The Glen Merzer Show

Geoff and Glen discuss the way the body works, the way health care works, and the optimal approaches to taking control of your own health and longevity. 

Check out Glen's new movie Buddhist Blues here: https://www.buddhistblues.com

Get Dr. Klaper's Moving Medicine Forward here: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get Glen's book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

Get Dr. Klaper's Moving Medicine Forward here: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264  

Follow us on Facebook: / theglenmerzershow

Follow us on Instagram: / @theglenmerzershow

Follow us on Twitter: / glenmerzershow

Follow us on TikTok: / uclcmtg_1i6ve_hfmyru1-ja

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Introduction to the significance of fiber in health

02:00 - The different sources of dietary fiber: plants versus fungi

06:00 - How insoluble fiber prevents appendicitis and gut issues

10:00 - Evolutionary insights: gain and loss of cellulase enzyme in humans

14:00 - The microbiome's role in digesting fiber and producing energy

18:00 - The effect of animal fats and proteins on gut bacteria and bile acids

22:00 - How plant fibers feed beneficial bacteria and reduce pathogenic bacteria

26:00 - Fermentable versus non-fermentable fibers and resistant starches

30:00 - The microbiome's ability to bind toxins, heavy metals, and facilitate nutrient absorption

34:00 - The relationship between fiber, antioxidants, and plant defenses

38:00 - Impact of dietary fiber on fetal brain development and neuroprotection

42:00 - Fermentable fibers: how food matrix influences fiber benefits

46:00 - The role of chitin, chitosan, and mushrooms in health

50:00 - Practical tips for transitioning to high-fiber diets

54:00 - Cooking methods to enhance resistant starch and prebiotic effects

58:00 - Summary: benefits of diverse fiber intake for longevity and disease prevention

Robert Grillo, founder of Free From Harm, joins Glen to discuss the systemic challenges of transforming the food system and why targeting top decision-makers — not just consumers — is essential for lasting change. Robert shares how his organization has evolved into a powerful force for grassroots activism, taking on industry leaders, policymakers, and media to expose the harms of animal agriculture.

In this episode, Robert breaks down the outsized role of government subsidies in propping up animal agriculture and why shifting those subsidies to plant-based foods is one of the most powerful levers for change. He discusses strategies for influencing legislators, confronting health officials, and holding industry accountable through public pressure and media exposure. Robert also offers a grounded critique of lab meat and other technological "solutions," arguing that today's grassroots activism — not tomorrow's hype — is what will move the needle. A timely and eye-opening conversation about democracy, food policy, and the future of the plant-based movement.

Have healthy, delicious, oil-free, plant-based Indian food delivered to your door by ordering from https://www.firstseedfoods.com , sponsor of this show, use code GLEN10 to get $10 off your first order!

Visit Robert's website: https://www.freefromharm.org

Follow Robert on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freefromharm/

Follow Robert on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freefromharm/

Follow Robert on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FreeFromHarm

Follow Robert on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freefromharm

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get our new book, 'Moving Medicine Forward': https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Moving+Medicine+Forward+by+Dr.+Michael+Clapper+and+Glenn+Mercer

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet...

Glen Merzer Socials:

Follow us on Facebook: / theglenmerzershow

Follow us on Instagram: / @theglenmerzershow

Follow us on Twitter: / glenmerzershow

Follow us on TikTok: / uclcmtg_1i6ve_hfmyru1-ja

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Introduction and book promotion

00:22 - Guest introduction: Robert Grillo and his work

01:33 - The evolution of Free From Harm and systemic activism

04:50 - Activities of Free From Harm and grassroots strategies

06:45 - The importance of confronting industry leaders publicly

10:08 - Engaging with policymakers and media for impact

12:24 - The role of industry-spread diseases like screwworm

15:07 - Progress in the movement and shifting subsidies

17:23 - Legislative efforts and the influence of money in politics

20:12 - Confronting health officials and industry representatives

23:14 - The Save Our Bacon Act and industry lobbying

26:42 - California law and federal industry opposition

29:36 - The challenge of political and industry influence

33:12 - The role of environmental groups and the vegan movement

35:11 - Co-optation and greenwashing in the industry

37:34 - Lab meat and technological solutions: hype vs reality

44:16 - The importance of focusing on current activism over hype

45:43 - The power of industry advertising and influence

46:24 - Where to find and support Robert Grillo

46:56 - Closing remarks and appreciation

Jeff and Jill Dalton, creators of the wildly popular Whole Food Plant-Based Cooking Show, join Glen to share their extraordinary journey of selling everything, traveling the world, and exploring diverse cultures through plant-based cuisine. Sparked by personal health crises, Jeff and Jill transformed their lives through whole food plant-based eating and have since dedicated themselves to making science-based, accessible vegan recipes available to a global audience — without traditional paywalls or advertising.

In this episode, Jeff and Jill discuss the minimalist, travel-light lifestyle that has taken them across the globe and into the heart of plant-based food cultures worldwide. They share insights into recipe development focused on familiar comfort foods, their community-driven membership model built on transparency and trust, and the moral and environmental dimensions of a plant-based lifestyle. From African peanut sauce to plant-based pizza and hot dogs, mushrooms to spices, they reflect on over a decade of creating engaging content, navigating YouTube algorithm changes, and inspiring a large and diverse audience to embrace whole food plant-based eating.

