People become curious about whole food, plant-based nutrition for a multitude of reasons. Maybe you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obes...
Ep. 288: Dr. Columbus Batiste - It's Time for a SELFISH Health Revolution!
Are you ready to put yourself first for all the right reasons? Today, I'm joined by cardiologist Dr. Columbus Batiste to share that true self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.In his new book, Selfish: A Cardiologist's Guide to Healing a Broken Heart, Dr. Batiste shares seven key pillars of heart health—spirituality, exercise, love, food, intimacy, sleep, and humor—showing how each one plays a vital role in your well-being.This conversation isn’t just about avoiding disease—it’s about thriving, showing up for yourself and your loved ones, and reclaiming control over your health. And what better time than Heart Health Month to start?Learn more about Dr. Columbus BatisteEpisode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeSPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Sedona - April 6-11, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/sedona-retreat Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrongfoods.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
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Ep. 287: Robert Ostfeld, MD - Can Plant-Based Diets Boost Heart Health and Your Bedroom Performance?
Over the course of his 20-year career at Montefiore in New York, Dr. Robert Ostfeld has been instrumental in moving medicine forward by implementing innovative dietary programs that not only provide plant-based meal options for patients but also educate healthcare professionals about the importance of nutrition in preventing heart disease.Today, he catches us up on the amazing initiatives at this forward thinking hospital and shares updates on their innovative cardiac wellness program, which now encompasses various clinical trials examining the effects of dietary choices on erectile function and overall heart health, particularly highlighting a groundbreaking study that compares plant-based diets with animal-based diets regarding their impact on erectile function.Dr. Ostfeld also answers audiences’ burning questions about cholesterol management, the nuances of coronary calcium scoring, and the implications of emerging research on lipoprotein(a) and lipoprotein B. Dr. Osfeld emphasizes that lifestyle changes, including adopting a plant-based diet, exercising, and managing stress, are crucial for heart health, especially in high-risk populations and post-menopausal women.This episode not only celebrates advancements in preventive cardiology but also aims to empower listeners with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their heart health. The mission is clear: a commitment to spreading the good news about plant-based eating as a powerful means to improve health outcomes, particularly concerning matters of the heart. Episode Webpage and ResourcesWatch the Episode on YouTube
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Ep. 286: Chef Bailey Ruskus - The Ultimate Guide to Breaking Up With Dairy
Are you struggling to break up with dairy? It's the most common thing we hear at PLANTSTRONG. I can live this lifestyle, but I just can't give up cheese and milk! Well, now you don't have to with this wonderful new book by Chef Bailey Ruskus. In Breaking Up With Dairy, Chef Bai not only shares her own difficult and eye-opening journey of breaking up with dairy, but she also includes more than 100 unbelievable plant-based dairy recipes for all of your favorites such as milks, coffee creamers, and sauces, to gourmet-quality cheeses, and yep - even milkshakes. This book is proof that breaking up may be hard to do, but it’s so worth it. From understanding the dairy industry's hold on our eating habits to practical tips for transitioning to a dairy-free lifestyle, this episode is filled with encouragement and actionable advice as you navigate the through the stages of grief. It's time to stop worshipping at the "church of cheeses" and discover a healthier, more compassionate way to enjoy your favorite foods.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubePre-Order Breaking Up With Dairy Bailey is embarking on a National book tour in partnership with Williams Sonoma for Breaking Up With Dairy and will be in city near you! Click here to meet her on tour.SPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Sedona - April 6-11, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/sedona-retreat Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrongfoods.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
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Ep. 285: Dr. Matthew Nagra - Cutting Through the Nutrition Confusion and Debunking Diet Myths
