function, and more. They also touch on Dr. Greger’s Anti-Aging 8 -foods like nuts, greens, and berries that can improve your longevity. As he says, this new book will not only add years to your life, but life to your years.

We hear the phrase, “metabolic health” a lot, but do we really know what that means? And, more importantly, how much do we understand the massive impact that metabolic health has on literally every system of our body?Today, we explore that line of thinking with Dr. Casey Means.Casey was trained as an ear, nose, and throat surgeon, but in recent years, she has become a self-proclaimed “Food as Medicine” evangelist. Why would she make such a drastic change in a successful budding career? Well, as you’ll hear today, Dr. Means (like most doctors) pursued medicine in order to help people, but started realizing that most illnesses - even those she was treating as an ENT surgeon– came back to a person’s level of inflammation and poor metabolic health. So, as a surgeon, she was playing the proverbial “whack-a-mole” with the problems but never identifying the root causation. Now, she’s on a mission to create a healthier world through her company, LEVELS Health - a continuous glucose monitor company - along with her upcoming book, Good Energy.Today, we focus our conversation on exactly what metabolic health really means, as well as the Nine Elements of Metabolic Health. Casey also discusses the importance of metabolic health as it relates to exercise and sexual health.About Casey Means, MD Casey Means, MD is a Stanford-trained physician and Chief Medical Officer and Co-founder of metabolic health company Levels. Her mission is to maximize human potential and reverse the epidemic of preventable chronic disease by empowering individuals with tech-enabled tools that can inform smart, personalized, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle choices. Dr. Means’s perspective has been recently featured in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, The New Yorker, Men's Health, Women's Health, and more.Episode ResourcesWatch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyDr. Casey Means InstagramLevels Health

Our stress levels are high and food is in abundance during the holidays! How can you possibly stay on track with the many temptations? Join Rip and health coach Cyd Notter as they discuss four ways to stay on track during the holiday season. The key to staying motivated just might be right between your ears!Watch the Original Broadcast on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Grief is an interesting thing, isn’t it? Sometimes a loss is overwhelming and debilitating. Other times, grief spurs us into action and advocacy.That’s the story of Maxime Sigouin.After Maxime's fiancée passed away from breast cancer seven years ago, he made it his mission to help others "disease-proof" their bodies with a whole foods, plant-based diet and consistent training. The transformations of his Fit Vegan clients are nothing short of inspirational. "Taking imperfect action," he says, "is better than no action at all." Today, he shares his tips for daily success in business and life.Episode WebpageWatch on YouTubeFit Vegan Coaching WebsiteLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Currently there are 37 million people in the United States with diabetes and another 96 million Americans who are currently pre-diabetic - and the vast majority of those people aren’t even aware of it. About 70% of those cases of pre-diabetes will turn into diabetes unless the progression of the disease has stopped.Unfortunately, the U.S. healthcare system isn’t designed to prevent and reverse until it’s too late, and THIS is the impetus for today’s discussion.We’re in need of a Type 2 Diabetes Revolution and leading that charge are the authors who wrote the book with the same title- Jose Tejero and Diana Licalzi, MS, RD, CDES. As you’ll hear today, Diana, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, along with Exercise Physiologist, Jose Tejero, want to help you achieve non-diabetic blood sugar levels while enjoying carbohydrates (yes, carbs), along with copious amounts of other delicious, plant foods.Their book and philosophy focus on the reversal of insulin resistance - which is the root cause of high blood sugar and their approach and meal plans have successfully helped individuals reduce their A1c and fasting blood sugar, lower their need for medications, and gain a deep understanding of health and nutrition.Even if you don’t have high blood sugar, prediabetes, or type 2 diabetes, perhaps you have a loved one who does and may find it useful for the deep information dive and decadent recipes. We owe it to ourselves and our society to join this revolution together. About the AuthorsDiana Licalzi, MS, RD, CDCES, is a nationally-recognized Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and holds her Master's in Nutrition Science & Policy. In 2019, Diana co-founded Reversing T2D, a digital health platform that helps individuals reverse, manage, and prevent pre- and type 2 diabetes. Reversing T2D uses an integrative approach to tackle diabetes focusing on plant-based nutrition, exercise, and mindset. Diana's previous books include Drinking for Two and Mocktail Party.Jose Tejero is an exercise physiologist with a degree in Exercise Science and is the co-founder of Reversing T2D. He has worked alongside nutrition experts and plant-based physicians who treat chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes. He observed the positive impact that plant-based diets had on the health of their patients and decided that he would dedicate his career to promoting the benefits of this diet. Jose is passionate about guiding people on the path of developing a healthy lifestyle.Episode ResourcesWatch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageVisit the Type 2 Diabetes Revolution websiteOrder The Type 2 Diabetes Revolution BookBerry Almond Rip's Big Bowl is Back! Cornbread is Back! Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Darin Olien is the New York Times best-selling author of SuperLife and host with Zac Efron of the hit Netflix series “Down to Earth,” but it’s his most recent work that may leave the biggest impact.In his latest book, Fatal Conveniences, Olien explores some of the toxic products and harmful habits that are making us sick―and provides alternatives that are simple, non-toxic, and life-enhancing.He calls them “fatal conveniences” because so many of these things are so ingrained in our daily lives - our toothpaste and deodorant, sunscreen, laundry detergent, cosmetics, and so much more. Darin sheds light on the fact that so many of these products are smothered in toxic chemicals, causing our planet and our bodies harm with conditions like chemical sensitivities, allergies, and autoimmune disorders.Listen with an open mind and come away with ideas and alternatives to make your own lives healthier and less toxic. As Darin says today, “The more we awaken to making better choices, the more we can have agency to make change. Now that you know, you can do something about it.” About Darin OlienDarin Olien is co-host with Zac Efron on the widely popular Netflix docu-series called “Down to Earth with Zac Efron” and host of the top 20 ranked podcast The Darin Olien Show.Darin is also a highly recognized exotic superfoods hunter, supplement formulator, and author of the book, “SuperLife: The Five Fixes that Will Keep You Healthy, fit, and Eternally Awesome.” Darin worked with fitness-company Beachbody to formulate one of the top superfoods shakes in the USA a whole-food supplement called, “Shakeology”, as well as the plant based, “Ultimate Reset 21-day” detoxification program. Darin is one of the founders of Barukas™, a new super nut from the Savannah “Cerrado” of Brazil. Through sustainable business practices, the company is committed to supporting this important biome by planting 20 million Baruzeita trees. Darin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Physiology/Nutrition and a Masters in Psychology. Learn more about Darin HERE.Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyBerry Almond Rip's Big Bowl is Back! Cornbread is Back! Watch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageDarin Olien WebsiteOrder Fatal Conveniences

If you've followed the PLANTSTRONG Podcast, no doubt you're familiar with Robby Barbaro, one of the founders of Mastering Diabetes and now, an official IRONMAN triathlon finisher!If you don’t know, an IRONMAN is a one-day triathlon where you swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and then run a marathon! Crazy, right?! It's even more awesome since Robby did it as a plant-based, Type 1 diabetic.In this episode, Rip and Robby talk about how he trained, fueled, and monitored his glucose during training and racing. They also talk about his mindset and training process, as he essentially started from ground zero as a triathlete. As Robby says, you can always become a happier and better version of yourself and that’s exactly what he did. He found an area in his life he wasn’t happy with, and sought to make big changes. We invite all of you to do it too, no matter what your goals happen to be. (and believe me, it doesn’t have to be an IRONMAN!) About Robby BarbaroRobby Barbaro, MPH graduated from the University of Florida and is the cofounder of Mastering Diabetes. He worked at Forks Over Knives for six years before turning his attention in 2016 to coaching people with diabetes full-time.Robby was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12 and has been living this lifestyle since 2006. In that time, while eating pounds of fruit every day, his HbA1c value has never exceeded 6.4%, and his blood glucose has been stable and easy to manage.He is the co-host of the annual Mastering Diabetes Online Summit, a featured speaker at Whole Foods Global Headquarters, VegFest LA, Plant-Stock, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, and has been featured on Forks Over Knives, Healthline, Medical Medium, Vice, Thrive Magazine, Diet Fiction, Thrive Global, BestLife and the wildly popular podcasts Plant Proof and Nutrition Rounds, and is the author of the book Mastering Diabetes with Cyrus Khambatta, PhD.Watch the Episode on YouTubeMastering Diabetes WebsiteCornbread is Back! Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Kate Galli is an Australian-based health coach, personal trainer, podcaster, and author. Today, she shares her journey to a plant-based lifestyle and discusses her book, The Plant Positive Journal, which focuses on self-care and creating lasting positive habit change. In her early days as a vegetarian coach and trainer in the “bro gym culture,” Kate admits that she was focused heavily on macros and protein, sometimes eating up to 20 egg whites a day. After switching completely to a whole-foods, plant-based diet, she is now happier, healthier, and more well-rounded in her nutrition and training, focusing instead on micronutrients, fiber, and plenty of fruits, vegetables, and legumes.Today, she and Rip emphasize the importance of leading with love instead of anger and she shares her “ABC” process for transitioning to a more positive mindset:AwarenessBrainstorm Commitment They also talk through her “Seven-Step Guide to Cultivating Self-Care in a Vegan, Plant-based Lifestyle,” which includes prioritizing positive self-talk, aligning choices with values, committing to healthy habits, setting boundaries and prioritizing time with loved ones, as well as the benefits of a digital detox and having realistic expectations of ourselves and others. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into self-care, mindset, and nutrition in a plant-based lifestyle, and encourages listeners to embrace compassion and positivity in their journey.About Kate GalliKate is qualified as a Master Personal Trainer, Life Coach, NLP Practitioner and has also completed the eCornell Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate program. Kate first got into fitness as a way to transform her body and confidence. She has spent 17 years helping thousands of individuals sculpt a body and life they love and over the past seven years has focused on Vegan Health Coaching as one of the most powerful ways to advocate for animals is to be fit, strong, and healthy.Her vision: To create a fit, strong, happy, healthy, compassionate vegan world.On an actionable level, Kate's intention is: to help you create the Mindset that makes your best eating and exercising choices simple and sustainable.Episode ResourcesLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyWatch the Episode on YouTubehttps://strongbodygreenplanet.com/ - Kate’s WebsiteOrder your copy of the Plant Positive Journal Follow The Healthification Podcast

