PLANTSTRONG Podcast

What if your health wasn’t just shaped by what you eat—but by what’s hidden in your medications?In this episode, Rip sits down with pharmacist-scientist Dr. Sachin Shah, a leading voice in medication transparency and patient safety. Together, they explore why food truly belongs at the center of health, how modern medicine sometimes misses the human in healthcare, and why knowing what’s inside your pills can be just as important as knowing what’s on your plate.Dr. Shah also breaks down alpha-gal syndrome—a tick-bite–triggered condition that can make people allergic to red meat and certain medications—while also sharing hopeful, forward-looking ideas around heart health, non-invasive therapies, and the power of informed choices.This is a conversation about clarity, care, and taking your health back into your own hands—with compassion, curiosity, and a whole lot of heart.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTube

What does it look like when plant-based living moves beyond personal choice and into real systems change? This episode answers that question in a big way.Rip sits down with longtime friend and food policy powerhouse Rachel Atcheson, founder of Food Policy Pathways, for a wide-ranging conversation about how food policy can transform public health, reduce chronic disease, and make healthy eating the default — not the exception.Rip and Rachel unpack how initiatives like Meatless Monday and Plant-Powered Fridays in NYC public schools, plant-based default hospital meals, and lifestyle medicine clinics became reality — reaching millions of people while saving money and cutting carbon emissions. They dig into the behavioral science behind defaults, why taste and culinary training matter, and how real change happens when policy aligns with public health.Rachel also introduces her newest chapter: Food Policy Pathways, an organization building a pipeline of professionals who want to work inside government to advance healthier, more sustainable food systems at the city, state, and federal levels.This conversation is optimistic, practical, and deeply motivating — proof that playing the long game can reshape our food future.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTube

In this deeply grounded conversation, Rip sits down with Jan Liband — a former college athlete, longtime plant-based advocate, and expert in food and environmental sustainability. What began for Jan as a single pamphlet exposing the environmental toll of animal agriculture became a lifelong commitment to plant-based living nearly 40 years ago.Jan shares his journey from a meat-centered, “healthy by 1980s standards” diet to discovering how plant-based eating dramatically improved his energy, recovery, and athletic performance. Along the way, Rip and Jan tackle some of the biggest barriers to change — especially for men — including cultural conditioning, fear of change, and the never-ending obsession with protein.The conversation goes beyond personal health and zooms out to the bigger picture: how our global food system drives roughly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, accelerates deforestation, drains freshwater resources, and threatens biodiversity. Jan explains why dietary change is one of the fastest, most impactful climate actions individuals can take — far faster than waiting on energy or infrastructure shifts.From practical food swaps and transition strategies, to a powerful discussion of the Eat-Lancet report and planetary boundaries, this episode is both a reality check and a hopeful roadmap. The message is clear: small, consistent changes on our plates can ripple outward — improving our health, strengthening our communities, and protecting the planet for generations to come.Key TakeawaysOne piece of information — a pamphlet on animal agriculture — can spark lifelong change.Plant-based eating can improve digestion, recovery, energy, and athletic performance within weeks.Men often struggle with plant-based eating due to early-formed habits, social pressure, and protein myths.Americans are not protein-deficient — they are protein-toxic — while severely lacking fiber.Gradual change increases long-term success; the best diet is the one you’ll stick with.Animal agriculture drives the majority of food-related greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water waste.The Eat-Lancet report supports plant-rich diets as essential for both human and planetary health.Food choices are the single most powerful daily action individuals can take to protect the environment.Watch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode Webpage

