PLANTSTRONG Podcast

Do you have a love affair with the salt shaker? Having trouble breaking yourself of the pre-packaged food addiction? Do you have a ballpark guess for the recommended amount of sodium you should be consuming on a daily basis? What about the devastating consequences of too much salt in your diet? Don’t be alarmed or ashamed with any of your answers if you just don’t know. It’s not your fault. We all fall prey to marketing and the lure of salty foods and today Rip speaks with researcher and author, Michael Jacobson, about his recent book, “Salt Wars - The Battle over the Biggest Killer in the American Diet.” Michael Jacobson is one of the preeminent scientists who has been fighting on the front lines in Washington DC - literally going to political battle for our health for more than 50 years. He is co-founder of the Center for Science and the Public Interest, which was developed in 1971 as a Health Advocacy Group for Food Safety and Nutrition. The CSPI may not sound familiar to you, but their work will - they are responsible for nutrition facts labeling on food products, getting junk foods out of schools, and removing trans fat out of the food supply -- to name a few of their landmark efforts. Today, though, he speaks with Rip about our love affair with salt. Why has it become so prevalent in our diet (much of it without us even realizing!)? What are the impacts on our health? And, most importantly, how can we ditch the desire for that extra dash at every meal? Michael F. Jacobson, Ph.D. is a co-founder and long-time Executive Director of Center for Science in the Public Interest (CPSI), now serving as a Senior Scientist. Jacobson has written numerous books and reports, including Salt Wars: The Battle Over the Biggest Killer in the American Diet; Eater’s Digest: the Consumer’s Fact Book of Food Additives, Nutrition Scoreboard; Salt: the Forgotten Killer; and Liquid Candy: How Soft Drinks are Harming Americans’ Health. He has also been honored with such awards as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Hero Award (2010), the American Public Health Association’s David P. Rall award for advocacy in public health (2011), and the Food Marketing Institute’s Esther Peterson Consumer Service Award (1992). His Ph.D. in microbiology is from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Learn More About our In-Person Sedona Retreat - October 11th-16th, 2021 Center for Science in the Public Interest Website Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Welcome to a special BONUS episode of the PLANTSTRONG Podcast. A few weeks ago, we hosted our first of many Live “Rip’s Rescue'' events. The theme of this first presentation? “Make Yourself Heart-Attack Proof” with Dr. Brian Asbill, my parents- Ann and Essy, and special guest Jim McNamara - one of my father’s patients. The response to that event has been so overwhelming and positive that we wanted to share this audio version with all of our podcast listeners. If you or a loved one has had a cardiac event, or if you’ve been told that you’re at high risk, think of this episode as your own two-hour appointment with some of the best medical providers on the planet. Cardiologist Dr. Brian Asbill was on the podcast for a solo interview just a few episodes ago and my parents, Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn and Ann Crile Esselstyn, really need no introduction! This special episode is a crash course on how adopting a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle can help you avoid a heart attack, stent, or even bypass surgery. Some of the topics we cover? Dr. Asbill talks about cholesterol and helps unpack your lipid panel numbers He also gives his take on lifestyle intervention vs. surgery My Dad talks about Nitric Oxide - what is it and how can we all get more of it And, in only the way she can, my Mother digs into the foods you need to fight back against heart disease Plus, you’ll definitely want to hear an inspiring plantstrong success story from Jim Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Video Version of this Episode Dr. Brian Asbill Podcast Episode PLANTSTRONG Website with all of our Resources PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Join the free PLANTSTRONG Community Theme Music for Episode

Rip welcomes his sister, Jane Esselstyn, back to the PLANTSTRONG Podcast. Many know Jane as a charismatic and energetic voice in the whole food, plant-based space, especially alongside her mother, Ann, in their fun YouTube Cooking Channel. What you may not know is that she is also a registered nurse who uses her charisma and passion to teach Sex Education to middle schoolers! Jane is an advocate for helping both kids and adults to understand that part of being a healthy grown-up should include a healthy sex life. It can be awkward to talk about these things and that’s why Jane really shines. She uses a healthy dose of empathy, compassion, and humor to talk about these subjects that both teens and adults are often too embarrassed to talk about. Listener Note: We do use many of the clinical anatomical words because, as you’ll find out today, one of the components of a healthy sex life is communication. So, let’s start talking about it! A plantstrong life has many benefits above AND below the belt - and a strong sex life should be one of them. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Join the free PLANTSTRONG Community Jane Esselstyn YouTube Channel Jane Esselstyn Website Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Rip heads across the pond to talk to a true plant-based gem -- Dr. Gemma Newman. Gemma is a senior partner in a family medical practice in the UK and author of the new book, “The Plant-Power Doctor - A Simple Prescription for a Healthier You.” Like many of us, Dr. Newman was stuck in all of the popular diet wars and tried them all to get rid of the weight she gained during medical school. However, even though she was the doctor in the family, it was her husband’s marathon training that ultimately changed the course of Gemma’s life and medical practice forever. Today, she is passionate about plant-based nutrition, holistic health, and lifestyle medicine. In fact, it is the most powerful instrument in her medical toolbox. In this episode, Rip and Gemma dig into some of the highlights and patient stories from her new book “The Plant-Power Doctor,” including: Her Own Testament to the Power of Plants Inflammation in the body - causes and benefits of a plant-based diet to combat inflammation The Power of Antioxidants Hormonal Health for Women And we even talk a little Harry and Meghan gossip and British slang along the way! It’s undeniable that medical practices both here and in the UK are burdened with so much competing information, lack of time, and a fast-paced ‘fix-it-now’ society - BUT, with doctors like Gemma Newman fighting for long-term health and vitality, we are on the RIGHT PATH and we hope you’ll stay right here with us because the proof is in the plants! Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Buy The Plant Power Doctor Book by Dr. Gemma Newman Gemma Newman MD Website PLANTSTRONGFOODS.com Want to be the first to hear about new PLANTSTRONG foods? Text the word, FOODS to 77174 and we’ll add you to the VIP list for early access. We have a couple of our heritage products available on our website - including the crowd favorite - our stone-baked, 100% whole grain, oil-free pizza crusts. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

This week, we’re digging into inspiration and exploring your personal limits with a major dose of true grit! In March 2019, Robbie Balenger set sail with his sneakers from Huntington Beach, California to run across America all the way to Central Park, New York in just 75 days. He was relatively new to running as well as to a PlantStrong lifestyle. So, why on earth would he do something like this? Well, as it turns out, the earth had EVERYTHING to do with it. Environmental issues, fitness, and plant-based nutrition had become so important to him that he wanted to spark more conversation and spread his message across the country. And what better way to do that than by setting the physical example for what can be done. And - spoiler alert- He DID IT! Today, we look back at this incredible “feat” and dig into his value-driven life, which has only grown stronger since his successful trip across the country just two years ago. In fact, just this past weekend, Robbie did it again! He broke the record for the most number of consecutive loops run in Central Park during open hours with 16 loops and over 100 miles. Now THAT is some PLANTSTRONG peak performance. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10x - Visit the site to register for the upcoming Spring session PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Robbie Balenger Instagram Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