Nisha Vora was raised in a traditional vegetarian Indian household, went to undergrad at Berkeley, Harvard Law School, and then worked as a corporate lawyer for a few years in New York City.It didn’t take long for her to realize that this was NOT what she wanted to do because, even as a young girl, Nisha loved food and cooking. She was the girl who would watch cooking shows on TV and take cooking classes for fun. And, as a corporate lawyer, she definitely didn’t have time for cooking and she wasn’t having any fun.So, in 2016, after binge-watching food documentaries all weekend long, Nisha became fully plant-based and started a food blog side hustle – rainbowplantlfe.com. That “side” hustle has now become a full-time career as she teaches her one million YouTube subscribers how to be better cooks and consume fewer animals. In 2019, she released her first book, The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook: Wholesome Indulgent Plant-Based Recipes and that’s what we dive into today. People are so intimidated by this wildly popular kitchen tool and she breaks it down, teaches us how to start simple, and then shows us the magic you can create with the Instant Pot. Rip and Nisha discuss:Her parent’s reaction when she told them she was leaving her law career to become a food bloggerTransitioning from Instagram to her own food blogHer personal journey from vegetarianism to veganismExploring the versatility of the Instant Pot and why she wanted to write this bookHow to start with the basics of Instant Pot cookingHer unique approach to cookingA sample of delicious recipes from the book including breakfasts, veggies, soups/curries, and comfort foodsLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyWatch the Episode on YouTubeNisha’s YouTube ChannelNisha’s Website - RainbowPlantLife.com

In 2006, young entrepreneur, Daniel Staackmann, took out a home equity line of credit and started Upton’s Naturals in his hometown of Chicago. He placed his money on seitan and in his 17 years of business, that gamble has clearly paid off. Upton’s Naturals is the #1 selling brand of seitan in the United States and their products are sold in thousands of stores throughout the United States and beyond. Dan, a 30-year ethical vegan, prides himself on being the sole proprietor of his company and his slow growth model has allowed him to avoid so many of the landmines and pitfalls of the food industry as a whole. Today, he and Rip share the many intricacies of running a food line from labeling, brand name, sourcing ingredients, getting placement on shelves, growth strategies, and so much more. It’s an insightful peek behind the curtain on the food industry and the amount of work and passion it takes to bring delicious food from concept to shelves everywhere! Rip and Dan discuss:The humble (and personal) beginnings of Upton’s Naturals in 2006 and Dan’s “Do It Yourself” approach to entrepreneurshipHow he came up with the unique company nameWhy he chose seitan as his main product?His biggest wins as a young entrepreneurHow his “slow growth” model has benefitted his business and his personalityThe nutritional value of meat alternatives and why Upton’s branched out into soups, jackfruit, and fava as brand extensionsHow remaining sole proprietor has allowed him to maintain control and avoid the "minefields" of the food industry.His vision for the future of Uptons and other expansionsLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyWatch the Episode on YouTubeFollow Upton’s Naturals on Instagram

Twelve years ago, on the tail of the success of his book The Engine 2 Diet, Rip visited small-town America - Mercersburg, Pennsylvania - with the good news about plants. Dr. Elizabeth George, a local doctor in Mercersburg, was also on a mission to help the residents of her small dairyland town make healthier food and lifestyle choices. She heard about Engine 2 and invited Rip to come to town and speak at restaurants, churches, and even the local high school - challenging them to the Engine 2 28-Day Challenge.Not surprisingly, he was met with mixed reactions and a healthy dose of farm-raised skepticism.For the people who took part, the results were explosive. Luckily, Rip brought along a film crew to capture it all. And…last year, this same crew followed up with Dr. Liz and some of those residents to see how they were doing 12 years later. The result is this new film, PLANTSTRONG Legacy: 12 Years of Wellness.So, today, we bring you a wonderful interview with Dr. Liz George and the filmmaker, Jeff Nelson, as we celebrate the release of this movie and catch up on those days when we were driving around Mercersburg spreading the good news about plants!Watch the episode on YouTubeWatch the FilmEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

The news is out and the headlines are clear - drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy DO help people lose weight and they have become "the next big thing" for weight loss.But, questions remain: How do they work? What long-term impacts will these have on health? Are they really helping the underlying cause of obesity and disease? Is it enough just to lose the weight? Will these drugs actually improve our health in the same way that a whole food plant-based diet can?Rip welcomes evolutionary psychologist, Dr. Doug Lisle, back to the podcast to discuss his thoughts on these new weight loss drugs and why they may or may not be a panacea for improved health. They discuss:The correlation between obesity and disease processesThe underlying cause of obesityPros and Cons of weight loss drugsWhy people struggle to change their behavior even when they know betterThe importance of making your environment look like your goalsListener Question: recovering from medical cannabis withdrawalListener Question: Can a whole food plant-based diet cure schizophrenia?Dr. Doug's thoughts on screen time and social media influenceLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyWatch the original episode on YouTubeArticle in NY Times by Gina Kolata referenced in episode

Rip welcomes Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, “The Joyful Vegan,” to the PLANTSTRONG Podcast for a long overdue celebration of the massive growth and interest in all things plant-based - especially in the 15-20 years. An empath and advocate her whole life, Patrick-Goudreau, first began her life’s purpose and awakening at age 19 after reading John Robbins’ Diet for a New America and then later, Slaughterhouse: The Shocking Story of Greed, Neglect, and Inhumane Treatment Inside the U.S. Meat Industry by investigative journalist Gail Eisnitz. This awakening led to her life’s work, which now includes multiple books, podcasts, radio/TV appearances, cooking classes, and group vegan trips around the world. She and Rip discuss:Her Awareness, Sensitivity, and Compassion toward animal suffering as a young girlFinding a Balance in Activism and Emotional Well-beingBeing a Joyful Vegan: Finding Wonder and Gratitude in VeganismStruggles and Difficulties of Coming Out as Vegan to FamilyDeveloping Empathic Communication SkillsManaging Emotions and Compassion in Difficult InteractionsThe Power of Openness, Vulnerability, and Compassion in ConversationsFinding a Balance between Belonging vs. Staying True to ValuesOvercoming Challenges in Relationships with Different DietsEffective Advocacy and Communication in Relationships“Eating the Rainbow” and Exploring Different Phytochemicals and Their ColorsExploring Culinary Delights in France and Italy with her Joyful Vegan TripsHer Passion for History and What it Can Teach Us About the Present If you’re a fan of Colleen’s, then, of course, you’ll love this episode. If you’re not familiar with Colleen and her work, prepare to be impacted by her deep, deep compassion and empathy for all of life, and especially how to help others in their own transitions. Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, affectionately known as the joyful vegan, is a recognized expert and thought leader on the culinary, social, ethical, and practical aspects of living compassionately and healthfully. A long-time animal advocate and vegan, Patrick-Goudreau is a bestselling author of seven books, an acclaimed speaker, producer of one of the longest-running podcasts, a regular contributor to National Public Radio, and the host of luxury vegan trips around the world. She can be found at JoyfulVegan.com.Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

In the ever-changing world of “celebrity culture," it's hard to find someone so resolute about their activism as Moby. He's had undeniable staying power on the music scene, but it’s his vegan activism that has left the most lasting impression.Moby went vegan in 1987 and remains an ardent supporter of animal rights, climate change advocacy, and humanitarian aid. He is also the author of several books, including memoirs and vegan cookbooks. Moby, without question, is one of the most prolific and thoughtful thinkers on the planet and he and his co-host Lindsay Hicks recently started The Moby Pod to provide even more insight into their advocacy work.Lindsay Hicks, like her pal Moby, is also an environmentalist and sustainability expert. On the Moby Pod, they discuss a wide range of topics with humor and humility, providing their unique perspectives on the entertainment industry, animal activism, and beyond. In fact, recent episodes have featured everything from guest, Dan Buettner, to writing songs…and even a little paranormal chat! Episode WebpageView the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

