PLANTSTRONG Podcast

Ready to travel down under for some plant-powered rock? Today, we introduce you to Keith Jeffrey and his band, Atlas Genius!

Not only do they create incredible music, but they also embrace a plant-based lifestyle while touring the world. In this episode, we dive into:

• Why three Aussie brothers ditched meat for veganism
• Their favorite plant-based eats on the road
• How their lifestyle influences their music & ethics

The world needs more broc and rock stars like Keith Jeffrey who aren't afraid to amplify their ethics and their music. It’s a conversation about passion, purpose, and making choices that align with who you are.

(Plus, stick around till the end—we’re playing one of my favorite Atlas Genius tracks!)

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Meet Erin and Dusty Stanczyk—a Nebraska couple who transformed their health and family life by embracing a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. After struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, and acid reflux, they found inspiration from Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr. and never looked back.

Now, at 38, they’re raising three plant-strong kids and sharing their journey on Eat Move Rest and in their new book, The Happy Healthy Plant-Based Cookbook. In this episode, they reveal three key pillars to thriving as a plant-based family and recipes from their colorful plant-based cookbook.

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Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

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COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer

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Imagine a world thriving on health and vitality through whole food, plant-based living. That’s the vision Don Fries and Bev Bow are turning into reality—and you’re invited to be part of it!

Their non-profit, Healthy World Vitality Plan, offers education, cooking classes, and small-group support sessions to help you rediscover the joy of living - all for just $40/year!

Take control of your health, make meaningful connections, and join a movement dedicated to compassion for all living beings!

Their Spring Intensive starts March 9th, 2025. To learn more and sign up visit: hwvitality.com

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Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

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Learn 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

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We're wrapping up National Heart Health Month with an inspiring conversation with Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., a true pioneer in heart health and a passionate advocate for the power of a whole-food, plant-based diet.

With decades of experience as Director of the Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Reversal Program at the Cleveland Clinic Center of Prevention and Wellness, he’s seen firsthand how a whole foods, plant-based diet without added oil, sugar, or sodium can not only prevent, but actually reverse heart disease.

Dr. Esselstyn shares nine of the ways he has shown reversal of disease through incredible stories from his patients who have transformed their heart health.

These real-life successes prove that change is possible—at any age and any stage. If you're looking for hope and a path to a healthier heart, this episode is for you!

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Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

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COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer

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Did you know that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. and, each year, over 300,000 people die from sudden cardiac death? The good news? You have the power to protect yourself—starting today.

Dr. Joel Kahn jokes that he’s been calling himself a “salad bar-a-tarian” since 1977 when he actually saw and felt the personal link between good nutrition and heart health. And, as a cardiologist he’s been preaching this link now for decades..

Today, Dr. Kahn discusses the alarming statistics surrounding heart disease, including the prevalence of sudden cardiac death and the growing number of individuals at risk due to poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles.

As a proponent of “test, don’t guess,” he also stresses the importance of regular health screenings, including coronary artery calcium scoring and lipid profile assessments to identify potential risks BEFORE they culminate in serious health issues.

This far-reaching conversation includes:

• Dr. Kahn’s personal journey from childhood heart murmur to plant-based doctor
• How a whole food, plant-based diet can help prevent and even reverse heart disease
• The most nutritious vegetable on the planet!
• A discussion of liporotein(a) - the heart’s quiet killer
• Dr. Kahn's thoughts on coffee and tea
• The screening tests that could save your life
• The Impact of AI on Medicine
• What Menopausal Women Need to Know about Heart Health
• Why heart disease is more preventable than you think

This conversation is packed with life-changing tips that you can put into practice today!

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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 Batiste

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Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

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Learn 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

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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.

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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.

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Pre-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.

Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG Journey

Learn 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 Esselstyn

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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 Plants
• 24:17 - Plant-Based Meats or Real Meat- Which is Better?
• 35:11 - The Impact of Salt Alternatives on Blood Pressure
• 38:48 - Examining the Egg Debate
• 43:26 - The Truth About Oatmeal
• 57:21 - Exploring the Controversy of Dietary Oils
• 01:00:52 - Can Oil Be Part of a Healthy Diet?
• 01:16:41 - The Benefits and Considerations of Creatine Supplementation
• 01:23:10 - Sleep and Food Intake
• 01:26:43 - Understanding Gluten and its Effects on Health
• 01:31:50 - Understanding HDL and LDL Cholesterol
• 01:40:53 - Ozempic and Weight Management

With 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!

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Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

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Learn 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 Esselstyn

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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 hope
• Having a robust support system
• Her 7 Foundations to Healing or Thriving: Faith, Family, Fitness, Food, Forgiveness, Friends, Fun
• The 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 anxiety
• Forgiveness and emotional healing

This 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.

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Watch the Episode on YouTube

Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrongevents.com/

Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG Journey

Learn 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 Esselstyn

https://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 Rating

Apple Podcasts

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