If you want to know what service and passion look like, look no further than today’s guests - Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai, affectionately known as ‘Team Sherzai.’ Dean and Ayesha make a return visit to the PLANTSTRONG Podcast to dig into their new book, The 30-Day Alzheimers Solution - The Definitive Food and Lifestyle Guide to Preventing Cognitive Decline, which is being released March 23rd. Undoubtedly, everyone has been affected or knows someone who has been affected by the devastating effects of dementia and Alzheimers. Whether you are at risk, or if a loved one is suffering from cognitive decline, Team Sherzai lay out actionable, research-based solutions to this rapidly growing issue in our society. They recall their own personal galileo moment as physicians- when one public event influenced and changed the course of their area of study - to develop education and support around preventative neurology and brain health through behavior and lifestyle change. Today, these world-renowned neurologists are co-Directors of the Alzheimers Prevention Clinic at Loma Linda University and founders of the NEURO Plan. What is the NEURO plan, and what are those factors that can drastically improve your brain health? That's what they dish in this beautiful conversation that will inspire you to build your cognitive connectivity, find purpose in every activity, and "rewire, don't retire" your brain. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10x - Visit the site to register for the upcoming Spring session PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Team Sherzai - Season 1 Episode 3: Who Needs Sleep? Team Sherzai Website and Book Pre-Order Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

It’s not often that a doctor is inspired to make a lifestyle change because of a patient, but this is exactly the incredible Galileo moment that Dr. Brian Asbill shares today on the PLANTSTRONG podcast. As a cardiologist for 19 years, Dr. Brian Asbill had become adept at diagnosing and treating patients with medications and procedures, a variety of chronic diseases, and yet many of his “optimally managed” patients continued to suffer from recurrent cardiovascular events. A couple of years later, a patient gave him a copy of Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease by Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn and, shortly after finishing reading it, he met with a patient who was having daily angina and had been told that he would require a third open-heart surgery. Instead of immediate surgery, Asbill gave him the book and told him to come back and see him in three months unless his symptoms worsened. Three months later, that patient returned and both of their lives were irrevocably changed. He had lost 27 pounds, dropped his cholesterol by 100 points, and, within a week of changing his diet, had started walking on a treadmill thirty minutes daily while requiring NO nitroglycerin tablets for relief of chest pain. Procedures and prescriptions would not have matched the difference that he had made by simply changing to a whole-food, plant-based diet. Why was this not routinely taught in medical school? Because of this new truth, in August 2018, Dr. Asbill made the decision to fully transition from cardiology to lifestyle medicine, becoming the first in the world to do so. It was time to leave the “sickcare” system behind and begin building a true “healthcare” system founded upon optimal nutrition, physical activity and stress management. He is now part of Ruckus Health and committed to helping clients prevent, treat, and even reverse their chronic medical conditions through permanent lifestyle change. Today, Dr. Asbill shares his personal journey and the inspiring stories of his patients. " Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Rip's Rescue - "Make Yourself Heart-Attack Proof - LIVE on March 18th with Dr. Asbill and the Esselstyns. Register for FREE Ruckus Health with Dr. Brian Asbill PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10x - Hop on the waitlist for our next session. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock. Bookmark this page for upcoming food announcements! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

It’s always wonderful to catch up with friends and fellow plantstrong powerhouses! Today, we're thrilled to welcome Paul de Gelder back to the podcast. You can catch his first interview here in season one. In 2009, Paul was a Royal Australian Navy Clearance Diver on a training exercise in Sydney Harbor when he was viciously attacked by a nine-foot bull shark. He came precariously close to death, as you’ll hear him recount today. As a man who faced death face-on, he knows a thing or two about fear. How do you handle fear and uncertainty? How do you navigate dark times and turbulent waters? You double-down on structure, routine, and strength, as Paul emphasizes today. From the start, instead of anger or depression, Paul committed his recovery and new life to one of conservation, compassion, and commitment - not just to our planet, but to the animals that nearly killed him. He's a regular host of Sharkweek on the Discovery Channel where he takes celebrities like Will Smith and Mike Tyson on shark dives to raise awareness of the beauty and importance of these creatures that humans fear most. It’s so easy to be inspired by Paul and, as he says, “Once you get past the fear of dying, life becomes more refreshing and free." Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Paul de Gelder Instagram Rip's Rescue - "Make Yourself Heart-Attack Proof - LIVE on March 18th - Register for FREE PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10x - Hop on the waitlist for our next session. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock. Bookmark this page for upcoming food announcements! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Last week, we spoke with registered dietitian and author, Brenda Davis, about her latest work called, Nourish: The Definitive Plant-Based Nutrition Guide for Families--With Tips & Recipes for Bringing Health, Joy, & Connection to Your Dinner Table. This week, we continue with part two of this important topic with co-author, Dr. Reshma Shah. Dr. Shah is a board-certified pediatrician, mother, plant-based home-cook, teacher, and student. She has nearly two decades of experience caring for children and families, and currently sees patients at the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, and serves as an affiliate clinical instructor at Stanford University School of Medicine. We know it’s hard to bring an entire family on board the plant-based journey with you because there is a real fear around community, judgment, and nutrition requirements. We also know that you want what’s best for your families and it’s time we have positive conversations around food — with your doctors, friends, and especially your family. Dr. Shah reveals some of the tools, resources, and recipes from the book that will bring joy, abundance, and nutrition back to the family table. It will also instill confidence in knowing that you’re making powerful and positive decisions for the benefit of your entire family for years to come. It's never too late to make changes and bring the family along the adventure with you. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Dr. Reshma Shah Website Nourish: The Definitive Plant-Based Nutrition Guide for Families PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10x - Hop on the waitlist for our next session. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock. Bookmark this page for upcoming food announcements! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

She has been called the "Godmother of Vegan Dietitians" and the "High Priestess of Vegan Nutrition" and today, we're proud to welcome friend, author, and plantstrong pioneer, Brenda Davis, to the podcast. Brenda is the author of 12 books and she’s been a speaker at our Plant-Stock events for years. Not only does she captivate with the energy of a teenager, but her evidence-based research leaves folks inspired regardless of where they are on their own journey to health. That’s why we're excited to discuss topics in her latest book, “Nourish: The Definitive Plant-Based Nutrition Guide for Families” that she co-wrote with Pediatrician, Dr. Reshma Shah. We're often asked about how we do it in the Esselstyn house. People want to know how to feed their children healthy foods in a fast-paced, junk food society without sacrificing the nutrients needed in order to grow and thrive. Today, Brenda addresses some of these common concerns that parents may have...Things like - of course- protein...iodine, calcium, iron, zinc, B-12...you know...all the same things we worry about as adults! The goal of this book is not to just provide confidence in plant-based nutrition for health at any age, but also build a life-affirming connection within your family. “Nourish” offers the solution parents have been waiting for when it comes to deciding what and how to feed their families. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Brenda Davis Website and Resources PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10x - Hop on the waitlist for our next session. PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock. Bookmark this page for upcoming food announcements! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

