

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

Jul 29, 2021 • 1h 11min
Ep. 100: Darin Olien - The Indiana Jones, Dan Buettner, Laird Hamilton and Sherlock Holmes of Superfoods
Darin Olien is the "Superman of Superfoods" and the "Indiana Jones of the Best Ingredients" on the planet. For over 20 years, he has literally roamed the world - and you already know this if you watched Season One of his Netflix docu-series with Zac Efron, “Down to Earth,” where they traveled the planet to explore the secrets of good health, longevity, and sustainability. Olien is also the author of the NY Times best-selling book, “SuperLife: The five fixes that will keep you healthy, fit and eternally awesome.” I was stunned to learn just how much we have in common - we’re both from the Midwest, we both are sons of Fathers who grew up around farming and agriculture, we were both collegiate athletes, we’re both NY Times best-selling authors on the subject of health, and today we both spend our days sourcing the best ingredients to bring you healthy, sustainable nutrition in the plantstrong foods we create. As you’ll hear today, Darin speaks THE TRUTH, but in a way that is filled with purpose and compassion. He discusses: How he and Zac propelled the success of "Down to Earth" without being too preachy and off-putting How he approaches the subject of climate change, nutrition, and environmental issues, especially with those who may think differently than he does His favorite superfoods on the planet The life-changing impact of his Father's death The abundance and life-giving experience of eating plants His perspective on life, particularly after the tragedy of losing his home A touch on his fatal conveniences series This is a man who, through self-motivation and determination, has become a force in the health and nutrition industry. He is living proof that one person can make a global impact. About Darin Olien Darin Olien is co-host with Zac Efron on the Emmy™ nominated, #1 Netflix docu-series “Down to Earth with Zac Efron” and host of “The Darin Olien Show” a widely popular podcast curiously exploring people, solutions, and health as well as “Fatal Conveniences™” a segment of the show uncovering modern-day flaws and challenges that may be undermining our health and our environment. Darin is also a highly recognized exotic superfood hunter, supplement formulator, and author of the New York Times bestseller, “SuperLife: The five fixes that will keep you healthy, fit, and eternally awesome.” He has traveled the planet discovering new and underutilized exotic foods and medicinal plants. In early 2020 Darin launched 121 Tribe, a health APP created to help people live an optimal and sustainable life. Darin is the formulator of the whole-food supplement, “Shakeology”, as well as the plant-based, “Ultimate Reset” 21-day detoxification program. Darin is one of the founders of Barukas™, a new super nut from the Savannah “Cerrado” of Brazil. Through sustainable business practices, the company is committed to supporting this important biome by planting 20 million Baruzeita trees. In addition, Darin is a partner and advisor to several global environmental and health companies. To learn more about Darin, check out his website and the 121 Tribe program or follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. IG: @darinolien FB: @DarinOlienOfficial Twitter: @darinolien Episode Resources Darin Olien Website and Resources Test-Drive the PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner. Enjoy a free 14-Day trial by using code: STARTFRESH at check-out. You will have to input credit card, but you won't be charged if you cancel before the end of the trial period. Our Virtual PLANTSTOCK Returns September 8-12th - Register today Join the PLANTSTRONG Community Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Jul 27, 2021 • 45min
Ep. 99 Bonus Replay: Eric Adams - 2021 Mayoral Candidate for New York