Have healthy, delicious, oil-free, plant-based Indian food delivered to your door by ordering from https://www.firstseedfoods.com , sponsor of this show, use code GLEN10 to get $10 off your first order!

Visit Jeff and Jill's website: https://www.plantbasedcookingshow.com

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet...

Follow us on Facebook: / theglenmerzershow

Follow us on Instagram: / @theglenmerzershow

Follow us on Twitter: / glenmerzershow

Follow us on TikTok: / uclcmtg_1i6ve_hfmyru1-ja

00:00 - Introducing Jeff and Jill Dalton, creators of the Whole Food Plant-Based Cooking Show

02:51 - How travel and minimalism facilitated their move around the world

05:12 - Their journey from health problems to embracing a plant-based diet

08:13 - The dramatic weight loss and health improvements within months

11:08 - Favorite recipes and staples—African peanut sauce, salads, and grains

14:29 - The significance of Mr. Rogers' gentle approach as inspiration

16:45 - Building a community-based, transparent content model with memberships

19:02 - The origins of their show in New Zealand and early struggles with audience engagement

21:48 - The influence of childhood TV hero Mr. Rogers on their presentation style

24:17 - Interconnection between personal health, animal welfare, and planetary impact

28:01 - Reflection on how industrial animal farming affects ecosystems and climate

31:08 - Cultural shifts and how traditional foods can be adapted to plant-based versions

33:56 - The challenge and impact of adding a membership model and earning trust

37:04 - The importance of truthful sponsorships and community perks

41:07 - How YouTube algorithm changes affected their reach and growth

45:31 - The future of plant-based cooking books and digital content

51:02 - Encounters with local cultures demonstrating plant-based roots globally

55:53 - The impact of the medical system and the importance of nutritional education

59:12 - Common food staples and meal routines—simple, nutritious, and repetitive

67:26 - Mushrooms as a health-boosting ingredient and culinary tool

69:56 - The unpredictability of their next travel destination and community input

71:13 - Closing thoughts and where to find their content and recipes

Glen and Dr. Klaper discuss the odd case of Alpha Gal Syndrome. The two authors of Moving Medicine Forward also discuss a suspected dietary cause of ALS, and the dietary causes of hypertension.

To know more about Dr. Klaper's work visit: www.movingmedforward.org

www.doctorklaper.com

Moving Medicine Forward, by Dr. Michael Klaper and me, available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Go to www.buddhistblues.com to watch the trailer and sign up to be notified of the release of Glen's film.

Enter coupon code Glen10 to get $10 off healthy Indian food: https://firstseedfoods.com/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me : https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

Raquela Karamson explains her history as a vegan and why she founded the international organization Jewish Vegan Life.

Visit Raquela's website: https://jewishveganlife.org/

Visit www.buddhistblues.com to sign up to be notified of the release of Glen's new feature film.

Moving Medicine Forward, by Dr. Michael Klaper and me, available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Enter coupon code Glen10 to get $10 off healthy Indian food: https://firstseedfoods.com/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me : https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

Adam Sud takes us through his extraordinary journey to recovery, resilience, hope, and health.

Visit Adam's website here: www.adamsud.com

Subscribe to Adam's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@recoverybros

Visit www.buddhistblues.com to sign up to be notified of the release of Glen's new feature film.

Moving Medicine Forward, by Dr. Michael Klaper and me, available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Enter coupon code Glen10 to get $10 off healthy Indian food: https://firstseedfoods.com/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me : https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

Internationally acclaimed musician Raquy Danziger discusses vegan life in Istanbul, and plays the darbuka for us, as well as the twelve-string kamancha.

Get to know more about Raquy here: www.raquy.com

Visit www.buddhistblues.com to sign up to be notified of the release of Glen's new feature film.

Moving Medicine Forward, by Dr. Michael Klaper and me, available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Enter coupon code Glen10 to get $10 off healthy Indian food: https://firstseedfoods.com/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me : https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

Dr. Klaper and Glen discuss the resistance that people have to doing what's best for themselves, for the animals, and for the planet.

About Our Guest:

Dr. Michael Klaper is a pioneer in plant-based nutrition with decades of clinical experience. His mission is to transform medical education to prioritize food as medicine

To know more about Dr. Klaper's work visit: www.movingmedforward.org

www.doctorklaper.com

Moving Medicine Forward, by Dr. Michael Klaper and me, available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Go to www.buddhistblues.com to watch the trailer and sign up to be notified of the release of Glen's film.

Enter coupon code Glen10 to get $10 off healthy Indian food: https://firstseedfoods.com/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me : https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

Chair of the Michiana Vegfest, Michael Pound explains the evolution of the upcoming event in South Bend, IN--and his own personal evolution to veganism.

Link: www.michianavegfest.org

Moving Medicine Forward, by Dr. Michael Klaper and me, available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moving-Medicine-Forward-Doctors-Nutrition_and/dp/1637748264

Go to www.buddhistblues.com to watch the trailer and sign up to be notified of the release of Glen's film.

Enter coupon code Glen10 to get $10 off healthy Indian food: https://firstseedfoods.com/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me : https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

#PlantBasedHealth #Inflammation #Longevity #HealthDebate #TheGlenMerzerShow

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.