What do nitric oxide, turmeric, sulforaphane, and humming all have in common? Your health and longevity, of course! You’re going to be humming with joy after you listen to this episode today with Dr. Irminne Van Dyken. Dr. Van Dyken is a general surgeon based in Hawaii, and she is also a cutting-edge researcher and plant-based advocate who teaches others how to optimize their own health and microbiome through diet and lifestyle. Get ready to have fun and think a little outside the box because this interview is packed with quick hits on topics that she is most excited about these days. If you enjoyed Episode 5 with Doug Evans on sprouting a couple of weeks ago, you’ll definitely love our continued talk around this new word - Sulforaphane. It seems to be everywhere these days! What is it, what are the benefits, and where can I get it? Dr. Van Dyken also shares her expertise on the importance of nitric oxide and why it’s a good thing that our tongues are textured like a shag carpet! And speaking of tongues, she also discusses the health benefits of humming...yes...humming for health! So simple, right? Finally, she touches on her favorite spices: Curcumin and Turmeric - and the vast health benefits of each. This is a jam-packed episode of helpful advice from one of our favorite doctors. Dr. Iminne Van Dyken may have gotten into surgery to fix things, but as you’ll hear, she’s more interested in helping you achieve optimal health long before you ever need to go under the knife! Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Order Your Chef's Garden "Repair and Rescue Leafy Green Box" PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock. Bookmark this page for upcoming food announcements! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music Your Love by Atch SoundCloud: bit.ly/AtchSoundCloud Instagram: www.instagram.com/atchmusic License: Creative Commons License - Attribution 3.0 Unported (CC BY 3.0) Music promoted by Ohzum Beats: https://bit.ly/ohzumbeats

Meet Rodney and Jennifer Barrett of Barrett Family Farm. Jennifer and Rodney have been poultry and cattle farmers in rural Arkansas for almost 20 years. But, after a series of major health setbacks, financial hardships, and moral crises, they finally decided to give it up. No longer could they reconcile their work with a greater purpose and as Rodney says, “You wouldn’t think we’d be doing something for so long that was detrimental to our own health.” But, like most of us, they just didn’t know...until they sought the real truth. Today - those chicken houses that would breed over 100,000 chickens every 52 days? They’re now giving birth to thousands of nourishing mushrooms. And the cattle? They’re like children. This is their courageous, ethical, and compassionate journey from poultry to plants. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Join our Mystery Valentines Day Dinner with Chef's Garden - All the Ingredients Delivered Directly to Your Door Barrett Family Farm Facebook Barrett Family Farm Instagram PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - Discover the easy way to eat PLANTSTRONG Theme Music for Episode

Doug Evans is the Sprout Wizard. After decades of living, eating, and working to excess and burn-out, Doug Evans had his "come to plants" moment. In 1999, he literally went from eating a greasy, fatty duck in New York's Chinatown, to eating a raw vegan diet overnight. This personal galileo moment came as he considered his devastating family history of western disease that included heart attacks, stroke, and diabetes. Was he destined to this same fate, or could he break the cycle? He chose to break the cycle "cold cucumber," and has since set his sights on exploring and sharing the world's most nutritious superfoods. In April 2020, Doug Evans released The Sprout Book: Tap into the Power of the World's Most Nutritious Food. Almost instantly, everyone started talking about the simplicity and fun of sprouting your own foods. I’m sure many of you had the same questions I had. Aren't sprouts the hippy-dippy garnish you throw on a salad or in a wrap? Is it complicated, time-consuming, and expensive? And, really, how nutritious can sprouts be? Well, as you’ll hear today, this conversation opened my eyes to the possibilities of sprouts. They aren’t just an afterthought to add flavor or crunch. They are powerhouses of nutrition and the best part is that you can begin sprouting right away on your kitchen countertop with just a few seeds, water, and a mason jar. Get the whole family involved in this beautiful nature experiment and learn how to sprout a new hobby with life-long benefits for everyone Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: The Sprout Book: Tap into the Power of the Planet's Most Nutritious Food Join our Mystery Valentines Day Dinner with Chef's Garden - All the Ingredients Delivered Directly to Your Door. PLANTSTRONG Foods - Pizza Crust is Back in Stock PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - Discover the easy way to eat PLANTSTRONG Theme Music for Episode Sprouting Companies Mentioned By Doug: Sproutman True Leaf Market

What happens when the confident doctor becomes the desperate patient who, like the rest of us, feels powerless when we get sick? This is the moment that board-certified cardiologist, Dr. Monica Aggarwal, describes as her moment of truth when she was diagnosed with a devastating form of rheumatoid arthritis shortly after the birth of her third child. In an instant, she went from being an avid runner, busy doctor, and engaging parent to someone who could barely move. Anger, blame, denial...you name it...she had it. She also had the answer -- a radical change to her diet and lifestyle. Our bodies have miraculous ways to heal and Dr. Aggarwal shares her prescriptions for joy, vitality and health from her book, “Body on Fire: How Inflammation Triggers Chronic Illness and the Tools We Have to Fight It.” We know this is one prescription you’ll love to take. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Dr. Monica Aggarwal Website and Book Information Join our Mystery Valentines Day Dinner with Chef's Garden - All the Ingredients Delivered Directly to Your Door. PLANTSTRONG Foods - Order your favorites! PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - Discover the easy way to eat PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10X Program Theme Music for Episode

Recently, we were introduced to a produce farm just outside Cleveland, Ohio, and quickly learned that this longstanding family-run business is as passionate about growing vegetables as we are about eating them. So we flew to the Chef's Garden farm, so we could film this magical visit and let you experience it firsthand with us. The Chef's Garden has been delivering specialty products with optimum shelf life, quality, flavor, and nutrition direct from the farm to the world's most discriminating chefs for over 30 years. This vast playground of vegetables is also host to the Culinary Vegetable Institute, which provides the world’s most forward-thinking and creative chefs with a place to exchange knowledge, experiment with new ideas, and discover cooking and growing techniques using the canvas of the most flavorful, colorful and nutritious vegetables on the planet. While there, we learned so much about regenerative farming—what it is, what it means for our future, and why we should care. Farmer Lee and Bob's passion was contagious and we are excited to share it with you. Their mission, through their beautiful growing techniques, is to deliver the freshest, most nutrient-dense, tasty vegetables directly to your door, and as Farmer Lee says, "Healthy soil makes healthy vegetables, which makes healthy people." We're proud to support this family farm and hope you will too. Join us for our Mystery Valentines Day Dinner for two complete with fresh produce delivered directly to your door from The Chef's Garden. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Chef's Garden Website and Social Channels Join our Mystery Valentines Day Dinner with Chef's Garden - All the Ingredients Delivered Directly to Your Door. PLANTSTRONG Challenge Starts January 9th, 2021 PLANTSTRONG Foods - Order your favorites! PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - Discover the easy way to eat PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10X Program Theme Music for Episode

Dr. Kristi Funk is a Board Certified Breast Cancer surgeon and physician, a bestselling author of the book, Breasts: The Owner's Manual, an outspoken women's health advocate, a regular feature on shows like Good Morning America, and best-known as the breast surgeon who treated both Sheryl Crow and Angelina Jolie. This passionate doctor's mantra is "God, family and kill cancer," which she wrote to empower women to understand the role they play in their own health. For the majority of her career, she thought she was doing all she could to help women fight the battle against breast cancer, but 18 years into her practice, she found herself confronted with a new truth. She learned that nutrition, specifically plant-based nutrition, undisputedly plays a huge role both in a person's predisposition to get breast cancer and in their ability to fight it. And once she discovered the truth, she wasn't afraid to do an about 180, both personally and professionally, and she literally emptied her fridge and changed her patient protocols to advise a whole food plant-based diet as the best means to live optimal lives and to thrive. This interview will empower you with facts and research, and it will debunk so many of the myths that we hear all the time, like what about soy or alcohol or underwire bras. Dr. Funk not only embraced the truth, but she has also been on a mission to share it with the world. Please share today's episode with one of the millions of people that you know that have been touched by breast cancer. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Pink Lotus - Dr. Funk's website and resource library PLANTSTRONG Challenge Starts January 9th, 2021 PLANTSTRONG Foods - Order your favorites! PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - Discover the easy way to eat PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10X Program Theme Music for Episode