If you think one person can't make an impact, think again. In 2016 at the young age of 54, former Brooklyn Borough President and now New York Democratic Mayoral Candidate, Eric Adams, listened as his doctor gave him a grim diagnosis of Type II diabetes. Sadly, he felt it was an inevitable fate because of rampant family history. What didn’t sit with him was relinquishing control of his health and realizing that he was going to be on medication for the rest of his life as his body continued to deteriorate. Refusing to be buried by this diagnosis, Adams did something that would change the course of his life forever. Instead of googling, “Living with Diabetes,” he typed, “Reversing Diabetes” and a seed was planted. Fortunately, that seed has produced a bountiful harvest of hope and inspiration. In just three short years since that diagnosis, Eric Adams has made a remarkable personal recovery plus a resounding impact with whole foods plant-based initiatives in New York City. He has lived a rich life committed to public service as an NYC Police Officer, New York State Senator, and Brooklyn Borough President. He recently won the Democratic Mayoral Primary and will be the lead candidate on the ticket this Fall. But this new chapter may be his most vital act of service yet - improving the lives and vitality of families and children in New York and beyond. One person can, indeed, create meaningful change and leave a legacy of hope. Will you be the next? . PlantStrong Website and Resources Eric Adams Website and Resources Eric Adams Twitter Eric Adams Instagram

Jul 22, 2021 • 58min
Ep. 98: "Girls Gone Veg" with Pro Soccer Stars, Ali Riley and Toni Pressley
we’re thrilled to bring you today’s guests who are also competing at the top level of professional women’s soccer -Toni Pressley and Ali Riley - of the Orlando Pride! Both are using their platforms to promote a PLANTSTRONG diet on and off the field and, in May, they launched their own cooking show called “Girls Gone Veg” on the IAMATHLETE YouTube Channel that was founded by NFL Legend, Brandon Marshall. They’ve only been teammates for a short time, but these two soccer legends connected instantly over their mutual love of health, wellness, and, nutrition. The show features weekly cooking demos, interviews with celebrities, and plenty of healthy recipes that are fun, easy, and delicious. Yes, they are inspiring millions of people of all ages, especially the younger generation, about dreaming big and pursuing their goals, BUT they are also teaching their fans how to live a WHOLE life of health and vitality with foods that will fuel them for peak performance at any age. Episode Resources “Girls Gone Veg” YouTube Channel Orlando Pride Soccer Schedule PLANTSTRONG Foods - order our new dessert-inspired granolas and popcorn PLANT-STOCK 2021 - September 8-12, 2021 - BUNDLE and SAVE: Purchase a bundle of 5 tickets for just $50 Test-Drive the PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner. Enjoy a free 14-Day trial by using code: STARTFRESH at check-out. You will have to input credit card, but you won't be charged if you cancel before the end of the trial period. Join the PLANTSTRONG Community Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Jul 20, 2021 • 40min
Ep. 97: PLANTSTRONG Snackables - Dressing Up Those Summer Salads
Welcome to Episode Three of our new PLANTSTRONG Snackables podcast series, a bite-sized podcast where host, Rip Esselstyn, and co-host, Jess Hegarty, dish on all things plants! Jessica leads product innovation for the PlantStrong food line and, together with Rip, will provide a peek behind the curtain on plant-based food headlines, market research, ingredients, and cooking inspiration. Plus, you'll always walk away with a recipe or two to share with your friends and family. In Episode 3, Rip and Jess challenge you to “think outside the dressing bottle” and offer multiple ways to liven up your summer salads. They break down the anatomy of the perfect salad dressing - fat, salt, sour and sweet - and provide a list of ingredients you can use to craft your own favorite salad topper. Want that free list to add to your choices and ignite your creativity? Download it HERE! More Tasty Bites from Today's Episode: 00:00-02:25 Welcome from Rip and Jess 02:-25-04:35 Plant-Based Seafood Company, Good Catch, is making a splash in front of Subway locations 09:50-38:00 Think Outside the Dressing Bottle Jess and Rip’s Favorite Things: Balsamic Vinegars PLANTSTRONG Podcast Interview with Dr. Nathan Bryan Rip’s Favorite Salad Dressing Combination1/3 Balsalmic Vinegar, 1/3 Maple Syrup, 1/3 Spicy Brown Mustard Download our “Perfect Salad Dressing Guide" Additional Episode Resources For all PLANTSTRONG Resources, visit plantstrong.com Shop PlantStrong Foods Now

Jul 15, 2021 • 37min
Ep. 96: Dr. Alan Desmond - Part 2 - 97% of the USA is Deficient in This. Are You?