If you believe in a divine purpose, then get ready for an important show. The Daniel Fast is a scripture-based program that chronicles the story of Daniel from the Old Testament who “refused to eat the King’s Diet” of rich and indulgent food. Instead, in order to stay strong in body and mind, he subsisted and thrived on vegetables and water - or what we may refer to these days as a whole food, plant-based diet. Today, modern-day Daniel Fasts are conducted all over the world and that’s what brought my two guests together.Gigi Carter and Sersie Blue know the best way to live out their divine purpose with excellence is to be healthy and also help others who are on their own journeys.Their first book, Daniel Fast - Why You Should Only Do It Once hits bookshelves everywhere on September 8th, and we're lucky enough to hear how they were called to eat the foods that serve their divine purpose - plants, of course!Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotifyHealthy for My Purpose - Learn More About Gigi and SersieView the Episode on YouTube

After this interview, I promise you’ll want to load up the family and head east to Providence, Rhode Island! Over eight years ago now, Kim Anderson and her family watched “Forks Over Knives” and “Cowspiracy” and felt an IMMEDIATE responsibility to educate others and inspire change. They hosted movie nights and dinners where hundreds would come to enjoy a delicious plant-based meal, but the refrain they kept hearing was, “It’s a shame I can’t eat my values and my health when I go out to eat.” There just weren’t many plant-based options.That changed when Kim and her family opened Plant City, the world’s first plant-based food hall and marketplace in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island. Packed with multiple restaurants (including Mexican, sushi, Italian, and burgers), Plant City also features a bakery, coffee shop, and a vast community space packed with monthly educational programs and cooking classes.Today, she and Rip discuss:The genesis and inspiration behind Plant CityHer personal journey to plants, inspired by her son How this experienced entrepreneur with no restaurant experience brought her vision to life with internationally acclaimed chef, Matthew KenneyThe unique environment and worldly flavors they bring in each of the restaurantsTransformations of guests who visit since most are not plant-basedHow Plant-City, which opened in the fall of 2019, adapted the business to survive the pandemicHow Kim continues to educate students at area universities about the impact of climate change, animal agriculture, and sustainabilityKim and her family’s mission is to invest in companies for a more sustainable and humane future and you’ll hear that unrelenting passion in today’s conversation. She was inspired by "The Game Changers," but she, too, is a true game changer. Article on Kim in Rhode Island Monthly MagazineLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Rip welcomes author and health coach, Janet Verney, to the PLANTSTRONG Podcast. For 40 years, Janet suffered from an undiagnosed illness that affected her lungs and gut, leading to years of medical treatments, antibiotics, and even a cumbersome breathing machine. In 2013, she started focusing on optimizing her health through lifestyle changes and a whole foods, plant-based diet and it was only then that her real healing began. As she says in the episode, she now has control over her illness. It no longer controls her. Today, she is affectionately referred to as the "plant-based princess of positivity" by friends and clients.As a coach, she helps others "unearth" their dis-ease to get to the root cause of their issues. How?* She helps you "weed" out the excuses and roadblocks * She teaches you to "nourish" your body with nutrition, self-care, and doing the things you love * If you weed and nourish, you will "bloom" into the person you were always meant to beHer books Roots2Wellness and her new cookbook Health'd Up are available at https://janetverney.com/ Watch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Not long ago, we received an email that stopped us in our tracks. It was a letter of thanks written to Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., but the email also told a harrowing surgery story that was so compelling, we just had to share it with you. And, it’s actually the first time Rip and his Father have interviewed a patient together on the PLANTSTRONG Podcast. Rip's guest, Mike Melloh, was seemingly doing everything right. He exercised regularly, ate a “healthy” diet, and even booked appointments for preventative tests to ensure he was a picture of health, as he always believed. He was in for the surprise of his life when test results came back showing significant blockage. What happened next in the operating room is something no one could predict; however, it's given Mike a whole new appreciation for life and the power of whole food, plant-based nutrition.His story and the commentary and education that Dr. Esselstyn provide are so powerful. We hope you'll listen and share because it just may save a life. Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Rip welcomes Anthony Masiello, co-founder and CEO of Love Life Telehealth, who shares his personal transformation and innovative approach to healthcare access to whole food plant-based physicians. Anthony recalls his own struggle with weight issues from a young age, trying various methods to lose weight. Despite his active lifestyle, his weight continued to fluctuate, leading him to question how weight gain occurs and the role of genetics and environment in this process. After sharing his own personal journey, Anthony delves into the creation of Love Life Telehealth, a platform that aims to revolutionize healthcare by providing comprehensive support through coaching, education, and community. He explains the concept of telemedicine and how Love Life Telehealth connects patients with doctors across different states, offering lifestyle medicine consultations. The ultimate goal of Love Life Telehealth is to change the way healthcare is practiced, prioritizing a lifestyle-first approach and using medicine only when necessary. The team of ten doctors work collaboratively with patients to understand their complete profile and help them achieve their goals. Anthony describes the development of other programs and offerings, such as a monthly payment model and a year-long program, all designed to help people not just live life, but love life and be passionate about enjoying it. About Anthony Masiello Anthony has been working in healthcare for more than 25 years. His professional career started in the 90s at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) doing bioinformatics for the Human Genome Project. He later shifted into Research and Development at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, where he was interested in contributing more directly to the development of new disease therapies. After transforming his own health, and learning there is a better way, he shifted once again and is now 100% focused on providing access to medical services centered on the prevention and reversal of disease utilizing lifestyle medicine rooted in whole food plant-based nutrition. Anthony came to a plant-based lifestyle himself after being denied a 20-year term life insurance policy at age 33. He was morbidly obese, weighing more than 360 pounds, medicated for high blood pressure, and suffering from psoriasis, eczema, migraine headaches, and sleep apnea. Through the transition to a whole food plant-based diet and healthy lifestyle, Anthony lost 160 lbs. and reversed all of these conditions. He has maintained that weight loss, optimal health, and a greatly improved quality of life for more than 15 years and counting. Anthony’s personal health transformation has been featured on the Megyn Kelly Today show, on PBS, in The Huffington Post, in the bestselling book Eat to Live, and by Forks Over Knives, Runners World, and numerous magazines, websites, radio shows, podcasts, and articles. Anthony was Co-founder and CEO of Plant Based TeleHealth, a national lifestyle telemedicine service focused on the prevention and reversal of disease with lifestyle medicine and whole food plant-based nutrition. In 2022, Plant-Based TeleHealth was acquired by Love.Life, a national network of wellness hubs that is leading the convergence of food, medicine, and wellness for a one-stop transformative health experience. Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Love.Life Telehealth Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cornbread, teas, stews, pancakes cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