I can empathize with Galileo of knowing how when you know a truth and you know it to be true, you can't turn your back on it. It just won't let you sleep with good conscience. You just can't pretend. They say once you look behind the curtain, you can't pretend you don't know what's behind the curtain. And, those of us in plant-based nutrition, we've seen these diseases go away with a plant-based diet. We know. We've looked behind the curtain. So now it's a matter of getting that word out and helping our colleagues wake up. - Dr. Michael Klaper Season 3 of the PLANTSTRONG Podcast explores those Galileo Moments, when you seek the real truth about your health and dare to see the world through a different lens. This season, we honor those courageous seekers who have paved the way for all of us, which is why there could be no more perfect guest to kick off this season than Dr. Michael Klaper. Dr. Klaper, of course, went to Medical school, but also minored in Astronomy, marrying his lifetime fascination with the nighttime sky and the world according to natural law. His own Galileo moment came in 1981 when he was an anesthesiology resident in Vancouver. He would put patients to sleep so that surgeons could open up their patients' chests. What he saw inside those arteries was unforgettable - yellow gunky atherosclerosis caused by the foods and the high-cholesterol diets they were consuming. He could no longer deny the truth. He looked through the lens. Not only did Dr. Klaper change his diet to a whole-foods plant-based diet right away, but he also changed his own area of focus in medicine, from anesthesia to plant-based lifestyle medicine. That was almost 40 years ago and he's been going strong ever since, helping to clear those arteries and get his patients off medicine rather than performing these massive avoidable surgeries. His goal now? Help others, including aspiring physicians, to peel back the curtain and seek the truth about the real cause of illness in our society. "It's the food, it's the food, it's the food." Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Dr. Michael Klaper Website- Moving Medicine Forward PLANTSTRONG Challenge Starts January 9th PLANTSTRONG Foods - Order your favorites! PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - Discover the easy way to eat PLANTSTRONG Rescue 10X Program Have you had your own ‘Galileo moment’ that you’d like to share? What happened when you stepped into the arena and shed the beliefs you thought to be true? We’d love to hear about it! Email us at [email protected] to submit your story Theme Music for Episode

Season three of the PLANTSTRONG Podcast explores those Galileo moments - when you seek the real truth about your health - and dare to see the world through a different lens. This season, we honor those courageous seekers who have paved the way for all of us. So, grab your telescope, point it towards your future, and let’s get PLANTSTRONG…together. The PLANTSTRONG podcast is hosted by Healthy Eating Advocate and Author, Rip Esselstyn. To learn more, visit: plantstrong.com

The tale of how Ken Lander and Rip met is nothing short of astounding. In 2017, at 430 pounds, Ken was diagnosed with a battery of lifestyle diseases, including major heart disease. When he found out, the first thing he did was Google “reverse heart disease.” Of the 200+ books that came up, he randomly picked “Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease” by Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn. Literally, at the exact same time, and unbeknownst to everyone, Ken had a mutual friend who was trying to connect him to resources at Engine 2. It’s FATE - wouldn’t you agree? The rest...as they say...is history in the making. Ken is now three years into his new life and has a new beautiful heart -- without the need for surgery. From his coffee farm in beautiful Costa Rica, Ken shared his transformation story at the recent Kitchen Rescue Primer Event. Today, we share it with you. Episode Resources: Engine 2 Meal Planner Take Advantage of our Free 14-Day Trial Period! Redeem your free two week trial with the code: TWOWEEKS Theme music for episode

We know that when you’re seeking inspiration and motivation, it often comes directly from those who are living this lifestyle with passion and newfound purpose. Who better to feature than our Plant-Strong/Engine 2 advocate, Karen Drexler?! Karen started her plant-strong journey three years ago and, in the process, has lost over 80 pounds, recruited her family to get on board, and has even become an official advocate on the Engine 2 Seven-Day Rescue groups, serving as speaker and moderator. Today, this busy mom of three shares her seven tips for starting and maintaining a plant-strong life. Episode Resources: Register for the Plant-Strong Kitchen Primer on October 23rd-24th, 2020 Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode

Daniel Shuman has been on his own plant-strong journey since April of 2017 when he started at 355 pounds. But, he actually reached out to us on behalf of a friend who was also struggling with their health. As he says, “If they can see that someone like me can do something like this - and the positive impact it has on every aspect of my life - medically, socially, emotionally, my relationship with my children and wife, my intimacy...It’s really unbelievable.” Daniel is obviously on a journey. He’s not perfect. None of us are. Remember, adopting a whole-food plant-based diet isn’t an “all or nothing.” I can be all or something because it really does check every box. That’s what this episode is all about - sharing his story to propel others and getting people to reimagine what’s possible when you get out of your own way. He’s living proof that the possibilities are endless. Episode Resources: Register for the Plant-Strong Kitchen Primer on October 23rd-24th, 2020 Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode

In 2019, Mark Papa begrudgingly joined an Engine 2 Seven Day Immersions, which catapulted this former meat-eating triathlete back to fitness. Mark and his wife, Amy, are the quintessential “normal” family from Pennsylvania. Mark is a Type 1 diabetic, he’s in the restaurant business, and he and his wife have five kids. So, if there was ever a family that had excuses NOT to change, this is it. And yet, they did and, as you can predict, the results have been remarkable. We caught up with Mark and Amy last year at their home in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania and we talked about what life was like before and after the immersion. It’s been quite an adventure and they are more than happy to share their success. Episode Resources: Register for the Plant-Strong Kitchen Primer on October 23rd-24th, 2020 Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode

Welcome to a BONUS "Transformation Tuesday" edition of the Plant-Strong Podcast! Over the next couple of weeks, we’re going to share this inspirational series dedicated to showcasing some of my new friends and their remarkable, plant-strong stories. It’s our hope that these bonus clips inspire and motivate you because, as you’ll hear, cutting out all the meat and dairy and adopting a whole food plant-based diet may not be easy at first, is massively life-changing from the inside out. Believe me when I say these people are just like you. You may recognize Nick Berman from one of the climactic scenes in The Game Changers. He, along with other members of the FDNY, had just completed the Engine 2 Seven-Day Rescue Challenge and Nick was blown away by how far his cholesterol had tumbled. These results ARE typical. Today, you won't believe how far he's come! I hope you enjoy this episode—and the surprise cameo by the one-and-only Jon Stewart! Episode Resources: Register for the Plant-Strong Kitchen Primer on October 23rd-24th, 2020 Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode

Today, the Plant-Strong Podcast wraps-up Season Two with a special 'Heart of a Hero' finale featuring three of New York’s bravest firefighting heroes. Keith Mitchell was listening to Season One of the Plant-Strong podcast back in 2019, and following the transformation of fellow firefighter Joe Inga like thousands of others. As a triathlete, Keith already worked hard to keep himself healthy and in shape, but after listening to Joe's story, decided to go all-in and embrace the Engine 2 plant-strong way of life. Like Joe, the hurdles during mealtime at Keith’s fire station were difficult to overcome. Despite having seniority, Keith’s decision to eat differently shook the firehouse and created unforeseen tension. But then Keith heard Kevin Duffy’s story in Episode 19 of Season One. Kevin is another NYC firefighter, Ironman triathlete, and a true hero for his own health. Having the testimonials of Joe and Kevin only strengthened his resolve. Today, this finale brings together all three of these heroes for a candid conversation about their jobs and the challenges they face within the firehouse culture. Despite the ridicule and pushback, they press on and continue to thrive against the status quo and they optimize their own health for the health and well-being of those they serve...That's what heroes do. Thank you to Joe, Kevin, and Keith. At this time when firefighters across our nation are battling multiple blazes, we can think of no more appropriate way to wrap up our season than to honor you, our firefighting heroes. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. Register for the Plant-Strong Kitchen Primer on October 23rd-24th, 2020 Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Theme music for episode

Today is 9/11, a day that none of us will forget. As we wind down Season Two of The Plant-Strong podcast, which is dedicated to those with the heart of a hero, we want to honor those who serve on the front lines when we call for help. To commemorate this special day, I want to share an open letter to first responders. We all remember where we were that day when time stood still and the events that transpired across the United States imprinted on each and every one of us. I remember like it was yesterday, as I'm sure you all do. On this day every year, we think of you, emergency first-responders, and the sacrifice you make for others. Lately, with the endless firefighting in California and Oregon, first responders are being put to the test once again and I want to remind everyone that the #1 cause of death for in-the-line-of duty deaths among firefighters is heart disease...not fires or smoke inhalation, not accidents…...heart attacks. Think about that. In a job that faces potential risk and personal harm every time a call comes in, it’s the effects of the standard American Diet that are more dangerous to these everyday heroes. It’s our mission at Plant-Strong to educate and empower people to take back their health, to get in the driver seat and be their own hero. We want everyone to experience the benefits of living plant-strong and to learn that you do NOT have to accept type II diabetes, or high blood pressure, or high cholesterol as your fate. You can turn it around. We want this for everyone, but I especially want this for firefighters and emergency first-responders. So my letter to all of you is to be brave, take the plunge, and don’t wait until you are having chest pains to see the light. Make the change to put YOURSELF FIRST - you will be able to rescue so many more people when your own internal engine is in order. We honor you today and always. We will never forget. Peace, Engine 2, Keep it Plant-Strong.

Here at the Plant-Strong Podcast, as you can tell from all of our guests this season, having “the heart of a hero” means throwing your whole being behind a mission. It means putting health before everything else -- and not just OUR own health, but the health of animals, the planet, and...perhaps most importantly...our children’s health. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a bigger advocate in this work than Suzy Amis Cameron. For over 30 years, she has dedicated herself to caring for the health and sustainability of our planet and Suzy is unapologetically passionate about plant-based foods as a solution to so many of these issues we face today. She’s the author of THE OMD PLAN: Swap One Meal a Day to Save Your Health and Save the Planet. This book was so powerful that she was even featured as a guest with Oprah on “Super Soul Sunday.” Suzy, along with her sister, also founded the MUSE School in 2005, the first school in the country to be 100% solar powered, zero waste, and with a 100% organic, plant-based lunch program. And, perhaps most importantly, Suzy is also responsible for initiating her husband, film director, James Cameron, into a whole-foods plant-based lifestyle after watching “Forks Over Knives” together a few years ago. If not for this life-changing moment, the documentary, “The Game Changers,” Executive Produced by James and Suzy Amis Cameron, may never have had the global impact it’s having right now. In fact, it is the most-watched documentary of all time with almost 100 million downloads...and counting. So, thank you, Suzy, for your tireless efforts on these and all of your plant-based ventures that you’ll learn about in this episode. Episode Resources: Suzy Amis Cameron Website and Resources The Game Changers Documentary Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Theme music for episode

Victoria Moran is a veritable lighthouse in this plant-strong movement and a true matriarch. She's been in the trenches for well over 35-years and, at age 70, she’s just getting started! Her mission? To share the joys and rewards of living a whole-foods vegan lifestyle with the entire world. She’s written 13 books, hosts her own radio show and podcast called, “Main Street Vegan” and most recently produced a documentary called “A Prayer for Compassion” that asks the question, "Can people who identify as religious or spiritual come to embrace the call to include all human and nonhuman beings in our circle of respect, caring and love?” Powerful, indeed. She also runs The Main Street Vegan Academy - a program for training and certifying vegan lifestyle coaches and entrepreneurs around the world. Did we mention that she’s 70? Whew! As you’ll hear in our conversation, one of her goals is to help others age in slow motion and I think you’ll agree, she’s doing just that! And, that’s a wonderful thing because the world needs Victoria Moran and others like her who have the heart of a hero and the compassion to change the world. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Theme music for episode Victoria Moran Resources: Main Street Vegan A Prayer for Compassion Film Main Street Vegan Instagram

We say it all the time here at Plant-Strong - “Real Men Eat Plants.” With the smashing success of The Game Changers documentary, we proved, through science, that it is optimal to build muscle on a plant-based diet. If you still have to see it to believe it, then you’ll want to feast your eyes and ears on today’s guest. Nimai Delgado is a professional bodybuilder who has never eaten meat his entire life. That’s right, Nimai was raised vegetarian since birth and, in 2015, even while in peak training for bodybuilding competitions, went all in and became 100% plant-based. You know what? He’s been out-muscling his competition ever since. What started as Nimai’s personal mission to stay fit and healthy, has quickly turned into a career and a powerful myth-busting fitness and nutrition platform of spreading the benefits and possibilities of a plant-based lifestyle. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode Nimai Delgado Resources: Instagram VeganFitness.com

This week's episode was recorded from the Esselstyn Family Farm as the entire family prepares for the kick-off of our 9th Annual Plant-Stock event starting August 14th, 2020. We affectionately coined the event “Plant-Stock” back in 2011 because the farm is located a scant 21 miles from the famed 1969 Woodstock event at which Grandpa Esselstyn served as the medical director. This farm, as you’ll learn, has been in the Esselstyn family since 1685, and in fact, is one of only two family farms in New York state that has been owned and operated by the same family for over 335 years! There’s a certain magic in bringing Plant-Stock back to its original home. The event may be virtual this year, but, serendipitously, it also allows us to open our doors to thousands of you to this special place. Today, I’m sitting on the front porch with Ann and Essy as we reminisce about the early days on the land. You’ll even get a detailed play-by-play of my Dad’s 1956 Olympic Gold Medal race in rowing! I still get excited hearing about this special moment in my Dad’s life again - even after all these years. And, his Olympic berth started right here on the Esselstyn Family Farm while his Dad treated patients (including a few famous ones you’ll hear about). So, enjoy this visit with my parents this week and join us, if you can, for our virtual Plant-Stock immersive weekend that starts tomorrow. We’re saving you a seat right next to us on the porch. Episode Resources: Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode Footage from the 1956 Olympic Rowing Gold Medal Race