This week, we get into the nitty-gritty of gut health with Part Two of our conversation with Gastroenterologist, Dr. Alan Desmond. If you missed part one with Dr. Desmond’s Top 10 Prescriptions for Better Health, we highly recommend a listen! Let me ask you this -- “Where do you get your fiber?” If your first answer is Metamucil or any other fiber supplement, this episode is for you. So many of us have what is known as a “carcinogenic microbiome.” It's an unfortunate truth that millions are walking around with a gut filled with cancer-promoting cells. Not only is this leading to so many of the preventable chronic lifestyle diseases, but also debilitating mental and cognitive issues like depression, anxiety, dementia, and Alzheimer's. BUT, here's the great news. The studies also tell us that the more fruits and vegetables we consume, the higher our levels of optimism and the lower our levels of depressive symptoms. How is that possible? Dr. Desmond and Rip explain the why and how. Dr. Desmond explains the history of our gut microbiome, the role that short-chain fatty acids play in a healthy gut, and why a diversity of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds not only positively impacts our physical health, but also improves our overall sense of happiness and joy! The saying, “You are what you eat” has never been more true. Well, if you want to be happy and healthy, let’s feed your gut with a diverse diet of fiber-filled happy and healthy whole plantstrong foods. And, let’s keep the Metamucil on the grocery shelves where it belongs.

Jul 8, 2021 • 1h 17min
Ep. 95: Dr. Alan Desmond - Part 1 - Top 10 Prescriptions for Better Health
If all health begins in the gut, then the United States needs a major overhaul. One in three adults under the age of 50 have diverticular disease, colorectal cancer will affect more than one in 20 adults in their lifetimes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is off the charts, and millions of others suffer from irritable bowel syndrome and other inflammatory complications in our gut. These are sobering facts, BUT you can do something about it and, today, along with Gastroenterologist Dr. Alan Desmond, we open up the prescription pad and give you real Doctor's orders - The Top 10 Prescriptions for Better Health - from Dr. Desmond's book, "The Plant-Based Diet Revolution: 28 Days to a Happier Gut and a Healthier You." But, unlike most prescriptions that simply treat the problem, these prescriptions will get to the root and help you solve these major issues. The best part? They don’t involve taking more pills - just beautiful, nutritious, whole plant-based foods, the optimal diet for health and longevity. 28:50 - Eat a diversity of plants 30:25 - Ditch the Junk - ultra-processed food 34:40 - Eat whole grains every day 39:30 - Embrace whole carbohydrates - fiber, fuel and nutrients 43:23 - Choose your protein wisely - yes, you will get enough protein 49:20 - Take a B12 supplement - 25 mg per day 50:28 - Cut out the sweet stuff 57:46 - Remember, milk is for babies 1:01:00 - Get your sunshine, Vitamin D 1:02:37 - Get help if you need it We're so thrilled to have you along for this Plant-Based Diet Revolution! About Dr. Desmond Doctor Alan Desmond is a Consultant Gastroenterologist who is dedicated to educating the public on the health benefits of a whole-food plant-based diet. His best-selling book, ‘The Plant-Based Diet Revolution: 28 days to a happier gut and a healthier you’, is available wherever books are sold. Doctor Alan has made evidence-based dietary advice an essential part of his practice as a doctor specializing in gut health problems. He has presented at numerous international medical conferences on the benefits of this approach to food, alongside other renowned advocates including Dr. Michael Greger, Dr. Michael Klaper, Dietician Brenda Davis, Dr. Kim Williams, and Dr. Neal Barnard. He is an Ambassador for Plant-Based Health Professionals UK, a not-for-profit group that educates members of the public, health professionals, and policymakers on the incredible health benefits of a plant-based diet. Certified in both Gastroenterology and General Internal Medicine, Doctor Alan completed his medical training in Ireland and Oxford. He has a specialist interest in the role of diet in the prevention and treatment of Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. A fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, London, he has published several influential research papers in the field of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and is a dedicated advocate for the gut health benefits, and overall health benefits, of a whole-food plant-based approach to nutrition. He lives in South Devon with his wife and three children. Episode Resources Our Virtual PLANTSTOCK Returns September 8-12th and to celebrate, the first 1,000 people to register will get in for just $10.00! Join the PLANTSTRONG Community Dr. Alan Desmond Website and Resources Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Jul 1, 2021 • 57min
Ep. 94: Dotsie Bausch - The Comeback Kid...at 40!
