The PlantWhys Podcast

Are eggs actually healthy — or are we just cracking open old myths?

🥚 In this episode of Eat Meat Sparingly: A Word of Wisdom Podcast, Ali Essig dives deep into one of the most debated foods on the planet. You’ll discover what the latest science really says about cholesterol, hormones, heart disease, and cancer risk — plus who should probably skip eggs altogether (hint: it’s one-third of us 👀). Ali breaks it all down through the lens of faith, health, and compassion — including the ethical side of egg production that few people talk about.

In This Episode:

🧬 Why eggs are both nutrient-dense and controversial

💛 The truth about cholesterol, hormones, and your liver’s natural balance

⚖️ Why saturated fat is a bigger deal than dietary cholesterol

🧠 What “hyper-responders” are — and how to know if you’re one

🚫 The surprising connection between eggs, cancer risk, and what else you eat

🐥 The hidden cruelty behind modern egg farming (and how to choose more ethically)

🌱 Practical, plant-based swaps for eggs — tofu scrambles, chickpea omelets, and beyond

💬 Ali’s personal take: when she does allow eggs and when she skips them

Mentioned in This Episode:

🛳 Holistic Holiday at Sea Vegan Cruise — Mention PlantWhys for a $50 onboard credit in the bookstore! https://holisticholidayatsea.com/a/plantwhys_/

💚 PlantWhys Membership — Learn how to lose weight, improve gut health, and lower disease risk through a plant-based lifestyle: www.plantwhys.com

📺 Ali’s YouTube Channel — Simple, family-friendly vegan recipes: PlantWhys on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@plantwhys

 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 01:32 Exploring the Nutritional Value of Eggs 04:47 Eggs and Heart Health: The Cholesterol Debate 10:06 Eggs and Disease Risk: Diabetes and Cancer 17:32 Ethical Considerations of Egg Consumption 20:17 Practical Tips and Personal Insights 24:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — but awareness is only half the story.

In this episode, Ali Essig (plant-based nutritionist and Pilates instructor) shares what most people are not talking about: breast cancer prevention. You’ll learn what science shows about food, hormones, stress, and emotional health — and how simple, everyday habits can radically lower your risk.

Ali also opens up about her own health journey, the changes she’s made since going plant-based, and why she now believes that “an ounce of prevention is worth a lifetime of peace.”

You’ll discover:
🌱 Why early detection isn’t enough — and what really drives prevention
🧠 How long breast cancer actually develops before detection (8–10 years!)
🥛 The surprising link between dairy, hormones, and breast cancer risk
🌸 The truth about soy — and why it’s your breast friend
🌾 How fiber, flaxseed, and broccoli sprouts fight cancer naturally
🔥 Why keto isn’t the answer — and what plant foods do instead
❤️ The emotional and energetic roots of breast cancer: resentment, over-giving, and self-neglect
💚 Practical ways to “build your body’s army” through food, forgiveness, and self-love

If you’ve ever wondered what you can really do to protect yourself and the women you love, this episode will give you hope — and a plan.

Resources Mentioned:

Holistic Holiday at Sea (mention PlantWhys for $50 onboard credit)

Amla Green for antioxidant support

Previous episode: The Truth About Cheese That No One Is Talking About

PlantWhys Membership & Signature Course → plantwhys.com 

YouTube Channel → PlantWhys on YouTube 

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

01:02 Breast Cancer Awareness and Statistics

02:05 Breast Cancer Prevention: Diet and Lifestyle

05:28 The Role of Soy in Cancer Prevention

07:43 The Impact of Processed Meats and Sugar

13:01 Antioxidants and Cruciferous Vegetables

17:09 The Importance of Fiber

21:52 Emotional and Energetic Factors

26:14 Summary and Final Thoughts

In this eye-opening episode, Ali uncovers what’s really hiding behind our favorite comfort food—cheese. From the day her husband suffered a stroke to the moment she realized how dairy affects our hormones, this story is part personal transformation and part health revelation.