It’s been way too long since Jackie Akerberg (@jackfruitfulkitchen) was on the podcast, and this episode is a true catch-up in every sense of the word. Jackie is a plant-based cook, creator, and community builder who brings joy, honesty, and seriously good food into everything she does.In this conversation, we talk about how Jackie went plant-based and never looked back, how her health completely transformed, and how she’s grown an incredibly engaged online community by keeping things real—both in the kitchen and in life. We also get into big life changes, moving across the country, navigating relationships with people who don’t eat the same way you do, and why perfection is overrated when it comes to healthy livingAnd of course, we talk food. Squash season. Tofu done right. Tempeh that actually tastes amazing. Smart kitchen shortcuts (yes, including the microwave). If you love cooking—or want to love it more—this episode is packed with practical, doable ideas you’ll actually use.This one’s about eating well, living well, and meeting yourself where you are.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Firefighters are trained to run toward danger — but too often, their own health is what’s at risk. In this episode of the Plant Strong Podcast, Rip sits down with fellow firefighter Andy Schaefer of Avon, Ohio, whose journey into plant-based eating began with a life-altering decision: donating one of his kidneys to his brother-in-law.Determined to be as healthy and resilient as possible, Andy adopted a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle more than five years ago — and the results were undeniable. Faster recovery, dramatically improved biomarkers, more stamina on the fireground, and a renewed sense of purpose. Today, Andy is leading from the firehouse kitchen, fueling his crew with plant-strong meals that leave them feeling energized, focused, and ready to perform when the alarm sounds.From zucchini fritters that changed an entire shift’s perspective on food, to the deeper reality that nearly 85% of fire calls are lifestyle-related medical emergencies, this conversation is about service, brotherhood, and reclaiming health — one plate at a time.Key TakeawaysPeak performance starts with the fork. Andy’s plant-based diet helped him recover quickly from kidney donation surgery and outperform expectations on physically demanding fireground drills.Leadership doesn’t require a badge or rank. By cooking plant-based meals at the firehouse, Andy inspired his crew to eat more plants, feel less fatigued, and perform better on shift.Firefighters are tactical athletes. Like professional athletes, first responders must be ready at any moment — and nutrition plays a critical role in stamina, breathing control, and long-term health.Sadly, nearly 85% of fire calls are lifestyle-related medical emergencies and not fires, at all.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTube

In this episode, Rip sits down with Jet, a 66-year-old husband, father, hiker, and former keto devotee whose health collapsed despite doing “everything right” according to low-carb gurus. After a terrifying calcium score, debilitating angina, and near-widowmaker blockage, Jet found himself out of breath, unable to hike his favorite mountains, and feeling an impending sense of doom.A reunion — and one shocking scar from a friend’s open-heart surgery — jolted him into action. Jet pivoted from years of high-fat keto eating to a whole-food, plant-based, SOS-free lifestyle inspired by Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn. Within weeks, his symptoms vanished. Within months, he was summiting mountains he hadn’t touched in over a decade. Today, his cholesterol is stellar, his A1C is normal, and he’s hiking peaks he hasn't done in years.Jet’s story is an inspiring reminder that the body can heal when given the right fuel — and that it’s never too late to turn your life around.Key Topics Covered:Growing up in the Philippines on a fat and sugar-heavy dietThe moment Jet realized keto was harming — not helping — his heartHow a reunion wake-up call shifted his perspectiveThe emotional and physical toll of worsening symptomsWhy he finally chose a whole-food, plant-based lifestyleThe shocking improvements in angina, energy, cholesterol, sleep, and moodHis new life of hiking, strength, and vitality at 66Advice for anyone curious but hesitant to go plant-basedEpisode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

What does it mean to live intentionally?In this inspiring conversation, Rip sits down with endurance athlete and author Joe Gagnon, who shares how he shifted from chasing external success to living with deeper purpose and awareness. Joe explores the mindset and habits that fuel his growth — from building strong health pillars and saying “yes” to new challenges, to embracing discomfort as a teacher.Through endurance racing, reflection, and a plant strong lifestyle, Joe has learned that intentionality, courage, and consistency aren’t just traits of high performers — they’re the foundation for a fulfilled life.If you’ve ever wondered how to align your life with what matters most—or how to find meaning in the face of any challenge and discomfort—this episode will help you reflect, reset, and take the next step toward a more intentional life.Key TakeawaysLiving intentionally starts with understanding your purpose.Failure is not the end—it’s an opportunity for growth.Grit, grace, and groundedness are vital for personal fulfillment.Reflection on how you spend your time helps align your life with your values.You are responsible for your own happiness and legacy.Watch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Inflammation is running rampant — and it’s not starting in your joints or your arteries. It’s starting in your gut.This week, Rip is joined by world-renowned gut health expert Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, aka “Dr. B,” author of the book Plant Powered Plus. (Release Date: January 13, 2026) Together, they break down why chronic disease, fatigue, weight gain, autoimmune disorders, and even emotional burnout so often trace back to what’s happening inside your microbiome.Dr. B reveals his powerful three-phase gut-healing plan, explains why fiber is the undisputed MVP of human health, and shows how plant diversity, fermentation, and polyphenol-rich foods can radically change your life — starting today.But this episode goes deeper than food.Rip and Dr. B explore the profound connection between emotional healing, spiritual wellness, and physical health, including Dr. B’s personal story of reconciling with his father and how unresolved trauma can live in the body.This is not about perfection. It’s about progress. And it all starts with your next bite.You’ll Hear:Why inflammation is a national pandemic — and how your gut is at the center of it.Dr. B’s three-phase approach to healing your microbiome and lowering chronic inflammation.Why fiber deficiency is fueling modern disease — and how to reverse it.The four nutrition “workhorses” of true plant-powered living.How polyphenols, fermented foods, and healthy fats supercharge gut health.The hidden dangers of the Western diet, hyper-palatable foods, plastics, and environmental toxins.How emotional and spiritual health directly influence your physical healing.Your gut isn’t just digesting food — it’s shaping your immune system, your emotions, your energy, and your future.Dr. B and Rip remind us that real healing doesn’t come from chasing symptoms.It comes from changing the system — one fiber-rich, plant-powered meal at a time.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star Ratinga...