Everyone loves a great comeback story and, as we head into the 4th of July holiday weekend here in the States, we can't think of any better way to celebrate than with the uplifting story of survival and triumph from one of USA's finest - Dotsie Bausch. Dotsie and her track cycling teammates won the Silver medal at the 2012 London games, which is amazing unto itself; however, when you hear Dotsie’s story of what it took to get there, you’ll be even more astonished. For years, she battled a debilitating eating disorder which left her on the brink of losing her life. Her recovery is nothing short of remarkable and so is her NEW mission in life -- to save the lives of others as Executive Director and tireless advocate at Switch4Good - the non-profit organization and podcast she started to tackle the ridiculous notion that we need cow’s milk for peak health and performance. It was a bill of goods she was sold for years as an elite-level athlete. You’ll love hearing about her “underdog” triumph at the Olympics because it’s also how she is approaching her work now. She's most certainly an underdog going up against some powerful organizations out there, but we have no doubt she’ll stand on the podium once again with pride knowing that the power of the Silver medal is saving the lives of millions of children, animals, and our planet. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: Our Virtual PLANTSTOCK Returns September 8-12th and to celebrate, the first 1,000 people to register will get in for just $10.00! PLANTSTRONG Summer Grilling Guide Dotsie Bausch Website and Social Media Switch4Good Website Live Better. Do More. Dairy Free "Game Changers" Documentary "Personal Gold" Documentary Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Jun 29, 2021 • 40min
Ep. 93: PLANTSTRONG Snackables -Summer Snacks & PlantStrong Treats
Welcome to Episode Two of our new PLANTSTRONG Snackables podcast series, a bite-sized podcast where host, Rip Esselstyn, and co-host, Jess Hegarty-Pastore, dish on all things plants! Plus, they give you the scoop on all of the upcoming PlantStrong food items. Jessica leads product innovation for the PlantStrong food line and, together with Rip, will provide a peek behind the curtain on market research, ingredients, and inspiration behind the new PlantStrong foods headed your way. Plus, you'll always walk away with a recipe or two to share with your friends and family. Tasty Bites from Today's Episode: 00:15 Welcome from Rip and Jess 00:34-02:45 Jess got married at Casa de Luz in Austin 02:49-08:45 Eleven Madison Park in NY goes 100% plant-based! Rip reads the letter from Chef Daniel. 08:50-09:40 Incogmeato commercial in the Olympic Trials 09:50-16:30 Summer Yum! Rip and Jess share their summer activities and fueling favorite fruits! Their favorites include peaches, plums, dark cherries, and strawberries. Plus, you get a little VIP taste of not-so-common favorites: sugarcube melons and champagne mangoes 16:35-18:25 Campfires and S’mores - How should you toast your marshmallows? 18:27-39:40 All things POPCORN, including creative ways to pop up the popcorn flavor! Popcorn is a plantstrong treat that can be enjoyed instead of those unhealthy chips. For all of the recipes visit the episode page at plantstrongpodcast.com at www.plantstrongpodcast.com/blog/snackables-ep2 Episode Resources For all of the popcorn recipes in today's episode, visit the Episode Page at plantstrongpodcast.com - www.plantstrongpodcast.com/blog/snackables-ep2 Shop PlantStrong Foods Now - https://plantstrongfoods.com/ Casa de Luz - https://www.casadeluz.org/ Eleven Madison Park - Letter from Chef Daniel Humm

Jun 24, 2021 • 1h 15min
Ep. 92: Derek Sarno - 20% Wicked, 80% Healthy, 100% Sexy!
