Vegan Boss Radio

What role can nutrition play in cancer prevention, treatment, and long-term health? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Zahra Kassam, a Radiation Oncologist and leading voice in lifestyle medicine and plant-based nutrition. We explore the evidence behind plant-based diets in relation to cancer risk, survivorship, and overall chronic disease prevention, as well as how nutrition can support patients during and after treatment. We also break down some of the most common nutrition myths surrounding cancer, including the widely circulated belief that “sugar feeds cancer". In this episode, we cover: • The role of plant-based nutrition in cancer prevention • Nutrition during cancer treatment and survivorship • Common cancer-related nutrition myths and misconceptions • How dietary patterns influence chronic disease risk • The work of Plant-Based Canada and its impact • The growing role of nutrition and sustainability in healthcare This is a thoughtful, evidence-based conversation for anyone interested in the intersection of nutrition, medicine, and long-term health. About Dr. Zahra Kassam Dr. Zahra Kassam is a Radiation Oncologist at the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre in Newmarket and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Toronto. She is certified in Lifestyle Medicine through the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine and serves as Co-Chair of the Canadian Lifestyle Medicine Group of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. In 2019, she co-founded Plant-Based Canada, a nonprofit organization providing evidence-based education on the benefits of whole food, plant-based nutrition for human health, environmental sustainability, and planetary well-being. She is co-author of Eating Plant-Based: Scientific Answers to Your Nutrition Questions, written in collaboration with her sister Dr. Shireen Kassam, and co-editor of the academic textbook Plant-Based Nutrition in Clinical Practice. Dr. Kassam promotes sustainable nutrition within healthcare systems through her roles in national organizations. She serves as a Food Advisor to the Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care and is a member of the PEACH Sustainable Food Committee, the National Advisory Committee on Planetary Health for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, the Green is Health Member Interest Group of the Ontario Medical Association, and the Climate and Sustainability Working Group of the Canadian Association of Radiation Oncologists.   Learn more about Dr. Kassam and Plant-Based Canada at www.plantbasedcanada.org and on their Instagram @plantbasedcanadaorg. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go, everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!  

For more than four decades, Gail Eisnitz has investigated factory farms and slaughterhouses in the United States, documenting practices that most people never see. In this episode of Vegan Boss Radio, Gail shares what she witnessed during her years as an undercover investigator and why she believes transparency about the realities of animal agriculture is so important. Some parts of this conversation include descriptions of animal abuse inside factory farms and slaughterhouses, which may be difficult to hear. But as Gail explains, bringing these hidden practices into public awareness has been a central part of her life’s work. We discuss: • What Gail witnessed during her investigations inside factory farms and slaughterhouses • Why so much of the meat industry operates out of public view • The challenges and personal toll of documenting animal abuse for decades • How public awareness has historically driven policy change • Gail’s new memoir, Out of Sight, and the personal journey behind her investigative work Whether you’re already vegan or simply curious about how our food systems operate, this conversation offers a rare look inside an industry that most consumers never see firsthand. About Gail Eisnitz Gail A. Eisnitz, winner of the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Medal for outstanding achievement in animal welfare, has spent decades documenting and exposing the hidden realities of the U.S. meat industry. She is the chief investigator for the Humane Farming Association and author of the memoir Out of Sight: An Undercover Investigator’s Fight for Animal Rights and Her Own Survival. Eisnitz and her first book, Slaughterhouse: The Shocking Story of Greed, Neglect, and Inhumane Treatment Inside the U.S. Meat Industry, were the driving force behind a front-page exposé in The Washington Post that ultimately resulted in a multimillion-dollar annual Congressional appropriation to enforce the Humane Slaughter Act — the first funding ever allocated to enforce the law more than 40 years after it was passed. Her investigative work has led to major media exposés on ABC’s Good Morning America, ABC’s PrimeTime Live, and Dateline NBC and has been featured