In this episode Ali interviews Chris Wark, a 21-year cancer survivor, patient advocate, and bestselling author (Chris Beat Cancer, Beat Cancer Kitchen, Beat Cancer Daily), and creator of the Square One Cancer Coaching Program.

Chris’s stage III colon cancer diagnosis at 26 and why he questioned the default treatment path

The hospital “food moment” that sparked his nutrition overhaul

Practical screening PSA: colonoscopies and early detection

Decoding medical language (what “effective” often really means)

Building a holistic healing stack: diet, movement, detox, stress reduction

The spiritual work: forgiveness, gratitude, and taking every thought captive

Identity over willpower: why lasting change starts inside

A faith-centered approach to health 

Prevention matters: If you’re 45+, talk to your doctor about colonoscopy screening—earlier with family history.

Food is a lever: Shift toward plants (think: salads, beans, crucifers, herbs/spices, veggie juices) to “overdose on nutrition.”

Words matter: Ask your oncologist clear questions (e.g., “Will this treatment cure me?”).

Environment over willpower: Set up your kitchen and calendar to make the right choice the easy choice.

Forgiveness frees you: Letting go releases stress, lifts your immune system, and restores joy.

Faith + action: Embodiment = living what you believe—in daily choices, not just beliefs.

“Both roads are scary. Choose the one that aligns with your values.”

“Forgiveness isn’t a feeling; it’s a decision that frees you.”

“You don’t need to be perfect—just eat more of what God made.”

Chris Wark’s site: ChrisBeatCancer.com (Survivor interviews, articles, “20 Questions for Your Oncologist”)

Books by Chris Wark: Chris Beat Cancer, Beat Cancer Kitchen, Beat Cancer Daily

Ali’s PlantWhys Membership: plant-forward coaching, recipes, and support: https://www.plantwhys.com/collective

Ali’s YouTube (PlantWhys): quick, family-friendly plant-based meals: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGrQa7v7G9e2m61DAT6UKKA

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:10 Meet Chris Wark: Cancer Survivor and Advocate

00:21 Chris's Cancer Diagnosis and Initial Treatment

02:10 The Importance of Colonoscopies

04:07 The Shock of a Cancer Diagnosis

04:57 Understanding Cancer Treatments and Their Risks

11:15 The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Recovery

20:19 Chris's Journey to a Plant-Based Diet

25:32 Family Support and Alternative Therapies

30:32 Empowering Choices for Health and Wellness

33:37 The Benefits of Exercise 34:38 The Importance of Patient Advocacy

35:26 The Chronic Disease Epidemic

37:15 The Impact of Diet on Health

46:17 The Role of Spiritual and Emotional Health

51:27 The Power of Forgiveness

01:04:50 Resources for Cancer Patients