This is a special episode because, instead of looking forward, we actually take a look back and shine the light on the heart of a true hero, Rich Roll. Rich and I both abandoned our steady and stable “normal” careers about 10 years ago to release books and venture into uncharted career territories that didn’t even really exist at the time. We both had young families and, let me tell you, it was scary. BUT, when you believe in something so much and when you’re being pulled so strongly into a direction that resonates with your whole being, you have to act...and fortunately, we both did. This interview was recorded last Fall so, while you won’t hear any dialogue around the current issues we’re all facing, you will hear a thoughtful conversation on fear, vulnerability, suffering, epiphanies in life, learning to give and receive love, meditation, and the bravery it takes to shed our old skin and start over. So even though we look back this week, as you’re listening to both of us reminisce, ask yourself: Are there changes in my own life that I want to make? Is there a cause I believe in so much that I’m willing to give up virtually everything? What are my own fears that might be prohibiting me from going after these goals? How can I get out of my comfort zone? I hope that you, like Rich and myself, recognize and act on those unique moments in your life - those epiphanies - that can ultimately alter the course of your life for the better. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode Rich Roll Website

Rip welcomes human resources consultant, intercultural sensitivity expert, author, and plant-based advocate, Dr. Jarik Conrad, to the podcast to discuss his book, "The Fragile Mind" and many other timely cultural and health issues. As Dr. Conrad suggests, when you rid your body and mind of unnecessary toxins and processed junk food, it will have a direct positive impact on your emotional IQ and leadership style both at work and in the home. It’s also Conrad’s belief that changing what we eat will also help us forge deeper and more meaningful connections with each other right here in our own communities. His life’s work is to help others find common ground through shared experience to develop deep and meaningful relationships, both in the workplace and in society. Rip and Dr. Conrad explore many questions in this eye-opening episode. Despite our vast differences, how can we all come together to make our lives better and more fulfilled through shared experiences? How can we, regardless of our backgrounds, foster empathy and understanding with each other? How do we move the needle for others on a global understanding of health and plant-based nutrition? The conversation is rich with lessons about human behavior because, regardless of where you come from, we are the same in our desire to live a more full, happy, and healthy life. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Theme music for episode Additional Episode Resources: Twitter: @DrJarikConrad LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/cornellians/

Tracye McQuirter is, without question, one of the trailblazers of the plant-based movement who has spent the last 30 years coaching people to go vegan for life. She’s the author of the book, By Any Greens Necessary, as well as her most recent book, The Ageless Vegan, written with her own mother. Today, Rip and Tracye reminisce about her journey to veganism all because of one inspirational lecture she heard almost 35 years ago back in college from civil rights activist, Dick Gregory. We also dive into her role as author and nutrition coach from the perspective of a black female, and her own world-wide initiative, “The 10,000 Black Vegan Women” Movement. Her goal? Empower people of color to improve their health. Everyone has their own motivational and inspirational MOMENT - that THING that finally lights the spark to inspire real change. Tracye's epiphany inspired her life’s work to help others fall in love with the vegan lifestyle. Perhaps this episode with Trayce will be YOUR spark for lasting action. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Additional Episode Resources: Tracye McQuirter Website and Contact Information By Any Greens Necessary Ageless Vegan Sign Up for the 10,000 Black Vegan Women Movement Theme music for episode

We welcome one of our all-time favorite plant-strong BROC-STARS back to the podcast, Dr. Michael Greger! You know him from his website nutritionfacts.org or even his wildly popular books - How Not to Die and How Not to Diet, in which he lays out, in much detail, the science behind the benefits of whole food plant-based diet. Today, Rip talks with Dr. Greger in-depth about his new book - How to Survive a Pandemic. Most people may not realize that Dr. Greger’s medical background is actually in infectious disease and he even wrote a book back on pandemic planning and preparedness way back in 2006. Well, his time in quarantine was spent revisiting that material and presenting the latest science amidst the noise and nonsense that surrounds us. When it comes to the global health of our planet, your choices do have a profound impact. Dr. Greger and Rip discuss measures to protect yourself now and in the future - and - ways we can stop the emergence of pandemics in the first place. This, of course, includes the disastrous implications of our current animal agriculture practices. It wouldn’t be a conversation with Dr. Greger if he didn’t dig into other nutrition facts as well, so buckle your seat-belts for this one! He is a man who walks the walk and talks the talk. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership NutritionFacts.org - All Things Dr. Greger Theme music for episode

Adam Sud and Tara Kemp, two rising stars in the plant-based movement, have been enveloped in a groundbreaking research study into the far-reaching impacts that plant-based nutrition can have on addiction and recovery; not just to help people stay sober, but in all facets of recovery - resilience, self-compassion, physical health, and spirituality. Believe it or not, this study is the first of its kind and is backed and supported by an enthusiastic and reputable team of physicians and experts, including Team Sherzai. They call their study the INFINITE study, which is wildly appropriate because these two have an infinite level of passion, commitment, and dedication to helping people reconnect with their true selves and rediscover their self-worth. Today, they share the details and some of their encouraging results with Rip. Episode Promos: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Engine 2 Meal Planner Use code: HEALTHNOW for $20 off yearly membership Additional Episode Resources: Plant Based For Positive Change - Website with details on the INFINITE study. Learn more or make a donation. Healthy Food, Happy Family - Book by Tara Kemp Adam Sud Instagram Tara Kemp Instagram Theme music for episode

Getting ready to pop an antacid or a swig of your favorite mouthwash? Wait! Hold up just a moment. Today, we take a deep dive on the subject of nitric oxide with Dr. Nathan Bryan, the preeminent expert on the subject and author of “The Nitric Oxide Solution.” It may be new to you, but know this...Our body’s ability to produce nitric oxide is KEY to staving off those killers - stroke, heart disease, and other vascular complications like - well, erectile dysfunction. What is nitric oxide and what role does it play in our health? We break it down into interesting and actionable takeaways. You’ll learn: What happens to our body’s ability to create nitric oxide as we age? What is its role in our heart health? And why do so many common over-the-counter products like mouthwash, antacids and antibiotics crush our body’s ability to produce nitric oxide? What foods can we eat to pump up the production of this magic molecule? (spoiler alert: green leafy vegetables and beets, of course) And, what are some smart and simple ways to increase production? As Dr. Bryan says, chronic diseases is caused by two things and two things only: The body missing something that it needs or it’s exposed to something that it doesn’t need. Today, we want to give you what your body needs, so listen in closely and say “YES” to N.O. - nitric oxide! Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Theme music for the episode Photo from Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease written by Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr.