In April 2023, we first aired this special Facebook Live Friday episode with Trucker Steve. Steve lives on the road as a semi-truck driver. As you can imagine, this is NOT an easy life, especially when you’re trying to keep yourself healthy. Long days in the truck, gas stations, truck stop food, lonely stretches for days on end…you get the point. Well, after hitting over 500 pounds, Steve committed to a whole food, plant-based diet and, at the time of this recording, had lost almost 200 lbs! How does he do it? What are his favorite on-the-go meals? What does he always have stocked in his truck cooler? Steve shares some of his tips from the road that, no doubt, will help anyone who does a fair amount of traveling. Episode Resources Watch the Original Episode on YouTube Episode Webpage Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our teas, stews, pancakes cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Chef Vegan Vicki is a proud Cleveland native who, in 2008, was diagnosed with non-smoking lung cancer. After surgery, she started researching ways to get healthy and avoid a recurrence of this or any form of cancer. No surprise, her homework led her to a whole foods, plant-based diet and she ended up losing almost 100 lbs! This transformation changed everything in her life and she went from working in the insurance industry to becoming an iconic chef. In this inspiring conversation, she shared how she started her cooking journey at the Cleveland Veg Fest and Taste of Black Cleveland events, offering mouthwatering vegan soul food that no one else was making at the time. As you can imagine, she faced initial resistance and skepticism towards vegan food; however, she persisted, gained recognition, and eventually became the first vegan to be in a major sports arena at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland! Today, as founder of Koncious Kuisine, she’s also a private vegan chef to several families and members of the NBA and NFL, and continues to run pop-ups in the arena and all over the Cleveland area. Episode Highlights 10:10 Her surprising diagnosis and Medical journey in 2008 15:00 How she went from the Queen of Longhorn Steakhouse to a plant-based diet, thanks to a stranger in a grocery store 22:15 From insurance to iconic chef?! 35:00 From initial skepticism and reluctance, to all-out stardom with her vegan soul food 38:00 Where does she find her inspiration and what's it like cooking for the stars? 41:36 Vicki’s favorite mouth-watering sandwich 45:00 More rapid fire questions with Vicki - her best scrambled egg substitute, sweet potato pie, risotto and more 50:00 Vegan Vicki’s favorite cookware Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Follow Vegan Vicki on Instagram - @koncious_kuisine Article on Vegan Vicki in VegNews Koncious Kuisine Website Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our teas, stews, pancakes cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Today, we dive deep into the world of fast food ingredients and their impact on health. Our guest for today is Mel Weinstein, a former food chemist who has spent decades studying industrial foods and additives. Mel and Rip discuss a variety of eye-opening topics related to fast food ingredients, how they end up in our food system, and the impacts they have on our health. You'll learn about: Mel’s personal journey to food chemistry, vegetarianism, and eventually veganism All cornfields are not the same! How field corn, or dent corn, differs from the sweet corn we buy at grocery stores. How this dent corn is grown and processed to create various products and components like starch, oil, protein, and fiber. The government's role in regulating the food industry and how this later influenced the creation of dietary guidelines. What the food manufacturing companies did to resist these recommendations and drastically alter the food industry (and our health). The rise of fat-free products loaded with sugar and the unintended consequences of Olestra, an indigestible fat-like substance, as a response to the government's push to reduce fat in foods. Why it’s difficult for consumers to know what they are eating when dining out in restaurants. The ridiculous amount of ingredients found in common meals at places like Taco Bell, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Pizza Hut. Mel’s Processed Food Index (PFI) and what makes something lightly processed vs. extremely processed, or industrialized. What are some of these “Ingredients” commonly found in food products, such as azodicarbonamide, natural flavors, hydrogenated soybean oil, methylcellulose, pea protein isolates, and soy protein isolates, and do they get the “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” from Mel? What about carrageenan, alternatives like xanthan gum and enzymes, wheat gluten, and the industrialization of citric acid? Should we "fear our food?!" We know fast food is, for the most part, crap, but what we didn’t realize is just how bad some of it really is. Not surprisingly, the food industry doesn’t want us to know what’s really in that fried chicken or juicy burger, but thanks to Mel we’re inspired and educated to drive right on past that drive-thru. Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Order Fast Food Ingredients Revealed Food Labels Revealed Podcast To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all-new pancake and waffle mixes, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, and delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode About Mel Weinstein Mel Weinstein is a retired chemist living in Central Illinois. In his professional career, he taught chemistry for 10 years at the community college level, worked as an analytical chemist for over 20 years in a research center for a multinational food ingredients company, and studied food science at the graduate level. Since his early 20's, he has had a fascination with the constituents of industrial foods, exploring the purpose of additives and their impact on health. In 2016, he started an online podcast called "Food Labels Revealed" to share with consumers his knowledge of food ingredients, their history, and potential problems associated with diets high in hyper-processed foods. In studying the myriad additives found in commercial foods, he eventually posed the question, "Do fast foods contain the same additives as found in packaged foods on grocery store shelves?" To answer this question, he researched menu items in various fast-food restaurants. The results of the research led to the writing of this book, Fast Food Ingredients Revealed. Mr. Weinstein sincerely hopes that in reading this book consumers will gain a better understanding of what they are eating when they are lured into fast food restaurants promising fantastic smells, tastes, and textures invented by very creative food scientists and engineers.

Jackie Akerberg is the creator of Jackfruitful Kitchen, a popular food blog devoted to simple, healthy, and delicious plant-based meals using minimally processed ingredients. She's also the author of, The Clean Vegan Cookbook, which features over 60 whole-food, plant-based recipes that will satisfy every craving. (And when you see the gigantic burger on the cover of her book, you’ll see what we mean.) Jackie grew up in a healthy household and learned to appreciate fresh food and cooking at a young age because her parents owned a successful catering company. Never one for meat, she cut out eggs and dairy and turned fully to plants as a solution to her own health and digestion problems. Today, she creates content to show that clean vegan food can be nutritious, delicious, and full of flavor. Today, she and Rip dig into several of her recipes and discuss: Growing up in Iowa with homemade meals from her parents Why she decided to cut out all animal products The void she saw in the cookbook space and how “The Clean Vegan Cookbook” came to be How she enhances her gluten-free recipes with cauliflower rice, zucchini, and other vegetables The wonders of jackfruit as a “meat replacement” Using tofu in pancakes?! How she impresses the biggest meat lovers with her recipes including chilis, burgers, pastas, tacos, and more. I feel like sometimes people think clean or healthy vegan eating has to be restrictive or flavorless or doesn't have that satisfying, umami, texture or taste or flavor. And I wanted to show people that it can." About Jackie Akerberg Jackfruitful Kitchen provides delicious, easy-to-follow, vegan and gluten-free recipes to help make healthy cooking and meal planning a breeze. These balanced plant-based recipes will nourish your body and help you look and feel your very best. Jackfruitful Kitchen recipes are crafted with pure whole foods and organic ingredients that are good for you and good for the planet. The name “jackfruitful kitchen” was inspired by four different parts: 1. My first name (Jackie) 2. One of my favorite ingredients for vegan cooking (Jackfruit) 3. The ability to be full and satisfied by eating clean, whole, plant-based food 4. The goal to live a more fruitful life. Episode Resources Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Order The Clean Vegan Cookbook Jackfuitful.com To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all-new pancake and waffle mixes, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, and delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

This week, we're busting down the barriers to habit change, especially your food and lifestyle habits. Cyd Notter has been a vegetarian since 1991, but it wasn’t until 1999 when she turned fully to a whole food, plant-based diet, that her life and career took off. She's been skyrocketing on plants ever since. Today, she’s 67 years old and thriving as a busy health and nutrition coach, writer, and speaker. She holds just about every plant-based certification on the planet and works each day to educate and inspire others - what a true calling! Because Cyd works a lot with people who are just learning the “how-tos” of a whole food, plant-based, oil-free lifestyle, she and Rip center their discussion around some of the biggest barriers to making this change. They address: Blind or willful ignorance Fear of change - fear of failure, out of your comfort zone, changes in your routine Avoidance of short-term pain and inconvenience Ingrained habits that are hard to break False perceptions about being plant-based Denial of health issues or insistence that a change isn’t necessary Pride (or rebellion) Family and social pressure Emotional eating Spiritual attack on our values Every one of these is important to get out on the table and discuss because, no matter what change you’re trying to make, you will run up against these and other obstacles. The biggest question is how you’ll respond and Cyd coaches you (and her clients) through every difficult scenario to ensure that you are equipped to make the healthiest possible choice. About Cyd Notter Cyd Notter is a Center for Nutrition Studies PBNC Certified Professional, a past newspaper columnist, and an instructor for several dietary therapy courses, including The Starch Solution, Food Over Medicine, and Women’s Health. She’s also the author of the award-winning book, The “Plan A” Diet: Combining Whole Food, Plant Based Nutrition with the Timeless Wisdom of Scripture. Cyd offers a variety of health and cooking classes, hosts a monthly “Inflammation Support Group” for PBNSG.org, provides nutritional coaching on both individual and corporate levels, speaks to local groups, and has worked with school district employees and a hospital’s fitness center. Cyd also served as a Certified Health Educator for many years for Wellness Forum Health. Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Learn more about The Plan A Diet Cyd Notter’s Website - https://cydnotter.com/ To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all-new pancake and waffle mixes, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, and delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Drs. Matthew Lederman and Alona Pulde pioneered the medical program that was used in the film, Forks Over Knives, and after the popularity of that groundbreaking film, they went on to co-author multiple books including The Forks Over Knives Plan, The Forks Over Knives Cookbook, Forks Over Knives Family and the Whole Foods Diet with former Whole Foods CEO, John Mackey. Today, we discuss their latest book Wellness to Wonderful: 9 PILLARS FOR LIVING HEALTHIER, LONGER, AND WITH GREATER JOY. Through a comprehensive and beautiful combination of Eastern, Western, and lifestyle medicine practices, Matt and Alona work with their patients to help them wake up every day thinking, “My life is wonderful.” They do this through private sessions, support groups, and courses on nutrition, nonviolent verbal communication (or NVC), spirituality, weight loss, and more. This isn’t your average 10-minute doctor's appointment. Wellness to Wonderful is a complete life paradigm shift for you and your family. Their book’s nine fundamental pillars of health include: self, nutrition, activity, play, sleep, family & friends, work, spirituality, and the natural world, but we focus much of our conversation around non-violent communication and family connection because we at PLANTSTRONG truly believe that communication and connection is KEY to a wonderful life. Episode Resources Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Order Wellness to Wonderful WeHeal.Health - Connect with Drs. Pulde and Lederman on all of their classes and programs To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all-new chilis, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, and delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

