Claim OwnershipNo-Bullsh!t Vegan
Subscribed: 974Played: 15,960
Subscribe
Description
Myth-busting and evidence-based advice to help you kick butt with your health and fitness - on a vegan diet. Join our movement of No-Bullsh!t Vegans who value critical thinking and want to further our cause using scientific truths, not made-up facts. Meet our expert guests who use science to acquire knowledge about the world and how it works. Learn why some of the biggest trends in vegan health and fitness are completely false and based on misinformation.
Your host, vegan fitness coach and author Karina Inkster, sifts through the bullsh!t, so you can focus on levelling-up your health and fitness in ways that actually work.
Your host, vegan fitness coach and author Karina Inkster, sifts through the bullsh!t, so you can focus on levelling-up your health and fitness in ways that actually work.
260 Episodes
Reverse
Biologist and bestselling author Dr. Jonathan Balcombe joins me to discuss fish sentience, the surprising intelligence of fishes, and what science reveals about how they think and feel. Jonathan holds a PhD in ethology, the study of animal behaviour, and has dedicated his career to understanding and communicating the inner lives of animals. He's the author of five popular science books and has published over 60 scientific papers and book chapters on animal behaviour and animal protection. In this conversation, we dive into fascinating research showing that fishes can experience stress relief, fall for optical illusions, and even build social relationships—evidence that challenges long-held assumptions about these often-overlooked animals. We also explore the ethics of fishing and insect farming, the evolving science of animal sentience, and how language shapes our empathy toward other species.
Veganism isn't about saying no; it's about saying yes. Philosophy professor and author Matthew C. Halteman joins me to make the joyful case for going vegan. It's an invitation to live in alignment with your values — and eat ridiculously good food while you're at it. We dig into why most people already want a more vegan world (even if they don't call themselves vegan yet), how to move from guilt and obligation to abundance and flourishing, cognitive dissonance (why people get defensive about veganism even when they agree with you), how to be an actually effective advocate without burning out or blowing up every family dinner, and much more. Matt also shares his own journey from meat lover to ethical vegan, how his dog Gus changed his worldview, and why he thinks veganism should feel like possibility, not pressure.
Vegan triathlete and coach Saskia Bjornson joins me to talk about endurance on plants, building confidence in open water, and why her sold-out beginner triathlon is changing the game. We dive into the power of food as a gateway to change, how to tackle fear and anxiety in sport, and what it means to make endurance events inclusive, low-waste, and fully vegan. Whether you're curious about your first triathlon, want to up your swim game, or just need inspiration to add more movement (and more plants) into your life, this episode delivers.
Coach and clinical nutritionist Christopher Barker (author of Mansplaining the Menopause) is here for a no-B.S. tour through female health, strength, and longevity. We tackle the most persistent menopause myths (including HRT fears), what habits *actually* affect body composition, RED-S and under-fuelling, sane protein targets on a plant-based diet, and performance vs aesthetics. We also chat GLP-1 drugs in the culture, cycle tracking, and using tools like the Oura ring without obsessing.
What really matters for getting stronger on a vegan diet? Spoiler: it's not spending hours on cardio or obsessing over tiny details. In this episode, I break down the 4-part health and body composition hierarchy we use with our coaching clients. It's a simple pyramid that shows where to focus your energy for the biggest results. You'll learn why nutrition is the foundation of strength, how to use plant-based eating to fuel muscle, and why supplements and advanced strategies come much later in the pyramid. No guilt, no fad diets, no B.S. Whether you're new to lifting or a seasoned vegan lifter, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to building strength, fuelling recovery, and keeping it all sustainable for real life.
From rowing as part of the first all-Black women's 8 at the world's largest regatta, to helping steer over $8 million in grants that fuel plant-based change, Candace brings the same grit from the boat to her work in philanthropy. We dive into her journey to veganism while training as an athlete, the lessons she's carried from sports into leadership, and how Thrive Philanthropy is funding a just, global plant-based food system—supporting everything from women-led tofu production in Uganda to vegan restaurant weeks and school lunch programs. We also explore what it means to make a difference beyond what's on your plate, and how you can support systemic change in food systems worldwide.