In honor of Father’s Day last week, I gathered up your questions and called my Dad, Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, affectionately known as Essy to many. There’s nothing he loves more than helping you understand the importance of what you put on your forks to fight disease and to create and sustain healthy and vibrant endothelial cells. Essy is the ultimate taskmaster and, much to everyone’s disappointment, he doesn’t prescribe a 90% plan. He’s 100% ALL IN and he expects the rest of us to follow suit. While he may not believe in moderation, he does believe in you and your ability to tackle this head-on and bring heart disease to its knees. Nobody said this was going to be easy and that’s ok. All of us need a really good challenge in our lives to push outside of our comfort zones, test our limits, and see exactly what we’re made of. You're stronger than you think. Topics covered? A huge variety, thanks to you, our listeners and fans. Among them: Nitric Oxide and why chewing your greens is your best defense against chronic western disease, including COVID-19. Why fluoride toothpaste is a no-no for your health Dr. Esselstyn's opinions on statins and supplements Your fear of not getting enough protein ...and more Essy speaks the truth and never rounds up to make an argument land in his favor. He simply wants us to live our best and most vibrant lives and, at the young age of 86, I think he's on the right track. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food. Visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com to claim their offer of up to 50% your purchase. The NutraMilk - Make Alternative Milks and Butters in Minutes Use code: PLANTSTRONG for $50 off Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Theme music for the episode

Over 65 million households are homes to dogs and cats. In fact, one of the silver linings of the coronavirus quarantine has been a substantial increase in pet adoptions for companionship and, as a member of the family, you want to feed them the best possible diet for long-lasting health and vitality. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths out there when it comes to the best diet for your pet, and today, Rip and renowned veterinarian and author, Dr. Ernie Ward, dispel some of those misconceptions, particularly around meat and protein consumption for pets. What is healthy pet food and what do pets really want. Ward’s latest book, “The Clean Pet Food Revolution: How Better Pet Food Will Change the World,” explores these questions as well as the significant environmental impact of the animal food industry, largely unknown by the general population - even those of us who are pet lovers. Just like in humans, over-feeding and under-exercising our pets can cause inflammation, obesity, and disease, BUT, as Dr. Ward explains, also just like humans, it is reversible with the right diet: a plant-strong diet. Episode Resources: Dr. Ernie Ward Website and Social Media Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG at checkout for 40% order Plant-Stock 2020 Details and Registration Theme music for episode

We were overwhelmed with the positive response of last week’s episode with Chef Ken Rubin, so we decided to keep that momentum going this week with Chef Del Sroufe. If his name isn’t familiar, his work will be. He authored, “Forks Over Knives: the Cookbook,” “The China Study Quick and Easy Cookbook,” and “Better than Vegan,” the story of his struggle with weight loss and gain, and how he managed to lose over 200 pounds on a low fat, plant-based diet. Not only does he share some of his favorite practical cooking tips for common staples in your home - beans, potatoes, veggie stock, and even low-fat recipes for delicious cheese substitute sand guacamole (that you won’t want to miss), BUT - he also talks openly about his own struggles with health and weight. Like many of us, Del has fallen victim to overstress, overeating, and finding comfort in the wrong foods. Sound familiar? He’s in the middle of his own personal reset just like many of you, so let’s do it together with love and empathy. His transparency may just be what you need to help you right now. Episode Resources: Chef Del Sroufe Website Tips and Recipes from the Episode Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG at checkout for 40% order Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode

Ken Rubin is the Chief Culinary Officer of Rouxbe Online Culinary School, training people to become more creative, confident, and HEALTHY in kitchens around the world. A silver lining of the Covid-19 quarantine has been a trend back to rediscovering the joy of a home-cooked meal with the family. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated and, in fact, it can be fun! Rip and Ken introduce simple ways to level up your cooking with tips on roasting, sauteing, and boosting the flavor of pastas, sauces, soups, and more. If you’re on a quest to do more cooking at home, or if you want to increase the depth of flavor in the meals you’re already cooking, this episode will definitely wet your appetite! Episode Resources: Rouxbe Online Culinary School Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG at checkout for 40% order Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode

Ethan Brown is the Founder and CEO of Beyond Meat, a disruptive and innovative plant-based meat company. This interview was recorded pre-Covid 19 so, while we don’t discuss it, the episode is so timely since one of the areas most affected by this horrific disease is our food supply chain; namely, the animal food supply chain. Conditions are deplorable for both the animals and the humans at these meat processing plants, and the health of both is compromised daily. Ethan discusses in detail how his company is improving the efficiency, safety, health, and environmental impact of his Beyond Meat production and the benefits are staggering. We know that the average consumer, even those who eat animal meat, are aware and very concerned about these health and social issues. As Ethan has says, “I believe there is a new dawn for American agriculture and this conversation is our awakening hour.” Here’s to having the heart of a hero and not being afraid to challenge the status quo. In fact, instead of being divisive, it’s time we come together and work together to solve these problems on behalf of the animals, the longevity of our planet, and our own health. Episode Resources: Beyond Meat Website Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode Recent News Articles: Cramer: Coronavirus could propel Beyond Meat into a Amazon or Facebook — CNBC Perspective | Wet markets breed contagions like the coronavirus. The U.S. has thousands of them. Trump orders meat plants to stay open in pandemic — The Washington Post The Milk Situation

For 65-years, Dr. T. Colin Campbell has been a courageous truth-seeker and unapologetic truth-teller in the scientific research and study of nutrition. Of course, most know his work from The China Study, Whole, Forks over Knives, and his repeat visits to Plant Stock, but recently, Dr. Campbell released two articles that speak to this “revolutionary idea” that the best defense against Covid-19 is whole food plant-based diet. In fact, not only is it the best cautionary measure you can take, but it’s also the most responsible to protect the strain on the hospital system, our global environment, and the food supply chain, which has been severely compromised. Dr. Campbell and Rip discuss his body of work over the last six decades and explore the contents of his recent essays on his ideal prescription for optimal health - a whole-food, plant-based diet. Episode Resources: Register Now for the Plant-Strong Primer Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order T.Colin Campbell Center for Nutritional Studies Recovery From the COVID-19 Pandemic: Testing, Tracing, & Nutrition Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list, and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode

In 2018, after an interview about building a healthy gut on a plant-based diet went viral, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz knew he needed to do something. He wanted to continue to spread this message to a wider audience. The result almost two years later? His brand new book Fiber Fueled: The Plant-Based Gut Health Program for Losing Weight, Restoring Your Health, and Optimizing Your Microbiome. Fiber Fueled is the playbook to optimize and restore your gut health on a plant-based diet, and this entire episode is dedicated to the one nutrient that has the most positive impact on your gut health - FIBER. Dr. B dishes on: His F-GOALS: Those super plant-foods to optimize gut health Straight talk on paleo, keto, lectins, and other misinformation floating around Honest dialogue on probiotics and prebiotics And, yes, a topic like fiber wouldn't be complete without a discussion on poop! It's empowering to know that you're not born to have disease. You're born for health and it all starts with the relationship between your microbes and fiber - fiber from plants. Fiber really is sexy! Episode Resources: Plant-Strong Primer Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list, and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Dr. B Website Fiber Fueled Book Page Fiber Fueled on Book Shop (Buy local! Support your local bookstore!) Fiber Fueled on B&N Fiber Fueled on Amazon Dr. B Facebook Dr. B Instagram Theme music for episode

Dan Buettner is an explorer, National Geographic Fellow, award-winning journalist and producer, and a New York Times bestselling author. He discovered the five places in the world—dubbed Blue Zones—where people live the longest, healthiest lives. Today, Dan and Rip discuss the Power 9, those nine mutually supporting characteristics that these Blue Zones areas have in common to promote health, happiness, and longevity. They include: Move Naturally Purpose Downshift 80% Rule Plant Slant Wine at 5 Right Tribe Loved Ones First Belong I encourage you to explore ways to adopt and implement as many of these as possible into your own lives - especially now - when the entire planet is on the precipice of change. We can use these uncertain times for our own good - and the good of the world. It starts now and it starts with you. Episode Resources: Plant-Strong Primer Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Blue Zones Website, Books and Resources Blue Zones Power 9 Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode

“I just couldn’t wrap my head around this idea that you can poison your way back to health.” In 2003, Chris Wark received a grim colon cancer diagnosis at the young age of 26. And, as most of us know, when it comes to cancer treatment, much of the decision-making is based around FEAR. Who wouldn’t be afraid if you were told you basically had a 50-50 shot at surviving? Chris, however, took a different approach. Instead of using fear to drive his decision on chemotherapy, he turned to facts and his faith. Instead of pumping chemo drugs into his body, he pumped in as many anti-cancer foods as he could and turned his body into a nutritional powerhouse. He built his body up instead of tearing it down. That was 13 years ago. Today, Chris is the best selling author of the book Chris Beat Cancer, and a robust website of the same name, ChrisBeatCancer.com. He’s also the father of two beautiful girls and public speaker. Episode Resources: ChrisBeatCancer.com Chris Beat Cancer - A Comprehensive Plan for Healing Naturally Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Thank you podcast listeners! Join our Million Downloads giveaway - enter here to win one of the following great prizes, no purchase necessary! Winners announced on April 27th. Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode Plant-Strong Podcast Website

Damien Mander is founder and CEO of The International Anti-Poaching Foundation and, if you’ve seen “The Game Changers” documentary, you’ll also, no doubt, remember his powerful contribution to the film as a former hunter-turned-conservationist. In this candid interview, Mander describes his former self - the alpha male who used to take aim at the vulnerable through the hunting, killing, and eating of animals. A chance meeting with an elephant transformed him from a meat-loving Aussie to a plant-strong crusader with a personal mission to protect animals and the world’s natural heritage for future generations. You’ll hear all about the initiatives of the IAPF and their valiant efforts to protect over 20 million acres of the African wilderness. In 2017 Damien founded ‘Akashinga – Nature Protected by Women’, an IAPF program that has already grown to over 170 employees, becoming the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. Their goal is to employ 1000 women by 2025, protecting a network of 20 nature reserves, all managed by the IAPF. We’ve recently seen first-hand just how delicate our ecosystems are and, thanks to people like Damien, we are fighting valiantly, with thought-provoking conversations just like these that inspire us to action. Episode Resources: International Anti-Poaching Foundation Damien's Mander's TEDx Talk Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Help us improve access to the Engine 2 Food Line! Survey closed 4/20/20 Thanks! Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode

Dr. Michael Klaper is a friend, a philosopher, and a humanitarian. Today, he returns to the podcast for the third time to talk about the coronavirus and to answer your health questions. In this ever-changing landscape, we are dedicated to providing you with a compass - pointing you towards facts, science, and the world’s most well-trusted medical authorities on health and nutrition. In addition to talking through the origins of the COVID-19 virus, as well as tips on how you can maximize your health and minimize risk, Dr. Klaper also provides HOPE! In fact, as he says, there is room for magic in this “pandemic of possibilities.” Hopefully, we will all emerge with a renewed sense of awareness and appreciation for our planet, our animals, and each other. Episode Resources: Dr. Michael Klaper Website and Social Links Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Know your numbers! Plant-Strong has partnered with the nation’s leader in direct-to-consumer lab testing. For a list of recommended tests and a money-saving bundle, visit our website. Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode

During this time of uncertainty, we are more committed than ever to bring you science, facts, and answers to your health questions. We put the call out and you responded in a huge way and this week, we go straight to the top -- a Q&A session with my father, Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn. Like most of us, he and my Mother are practicing social distancing from their home in Cleveland, Ohio, so we recorded this conversation over Zoom. Whatever lack of quality there is in the recording is made up in spades with the information and answers that he provides to YOUR questions - ranging from cholesterol tests, how to order food at restaurants, the effects of caffeine on the body, the six most important leafy greens your should be eating daily, and the importance of nitric oxide and more. Enjoy this always-educational conversation with Dr. Esselstyn. Episode Resources: Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Music credits for Episode

This week, during these uncertain and volatile times, we present a special episode with Brian Hart, M. Ed. Hart is a highly experienced educator with over twenty-five years in the field as a teacher, administrator, and advocate for school change in both the public and private sectors. He is also Rip's brother-in-law and the Executive Director of the Esselstyn Family Foundation, a 501c3 public charity that strives to get the plant-based message out, free of cost, to as many people and medical organizations as possible. Brian recently wrote a thought-provoking piece for Medium.com entitled, "Food Choice and COVID-19: Reflections on Food and Pandemics." Today, he and Rip discuss the hope-filled lessons from this article and the silver linings we can take away during these uncertain times. Episode Resources: Food Choice and COVID 19 Esselstyn Family Foundation

At age 26, identical twins Nina and Randa Nelson are strong voices in the plant-strong movement. In their early 20s, both were struck with severe acne that left them depressed, confused, and out of work...just as they were pursuing careers in the entertainment industry. Not wanting to settle for traditional antibiotics and powerful medicines with terrible side-effects, Nina and Randa refined their already-clean diet even more to remove excess oils and toxins. Within days, the acne started to clear dramatically. Today, they share the six guiding principles from their book, "The Clear Skin Diet," so that others can put the plan to work. Acne affects millions of young people and has a dramatic impact on self-esteem and social development. Share this episode with anyone who wants to heal their skin from the inside out. Episode Resources: Theme Music Join one of our 2020 Plant-Strong Immersions - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for any five or six day retreat Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Register for Camp Plant-Stock - August 14th-16th, 2020 Clear Skin Diet Website Nina and Randa Nelson Website Somewhat Relatable Podcast

“Heaven forbid, you get a heart attack or a stroke. It's only you in that hospital bed. It's not the people at work. It's not your daughter-in-law. It's not the people you go out to dinner with. It's you. You're a grown man. You're a grown woman. It doesn't matter what people think at this point and you don't owe anything to anybody. It's nobody's business what you order for lunch.” Not many people tell it like it is better than Dr. Michael Klaper. As a revered member of the Plant-Strong retreat team, this nutritional Paul Revere always inspires with his infinite wisdom, caring spirit, and straightforward approach. It’s also this fervor that drives his quest to expose and awaken tomorrow’s young physicians to the power of plant-based healing with his Moving Medicine Forward Initiative. This candid interview is true-to-form as Dr. Klaper and Rip ask the audience to let go of their sacred cows and get off their ‘BUTS’ to make positive changes for long term health. Life is made up of small changes, and the food we eat every day changes us from the inside out. When you switch to a whole food plant-based diet, you have a self-healing mechanism and the body gets itself back into balance. So, why not eat the cleanest fuel possible for your metabolic engine? There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. Every bite matters. Episode 10 Resources Join one of our 2020 Plant-Strong Immersions - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for any five or six day retreat. Know your numbers! Plant-Strong has partnered with the nation’s leader in direct-to-consumer lab testing. For a list of recommended tests and a money-saving bundle, visit our website. Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Dr. Klaper Website Moving Medicine Forward Dr. Klaper Episodes from Season 1: Paleo: The Devil’s Bargain Keto with Doug Lisle Theme Music (https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/6155)