My guest today is Kiki Nelson, but you may know her best as Plantiful Kiki. Her book, Plantifully Lean is turning heads, but what turned my attention to Kiki was her transparent health and weight loss journey. As a young adult, Kiki struggled with her weight and suffered all of the ill consequences as a result - high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, hormonal imbalances, lack of energy - and none of this was optimal for a young Mom of two active children. Two things really moved the needle for Kiki - and they are the cornerstone of the work she does today. She found simple whole food, plant-based nutrition and did (and still does) a lot of work around self-compassion, forgiveness, and self-love. The results? In a little over a year, she lost 70 pounds and reversed those lifestyle diseases that were only going to progress. It’s a remarkable story of someone willing to believe that they are worth the work and she shares that work with all of us. Rip and Kiki discuss: The ups and downs of yo-yo dieting What turned Kiki onto plant-based nutrition The lecture from Jeff Novick that changed everything for her Why she loves carbs and doesn’t avoid them How she divides her plate for optimum nutrition and satiety The way she cooks as a Mom of two How she leaned into self-love and compassion in her journey Why she wrote Plantifiully Lean and is so transparent on social media about her weight loss journey A few of the “Firefighter-approved” recipes she created from her book. Today, you can find her on her social media channels dishing up plenty of recipes and inspiration, and you can find her book Plantifully Lean on bookshelves now. Episode Resources Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Order Plantifully Lean Plantiful Kiki’s website - https://plantifulkiki.com/ Follow Kiki on Instagram - @plantifulkiki To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all new chilis, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, and delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

We joke today that there are three things that plant-based eaters must face – death, taxes, and the dreaded question, “Where Do You Get Your Protein?!” Well, today, we tackle the ever-popular topic of protein with two of the authors of a recent book, Plant Powered Protein. Vesanto Melina and Cory Davis dispel the myths and misconceptions about plant-based protein - and - (and this is the part we love) make the science understandable and digestible. Let’s put to rest that you can’t get enough protein at various stages of life including pregnancy, infancy, childhood, adulthood, your senior years, and even for the athlete population. You can get plenty of protein and this book shows you how with easy-to-follow protein recommendations and recipes so that you never feel deprived or deficient. Let’s also put to rest those myths that plant protein is somehow weaker or not complete. Whole food plant-based sources of protein are not only superior to our animal sources, but also have a lighter carbon footprint and the ability to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It’s time to eat strong food. Episode Resources Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Order Plant Powered Protein Plant Powered Protein Website with more resources To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all new chilis, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, and delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Sgt. Vegan, Bill Muir, has always had a “think outside the box” attitude – from being a straight-edge punk rocker to going vegan in 1992, and then joining the military just after 9/11 where he served as a US Army Paratrooper. And all of this - YES - as a hardcore vegan. Needless to say, it wasn’t easy, but he was (and is) so convicted and grounded in his values that he made it work. Today, Sgt. Vegan chats with Rip about: How he became a hardcore straight-edge vegan Why he joined the military to give back How he made it through basic training as a vegan What it took to procure his own food and remain grounded in his values Why he’ll never eat chili again and what he eats these days Today, he is a Registered Nurse at a VA Hospital in LA, where he continues to stand up for those who need assistance. Whether it’s helping humankind, animals, or our planet, Sgt. Vegan is ready to serve. Episode Resources Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Sgt. Vegan Website Sgt. Vegan Instagram @sgt_vegan PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our all new chilis, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

In a world that is littered with false information and blatant lies, especially when it comes to health and nutrition, it is so important to seek the truth. Matthew Rees is a treasure trove of facts and commentary about food and health at his website, foodandhealthfacts.com. As a longtime journalist, speechwriter, and author, Rees has written for such esteemed publications as The Economist, The New Republic, and The Wall Street Journal. His writing has also appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, and more. He’s also co-authored several books, but his personal passion lies in nutrition. He pulls information and research from recent scientific studies, interviews, books and more, and makes them all easily digestible nuggets of truth on our toxic food culture and how it’s contributing to massive rates of disease and death throughout the country. It is his mission to help us better understand how consuming unhealthy foods leads to the mess of chronic health issues we’re facing today as a society, but also provide understanding and solutions. Episode Resources Episode Website Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Visit and bookmark foodandhealthfacts.com PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH to receive free two weeks Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

In honor of Mother's Day weekend, we're thrilled to feature everyone’s favorite PLANTSTRONG Woman Warrior - Ann Crile Esselstyn. In late Spring, Rip and Ann did a Facebook live where she took questions from the audience and that's what we share today. They run the gamut of subjects today including: The foods and ingredients that are exciting her most these days Her current favorite meals Advice for those at the beginning of their plantstrong journey How to navigate unsupportive loved ones Exercise and how she's building a 40-day habit with her Peloton bike How she gets her leafy greens Her go-to quick and easy salad dressing And... her favorite thing about being 87 years young! As always, Ann holds nothing back and we wouldn’t want her any other way! Episode Resources Watch the Full Episode on YouTube that Aired on March 31, 2023 Order Be A Plant-Based Woman Warrior: Live Fierce, Stay Bold, Eat Delicious Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Kathy Stevens founded the Catskill Animal Sanctuary in 2001 with 80 acres of land that she turned from a virtual trash heap into an idyllic sanctuary where rescued, abused, and forgotten animals can live their final years filled with the love, care, and respect they so richly deserve. In her work and in her exquisitely written books, Kathy describes the essence and personalities of these animals – and today, she shares some of the most poignant stories from those souls she has had the privilege of caring for through the years. Every animal has a rich emotional life and they want to live. Like humans, they have pain and fear, but can also learn to trust with the right interactions. Thank goodness for humans like Kathy Stevens and places like Catskill Animal Sanctuary who bring love and care to animals, while also making the world a better place for all of us. Episode Highlights 11:05 When and how did she get the property to start Catskill Animal Sanctuary? 17:02 How does she acquire her sanctuary animals? 22:25 Animals of the stories, starting with Rambo the sheep 37:30 Polly, the cockfighting rooster 41:35 Buddy, the Blind Horse 48:25 What Kathy knows for sure about all of her animals 51:20 Dino, the only survivor of a fire that killed 22 other horses 54:10 The special pig/human relationship 58:30 Mealtime is the magical time at Catskill Animal Sanctuary 1:01:10 How has our current climate affected sanctuaries? 1:05:10 What makes her most proud about her work? 1:06:50 How does she say, “hello” or welcome a new animal to the sanctuary? 1:09:45 How do they say, “goodbye” to these precious animals? "I believe that in all of us is a good and pure knowing that beneath the surface of things, beneath gender and skin color, religion and nationality, social class and sexual preference, and yes, beneath species, we are all the same. This book is dedicated with love and hope to that good and pure knowing in you." Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Catskill Animal Sanctuary Website and Resources - including public tours and donation information Order Where the Blind Horse Sings Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Kim Campbell is the Director of Culinary Education and Development at PlantPure and the daughter-in-law of T. Colin Campbell known, of course, for authoring The China Study and his work in Forks Over Knives. Together, Kim and her husband Nelson Campbell run PlantPure Nation, where they provide support and resources to help people experience the benefits of a whole food, plant-based lifestyle. In December 2022, Kim released her latest cookbook, PlantPure Comfort Food, which features over 100 plant-based and mostly gluten-free recipes from cultures and ethnicities across the globe. These family meals pack the flavor without all of the oils you often see in the traditional recipes and this book proves that the possibilities for healthy, delicious plant-based eating are endless and know no cultural bounds! Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Order PlantPure Comfort Food PlantPure Nation Website Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

When Ann Crile Esselstyn, tells you to do something, you do it! So, when she told me I had to interview today’s guest, I didn’t hesitate. Ruth Morley is an adventurer. She’s rarely at home in Cincinnati because she’s usually found on a hiking trail. I’m talking about the Appalachian Trail, the Florida Trail, the Buckeye Trail, and Kilimanjaro…just to name just a few. She’s even ridden her bike 3,000 miles across the country and competed in dozens of marathons and triathlons. Oh, and did I mention that Ruth (known by her trail name, “Ruthless!”) is 70 years old and 100% PLANTSTRONG? Today, she tells us how she prepares all of her food for these multi-week adventures and shares the details of her equipment and intricate logistics as a solo hiker. This conversation is inspiring, informative, and downright motivational – not just to do these super-long hikes - but to do anything that is out of your comfort zone. Her slogan? “Make plans, not excuses.” Episode Highlights 5:00 She had lunch with Ann?? 7:15 From depression to a game-changing moment - What inspired Ruth to go plant-based? 11:45 What immediate effect did it have on her emotional and physical well-being? 13:20 Where does this adventuring spirit come from? 15:15 How much does her backpack weigh? 16:30 Her athletic journey from runner to triathlete 18:30 Why she stays in “cheap” hotels and loves to hike alone 21:25 Self-supporting her hike on the Buckeye Trail 27:30 What a LASHer! How many major trails has she hiked? (Patagonia, Asia, Kilimanjaro, Appalachian Trail, Buckeye Trail, Florida Trail) 33:00 All about the food and prepping meals for these massive hikes! https://excaliburdehydrator.com/ 41:50 Her preferred tent: https://durstongear.com/ Backpack: https://www.ula-equipment.com/product/circuit/ Sleeping Bag: UGQ https://ugqoutdoor.com/ Shoes: Topo Athletic https://www.topoathletic.com/ and Altra https://www.altrarunning.com/ Outdoor Research Hat https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/ 49:05 Hikers Midnight - How long does she sleep and how does she make her daily hiking schedule? 52:00 Who's the most interesting person she’s ever met on a trail? 54:05 What was her hardest moment on the trail? 1:02:00 What does she say to people who need the inspiration to eat better and move more? Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube Ruth's Blog Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode

Every so often, a new brocstar bursts onto the scene and just blows our PLANTSTRONG socks off with their passion, personality, and unique approach to plant-based eating. Today’s guest, Max LaManna, is one of those people. He has over a million followers on social media and, for one year, Max asked his audience which foods they threw away the most. Using the tens of thousands of responses, he narrowed down a list of thirty of the most commonly wasted ingredients and those were the inspiration for his new book, You Can Cook This! We’re talking about peppers, potatoes, onions, beets, grains, carrots, leafy greens, and bananas - all of the things we love most here at PLANTSTRONG. Max and Rip dig into some of these fun recipes today and talk about how to prepare and store your food to maximize its freshness and extend its shelf life. No more throwing away those perfectly good banana peels or potatoes, let’s put them to use! Max inspired all of us at PLANTSTRONG and we know he will inspire and transform the way you cook, eat, and save your food. Episode Highlights 8:20 Growing up in the food industry and thinking his parents were “foodies” 10:35 How he went from zero followers to over a million talking about zero-waste 16:10 Wait. We waste HOW much food each year here in the US? 17:00 How his audience inspired his latest book, You Can Cook This! 19:00 Max shares his story of going vegan twice 26:15 Tips for food storage and avoiding waste for all types of food Don’t fill up the fridge too full! You can put tomatoes in the fridge to extend their shelf life Why do you never want to store potatoes and onions together? The trick for using and cleaning bell peppers Freezing asparagus, leafy greens, and other veggies are a-ok. Take a look at what other veggies are in the freezer section at the grocery 44:45 A Deep Dive into the Recipes of You Can Cook This! 1:25:00 Rapid Fire Questions with Rip Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Max LaManna's Website with Recipes and Links to all of his Social Channels and Resources Follow Max on Instagram @maxlamanna Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

You know those times when you see someone and you just think, "WOW, You look incredible! What are you doing?!" That happened with today's guest, grammy award winner, and multiplatinum recording artist, Richard Marx. We at PLANTSTRONG saw recent photos and videos of Richard lighting up the stage in Australia and just had to know the secret to his vitality and energy. Well, wouldn't ya know, Richard Marx is PLANTSTRONG, baby, and, together with his wife Daisy Fuentes, they share a passion and advocacy for this lifestyle. Of course, you know Richard from some of his biggest hits, “Hold Onto The Night,” “Endless Summer Nights,” “Don’t Mean Nothing,” and “Right Here Waiting,” BUT, in addition to those timeless chart-toppers, he is also a crazy accomplished songwriter – having written hits with stars like Keith Urban, Kenny Loggins, Madonna, NSYNC, Luther Vandross, and so many more. Today, we talk about his colorful and illustrious musical journey and the emotional moment he and Daisy looked at each other and said, “We’re going all in on plant-based living.” His only regret? They didn’t do it sooner. That’s ok, Richard and Daisy. We’ve been “Right Here Waiting for You.” About Richard Marx Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, producer and best-selling author Richard Marx has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, landing a #1 song on the charts (for himself and others) in each of the past four decades. He remains the only male artist in history whose first seven singles reached the Top 5 on the Billboard charts. A father to three grown sons (all are musicians), he lives between LA and Miami with his wife Daisy Fuentes. Marx is active in many charitable organizations, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the American Cancer Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and Mercy for Animals. Episode Resources Richard Marx Website - https://richardmarx.com/ Richard Marx Instagram - @therichardmarx Watch the Episode on YouTube - https://youtu.be/-lNOUqKP-TM Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode Episode Highlights 5:45 Richard is a fan-boy of Dr. Esselstyn! 7:15 Touring and eating plant-based around the world - Yep, he loves his Happy Cow app! 9:30 Getting paid for the 22 hours he’s not on stage 11:30 What was the pivotal moment when Richard and Daisy went all-in on plant-based eating? 21:00 Why he loves playing small towns 22:19 The magical moment when Lionel Richie invited Richard to his studio 27:50 How Richard inherited the best traits from his Mom and Dad 35:04 Hitting the son jackpot and some of his legendary musical collaborations with Kenny Loggins, Kenny Rogers, Burt Bachrach, and more! 44:00 How ego goes out the door when collaborating with other songwriters 45:40 “How a Man Thinketh” - how this book helped him clean up his thoughts and shift his life for the better 48:56 Any routines of suspicions before he hits the stage? 53:05 Does Richard have insurance on his voice? 54:40 A love child of Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams?! 58:50 Richard and Rip’s favorite features about themselves 1:01:55 Becoming a hip grandfather who’s digging TikTok! 1:07:10 The experience and romance of cooking with Daisy 1:08:10 His favorite breakfasts and his favorite beans (Yep - he’s a bean dude) 1:12:10 Why it’s important for them to be vocal advocates of this lifestyle 1:17:20 His current favorite TV shows 1:21:00 What does he think happens to us when we die?

Imagine someone telling you that they would only give your diet a "B-" when you've been eating whole foods, plant-based for over 35 years?! Well, that was the average grade Rip Esselstyn's diet received from today's guest, Dr. Doug Graham. Doug is most known for developing and authoring the 80-10-10 Diet Book; which is when 80% of your calories come from carbohydrates in the form of raw fruits and vegetables, 10% comes from plant protein, and the last 10% comes from fat. Not only does he live this way, but he actually wrote the book about it back in 2006. No doubt, Doug has unconventional opinions and data on topics like whole grains, beans, oats, protein, and even mono-eating, but it was wildly educational and eye-opening. You'll learn about the history of why we eat what we do, why cooked food may not be all it’s cracked up to be, and how you can level up your own plate each day. Episode Highlights 10:30 What exactly is 80-10-10? 13:30 isn't that many carbs bad for you? Don’t we need more protein? 22:30 Doug’s Biggest Fans in the plant-based world 23:30 What does he love so much about raw fruit, and why is it so important? 26:05 So THAT’s why they call it a “sweet tooth!” 29:00 What are examples of Doug’s breakfast and lunch? 33:30 The case for eating mono-meals 36:25 Why isn’t he a fan of cooked foods, including beans, and potatoes? 37:45 What do the five GENS have to do with our longevity and health? (Think: CarcinoGENic) 45:15 Are all these GENS being created in beans and potatoes as well? 47:30 “Don’t Eat the Paste.” What in the world is he talking about? 50:10 What did Dr. Nathan Pritikin get wrong? 53:00 Rip gets a B- on his diet?? Are you serious? 57:10 How does he feel about frozen fruit? 57:50 This sounds freaking expensive 1:03:30 Is he a fan of drinking water? 1:04:35 How does he recommend people make this transition? 1:06:30 What’s his take on fiber? 1:12:15 Protein - Why does more not necessarily mean better? 1:23:00 what age should you start 80-10-10? Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube Doug Graham's Website: https://foodnsport.com Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

Rachael Brown's book, For Fork's Sake, takes readers on a 10-day journey from the SAD diet to the HAPPY Diet – that is, “Healthy and Plant-Powered, YAY!!” Rachel discusses her family’s journey and all of her trusted tips for making this transition, including: What does this way of eating even entail? How do you bring your family along, especially if they’re reluctant? How do you handle naysayers and questioners? What are some of the common misconceptions and pitfalls you will encounter? And, oh my goodness, how do you handle the picky eaters in your family? This book is easily digestible but packed full of so many tips. As she says on her website, “Changing your family’s food, health, and life for the better doesn’t have to be drastic. Transition to healthier, happier Whole Food, Plant-Based, No Oil eating with help from a mom who’s done it.” Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube Learn More About Rachael Brown and For Fork’s Sake Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