You’ll learn why cheese is the #1 source of saturated fat in the American diet, how it influences your hormones, cancer risk, and menopause symptoms, and the science-backed reasons why swapping cheese for plants can dramatically change your health.

🧀 Why cheese feels so addictive (and how the dairy industry capitalized on that craving).

💔 What happened the day of Ali’s husband’s stroke and how it changed everything.

🩺 The surprising link between cheese, saturated fat, and heart disease.

🔥 How dairy hormones (estrogen, progesterone, IGF-1) affect breast and prostate cancer risk.

🌿 The truth about soy vs. dairy hormones—and why soy actually helps balance estrogen.

⚖️ Cheese and perimenopause: why cutting it out may reduce hot flashes, mood swings, and midsection weight gain.

🧘‍♀️ How to replace cheese in your favorite recipes (and still love your food).

🚫 The least healthy cheeses to ditch first—cream cheese, processed cheese, and spreads—and what’s safer if you’re not ready to go fully dairy-free.

Not all fat is created equal: saturated fat fuels disease, while plant fats protect you.

Cheese isn’t a “whole food”—it’s ultra-processed and calorie-dense with little nutrition.

Dairy hormones are bioidentical to human hormones, meaning your body reacts as if they were your own.

Cutting out cheese helps balance hormones naturally, reduces inflammation, and can make menopause easier.

Soy is not the enemy. It contains phytoestrogens—gentle, plant-based compounds that protect against hormone-related cancers.

📚 How Not to Die by Dr. Michael Greger

📚 Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman

📚 The Cheese Trap by Dr. Neal Barnard

🛳️ Holistic Holiday at Sea Vegan Cruise –tell them PLANTWHYS sent you for a $50 onboard credit: https://holisticholidayatsea.com/a/plantwhys/

🌿 Join the PlantWhys Membership: www.plantwhys.com 

🍽️ Watch easy plant-based recipes on YouTube: PlantWhys

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:57 Personal Story: A Stroke and a Sandwich

02:02 Transition to Plant-Based Diet

03:18 The Cheese Dilemma

05:32 Health Risks of Cheese

07:21 Healthier Cheese Alternatives

17:28 Hormones and Cheese

25:47 Soy vs. Dairy: The Estrogen Debate

29:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this inspiring episode of Eat Meat Sparingly: A Word of Wisdom Podcast, Ali Essig opens up about her first triathlon experience — from not knowing how to swim to crossing the finish line with confidence.

She shares what it really takes to push past fear, self-doubt, and the sneaky ways we self-sabotage when chasing big goals. Through personal stories and faith-based reflection, Ali explores how adopting a growth mindset and leaning on others for help can transform your progress — in fitness, health, and life.

You’ll also learn about powerful therapeutic tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) — and how they can help you reframe your inner dialogue, overcome mental roadblocks, and finally get out of your own way.

Whether you’re training for something big or just trying to stick with a new habit, this episode will remind you: you’re capable of more than you think.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:14 The Triathlon Journey Begins

01:11 Training and Challenges

02:59 Learning to Swim

05:11 The Importance of a Coach

11:45 The Triathlon Day

14:36 Overcoming Negative Voices

15:35 Faith-Based vs. Fear-Based Thoughts

16:08 Overcoming Dichotomous Thinking

16:42 Embracing a Growth Mindset

17:44 The Power of Identity: Being a Learner

20:33 Therapeutic Tools for Positive Change

21:01 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Explained

23:30 Acceptance Commitment Therapy

25:26 Internal Family Systems Therapy

27:30 The Journey of Continuous Learning

30:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Slides to my Presentation: Embodiment and the Divine Mother in the Word of Wisdom https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1AijsKWrLo5InoycteHFDXublulv76UlB5LXupHHObrQ/edit?usp=sharing

In this heartfelt episode of Eat Meat Sparingly: A Word of Wisdom Podcast, Ali Essig opens up about the phone call that changed her family’s life forever — the day her 37-year-old husband suffered a stroke.

As a mother of six, Ali shares what it was like to face uncertainty, fear, and grief — and how that experience became the turning point that transformed not just her husband’s health, but her family’s entire understanding of the Word of Wisdom.

