PLANTSTRONG Podcast
Rip Esselstyn
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 5, 2023 • 1h 9min
Ep. 217: Daniel Staackmann - Seitan to the Rescue!
Daniel Staackmann, Founder and CEO of Upton's Naturals, shares his journey as an ethical vegan entrepreneur. They discuss the success of seitan as a meat alternative, the challenges of starting a business with limited funds, the manufacturing process and packaging options, the launch of soups, vegan products, business growth and expansion, comfort food, vegan donuts, and the importance of taking time off and enjoying vacations.
Sep 27, 2023 • 1h 16min
Ep. 216: PLANTSTRONG Legacy Film - Celebrating 12 Years of Wellness with Jeff Nelson and Dr. Elizabeth George
In this episode, Dr. Liz George and filmmaker Jeff Nelson talk about the 12-year impact of a wellness program in a small town documented in their new film 'Plant Strong Legacy'. They discuss the power of a plant-based diet, effectiveness of dietary changes, and the impact of the PLANTSTRONG message. They also emphasize the need for professionals to adopt a plant-based diet and share success stories of individuals improving their skin through a clear skin diet.
4 snips
Sep 21, 2023 • 1h 8min
Ep. 215: Doug Lisle, PhD - Do the New Weight Loss Drugs Really Work?
Evolutionary psychologist Dr. Doug Lisle joins the podcast to discuss the effectiveness and long-term impacts of weight loss drugs. They explore the underlying causes of obesity, the correlation between obesity and disease, and the pros and cons of weight loss medications. The hosts also address listener questions about medical cannabis withdrawal and the potential benefits of a whole food plant-based diet for schizophrenia. They touch on the influence of screen time and social media, imagination in food choices, and the impact of various aspects of life on weight loss drugs.
Sep 14, 2023 • 1h 36min
Ep. 214: Colleen Patrick-Goudreau - Your Guide to Being a Joyful Vegan
Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, advocate for plant-based living, discusses her journey to veganism, finding balance in activism and well-being, and the struggles of coming out as vegan to family. They also explore compassion in society, staying true to one's values, challenges of living with a non-vegan partner, and their love for seasonal produce. Finally, they talk about curated joyful vegan trips and the power of animal-related films and literature.
Sep 7, 2023 • 1h 35min
Ep. 213: Moby and Lindsay Hicks - Mixing Art with Activism
In the ever-changing world of “celebrity culture," it's hard to find someone so resolute about their activism as Moby. He's had undeniable staying power on the music scene, but it’s his vegan activism that has left the most lasting impression.Moby went vegan in 1987 and remains an ardent supporter of animal rights, climate change advocacy, and humanitarian aid. He is also the author of several books, including memoirs and vegan cookbooks. Moby, without question, is one of the most prolific and thoughtful thinkers on the planet and he and his co-host Lindsay Hicks recently started The Moby Pod to provide even more insight into their advocacy work.Lindsay Hicks, like her pal Moby, is also an environmentalist and sustainability expert. On the Moby Pod, they discuss a wide range of topics with humor and humility, providing their unique perspectives on the entertainment industry, animal activism, and beyond. In fact, recent episodes have featured everything from guest, Dan Buettner, to writing songs…and even a little paranormal chat! Episode WebpageView the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyTake the Free 7-Day Challenge: https://liveplantstrong.com/free-7-day-challenge/ 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 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
Aug 31, 2023 • 1h 2min
Ep. 212: Gigi Carter and Sersie Blue - Get Healthy For Your Divine Purpose
Gigi Carter and Sersie Blue discuss the Daniel Fast and its connection to divine purpose. They share personal stories about adopting a plant-based lifestyle and how it transformed their lives. The speakers emphasize the importance of incorporating faith into the journey towards health and mention their upcoming book and workshops. They also talk about alternative breakfast options and express gratitude for their work in helping and saving lives.
Aug 17, 2023 • 1h 10min
Ep 210: Kim Anderson - Destination: Plant City!
Kim Anderson and her family opened Plant City, the world's first plant-based food hall and marketplace in Providence. They discuss the genesis behind Plant City and its unique environment. They also talk about the impact of plant-based diets on athletes and surviving the pandemic.