New York Times bestselling author and PLANTSTRONG founder, Rip Esselstyn, is joined by a very special guest, his father, Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., discussing the nine ways he has documented reversal of cardiovascular disease over the last 40 years. When Dr. Esselstyn started his work at the Cleveland Clinic in the early 80s, he was the chairman of the breast cancer task force. In his work, he encountered multiple cultures where breast cancer was virtually non-existent and the same was true for cardiovascular disease. Why was the incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disease so prevalent in the U.S. and other Western cultures, but not so in others? Essy set out to prove that cardiovascular disease COULD be reversed with a whole food, plant-based diet, but first he had to find compliant patients and that’s where the conversation starts today. Once he had amassed compliant patients he did, in fact, prove reversal of heart disease in nine different measures, including: Oh, and stick around to the end when he answers audience questions ranging from caffeine, salt, and alcohol, to diabetes, saturated fats, and gum disease. Episode Highlights 10:10 Where does cardiovascular disease begin? 11:00 Role of nitric oxide 13:00 Is it ever too late to bring endothelial cells back to life? 14:30 What are the foods you should and shouldn’t eat to protect endothelial cells 16:00 Benefits of chewing your greens six times daily 21:20 Top Greens to Consume (i.e. Essy’s Rap!) 39:45 Essy Answers Your Questions 40:30 Will this also help with type 2 Diabetes? 41:05 Why are my triglycerides so high when I’m compliant? 42:00 Is one drink of beer or wine ok with dinner? 42:35 Are you against statin drugs? 44:50 Can old plaque be reversed? 46:50 Are plant-based milks ok? 48:50 Why is the totality of sodium intake important? 49:50 What are your recommendations on B-12? 50:53 Is there a link between gum disease and heart disease? 51:11 What are your thoughts on red rice yeast extract in place of statins? 51:25 What’s more toxic - salt or sugar? 55:50 How can avocados damage endothelial cells? Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Order Dr. Esselstyn's Book, Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure Dr. Esselstyn’s Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease Website Slides from Dr. Esselstyn's Presentation Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

What do cruciferous vegetables, tomatoes, soy, and green tea all have in common? According to hundreds of scientific studies, they all can drastically reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. Here are a few facts: Prostate cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer in men One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their life Sadly, one in 40 will succumb to this disease However, much like heart disease and many other lifestyle diseases, this cancer can mostly be prevented, and today's guests lay out the extensive research and practical solutions in their book, Preventing Prostate Cancer: Reduce Your Risk with Simple, Proactive Choices Dr. Benny Gavi, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Stanford University, teamed up with researcher Maya Eylon to compile more than one hundred recent, reliable, and relevant international studies on the effects of diet on prostate health. As you probably guessed, all signs point to a whole-food, plant-based diet, combined with exercise and screenings, as your best defense against prostate cancer. Today, we discuss some of their research, along with outlining the biggest cancer-fighting foods to consume on a regular basis. 16:00 Cruciferous Veggies - super fighters for our bodies 20:25 Tomatoes and Lycopene 23:20 Healthy Soy Consumption 27:28 Green Tea They also share research on foods you should avoid, including meat, dairy, and eggs in excess This book is a powerful tool to empower men (and those of you who love those men) to make healthy, lifestyle changes that can save thousands of lives. Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Order Preventing Prostate Cancer: Reduce Your Risk with Simple, Proactive Choices Email Maya: [email protected] Email Dr. Gavi: [email protected] Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Learn more about the PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

What is the most common myth about adopting a whole food plant-based diet? (Ok- besides that crazy fear of not getting enough protein)...The biggest misconception is that this way of eating is expensive, unattainable, and elitist even. This simply isn’t true. I mean, what’s more economical than potatoes, beans, and rice?! Toni Okamoto (plantbasedonabudget.com) has been on a mission to bust this myth to smithereens since she launched her website in 2012 to prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive. She’s created meal plans that show how to eat plant-based if you only have $25 per week to spend, she started the Plant-Based on a Budget Facebook group and has written multiple books, including her latest, which drops on March 7th - Plant-Based on a Budget: Quick and Easy, featuring 100 fast and healthy meals. There’s no pretentiousness here - just plant-powered fun as she walks through her story and digs into some of the tips and recipes in her new book that will stretch your dollar and leave you with quick, easy, mouth-watering meals. Episode Highlights: 25:40 The Value of Meal Planning 29:00 Have a Well-Stocked Pantry and Freezer 31:40 Time-Saving Kitchen Tools 33:10 Smart Storage for Produce to Maximize Freshness 37:03 Recipe Highlights from Plant-Based on a Budget Quick and Easy 40:14 Make Ahead Breakfast Highlights -Fluffy Freezer waffles -Baked Oatmeal -Overnight Oats 45:50 One-Pot Meal Highlights - Leave the dishes and messy kitchen behind with one-pot meals -Alfredo pasta -Curry lentil soup -Turmeric, lentils, and split peas - Ethiopian-inspired flavors 52:05 30-Minute Meals Highlights - Spend under $30 a week and only 30 minutes of time -Pesto pasta - Use raw sunflower seeds because they are cheaper than pine nuts -Cauliflower fried rice -Southwestern lettuce wraps 1:02:20 Sheet Pan Dishes and Casserole Highlights -Sheet pan fajitas -Chili cornbread casserole -Vegetable and garbanzo beans foil packets 1:12:15 Mix and Match Bowls -Always prepare a base of quinoa, brown rice, beans -Frozen veggies, baked tofu 1:17:00 Make and Take Snacks 1:17:55 Desserts About Toni Okamoto TONI OKAMOTO is the founder of Plant-Based on a Budget, the popular website and meal plan that shows you how to save dough by eating veggies. She’s also author of the Plant-Based on a Budget cookbook, The Super Easy Vegan Slow Cooker Cookbook, and the co-host of The Plant-Powered People Podcast. Okamoto’s work has been profiled by NBC News, Parade Magazine, and she’s a regular presence on local and national morning shows across the country, where she teaches viewers how to break their meat habit without breaking their budget. She was also featured in the popular documentary What the Health. When she’s not cooking up a plant-based storm, she’s spending time with her husband in Sacramento, CA. Episode Resources Visit the Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube Order Toni’s New Book, Plant-Based on a Budget Quick and Easy Plant-Based on a Budget Website Follow Toni on Instagram: @plantbasedonabudget To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

For almost 15 years now, we’ve been beating the drum about the positive health impacts of a whole-food plant-based diet. We know that it can improve your physical health in remarkable ways but, surprisingly, no research study has ever been done on the impact of a plant-based diet on addiction and recovery— until now. Enter our friend, Adam Sud and the Infinite Study. Inspired by his own addiction and mental health recovery, Adam sought to prove that his own recovery wasn’t a fluke so he piloted the first controlled trial to investigate the impact of nutrition and nutrition education on early addiction recovery outcomes. The long-awaited results of his groundbreaking research study are out and let’s just say we think they’re pretty plantstrong. About Adam Sud Adam Sud is a behavioral wellness & nutrition expert, international speaker, and the founder and CEO of Plant Based for Positive Change, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing research and understanding of how nutrition impacts mental health and addiction. He has studied the use of nutrition in disease reversal under the mentorships of leading plant-based physicians and has worked in mental health and behavioral health treatment centers using plant-based nutrition as a tool for strengthening recovery and relapse prevention. In 2012 Sud was personally struggling with multiple addictions, serious chronic diseases, and mental health disorders. His life nearly came to an end when he attempted suicide by drug overdose. With the help of treatment and the implementation of a plant-based diet, he began a journey that led to the reversal of his chronic disease conditions, the cancellation of all medications, and the lowering of his weight from Class III Obesity levels. He is currently 10 years sober. Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube The Infinite Study from the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine Forbes Magazine Article on The Infinite Study results Psychology Today - Can Plant-Based Diets Help Us Overcome Addiction? Adam Sud Website Follow Adam on Instagram @plantbasedaddict To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

Bonjour, mes amis. This week, we’re heading to the bayou to celebrate Mardi Gras with Camryn Clements, The Plant-Based Cajun! Dan Buettner from the Blue Zones was the first to introduce us to Camryn because she’s one of the chefs featured in his new book, The Blue Zones American Kitchen. Camryn is a busy Mom and when her young family moved from Louisiana to Texas for her husband’s medical residency, she found herself missing her cajun culture, especially being so isolated and far away from home during the pandemic. At the same time, she and her family were also trying to improve their own health so she started taking some of her favorite cajun dishes and making them plantstrong. We’re talking about mushroom etouffee, jambalaya, tofu shrimp, red beans and rice, and even king cake. The plant-based cajun knows just the right combination of spices to kick up your taste buds and have you dancing with your friends and family. And, with Mardi Grad right around the corner, we couldn’t think of a better time to celebrate Camryn and the authentic cajun flair she shares with her audience. So, no matter where you are on your plantstrong journey, let’s let the good times roll, or as they say down there in Louisiana - “Laissez les bons temps rouler!" About The Plant-Based Cajun Camryn grew up in Lake Charles, LA with all the trappings of a true Cajun: Mom made the cuisine, Dad and her siblings studied and spoke French (very rusty at this point in life!), and her Dad played in a Cajun band that we performed in often. Her childhood was full of culture. Her husband began his residency in Internal Medicine in 2018. At the time, he was battling fatty liver disease along with other health issues related to unhealthy eating (the Standard American Diet). They knew they needed to change, and they knew where the evidence pointed: the plant-based diet. The plant-based Cajun was born! Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube The Plant-Based Cajun Instagram: @theplantbasedcajun The Plant-Based Cajun Website The Plant-Based Cajun YouTube To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