Through prayer and study, Ali discovered deeper layers within this divine principle — lessons that go far beyond avoiding alcohol and coffee. She uncovers the often-overlooked scripture on eating meat sparingly and explores how it connects to both physical healing and Heavenly Mother.

You’ll hear how her husband’s recovery became a living miracle after adopting a plant-focused diet — and how Ali came to see the Word of Wisdom as an invitation to a higher law of nourishment, compassion, and connection with the Divine Feminine.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Story

01:34 The Life-Changing Phone Call

04:20 Seeking Answers and Spiritual Guidance

04:56 Understanding the Word of Wisdom

07:20 The Ethical and Environmental Impact of Meat Consumption

10:03 Connecting the Word of Wisdom to Heavenly Mother

15:07 The Importance of Plant-Based Nutrition

19:07 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of 'Eat Meat Sparingly: A Word of Wisdom Podcast,' host Ali Essig welcomes special guests Sherry and Victor from MotherInHeaven.com. The discussion revolves around Ali's upcoming speech at Restore, focusing on the deeper meanings of the Word of Wisdom and the connection to Heavenly Mother. Sherry and Victor share their journey of discovering Heavenly Mother through scripture and research over the past decade. They delve into various scriptural references and ancient texts that highlight Heavenly Mother's role, wisdom, and symbolism, including the Tree of Life and healing. They emphasize the importance of recognizing Heavenly Mother alongside Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ while advocating for a plant-based diet in alignment with the Word of Wisdom. They also touch on the symbolism found in the temple and how these teachings can lead to a healthier and more spiritually enriched life.

00:00 Introduction to Eat Meat Sparingly Podcast

00:05 Special Guests: Sherry and Victor

00:19 Exploring the Deeper Wisdom

01:21 Meet Sherry and Victor

02:29 Journey to Understanding Heavenly Mother

03:23 Scriptural Foundations and Discoveries

06:07 Wisdom and Heavenly Mother

11:34 Tree of Life and Healing Symbolism

23:06 The Role of Plants and Anointing Oil

25:36 Symbolism of Anointing with Oil

27:41 Exploring Wisdom and Her Feast

29:12 The Menorah and the Tree of Life

33:36 Preenacting Eternal Life

36:55 Embracing the Word of Wisdom

41:04 Living Closer to Heavenly Mother

46:31 Resources for Learning More

Episode: Factory Farming & the Environment—Why Your Food Choices Matter

Summary:
Ali unpacks how modern factory farming (CAFOs) impacts greenhouse gases, deforestation, soil health, water use, and nutrient pollution—and why simply eating meat more sparingly can create outsized environmental benefits. This isn’t politics; it’s cause-and-effect. You’ll leave with practical, doable swaps that reduce your personal water footprint and support a healthier planet.

What “factory farming/CAFOs” actually means (not your neighbor’s small farm)

Why demand for meat has skyrocketed since the 1950s—and why that matters

The big three greenhouse gases tied to industrial livestock (methane, CO₂ via deforestation, nitrous oxide)

How manure lagoons and synthetic fertilizers fuel nutrient pollution and ocean “dead zones”

The water math: why animal products are so water-intensive compared to plants

Two simple actions: cut animal products by ~50% or go fully plant-based—and the impact each has on your water footprint

Industrial livestock + feed systems are a major driver of greenhouse gas emissions.

Methane from cattle is short-lived but ~28× more potent than CO₂ in warming.

Nitrous oxide from fertilizer/manure has ~300× the heat-trapping power of CO₂ and persists for ~114 years.

Nutrient runoff (nitrogen/phosphorus) fuels algae blooms → low-oxygen “dead zones” (e.g., Gulf of Mexico).

Small shift, big impact: Cutting animal products by ~50% can reduce your personal food-related water footprint by ~30%; going fully plant-based can reduce it by ~60%.

Attend Ali’s talk at RESTORE  

Catch Ali at RESTORE (UVU), Sept 26–27. Use code PLANTWHYS for tickets. She’ll go deeper into the “deeper wisdom behind the Word of Wisdom.”  