Eating healthier shouldn’t feel confusing, overwhelming, or impossible to sustain—and if it ever has, you’re not the problem. In this 30-minute REAL30™ webinar, Rip Esselstyn and Laurie Kortowich introduce a simple, science-backed framework designed to help you eat more real, whole plants and stay consistent without turning your life upside down.The REAL30 is built on three approachable pillars:30 days of simple daily action (progress over perfection)30 minutes of movement per day (any movement counts)30 different plants per week (we count plants, not calories)You’ll learn why plant diversity matters—especially for gut health, energy, metabolism, inflammation, and immune function—and how the “30 plants per week” concept is rooted in research from the American Gut Project. The conversation breaks down what real food actually means, why ultra-processed foods make consistency harder, and how whole plants work with your body’s natural systems (including appetite regulation and gut health).Rip shares powerful real-world stories from the firehouse and lessons learned from his father, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, while Laurie brings in insights from the PLANTSTRONG community—showing how quickly people begin to feel better when they focus on adding more of the good stuff instead of restricting.You’ll also walk away with:Simple “bowl-building” meal patterns that work for busy livesPractical examples of how to hit 30+ plants in a day without stressTools to make consistency easier, including free trackers, a plant checklist, and optional meal-planning supportThis isn’t a diet, a cleanse, or a rigid set of rules. It’s a return to real food—built on abundance, simplicity, and momentum.👉 Join the REAL30 for free: Download the tracker and plant checklist at plantstrong.com or Text REAL30 to (833) 541-0194One plate at a time.One plant at a time.One day at a time.Eat strong. Live real.Watch the Webinar on YouTube

This episode originally dropped in October, 2024Dr. Dawn Mussallem joins Rip for an enlightening discussion on the vital role of personalized precision lifestyle medicine in breast cancer prevention and recovery. They dive deep into the importance of nutrition, emphasizing whole food plant-based diets, supplements, and the power of social connections in enhancing health outcomes. Dr. Mussallem shares her insights on various supplements, including the benefits and risks associated with Vitamins D, B12, and the impact of iron during cancer therapies, alongside the benefits of herbs and spices like turmeric and ginger in supporting overall health. The conversation also highlights the significance of sleep hygiene, social connections, and managing stress. While there is no "one size fits all" approach to cancer treatment and recovery, this episode aims to empower listeners to ask questions, seek knowledgable physicians, and prioritize overall physical and emotional health in their recovery.Register for our 2026 April Black Mountain, NC retreat - from now until January 10th, 2026, use code PODCAST for $300 offListen to Part 1 of this Podcast SeriesEpisode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTube

Rip sits down with Andrea Freeman, James Beard Award-winning author of Ruin Their Crops on the Ground. Drawing on more than 20 years of research, Andrea unpacks how food, race, and class have shaped America’s food system, exploring the historical roots of inequality that still influence what ends up on our plates today.Their conversation takes listeners on a journey from the Trail of Tears to contemporary food policies, revealing how government decisions and corporate interests have systematically marginalized communities, perpetuating cycles of poor health and limited access to nutritious food. Andrea’s insights illuminate the ways in which food systems have been—and continue to be—tools of oppression, while also showing how understanding this history empowers us to advocate for meaningful change.Rob and Andrea dive into key topics including:The politics of food and its intersections with race and classFood deserts, systemic barriers, and ongoing food justice challengeThe historical impact of school lunch programs and agricultural subsidiesHow corporate influence shapes dietary guidelines and marketingThe lasting effects of colonial-era food policies on modern dietsAndrea also emphasizes the power of advocacy, inspiring listeners to see food not just as sustenance, but as a reflection of cultural identity and social justice. She encourages critical thinking about the choices available to consumers and how we can support policies that prioritize health and equity over profit.Watch the Episode on YouTubeEpisode WebpageLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Rip welcomes Chuck Carroll — once a “fast food junkie”- now a beloved voice in the plant-based movement and host of the Exam Room Podcast. While plant-based eating helped normalize his blood pressure, stabilize his weight, and restore his vitality, Chuck also shares a vulnerable part of his story: despite doing everything right, he’s now navigating a complex chronic illness with no clear diagnosis. His honesty underscores a truth many people quietly carry — that health journeys aren’t linear, and sometimes illness arrives without explanation or fairness.Still, Chuck shows that healing isn’t just physical. By talking openly about his struggles, he has found community, connection, and strength — and has created space for others to feel less alone in their own uncertainty.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How fast food addiction shaped Chuck’s early life — and how he broke freeWhy gastric bypass surgery was only a temporary solutionHow a whole food, plant-based lifestyle helped transform his healthWhat it’s like to face chronic illness even when you’re “doing everything right”How sharing your story can lift the emotional and mental burden of illnessWhy Chuck remains committed to advocacy, transparency, and hopeEpisode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeNeed support for your chronic illness? Sign up for Chuck’s newsletter: https://chuckcarroll.kit.com/newsletter Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

What happens when a company decides to put real food at the center of employee wellness? In this powerful episode, Rip sits down with the team at Central Garden & Pet, a 7,000-employee organization that has taken a radically forward-thinking approach to improving the health of its people. Their partnership with PLANTSTRONG by Metabite has produced clinical-level outcomes — without drugs, deprivation, or pressure to “go vegan.”Rip is joined by Dawn Hutchins, Central’s Director of Plant-Based Nutrition, who shares how the program was born, what she learned from a year of research and focus groups, and why this isn’t a “check-the-box” wellness initiative. She breaks down how the program works — from smart devices and at-home blood testing to weekly coaching, short video lessons, cooking demos, AI support, and a thriving alumni community.You’ll also hear from two inspiring graduates, Vicky and Dan, who reveal what motivated them to join, the fears they had going in, and the surprising shifts they experienced as they added more plants to their plates. Their stories underscore a simple truth: when people feel supported, connected, and empowered with real tools, transformation follows.If you’re a business leader, HR professional, or anyone curious about the future of Food as Medicine, this episode offers a clear and inspiring blueprint for what’s possible when nutrition becomes the foundation of workplace wellness.Plant Strong by Metabite Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness-solution/ Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Today, on what is a day of Thanksgiving here in the United States,  we want to take a few minutes to honor three extraordinary men—Dr. John McDougall, Dr. Baxter Montgomery, and John Robbins—who we’ve recently lost. These weren’t just leaders in the whole food, plant-based movement—they were trailblazers, mentors, and fearless advocates for health and hope.Dr. McDougall taught us that food is medicine and that living your principles matters more than pleasing critics. Dr. Montgomery showed us the power of compassion in medicine and the importance of giving everyone access to real, whole-food nutrition. And John Robbins…he opened hearts and minds, inspiring millions to think deeply about how our choices on the plate affect the world.So today, as we continue their work, let’s remember: living plant strong is about courage, consistency, and compassion -and- it’s about taking their message and carrying it forward in our own lives and communities.They didn’t just teach us about health—they gave us hope. For that, we're thankful.Watch the short tribute on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

Rip Esselstyn welcomes back beloved plant-based author Dreena Burton, who is stepping into an exciting new chapter with Fascia Flo — her movement program designed to unlock mobility, reduce pain, and support healthy aging.Dreena shares her personal journey with injury and how it led her to discover fascia, the body’s connective tissue network that plays a key role in movement, posture, and emotional well-being. She breaks down the science in simple terms and explains how small, intentional movements can make a big impact on how we feel day to day.Rip and Dreena also talk seasonal eating, oil-free and nut-free cooking, and some of Dreena’s favorite recipes! Blending movement, mindset, and nourishment, this episode offers a truly holistic approach to thriving.Whether you’re an athlete or simply want to move with more freedom and less stiffness, you’ll walk away inspired to care for your body in a whole new way.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

What happens when a doctor becomes the patient? In this inspiring episode, Rip talks with Dr. Sunny Sharma — a lifestyle medicine physician whose life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. That experience didn’t just change his health; it completely transformed how he practices medicine.Dr. Sharma shares how his journey deepened his empathy, strengthened his belief in prevention, and led him to embrace the six pillars of lifestyle medicine: plant-based nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, avoiding harmful substances, and connection. He’s now helping patients heal from the inside out — one meaningful conversation at a time.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