Dr. Matthew Nagra, a naturopathic doctor, dissects the latest research in nutrition, particularly around plant-based diets and their impact on health. The conversation covers several hot topics, including:20:01 - Understanding the Toxicity Argument Against Plants24:17 - Plant-Based Meats or Real Meat- Which is Better?35:11 - The Impact of Salt Alternatives on Blood Pressure38:48 - Examining the Egg Debate43:26 - The Truth About Oatmeal57:21 - Exploring the Controversy of Dietary Oils01:00:52 - Can Oil Be Part of a Healthy Diet?01:16:41 - The Benefits and Considerations of Creatine Supplementation01:23:10 - Sleep and Food Intake01:26:43 - Understanding Gluten and its Effects on Health01:31:50 - Understanding HDL and LDL Cholesterol01:40:53 - Ozempic and Weight ManagementWith a commitment to evidence-based research, this episode clarifies common misconceptions and encourages listeners to focus on whole, nutritious, plant-based foods for optimal health and longevity. And that's a big kale yeah from us!Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeSPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Sedona - April 6-11, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/sedona-retreat Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrongfoods.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
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1:47:48
Ep. 284: Chef AJ is Thriving in the Face of Cancer
As many know, our beloved Chef AJ announced in November 2024 that she had been diagnosed with lung cancer. Shortly after that diagnosis, she agreed to come on the PLANTSTRONG Podcast– even though there were still many unknowns. Her vulnerability and resilience is a gift for all of us. Rather than retreating into silence, she has chosen to share her story and focus on thriving in the face of adversity, inspiring others who may be facing similar challenges. Throughout the conversation, AJ emphasizes:The importance of maintaining hopeHaving a robust support system Her 7 Foundations to Healing or Thriving: Faith, Family, Fitness, Food, Forgiveness, Friends, FunThe role of a whole food plant-based lifestyle in her health journey How humor has become a vital tool in coping with her circumstances even when dealing with crippling anxietyForgiveness and emotional healingThis heartfelt episode not only sheds light on the realities of living with a new diagnosis, but also serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating their own battles, reinforcing that diagnosis does not define destiny.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeSPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Sedona - April 6-11, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/sedona-retreat Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstynhttps://plantstrongfoods.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
People become curious about whole food, plant-based nutrition for a multitude of reasons. Maybe you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, or another chronic disease and you know (or you’ve been told) that this is your best shot at healing your body. You may be an athlete looking to maximize your performance and recovery with the power of plant-based nutrition, or you’re a parent who wants to escape the processed food aisle and start feeding your children real, nourishing foods. Perhaps you are concerned about climate change and the profound negative impact that animal agriculture has on the planet.
The problem? A whole food, plant-based diet can seem overwhelming, confusing, and, yes, expensive. You’ve been told it will make you deficient in something, or that you won’t get enough protein. You think it might be a boring way to live, or that it is so extreme you’ll alienate yourself from friends and loved ones.
Well, here at the PLANTSTRONG Podcast, we’re not afraid to be extreme - extremely positive, extremely helpful, and extremely well-researched. Each week on the show, host Rip Esselstyn talks to medical experts, authors, athletes, and people just like you who are not just surviving on a plant-based diet, but THRIVING.
As founder and CEO of PLANTSTRONG, Rip Esselstyn is a wellness advocate, former professional athlete, firefighter, and NY Times best-selling author renowned for his dedication to promoting vibrant health through plant-based nutrition and active living.
Over twenty years ago, Rip rescued several of his fellow firefighters with whole, plant-based foods following the groundbreaking research of his father, Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., author of Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease. The results were so dramatic that Rip wrote the bestselling book,The Engine 2 Diet, to spread the word. His subsequent works, including Plant-Strong, The Engine 2 Seven-Day Rescue Diet and The Engine 2 Cookbook, further solidified his reputation as a leading voice in the plant-based movement. Rip was also featured in the documentary Forks over Knives and served as an executive producer of The Game Changers film; a revolutionary documentary that shatters the myths about meat, protein, and strength.
Rip’s mission and the mission of the PLANTSTRONG Podcast is to make plant-based living accessible and approachable, and to further the advancement of all things within the plant-based movement. We share the scientifically proven benefits of plant-based living and envision a world that universally understands, promotes, and prescribes plants as the solution to empowering your health, enhancing your performance, and restoring the environment.
You won’t be weak if you’re eating strong food. PLANTSTRONG food.
We welcome you wherever you are on your plant-based journey and we’re thrilled you’re here.