Connect with Ali  

Membership: PlantWhys (learn the why behind more plants + get the how) https://www.plantwhys.com/collective  

YouTube Recipe Channel: PlantWhys – simple, family-friendly recipes https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGrQa7v7G9e2m61DAT6UKKA  

00:00 Introduction to Eat Meat Sparingly

00:52 Understanding Factory Farming

03:08 Environmental Impact of Meat Production

06:02 Greenhouse Gases and Factory Farming

12:31 Water Footprint and Nutrient Pollution

15:21 Call to Action: Making a Difference

23:43 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

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

Amla Green Link: https://www.amlagreen.com/plantwhys

  What if everything you’ve been told about diabetes and diet was incomplete—or even flat-out wrong?

In this special episode of Eat Meat Sparingly, A Word of Wisdom Podcast, Ali shares a rare behind-the-scenes recording from the PlantWhys Book Club, featuring New York Times bestselling author and co-founder of Mastering Diabetes, Dr. Cyrus Khambatta.

Dr. Khambatta doesn’t just talk theory—he’s lived it. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in his 20s, he discovered how a whole-food, plant-based diet could transform his blood sugar, energy, and long-term health. Now, he’s helped thousands do the same.

Inside this conversation, you’ll learn:

Why fat—not carbs—is the hidden driver behind insulin resistance

The real reason “clean eating” sometimes backfires on blood sugar

Practical ways to eat more plants while keeping your glucose steady

How to handle protein myths, cravings, and even dining out

Why powerful foods like amla (Indian gooseberry) are game-changers for cholesterol and glucose

Whether you’re living with diabetes, prediabetes, or simply want to prevent chronic disease, this episode is packed with science, stories, and practical steps that make plant-based living not only possible—but powerful.

🎧 Listen now to discover how small shifts in your diet can lead to big results in your blood sugar, your energy, and your life.

Interested in joining the Plantwhys membership? Learn more here: https://www.plantwhys.com/collective

00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Event

00:36 Plant Whys Book Club: Special Guest Dr. Cyrus Khambatta

03:18 The Power of Amla Berries

13:06 Mastering Diabetes: The Journey Begins

27:08 Understanding Whole Foods and Nutrients

27:54 The Role of Fiber in Digestion

30:03 Comparing Whole Foods to Processed Foods

31:09 The Importance of Fiber for Blood Sugar Control

34:11 Incorporating Seeds and Avocados in a Low-Fat Diet

34:49 Using Chronometer to Track Nutrient Intake

42:10 Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet

46:22 Managing High Blood Sugar and Sugar Cravings

52:21 Cyrus's Coaching Program and Conclusion

What if the entire way we read the Word of Wisdom about eating meat came down to… one comma?

In this episode of Eat Meat Sparingly, Ali Essig takes you deep into the so-called “Drama of the Comma”—a hotly debated punctuation mark that some use to justify eating meat regularly. Ali breaks down where this comma came from, how it changed the meaning of Doctrine & Covenants 89, and why the “all the time, sparingly” argument doesn’t hold up.

You’ll also hear:

Why “sparingly” and “all the time” are a paradox.

What Hyrum Smith (Joseph’s brother) actually taught about eating meat.

The deeper symbolism of grain as the staff of life—and how it points directly to Christ as the Bread of Life.

Why keto and carnivore diets might bring short-term results, but don’t align with the long-term wisdom in scripture or nutrition science.

How justification and cognitive dissonance creep in when our diets don’t match our beliefs.

Whether you’ve wrestled with how to interpret the Word of Wisdom or just want to understand the connection between scripture, health, and modern diet fads—this episode will leave you thinking differently about what God really meant when He said to eat meat “sparingly.”

00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Event

00:50 The Drama of the Comma: Misconceptions About Eating Meat

02:02 Analyzing Bruce Porter's Perspective

05:50 Nutritional Insights: Protein Sources

12:00 Hiram Smith's Interpretation

15:29 The Role of Grain in the Word of Wisdom

25:10 Long-term Health Implications of Diet Choices

28:54 Conclusion and Call to Action