"Help me learn to prepare wonderful meals!" “I don’t know where to begin in the kitchen!” Here at PLANTSTRONG, these are requests we get all of the time and we totally understand! It can be overwhelming to learn how to make new meals that taste great, especially when you're new to a plantstrong way of eating. Today, we've got you covered with longtime pal and chef, Derek Sarno. It's hard to match the passion of Derek, especially in the kitchen. His company, Wicked Healthy Foods, is bringing plenty of plantstrong heat to the world and changing the plant-based retail space across the globe one animal-free meal at a time. It was COMPASSION, though, that brought Derek to a completely vegan lifestyle when he suffered an unthinkable tragedy - the loss of his fiance. That moment changed the course of his life, career, and ultimately his purpose. He started from the bottom up...and we know that’s where some of you may find yourself right now. Today, we’re here to help you turn it around, become a wicked good cook, and bring out the flavor, fun, and creativity in your foods. We talk about: Getting organized in the kitchen The proper mindset around cooking Must-Have Kitchen Tools Spices, veggie prep, sauces, gravies ...and it wouldn’t be a talk with Derek Sarno if we weren’t talking mushrooms! He is the leader of the Mushroom Mafia, after all. For all of the details and tips on this episode, make sure to visit the episode page at planstrongpodcast.com. Episode and PLANTSTRONG Resources: PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - https://mealplanner.plantstrong.com - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Get all of Today's Cooking Tips at the Episode Page: Wicked Healthy Food - https://wickedhealthyfood.com/ Purchase The Wicked Healthy Cookbook

Jun 17, 2021 • 1h 8min
Ep. 91: The Plant-Based Athlete with Matt Frazier and Robert Cheeke
Plant-based nutrition is definitely having a moment and it's so rewarding to be a key part of the conversation. It's also rewarding to introduce two longtime plantstrong pals who,like those of us at PLANTSTRONG, have been walking the walk and talking the talk for decades. Matt Frazier is founder and creator of “The No Meat Athlete” and he’s absolutely one of the global authorities on plant-based nutrition for endurance athletes. Robert Cheeke is the founder and creator of Vegan BodyBuilding and Fitness and has often been referred to as “The Godfather of the Vegan Bodybuilding Movement.” For over 25 years now, he's been out there flexing those biceps and advocating for a vegan lifestyle. At PLANTSTRONG, we're thrilled to see Matt (“Mr. Endurance”) and Robert (“Mr. Muscle”) cross-pollinate and get together to produce this groundbreaking new book, The Plant-Based Athlete: A Game Changing Approach to Peak Performance.It is poised to be the definitive guide for any athlete looking to optimize and enhance their athletic performance. It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who is just starting to dip your toe into fitness and may harbor some fear or doubt that plant-based nutrition will provide you with everything you need to succeed. Those fears will be put to rest with this book that is packed with recipes, insights, scientific research, and profiles of athletes who use plants to power their professional careers and daily lives. Key Takeaways: Macronutrient and Micronutrient Breakdowns - How much and, more importantly, what should I be eating before, during and after my training sessions? Can I really get enough protein on a plant-based diet? Why is plant protein superior to animal protein? How does a plantstrong diet help with inflammation and recovery? What are some examples of food combinations that will help sustain my performance? What foods do Robert and Matt eat? How do I even know how many calories I need on a daily basis? Who are some of the top-level athletes fueled by plants and what do they eat on a daily basis? Even though our platform at PLANTSTRONG has primarily been about preventing and reversing chronic lifestyle disease like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, it’s so exciting to shed light on the fact that the same diet is also a performance enhancer to help athletes of all levels compete at their best. The game is changing and it is PLANTSTRONG. Episode Resources Order our New PlantStrong Dessert-Inspired Granolas! https://plantstrongfoods.com/ Black Mountain, NC PLANTSTRONG Retreat - September 25th-30th, 2021 - https://plantstrong.com/black-mountain/ PLANTSTRONG Meal Planner - https://mealplanner.plantstrong.com - use code: STARTFRESH for a 14-Day Free Trial. Yes, you have to enter a credit card - but you won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial ends and that’s a click of a button. Enjoy the test drive and get cooking! Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music No Meat Athlete - https://www.nomeatathlete.com/ Vegan BodyBuilding Website - https://www.veganbodybuilding.com/