in major publications including The New York Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Miami Herald, the Detroit Free Press, Texas Monthly, the Denver Business Journal, the Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. Her interviews have also been broadcast on more than 1,600 radio stations. In her memoir Out of Sight, Eisnitz takes readers on a deeply personal journey as she works to expose systemic animal abuse while navigating a rare visual processing disorder she has lived with since childhood — a condition that was only identified in scientific literature about a decade ago and was formally diagnosed while she was writing the book. Eisnitz has been vegan for more than two decades. Learn more about Gail and her books at her website www.gaileiznitz.com and her Instagram @gaileisnitz. ____________________________________________________________________ If you're interested in learning more about plant-based nutrition, you can find educational resources on my Instagram @vegan_boss, including posts like “7 Things I Wish I Had Known About Vegan Nutrition When I First Started,” “Top 5 Vegan Grocery Staples,” and “3 Vegan Nutrition Mistakes and How to Avoid Them.” ___________________________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Is whey protein really superior to plant-based protein powders for building muscle? It’s a claim that still pops up constantly in fitness spaces: that whey protein is the “gold standard” for muscle growth, while plant proteins are somehow inferior. In this mini solo episode, I break down the science behind this belief and explain why the research does not support the idea that whey protein is better than plant-based protein powders for building muscle. This episode was inspired by a recent conversation in a WhatsApp group where someone suggested that whey protein is “better” because of faster absorption, superior amino acid profile, and greater effectiveness for muscle gain. But when we actually look at the evidence, studies comparing plant proteins like soy and pea protein to whey show no meaningful difference in muscle mass or strength gains when combined with resistance training. For athletes, gym-goers, and anyone trying to increase protein intake, plant proteins are a perfectly effective alternative without using animal products, and the environmental concerns associated with dairy. References: 1. No Difference Between the Effects of Supplementing With Soy Protein Versus Animal Protein on Gains in Muscle Mass and Strength in Response to Resistance Exercise. 2. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial vs whey protein. 3. Protein and Amino Acid Requirements in Human Nutrition. 4. Acne and whey protein supplementation among bodybuilders. 5. The Effect of Whey Protein Supplements on Acne Vulgaris among Male Adolescents and Young Adults. 6. Milk consumption: aggravating factor of acne and promoter of chronic diseases of Western societies. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Is veganism really “dead”, or is that just the headline? In this episode, I’m joined by Jessica Scott-Reid to unpack the recent wave of media stories claiming that veganism is over. We explore what those articles often miss, how plant-based diets are frequently conflated with veganism, and why cultural narratives around meat consumption are shifting in surprising ways. Jessica Scott-Reid is a journalist and animal advocate. She writes for media across Canada, including The Toronto Star, Winnipeg Free Press, Corporate Knights Magazine and others. She is also the culture and disinformation correspondent for Sentient Media. In our conversation, we discuss: The media framing of veganism as a “failed trend” The difference between veganism and plant-based diets The rise of meat-fluencers and cultural messaging around meat, politics, and nutrition Industry-funded efforts to discredit plant-based eating How plant-based meat alternatives are labeled “ultra-processed” and what that framing leaves out The growing role of disinformation in food media This is a thoughtful, nuanced conversation about media, perception, public health, and how narratives are shaped in real time. If you’ve been confused by the headlines, this episode will bring clarity. Learn more about Jessica on her Facebook @writerfortheanimalsjessica and Instagram @jesslsr, and learn about Sentient Media at sentientmedia.org and on Instagram @sentient_media. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this solo mini episode, Shawna walks through her plant based nutrition guide to the key vitamins and minerals. This episode covers: Vitamin B12 (including dosing ranges and supplement forms) Vitamin D3 and sun exposure Calcium on a vegan diet Iodine and thyroid health Iron and when supplementation is actually necessary Zinc intake on plant-based diets Omega-3s (ALA, EPA, and DHA) This guide is general info for healthy adults, and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. That said, it provides a foundation for the vitamins and minerals that people are the most curious about when going vegan or eating a plant based diet. If you’d like personalized support reviewing your diet or supplement plan, you can book a private nutrition consultation with Shawna. For listeners in Canada, essential supplements like B12 and vegan D3 are also available through her online supplement store. Whether you’re new to plant based eating or simply want reassurance that you’re covering your bases, this episode offers clarity and confidence. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, Shawna sits down with Chantelle Archambault, Communications Director at the Vancouver Humane Society, for an important conversation about animal advocacy, public awareness, and how change actually happens at the community and policy level. Chantelle has worked as the Communications Director at the Vancouver Humane Society since 2021. She is passionate about justice for all, both humans and animals, and has worked with non-profit organizations that focus on family services, social justice advocacy, and creating safer spaces for marginalized communities. Chantelle’s lifelong commitment to the ethical treatment of animals inspired her to volunteer for the Toronto Humane Society and later to move across Canada to take on her current role at the VHS. She has appeared in media outlets including the CBC, CTV News, CityNews, and the Daily Hive. Together, Shawna and Chantelle discuss the work the Vancouver Humane Society does behind the scenes, including past and current campaigns, efforts to raise awareness about the cruelty of rodeos and horse racing, and why these practices are still widely misunderstood or normalized. They also explore the bigger picture of advocacy, including how individuals can engage with local government officials, speak up about animal welfare issues, and help drive meaningful change through education and policy. This episode is a blend of advocacy, education, and empowerment, perfect for anyone interested in animal welfare, ethical living, and making an impact in their local communities. Learn more about the Vancouver Humane Society at their website and Instagram @vancouverhumane, and learn more about Plant University at their website and Instagram @plantuniversity.ca. __________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

What if aging didn’t have to mean slowing down, losing strength, or accepting things that are considered just normal parts of aging? In this episode, Shawna is joined by Jane Thurnell-Read, an independent author and blogger. She writes about health and wellbeing with a focus on positive lifestyle solutions. She’s in her seventies and loves inspiring others. She enjoys lifting weights in the gym, riding her bike and eating healthily with a dusting of vegan chocolate. Her books are: Health & Wellbeing on a Budget: Simple and Affordable Strategies for a Healthier, Happier You The Science of Healthy Ageing: Unlocking the Secrets to Longevity, Vitality, and Disease Prevention 190 Weight Loss Hacks: How To Lose Weight Naturally and Permanently Without Stress Menopause Weight Loss: Live Well, Sleep Well, Stop Hot Flashes and Lose Weight These are available on Amazon as a paperback and eBook, and on Audible and iTunes as an audiobook. Each book is full of evidence-based, practical information. Jane also posts gym videos, inspirational lifestyle quotes and vegan salad pics on her Instagram account @thrivingjane. Visit her website https://janethurnellread.com/ for more information. In this conversation, we dive into: Why weight training is one of the most important tools for healthy aging Strength training during and after menopause Bone health, muscle mass, confidence, and independence as we age Why staying active is non-negotiable for long-term vitality How a plant-based lifestyle can support aging well This episode is inspiring, practical, and a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to build strength, support your health, and thrive at any age. __________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode of Vegan Boss Radio, Shawna is joined by Rosie Martin, a UK-based registered dietitian, to break down some of the most common misconceptions and challenges people face when eating plant-based. Together, they explore: Widespread myths and misinformation around plant-based nutrition Nutrients people tend to worry about unnecessarily, and the ones that actually deserve attention Gut health, bloating, and why fibre is often misunderstood Concerns with the new U.S. Food Guide and how nutrition guidance is often oversimplified online About the Guest Rosie is a UK registered dietitian working in the NHS and as a plant-based diet specialist in private practice through her business Rosemary Nutrition & Dietetics. As a former zoologist with experience in animal behaviour and welfare, Rosie turned to a fully vegan diet in 2014 and retrained in nutrition. Having studied the theory of