

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

Mar 6, 2025 • 59min
Ep. 291: Don Fries and Bev Bow - Rediscover Your Joy of Living with the Healthy World Vitality Plan
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 Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeSPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong 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

Feb 27, 2025 • 55min
Ep. 290: Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr. - The Proof Is In The Plants! Real Stories of Heart Disease Reversal
Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr. is a trailblazer in heart health and director at the Cleveland Clinic's cardiovascular program. He shares inspiring stories of patients who have reversed heart disease through a whole-food, plant-based diet. The discussion highlights the critical role of nutrition in transforming heart health, critiques traditional medical approaches, and covers the link between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular issues. Dr. Esselstyn emphasizes the harmful effects of oil on heart health, making a compelling case for dietary change.

Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 33min
Ep. 289: Joel Kahn, MD - Test, Don't Guess When It Comes to Your Heart Health
Dr. Joel Kahn, a cardiologist and advocate for plant-based nutrition, discusses the alarming statistics surrounding heart disease and the need for proactive screenings. He emphasizes the power of a whole food, plant-based diet in reversing heart disease and shares his personal journey with nutrition. Dr. Kahn also highlights watercress as a nutritional powerhouse, the importance of coronary artery calcium scans, and offers insights into heart health for menopausal women. This lively conversation is packed with practical tips to improve cardiovascular well-being.

Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 33min
Ep. 288: Dr. Columbus Batiste - It's Time for a SELFISH Health Revolution!
Dr. Columbus Batiste, an interventional cardiologist and author, advocates for prioritizing self-care in his insightful conversation. He introduces the seven pillars of heart health, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, nutrition, and love. Stress's detrimental impact on health and the link between emotional well-being and cardiovascular issues are explored. Batiste shares personal anecdotes about his father's battle with diabetes, illustrating the importance of nutrition and lifestyle medicine. He encourages listeners to embrace self-care, laughter, and community support for overall wellness.

6 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 13min
Ep. 287: Robert Ostfeld, MD - Can Plant-Based Diets Boost Heart Health and Your Bedroom Performance?
Dr. Robert Ostfeld, a non-invasive cardiologist and founder of Preventive Cardiology at Montefiore, dives into the transformative power of plant-based diets on heart health and even erectile function. He discusses groundbreaking studies comparing plant-based and animal-based diets, emphasizing how lifestyle changes can significantly impact cardiovascular health. Listeners also learn about cholesterol management, the role of lipoprotein(a), and innovative dietary programs aiming to empower patients and educate healthcare providers. It's a heart-healthy conversation that encourages dietary transformation!

Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 18min
Ep. 286: Chef Bailey Ruskus - The Ultimate Guide to Breaking Up With Dairy
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.Episode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubePre-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.SPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com Upcoming Events:Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG JourneyUse Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/ COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer Leave Us a Voicemail QuestionLeave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong 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

31 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 48min
Ep. 285: Dr. Matthew Nagra - Cutting Through the Nutrition Confusion and Debunking Diet Myths
Dr. Matthew Nagra, a plant-based naturopathic doctor, navigates through common nutrition misconceptions with evidence-based insights. He tackles the toxicity argument against plants, debates between plant-based meats and real meat, and clarifies the persistent egg controversy. Nagra also explores the health impacts of dietary oils, creatine supplementation, and the roles of gluten and cholesterol. This enlightening conversation encourages embracing whole, nutritious, and plant-based foods for optimal health.

4 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ep. 284: Chef AJ is Thriving in the Face of Cancer
Chef AJ, a renowned plant-based chef and comedian, shares her journey after a lung cancer diagnosis. She emphasizes the importance of hope and a solid support system while outlining her 7 Foundations to Healing: Faith, Family, Fitness, Food, Forgiveness, Friends, and Fun. AJ discusses the crucial role of humor in coping with anxiety and how a whole food, plant-based lifestyle has become central to her healing. Her candid reflections offer inspiration and highlight that a diagnosis does not have to define one's destiny.

5 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 43min
Ep. 283: Dr. Dean Ornish - Hope for Alzheimer's: The Power of Plant-Based Nutrition to Reverse Cognitive Decline
Dr. Dean Ornish, a leading physician and researcher in lifestyle medicine, reveals groundbreaking insights into reversing early Alzheimer's through a whole-food, plant-based diet. He shares details from his clinical trial, where 71% of participants experienced cognitive improvement. The discussion highlights the essential roles of exercise, stress management, and social support in enhancing brain health. With nearly 7 million affected by Alzheimer's, Ornish's findings provide hope and empower listeners to adopt transformative lifestyle changes for better cognitive function.

16 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 55min
Ep. 282: Brad Kearns - Born to Walk: Why Walking is the Key to Longevity, Health, and Weight Loss
Brad Kearns, co-author of 'Born to Walk' and former professional triathlete, tackles misconceptions around exercise. He argues that walking, often overlooked, is a powerful path to health and longevity, outshining running in many aspects. Discover how the running boom has resulted in unnecessary injuries and how walking promotes better aerobic conditioning. Kearns emphasizes the importance of natural movement and proper footwear, advocating for a fitness plan centered on walking with intervals. Embrace a healthier lifestyle, one step at a time!