We discuss Anne's new children's book, Eating to Save the Planet: How Veganism Helps Fight Climate Change. We also explore how Anne's Cherokee heritage and commitment to diversity shape her writing, why kids need books that act as "windows and mirrors," and how young readers (and the rest of us) can take climate action through our food choices. From sobering stats to inspiring stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in raising the next generation of compassionate change-makers, without being, as Anne says, a "vegeterrible."
Iain Tolhurst is a pioneer of stock-free organic farming who's been growing vegetables for nearly 40 years without a single animal input. No manure, no bone meal, no grazing animals—just thriving soil, rich biodiversity, and 120 tons of vegetables per year. You'll learn how this groundbreaking system works, why it's more climate-resilient than conventional or even organic farming, and what it means for the future of food. Whether you're passionate about sustainability, food justice, or simply want to know where your veggies come from, this conversation will shift your perspective on farming, animals, and what's possible for our planet.
Is "ethical meat" just a comforting bedtime story for omnivores? Philosopher and author John Sanbonmatsu joins me to unpack the myths that keep animal exploitation hidden in plain sight — from the illusion of "humane" farming to the deep cultural stories we tell ourselves to feel morally innocent. Drawing from his new book The Omnivore's Deception, John explores why confronting speciesism, and the civilizational systems built on it, is essential not just for animals, but for the future of life on Earth. This is a thought-provoking, no-B.S. conversation that doesn't shy away from uncomfortable realities.
For the first time ever, The No-Bullsh!t Vegan Podcast goes LIVE! Join me in my Powell River recording studio (with a tiny kitten desperately trying to break in) as we celebrate 200 episodes of myth-busting, strength-building, and plant-powered badassery. I'm joined by amazing listeners, clients, and members of the K.I. team for an unscripted, community-powered conversation. We chat about vegan strength training, climate-friendly diets, suspension trainers, home gym hacks, and more — plus I take live questions, suggestions, and even cat name ideas. Thank you for being part of this no-nonsense, ad-free corner of the internet. Let's do this!
What happens when going vegan transforms more than just your plate? In this episode, I'm joined by psychologist and author Dr. Angela Crawford to explore the emotional, psychological, and even spiritual shifts that often come with the vegan journey. We talk about the myth of deprivation, the reality of abundance, and the inner alignment that comes from living according to your values. We also dig into the challenges of being "the one vegan at the table," how to navigate tricky social dynamics, and why emotional wellbeing isn't about being happy all the time. Whether you're vegan-curious or decades into the lifestyle, this conversation offers insight, empathy, and plenty of practical takeaways.
I speak with Thom Norman, co-founder of FarmKind, a nonprofit organization working to end factory farming through evidence-based giving. Thom shares his personal journey to veganism and why he left a legal career in nuclear energy policy to pursue systemic change for animals. He discusses the unique approach FarmKind takes in identifying and supporting high-impact charities, how donations can rival or even surpass individual dietary change in reducing animal suffering, and the importance of pragmatism in creating long-term shifts toward animal liberation. Thom also emphasizes how even small actions—whether donations or activism—can help dismantle a $2 trillion industry built on animal exploitation.
In this final volume of my free strategy call series, you'll listen in on two coaching sessions packed with plant-based problem solving, strength training tweaks, and behaviour hacks. Anna wants to build muscle alongside MMA and dance without being sore for days, while Rebecca's focused on navigating menopause, portion sizes, and protein goals (with a side of DIY vegan high-protein ice cream). We cover everything from barbell boredom and tofu techniques to food prep strategies and how to outsmart your own brain so you don't need to rely on willpower.
I dive into why fitness and veganism aren't just personal choices—they're political whether we realize it or not. Based on a recent article I wrote, I'm exploring how things like race, class, and ability shape who gets access to fitness and plant-based foods, and why pretending otherwise is itself a political act. This episode was sparked by a podcast review I received telling me I should keep social commentary and political opinion out of my show. So, naturally, I decided to lean all the way in.