plant-based nutrition and experienced the real-life physical and psychological benefits, Rosie now works to support others embrace a plant-based diet and lifestyle for human, animal and planetary health. This episode is ideal for anyone who wants a more grounded, evidence-based approach to plant-based eating. Learn more about Rosie and the services she offers: Website: www.rosemarynutrition.co.uk Instagram: @plantdietitianrosie Link to free weight-loss session: https://www.rosemarynutrition.co.uk/register-2/ __________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Can you really build muscle on a plant-based diet? Is meat actually necessary for strength, or is that just a story we’ve been told? In this episode, Shawna sits down with Dr. Minil Patel to break down the science, culture, and myths surrounding plant-based nutrition, strength training, and masculinity. Dr. Patel shares his personal journey from being, in his own words, “the least vegan person” to going vegan for ethical reasons after questioning why we care for some animals while eating others. That realization sparked a deeper interest in plant-based nutrition, performance, and lifestyle medicine, and ultimately shaped both his medical practice and public advocacy. In this episode: Whether plant-based diets can support muscle growth and strength training The cultural link between meat consumption and masculinity Common myths about protein, muscle, and vegan nutrition How misinformation spreads online, and how to evaluate nutrition claims critically What it really takes to thrive on a plant-based diet as an active individual About the Guest Dr. Minil Patel is a UK-based General Practitioner and Lifestyle Medicine Physician with a special interest in plant-based nutrition and strength training. He graduated from King’s College London in 2016 with an MBBS and a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. After adopting a vegan lifestyle in 2017 for ethical reasons, Dr. Patel completed the Plant Based Nutrition course at the University of Winchester. He also holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education from King’s College London and a diploma from the International Board of Lifestyle Medicine. He is an active member of Plant Based Health Professionals UK and serves as an ambassador for Climategames and Running On Plants. Dr. Patel was featured in the documentary I Could Never Go Vegan and has appeared in Men’s Health Online. He regularly speaks at events such as Vegfest, Vegan Camp Out, and VegMed on topics including plant-based diets for athletes, muscle building, and performance. He shares evidence-based insights on veganism, nutrition, health, and fitness through his Instagram account @drironjunkie. __________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I’m joined by Karen Lee of The Sensitive Foodie Kitchen for a powerful conversation about autoimmune disease, healing, and the role of a whole-food, plant-based diet in supporting long-term health. Karen shares her journey following a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2016 and how she uses diet and lifestyle approaches to manage her condition. We explore how plant-based nutrition can support people living with autoimmune conditions, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life, while still being realistic, nourishing, and enjoyable. Karen is a retired intensive care nurse and naturopathic nutritionist who has a passion for amazingly tasty food that’s also great for health. After a diagnosis of MS in 2016, she uses diet and lifestyle to manage her condition and shares this knowledge with others through her website – The Sensitive Foodie Kitchen – as well as workshops, talks and online classes. She published her first book Eat Well Live Well with The Sensitive Foodie in 2019. Her second book, Healing From The Inside Out, is due out 15th January 2026, and explores the benefits of a whole-food plant-based diet for autoimmune disease. Karen is a facilitator for the charity Overcoming MS that provides an accessible lifestyle medicine program that supports people with MS. She also teaches medical students how to cook plant-based meals as part of the Cooking for the Climate module offered by Plant-Based Health Professionals UK (PBHP) and works as PBHPs Event Manager. We also talk about the importance of food skills, community education, and empowering people with practical tools they can actually use, whether they’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to build resilience and health from the inside out. This episode is thoughtful, grounded, and inspiring, especially for anyone navigating chronic illness or curious about the role of plant-based nutrition in autoimmune health. Learn more about Karen on her website, Instagram @the.sensitive.foodie, Facebook @thesensitivefoodie, LinkedIn, and YouTube.  __________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In today's episode, I'm joined by Vanessa Sturman, a multi-award-winning Speaker and Health and Nutrition Coach who helps busy leaders, teams, and individuals build practical, sustainable nutrition habits that support performance, resilience, focus, and healthy weight maintenance. She connects how we eat with how we lead, linking personal performance, business success, and planetary health. A regular contributor to Sky News, BBC Radio, and other major media outlets, Vanessa's approach is rooted in enjoyment and real life, with flavour-filled food and simple shifts that fit naturally into everyday routines. No restriction. No overwhelm. Just realistic, evidence-based steps. Drawing on nutrition science, real-world experience, and cultural food knowledge, Vanessa equips people to sustain energy and focus under pressure. Her inclusive, relatable perspective is shaped by her recovery from teenage binge eating and her experience growing up as a person of colour with an immigrant mother who taught her the value of food, budgeting, and reducing waste. Educated at Cambridge University in Social and Biological Anthropology (BA (Hons), MPhil, MA), Vanessa is also a published recipe developer and experienced one-to-one coach. Her clients include Fulham Football Club, Cambridge University, and Octopus Electric Vehicles. She serves as a Health Expert for BBC Radio Oxfordshire and Berkshire and has received two speaker awards for her high-impact delivery. Vanessa delivers keynotes, workshops, and panel sessions on leadership, adaptability, and small habit change, even within diverse food cultures. She also coaches individuals and corporate teams to make sustainable nutrition choices that support wellbeing and success.  Links: Website and Vanessa’s Power Hour, code POWER15 at checkout for a 15% discount https://www.vanessasturman.com/the-power-hour  Follow Vanessa on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vanessaforhealth  To discuss your needs with Vanessa, no obligation, book a call here https://calendly.com/energiseandthriveplantbased/healthy-living-discovery- call or drop me a text on 07826 519611 Connect with Vanessa on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-sturman-plant-based-health-coach/  __________________________________________________________________ Also, a quick reminder that there are still a few spots left in my upcoming 15 Hour online Plant Based Nutrition Course, running Thursdays from 8am–11am PST, starting January 5th. If you’d like to register, just email registrar@pacificrimcollege.com. _________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, Shawna sits down with Tania Cantú, the creator behind Plant Based Mexican (@plantbasedmexican), a woman whose life flipped the moment she realized her body had been whispering warnings since childhood. A vibrant voice blending humour, wellness, and flavour to show the world that healthy living doesn’t have to be bland or boring. After overcoming childhood asthma, food sensitivities, and generational patterns around health, she turned her personal transformation into a mission to inspire the Latino community to nourish their bodies and rewrite their story. Her story isn’t just about going plant based…it’s about confronting the emotional chaos, the family dynamics and the moments that pushed her to ask: “Who am I becoming?” A lifelong athlete, plant based cook, and mindset mentor, Tania’s transformation led her to create a space where wellness meets humour, flavour, movement, and the kind of honesty people don’t usually share online. She shares practical tools, delicious recipes, and lifestyle habits that help people. Today, Tania empowers everyone to take back their health, reconnect with their inner voice, and create a life that actually feels good, one recipe, one habit, and one brave decision at a time. And her message has become her signature: "If Tania Can, You CanTU". In this episode, we dive into: • Tania’s plant based journey and what inspired her to share her recipes online • Sneaky animal products commonly found in Mexican cuisine (like lard in beans, chicken stock in rice, and seasoning cubes that aren’t vegan) • The rise of plant based options in Mexico, especially in Mexico City • Tania’s favourite ingredient swaps for creating authentic flavours • Her top plant based recreations of classic dishes • How she inspires a bilingual audience that’s curious about healthy living, even if they’re not plant based Before the interview, Shawna also shares details about her upcoming 15-Hour Plant Based Nutrition Course, running online through Pacific Rim College from January 8th to February 5th. This course is ideal for nutrition students, nutritionists, and healthcare providers who want to better support plant based clients, as well as anyone already vegan or plant based who wants an in-depth understanding of nutrient needs and evidence-based guidance. To register, email registrar@pacificrimcollege.com. This episode is a delicious blend of culture, education, and inspiration, perfect for anyone who loves Mexican food, is curious about plant based living, or wants practical tools for navigating eating plant based within traditional cuisines. Learn more about Tania on her Instagram @plantbasedmexican and her YouTube @plantbasedmexican. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I chat with Sylvain Karpinski, founder and CEO of GUSTA Foods and SLY Foods, and one of the most innovative voices in Canada’s vegan food landscape. Sylvain has been vegan for two decades and has built two successful plant based companies rooted in his passion for sustainability, flavour, and adventure. GUSTA Foods quickly became a staple in Canadian grocery stores with its artisanal, clean-label vegan sausages, roasts, and cheeses. More recently, Sylvain launched SLY Foods: a line of gourmet, freeze-dried, plant based meals designed for adventurers who want nutritious, long-lasting meals that taste amazing. In this conversation, we explore: • Sylvain’s vegan journey and what inspires his work • The origins and growth of GUSTA Foods • Why he created SLY Foods and the gap it fills for outdoor enthusiasts • How the plant-based meat alternative market has evolved • His experiences as an adventure athlete and how that shaped SLY Foods This is an inspiring, insightful episode for anyone interested in vegan entrepreneurship, plant based innovation, or the intersection of food and adventure. Learn more at both @gustafoods and @slyfoods.ca ____________________________________________________________________ Before the interview, I also share details about my upcoming 15-Hour Plant Based Nutrition Course, running online through Pacific Rim College on Thursdays from 8am-11am PST from January 8th to February 5th. Open to everyone, not just students, this course covers nutrient requirements, how to respond to common criticisms of vegan diets, and evidence-based explanations for popular plant based nutrition myths. More info & to register: Pacific Rim College School of Continuing Education ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this mini solo episode, I share the 10 things that I wish everyone knew about being vegan. Everything from why veganism is not a diet, to the funny (and sometimes frustrating) realities of navigating a non-vegan world. I discuss the emotional and practical sides of vegan life: dealing with constant “nutrition experts,” learning to be overprepared, handling the never-ending jokes, and remembering that even when it doesn’t feel like it, every vegan choice makes a difference. I also talked about a new video by past guest Natalie Fulton about how vegans “lost the culture war,” exploring how veganism’s boom after Cowspiracy and EAT-Lancet was met with backlash from the meat industry and media misinformation. The episode wraps up with my own vegan story, which is coming up to my 32 year anniversary of going vegetarian this month, and how that eventually led to going vegan in 2002.  Mentioned in this episode: My private vegan nutrition consultations and upcoming Plant Based Nutrition Course - detail can be found at synergynutrition.ca Natalie Fulton’s video “How Vegans Lost the Culture War” on YouTube ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Why do we love some animals but eat others? In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Harvard-educated psychologist and author Dr. Melanie Joy to explore the invisible belief system of carnism, and how it shapes our values, culture, and food choices. We discuss the emotional side of activism, how to navigate anger and grief, and the importance of compassion, not just toward animals, but toward ourselves and each other. Dr. Joy also opens up about her new novel, A Half-Hearted Death Wish, and what inspired her to share this deeply human story. Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or simply interested in the psychology of eating, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of why society eats certain animals but not others. Learn more about Dr. Joy’s work at melaniejoy.org and carnism.org, as well as her Instagram @drmelaniejoy , and the Beyond Carnism Instagram @beyondcarnism. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Soy is one of the most misunderstood foods out there — even within the vegan and plant-based community. In this mini solo episode, I break down the top myths about soy and share what the latest research really says. From hormones and breast cancer risk to thyroid health, “processed” tofu claims, and concerns about soy and the environment — this episode covers it all. You’ll learn why soy doesn’t increase estrogen or lower testosterone, how it may actually protect against certain cancers, and why cutting it out of your diet could mean missing out on a nutrient-dense, protein-packed food with decades of proven health benefits. Whether you’re still unsure about soy or just need some science-backed facts to share with skeptics, this episode will help you feel confident adding tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and edamame to your meals. Studies mentioned in this episode: 1. Dairy, soy, and risk of breast cancer: those confounded milks 2. Soy Isoflavones and Breast Cancer Risk: A Meta-analysis 3. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Effect of Soy on Thyroid Function 4. Neither soy nor isoflavone intake affects male reproductive hormones: An expanded and updated meta-analysis of clinical studies 5. Clinical studies show no effects of soy protein or isoflavones on reproductive hormones in men: results of a meta-analysis ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I'm speaking with Dr. Jade Dittaro, a hospitalist, plant-based physician, and board certified lifestyle medicine practitioner.  Dr. Dittaro has spent years helping patients make meaningful changes to support their recovery and long-term health. She’s passionate about plant-based nutrition, preventive care, and empowering people with practical, evidence-based tools for improving wellbeing. We talked about her work in the hospital system and how receptive patients are to eating more plants, how Canada’s national health guidelines support plant-based diets, the first small steps to take if you’re feeling overwhelmed, and what it’s like raising kids on a plant-based diet. Learn more about Dr. Dittaro on her Instagram @drjadedittaro and Facebook @drjadedittaro. Dr. Dittaro mentioned both Aroga and LifestyleRx as places to find lifestyle medicine practitioners. ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Tila Kansagra, also known as The Plant Promoting Doctor on YouTube. Dr. Tila is Board Certified in Lifestyle Medicine, holds a certificate in Plant Based Nutrition, and works as a GP and private lifestyle coach. She supports clients with their health and weight loss goals by focusing on the six key pillars of lifestyle medicine—nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, healthy relationships, and avoidance of risky substances—alongside their medical care. We talked about her personal health journey, how lifestyle medicine has shaped her practice with patients, and the importance of making small, sustainable changes that truly last. We also touched briefly on the misconception that carbs are to blame for type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that intramyocellular lipids play an important role in insulin sensitivity, and vegans have been found to have about 30% lower levels. For anyone interested, here’s the study I mentioned: “A low fat vegan diet and a conventional diabetes diet in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled 74-week clinical trial.” Learn more about Dr. Tila on her YouTube Channel @plant_promoting_doctor, her Instagram @plant_promoting_doctor, and her website plantpromotingdoctor.com. ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I'm joined by Natalie Fulton, a passionate advocate for the animals, who went vegan during the pandemic and vowed to do whatever she could to help. Since then, she’s been creating content on YouTube, Substack, and Instagram, while also serving as the Media and Content Lead for Pro-Animal Future. In this episode, Natalie shares her experience with different forms of activism, from street outreach to creative campaigns like Elwood’s Dog Meat, and reflects on what’s most effective for inspiring others to take action. We also dive into broader topics like whether Gen Z is going vegan, and the ways veganism intersects with politics and culture today. This conversation is both thought-provoking and inspiring—whether you’re new to activism or looking for new ideas on how to make an impact, you’ll take a lot from Natalie’s insights. Learn more about Natalie on her YouTube @Natalie.Fulton and Instagram @nattiefulton. ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I’m joined by Terri Chrisman, a distinguished speaker, podcaster, author of Fabulous Health, and board-certified nutritionist with the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Terri is passionate about empowering people to reclaim their health, combining cutting-edge science with real-world, actionable strategies. Together, we dive into some of the most powerful aspects of lasting health transformation: Practical strategies to create food and lifestyle habits that stick A deep dive into the six pillars of health The mindset shifts that make change sustainable This conversation is packed with clarity, encouragement, and actionable takeaways. Whether you’re just beginning your health journey or looking to refine your habits, this episode will inspire you to take simple steps toward a healthier, more energized life. Learn more about Terri on her website, fabuloushealth.net, her Instagram @fabuloushealthtlc, and her podcast, The Fabulous Health Show. ___________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own health journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about my private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!