D. Anthony Evans loves pain. Pain, you might say, is his superpower, which is a good thing because he lives with excruciating pain every second of the day. D. Anthony was born with Neurofibromatosis (NF), a rare genetic condition causing multiple tumors to grow on the nerve tissue. He has hundreds of them on and in his body. Unfortunately, they can become malignant and turn into an aggressive, mostly terminal, form of cancer. In 2012, D. Anthony was diagnosed with this cancer. Doctors removed hundreds of tumors and told him he had six months to live. Eleven years later, he’s thriving. How in the world did he go from a death sentence to the physical specimen and motivational force that he is today? One word: PLANTS. This beautiful soul embraces a daily rigorous physical and spiritual practice where he chooses to celebrate a birthday every day because every day is a renewal of life and one more day he gets to celebrate being alive. About D. Anthony Evans Adidas called D. Anthony Evans one of the world’s most inspirational athletes, and they’re not alone in being amazed at his powerful story. As a plant-based lifestyle transition coach and dynamic advocate, D. Anthony is dedicated to helping people with major health issues defy the odds and learn to thrive - because he knows how to. Despite being diagnosed with terminal bone cancer, being given 6 months to live, and having 385 tumors removed from his body over the course of eleven nine-hour operations, he has not just survived but thrived for 11 years longer than anyone in history with his cancer. He attributes all of his success to adopting an alkaline mindset and lifestyle that rest perpetually on the foundation of a positive mindset, consistent challenging physical fitness, and a whole food plant-based lifestyle. Through his nonprofit Cheri Inspires which he founded in his mother's name, he aims to bridge the widening access gap that poor and fixed-income patients face should they decide to fight for their life holistically with treatments traditional insurance just doesn't cover. This is where D, identified the need and created a solution. D didn't fight his fight traditionally because he had the help of Chef Dave. This is why this part of his mission is so important to him because understands that unless you are independently wealthy, fighting cancer holistically is really not an option. Episode Resources Episode Webpage Watch the Episode on YouTube D. Anthony Instagram @danthonytrains D. Anthony Facebook Cheri-Inspires.org - D’s non-profit dedicated to helping people receive holistic treatment H.O.P.E. The Project - Cancer Patient Given 6 Months To Live in 2012 | D Anthony Evans Part 1 | Plant Power Stories - Part 1 H.O.P.E. The Project - Cancer Thriver Defies His Prognosis | D Anthony Evans Part 1 | Plant Power Stories - Part 2 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

Let’s cut right to the chase today. A whole food, plant-based diet CAN save your life. It sounds like hyperbole, but it isn’t, because today’s guest is living proof. John Tanner was out on a run in 2009 and went into cardiac arrest. He collapsed to the ground and his heart stopped beating. Fortunately, the quick action of others to get help saved his life. In recovery, John started reading everything he could about the causes of heart disease and how to prevent it. His research, of course, led him to the work of Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn Jr, T. Colin Campbell, and others. He learned what most doctors don’t know: Heart disease need not exist. It is reversible and, in most cases, preventable. John tells his harrowing story and discusses the remarkable advocacy work he is doing now with his non-profit NuSci and food delivery company, Little Green Forks. In fact, he’s offered a generous discount code at Little Green Forks: Rip15New to receive $15 off your order. A plantstrong diet brought him back to life and it can help you, too. About John Tanner, PhD John Tanner earned his M.S. degree in Electrical Engineering and his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Caltech. John is the Founder and CEO of Tanner Research, Inc., an advanced R&D company that was named to the "LA Fast 50" five years in a row and that develops software, electronics, and robotics. Dr. Tanner is also the founder and Director of NuSci, The Nutrition Science Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives through education of nutrition science. More recently he founded the healthy meal delivery company, Little Green Forks. Episode Resources Watch the Original Episode on YouTube Episode Webpage NuSci.org Little Green Forks - Use code: Rip15New to receive $15 off your order To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

Rip welcomes the mover, shaker, and influencer that is Pinky Cole - founder of The Slutty Vegan restaurant chain based in Atlanta. In 2018, Pinky started selling her vegan burgers from her kitchen in Atlanta on Instagram. Yes, Instagram! They immediately became an enormous hit and now, just five years later, she’s gone from her apartment kitchen to nine brick-and-mortar locations in and outside of Georgia– including her newest locations in Brooklyn and Harlem. Pinky Cole is unapologetic about her brand and you can feel that in the energy she brings to her food, her Pinky Cole Foundation, and her new book, Eat Plants, B*itch - 91 Vegan Recipes that will Blow Your Meat-Lovin Mind. Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube The Slutty Vegan Website Buy Pinky’s Book, Eat Plants, B*itch - 91 Vegan Recipes that will Blow Your Meat-Lovin Mind. The Pinky Cole Foundation To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

We’re happy to welcome back the popular, Jessica Hegarty, to the podcast! Jess and Rip did this Facebook live event a few weeks ago and the response was so powerful, we wanted to share it with all of you. Jess is the Director of Food Development and Strategy around all of our PLANTSTRONG food lines. She’s the one who researches every new product and ingredient we look at for our foods and if it doesn’t pass her sniff test, it doesn’t make it into the mix! Needless to say, we trust her implicitly and, if you’ve tasted our PLANTSTRONG foods, you know the rigorous taste and nutritional standards she holds us all to. Today, Jess is here to talk coconuts. As you may know, we at PLANTSTRONG aren’t huge fans of it because of the ridiculously high amount of saturated fat. Saturated fat isn’t just detrimental to our arteries and endothelial cells, but it’s also harmful to our brain health. In fact, it’s pretty much the only whole plant food we just can’t endorse and you’ll hear exactly why. But, Jess doesn’t just look under the hood of the coconut itself. she also explores other popular coconut-based products: Coconut oils Coconut waters Coconut extract Coconut yogurts and milks Coconut flours Can any of these products be considered a plantstrong food? Are all the “supposed” health benefits just marketing hype? Is any of it worth our valuable dollar? She’ll tell us and even provide some fun and healthy alternatives! It’s a fun and in-depth look at this exotic fruit. Episode Timestamps 6:25 Why is coconut the one plantstrong food we recommend you stay away from? 6:40 Why is saturated fat so detrimental to our health and endothelial function? 12:30 What is the saturated fat of typical foods in the American diet? 18:44 Coconuts are saturated fat bombs — similar to a Meal from McDonald’s?? Jess talks about the study to prove it. 24:00 Coconut Oil - Are there any health benefits to our body and skin? 28:48 Coconut Extract - Not flavors! 30:10 How to make your own coconut extract at home 31:10 Coconut Milk and Yogurts - What are some great alternatives to this concentrated saturated fat bomb? 37:08 Coconut Water - Is it really packed with electrolytes? Alternatives? Green tea and whole foods 40:40 Why was coconut even put on this planet? 46:00 Coconut Sugar - concentrated sugar with no fiber. Alternatives? Try dates! 48:55 Coconut Meat and Dried Shredded Coconut 54:30 Coconut Flours - Can you find de-fatted coconut? Episode Resources Watch the Original Episode on YouTube PubMed Study - Impairment of endothelial function--a possible mechanism for atherosclerosis of a high-fat meal intake Homemade Coconut Extract Recipe To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Join Team PLANTSTRONG and Run with Rip! https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/team-plantstrong Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode

We're honored to introduce you to a fellow kale-loving athlete, Dominick Thompson. Imagine growing up poor in Chicago’s west side, witnessing your first murder at age 5, doing whatever it takes to protect yourself and provide for your family, and going to prison at age 21 – all while still excelling in school, athletics, and work. It’s a background that is so different from most, but such an important story to tell because, to understand Dom now, you simply have to look back on his past. Today, Dom is a beautiful humble soul who defies every stereotype we have of a “tough guy.” He’s an activist, bodybuilder, endurance athlete, dog dad, and social entrepreneur, known for his businesses, Eat What Elephants Eat and Crazies and Weirdos. It’s even more fascinating to learn that Dom went vegan during his first week of prison. Unbelievable. He had a spiritual epiphany and the decision to stop eating animals completely transformed his life. His mantra? “If it requires harm, then nahhh.” Today, he gives us a riveting look at his past and discusses that spiritual shift that informs his present-day work as an activist and social entrepreneur. “When you eradicate harm from your life, the universe has your back,” he says. We couldn’t agree more. Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube - https://youtu.be/3cD-KXOAJ28 Eat What Elephants Eat Crazies and Weirdos Follow Dom on Instagram - @domzthompson Follow Dom on TikTok - @domzthompson Join Team PLANTSTRONG and Run with Rip! https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/team-plantstrong To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our new granola and teas, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Join us in Black Mountain, NC for a Transformative PLANTSTRONG Retreat - April 16-21, 2023 https://plantstrongfoods.com/pages/2023-black-mountain-retreat Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Want to live your best PLANTSTRONG life? Join our exclusive PLANTSTRONG Community of friendly, plant-loving peeps! This is a goldmine of resources, recipes, and incredible support to feed your PLANTSTRONG life. Theme Music for Episode