In this inspiring episode, Rip sits down with Lauren Bernick, host of the podcast, Age Like a Badass Mother and creator of WellElephant.com. At age 46, Lauren was blindsided by a diagnosis of advanced heart disease, despite believing she was eating a “healthy” diet. Faced with the prospect of lifelong statins and the threat of a heart attack, she took matters into her own hands—turning to Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn’s Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease approach.Now, more than a decade later, Lauren shares how she not only transformed her health but also found freedom, joy, and energy in a whole food, plant-based lifestyle. From ditching daily headaches and navigating family dynamics, to going out with friends and thriving through menopause, Lauren’s story is equal parts practical and uplifting.Episode Webpage: https://www.plantstrongpodcast.com/blog/lauren-bernick Watch the Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wpJkNgxGgok Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

What happens when you mix humor, authenticity, and a love for peanut butter hacks? You get Nikki Boes — a vibrant voice in the vegan community (@vegan_af_) who’s showing the world that you don’t have to be a “perfect vegan” to make an impact.In this lively and laugh-filled conversation, Nikki opens up about: Her personal transformation through a plant-based dietHow she handles the trolls who attack her postsThe way humor has become her secret weapon in advocating for animal welfare and health The real-life challenges of raising daughters in a social media worldBalancing family dynamics when not everyone in the household is veganNot taking herself too seriouslyWhy the world needs more imperfect vegansFrom her favorite snack combo (seaweed, pickles, and hot mustard!) to creative kitchen tips like refrigerating peanut butter upside down, Nikki proves that veganism is as fun as it is fulfilling. Whether she’s volunteering at a dog shelter, ordering veggie-loaded pizza with no cheese, or breaking down health myths, Nikki shows us how one person can ripple out change across an entire community.If you’ve ever thought veganism was too rigid, serious, or unattainable, this episode is for you.Episode Webpage: https://www.plantstrongpodcast.com/blog/nikki-boesWatch the Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/N-HnMxCsaWgLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify

In this powerful before and after episode, Rip and Dr. Laurie Marbas introduce us to, Marlene Skiver, who’s goal is to reclaim her health through the power of plants.Marlene has faced her share of challenges — from pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, and Hashimoto’s disease, to the stress that followed retirement and the loss of loved ones. But instead of giving in, she’s choosing to fight back — fork in hand.Together, Marlene and Dr. Marbas explore the root causes of her chronic disease, including insulin resistance, and what really happens when you stop treating symptoms and start addressing the foundation: food, stress, and lifestyle.Dr. Marbas reviews Marlene’s current labs and we get a front-row seat to her early progress after adopting a more whole food, plant-strong approach. With every plant-powered meal, she’s already seeing her blood sugar and blood pressure start to drop. This episode is more than just numbers — it’s about resilience, self-care, and rediscovering joy through food that loves you back. Tune in to hear how small, consistent changes can create big-time results, and get ready to follow along as we see what happens next on Marlene’s plant-strong journey.Episode Webpage: https://www.plantstrongpodcast.com/blog/marlene-skiverWatch the Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EeaiaKEPoDI

We all know the saying, “the body keeps the score,” and this week’s guest, Dr. Tila Kansagra, has lived it — and now helps others heal from it.A UK-based general practitioner and lifestyle medicine physician, Dr. Kansagra brings compassion, lived experience, and evidence-based practice together to help her patients move beyond symptoms and toward true wellness.In this conversation, we dive into her personal journey with familial trauma, her passion for plant-based nutrition, and how the six pillars of lifestyle medicine — nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, connection, and avoidance of risky substances — can transform lives.Whether you’re struggling with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, burnout, or just want to live stronger and more intentionally, Dr. Kansagra’s story will remind you that healing starts when you care for the whole person — body, mind, and spirit.Key Takeaways:How trauma and lived experience shaped Dr. Kansagra’s approach to medicineWhy empathy and connection are essential tools for healingThe definitions and diagnosis of chronic fatigue and fibromyalgiaThe role of plant-based nutrition in helping to reverse chronic fatigue and restore energyHow lifestyle medicine empowers patients to take control of their healthPractical steps to build resilience and vitalityWatch the Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3FLJ1BwO5mA Episode Webpage:  https://www.plantstrongpodcast.com/blog/dr-tila-kansagraLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Apply for a Scholarship to our April 2026 Retreat in Black Mountain, NC: https://forms.gle/wt4rPyKMEDht6HKG7 Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyLearn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrong.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/ Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star RatingApple PodcastsSpotify