Agrologist Cory Davis joins me to unpack the environmental toll of animal agriculture—and the enormous potential of plant-based food systems to reduce emissions, reclaim land, and restore ecosystems. Cory brings a systems-level perspective that blends science, ethics, and practical solutions. He also does some serious myth-busting about "sustainable" local meat and "regenerative grazing". Whether you're a climate advocate or curious about food's environmental impact, this episode will challenge what you thought you knew about sustainable eating. Cory is a licensed professional agrologist with over 10 years of experience in natural resource and environmental management. He is a co-author of "Plant-Powered Protein: Nutrition Essentials and Dietary Guidelines for All Ages" along with Vesanto Melina and Brenda Davis, where he breaks down the environmental impacts of different protein choices. He also recently coauthored a paper in the Annals of Medicine titled "Health Disparities and Climate Change in the Marshall Islands".
I'm joined by renowned registered dietitian and plant-based pioneer, Brenda Davis. With decades of experience and 13 books to her name, Brenda shares powerful insights on fine-tuning plant-based diets for every stage of life, and using nutrition to prevent and treat chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. We explore the role of processed foods and faux meats in a healthy diet, and her inspiring journey of being vegan for 36 years (she started back when plant-based diets were dismissed as mere fads). Whether you're a long-time vegan or just plant-curious, this conversation is packed with wisdom you won't want to miss.
Registered dietitian and award-winning author Vesanto Melina returns to dive deep into all things vegan protein. With decades of experience in plant-based nutrition, Vesanto shares insights from her latest book, Plant-Powered Protein, debunking common myths about protein intake and addressing how different populations—from strength trainers to older adults—can optimize their nutrition. We discuss how protein needs change with age, why plant-based athletes may need to tweak their intake, and how the science behind protein recommendations has evolved. Plus, Vesanto shares her thoughts on the growing mainstream acceptance of plant-based diets, how restaurants and food industries are adapting, and why environmental sustainability is an essential part of the conversation. We also chat about fitness and longevity, including Vesanto's own inspiring approach to strength training at age 82 (spoiler alert: she holds a two-minute plank and takes five fitness classes a week!). We discuss how protein plays a role in maintaining muscle mass, especially for those in a calorie deficit, and why strength training is essential for long-term health. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with evidence-based advice to help you fuel your body effectively—without falling for the protein myths. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation that might just change how you think about protein on a vegan diet!
Kettlebell training should be for every body. Coach Damali—kettlebell expert, speaker, and owner of Lift Off Strength & Wellness—joins me to challenge diet culture in the fitness space and share how to make kettlebell coaching more inclusive. She breaks down what it means to approach training from a size-inclusive, trauma-informed, and judgement-free perspective, rethinks the use of props in kettlebell coaching, and discusses why language matters when working with clients. Don't miss this powerful conversation on making strength training accessible to all!
If you looked up "powerhouse" in the dictionary, you'd find a picture of Lynn Aliya. This multi-talented dynamo is an award-winning actor, playwright, director, public speaking coach, country radio broadcaster, and now—author of a brand-new book! In this episode, Lynn shares her vegan journey, discusses her latest book, and (drumroll, please) announces a brand new TV show for the first time ever! When she's not training doctors in empathetic communication or lighting up the stage and screen, Lynn—also known as Brooklyn—is learning to surf at almost 60! Because if anyone can prove it's never too late to catch a new wave, it's Lynn. Tune in for an episode packed with inspiration, storytelling, and a serious dose of badassery!
About once a year, I open up my schedule to between 20 and 30 awesome folks on my email list. Each person gets a free strategy session, where they can chat about whatever they'd like! Creating an effective workout plan, brainstorming vegan meal prep, calculating protein requirements, plotting vegan world domination… anything goes! In today's instalment of strategy session episodes, I first speak with Dan, a triathlete and a marathoner who had some specific questions for me about strength training to complement his endurance training. Next I speak with Julia, who was doing some nutrition coaching with me and my team. She wanted to discuss a few points around calories and basal metabolic rate, and also how strength training might fit into the overall equation of health and body composition.
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States
Too much bullshit, see ya.
Quoting research from animal studies??? Really??
references to all the studies these guys talk about?