Aug 10, 2023 • 1h 8min
Ep 209: Janet Verney - Getting to the Root Cause of a Debilitating Mystery Illness
Rip welcomes author and health coach, Janet Verney, to the PLANTSTRONG Podcast. For 40 years, Janet suffered from an undiagnosed illness that affected her lungs and gut, leading to years of medical treatments, antibiotics, and even a cumbersome breathing machine. In 2013, she started focusing on optimizing her health through lifestyle changes and a whole foods, plant-based diet and it was only then that her real healing began. As she says in the episode, she now has control over her illness. It no longer controls her. Today, she is affectionately referred to as the "plant-based princess of positivity" by friends and clients.As a coach, she helps others "unearth" their dis-ease to get to the root cause of their issues. How?* She helps you "weed" out the excuses and roadblocks * She teaches you to "nourish" your body with nutrition, self-care, and doing the things you love * If you weed and nourish, you will "bloom" into the person you were always meant to beHer books Roots2Wellness and her new cookbook Health'd Up are available at https://janetverney.com/ Watch the Episode on YouTubeLearn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyTake the Free 7-Day Challenge: https://liveplantstrong.com/free-7-day-challenge/ 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 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
Aug 3, 2023 • 1h 14min
Ep. 208: Mike Melloh - A Harrowing Surgery Story You Have to Hear to Believe
Not long ago, we received an email that stopped us in our tracks. It was a letter of thanks written to Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., but the email also told a harrowing surgery story that was so compelling, we just had to share it with you. And, it’s actually the first time Rip and his Father have interviewed a patient together on the PLANTSTRONG Podcast. Rip's guest, Mike Melloh, was seemingly doing everything right. He exercised regularly, ate a “healthy” diet, and even booked appointments for preventative tests to ensure he was a picture of health, as he always believed. He was in for the surprise of his life when test results came back showing significant blockage. What happened next in the operating room is something no one could predict; however, it's given Mike a whole new appreciation for life and the power of whole food, plant-based nutrition.His story and the commentary and education that Dr. Esselstyn provide are so powerful. We hope you'll listen and share because it just may save a life. Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyTake the Free 7-Day Challenge: https://liveplantstrong.com/free-7-day-challenge/ 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 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
Jul 27, 2023 • 1h 40min
Ep. 207: Anthony Masiello - Making Plant-Based Physicians Accessible to All
Rip welcomes Anthony Masiello, co-founder and CEO of Love Life Telehealth, who shares his personal transformation and innovative approach to healthcare access to whole food plant-based physicians. Anthony recalls his own struggle with weight issues from a young age, trying various methods to lose weight. Despite his active lifestyle, his weight continued to fluctuate, leading him to question how weight gain occurs and the role of genetics and environment in this process. After sharing his own personal journey, Anthony delves into the creation of Love Life Telehealth, a platform that aims to revolutionize healthcare by providing comprehensive support through coaching, education, and community. He explains the concept of telemedicine and how Love Life Telehealth connects patients with doctors across different states, offering lifestyle medicine consultations. The ultimate goal of Love Life Telehealth is to change the way healthcare is practiced, prioritizing a lifestyle-first approach and using medicine only when necessary. The team of ten doctors work collaboratively with patients to understand their complete profile and help them achieve their goals. Anthony describes the development of other programs and offerings, such as a monthly payment model and a year-long program, all designed to help people not just live life, but love life and be passionate about enjoying it. About Anthony Masiello Anthony has been working in healthcare for more than 25 years. His professional career started in the 90s at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) doing bioinformatics for the Human Genome Project. He later shifted into Research and Development at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, where he was interested in contributing more directly to the development of new disease therapies. After transforming his own health, and learning there is a better way, he shifted once again and is now 100% focused on providing access to medical services centered on the prevention and reversal of disease utilizing lifestyle medicine rooted in whole food plant-based nutrition. Anthony came to a plant-based lifestyle himself after being denied a 20-year term life insurance policy at age 33. He was morbidly obese, weighing more than 360 pounds, medicated for high blood pressure, and suffering from psoriasis, eczema, migraine headaches, and sleep apnea. Through the transition to a whole food plant-based diet and healthy lifestyle, Anthony lost 160 lbs. and reversed all of these conditions. He has maintained that weight loss, optimal health, and a greatly improved quality of life for more than 15 years and counting. Anthony’s personal health transformation has been featured on the Megyn Kelly Today show, on PBS, in The Huffington Post, in the bestselling book Eat to Live, and by Forks Over Knives, Runners World, and numerous magazines, websites, radio shows, podcasts, and articles. Anthony was Co-founder and CEO of Plant Based TeleHealth, a national lifestyle telemedicine service focused on the prevention and reversal of disease with lifestyle medicine and whole food plant-based nutrition. In 2022, Plant-Based TeleHealth was acquired by Love.Life, a national network of wellness hubs that is leading the convergence of food, medicine, and wellness for a one-stop transformative health experience. Episode Resources Watch the Episode on YouTube Love.Life Telehealth Join our PLANTSTRONG Sedona Retreat - October 9-14, 2023 To stock up on the best-tasting, most convenient, 100% PLANTSTRONG foods, including our cornbread, teas, stews, pancakes cereals, granolas, pizza kits, broths and soups, check out all of our PLANTSTRONG products HERE. Give us a like on the PLANTSTRONG Facebook Page and check out what being PLANSTRONG is all about. We always keep it stocked full of new content and updates, tips for healthy living, delicious recipes, and you can even catch me LIVE on there! We’ve also got an Instagram! Check us out and share your favorite PLANTSTRONG products and why you love it! Don’t forget to tag us using #goplantstrong 🌱💪 Theme Music for Episode
