PLANTSTRONG Podcast

Right now, it’s no secret that our population (which is almost 8 billion now) is facing a tremendous amount of collective challenges with our health, our food system, and our planet as a whole. We all have some work to do and this week’s interview with ECO-Activist, Leilani Münter, will illuminate conversation and elevate the positive impact that something so simple as eating a whole-foods plant-based diet can have on the environment as a WHOLE.  Leilani has been broadcasting this message for over a decade primarily from behind the wheel of a race car - I know - not exactly where you’d think you’d see these messages, but as she says on her website, “Never Underestimate a vegan hippie chick with a race car!” You’ll never underestimate Leilani after today’s conversation.  Since retiring from race car driving in 2019, she’s been revving up her advocacy engines even more through documentary films like “Racing Extinction,” keynote speaking, and non-profit work, all in a tireless effort to make a cleaner and kinder world for everyone. Today, she talks to Rip about: Her unique childhood as the daughter of a Japanese/Hawaiian Mother and German Father while growing up in Minnesota Her Galileo moment when she learned the truth about our food as a young girl eating a hamburger at a fast-food restaurant How her Biology degree from UC San Diego was the foundation of the advocacy work she does today Why she loves being behind the wheel of a race car and the intensity, presence, and advocacy voice it provides for causes that are important to her Her recent vegan birthday present - a meal at Eleven Madison Park - and her secret for getting reservations! Why Leilani and her husband (and cats!) choose to be child-free Additional causes that she advocates for the health and longevity of our planet: renewable energy, solar power, electric cars, animal rights, and, of course, a plant-based diet  As the New York Times wrote, "Steve McQueen probably never lost sleep over his carbon footprint. Not so for racecar driver Leilani Münter - a green racecar driver with a clean conscience." Rev up your advocacy engines and enjoy this conversation with a true Eco-Hero.  About Leilani Münter Leilani Münter is a biology graduate, professional race car driver and environmental activist. Discovery's Planet Green named her the #1 eco athlete in the world, ELLE Magazine awarded her their Genius Award, and Sports Illustrated named her one of the top ten female race car drivers in the world. Leilani is an advocate for solar power, electric cars, plant-based diet and animal rights. Leilani is active in lobbying for these causes in Washington, DC and beyond. She has been a guest at The White House and the United Nations in Geneva. Since 2007, Leilani has been adopting an acre of rainforest for every race she runs. She uses her race car to get the environmental message in front of the 75 million race fans in the USA. Her race cars have carried messages about renewable energy from wind and solar power in addition to clean energy legislation. Leilani has also been active in the effort to end cetacean captivity and has run the documentaries The Cove and Blackfish on her race cars. She has raced both open-wheel cars (Indy Pro Series) and stock cars (NASCAR, ARCA). Leilani has recorded 9 top-five, 21 top-ten, and 37 top-fifteen finishes in 61 starts.  Leilani is on the board of the Oceanic Preservation Society, a non-profit that creates film, photography, and media, inspiring people to save the oceans. They won the Academy Award for their first documentary The Cove and Leilani is featured in their 2015 documentary Racing Extinction. Leilani is also an Ambassador for Ric O'Barry's Dolphin Project, an organization she has been volunteering for since 2010. She also sits on the board of advisors of The Solutions Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to accelerating the transition to 100% renewable energy.  Leilani is vegan. Her personal car is an electric Tesla Model S. Her home features solar panels, a 550-gallon rainwater collection system, solar and LED lighting, and a vegetable garden.  Leilani’s motto is: Never underestimate a vegan hippie chick with a race car. Episode Resources Leilani Münter Website and Resources PLANTSTRONGFoods.com - Order our new popcorn and dessert-inspired granolas Our Virtual PLANTSTOCK Returns September 8-12th - Register today Join the PLANTSTRONG Community Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

Welcome to our new PLANTSTRONG Snackables podcast series, a bite-sized podcast where host, Rip Esselstyn, and co-host, Jess Hegarty, dish on all things plants! In Episode 5, Rip and Jess talk about all things chilis, soups, and stews - including a look at the all-new PLANTSTRONG chilis and stews available now at Whole Foods Market. Here are Some Tasty Bites from Today's Episode: Do you struggle to eat beans? Why you should power through! Which bean has the most antioxidants? Why limes and lemons should always be in your fridge. (Hint: It’s like squeezing a little sunshine on your foods!) What the heck is hominy? What surprising ingredient can you add to soups to make them creamy? Why are black pepper and turmeric such a magical combination? Ever heard of the benefits of black cumin? An exciting look at the all-new PLANTSTRONG “Chews” - Organic Creamy White Bean Chili, Organic Engine 2 Firehouse Chili, Kitchari Indian Lentil Stew, Thai Carrot Chickpea Stew Additional Episode Resources Homemade Kitchari Recipe with Jess and Evan Hegarty For all PLANTSTRONG Resources, visit plantstrong.com  Shop PlantStrong Foods Now 

Since 1986, as co-founder and president of Farm Sanctuary, Gene Baur has made it his mission to raise awareness about the abuses of factory farming and the devastation that our agriculture and food system has had on animals, workers, and those of us who consume the food. It’s not a comfortable topic because no one wants to experience the horrors at these factory farms and slaughterhouses; however, for as driven as he is, you will also never meet someone more gentle, kind, loving, and empathetic as Gene. He is a special soul and has had a hand in providing refuge, care, and healing for thousands of farm animals who otherwise would not have made it. In fact, TIME Magazine has hailed Gene as “the conscience of the food movement” for his 35-years of dedicated service. Gene is a beacon of light whose purpose is centered on not just providing sanctuary for these animals, but also - without judgment - getting people back in touch with their humanity and aligning their actions with their values. You'll hear Gene speak about: The early days of Farm Sanctuary and his rescue missions Stories about Hilda and other animals who have now become ambassadors for other animals Why it's so vital to treat these farm animals as friends and not food The three areas of work for the Sanctuary - Rescue, Education, Advocacy How you can help support the work of Farm Sanctuary Today’s conversation is uplifting and heartwarming, as much as it is educational and powerful. Open your hearts to one of the biggest hearts, Gene Baur, Founder of Farm Sanctuary. About Gene Baur A pioneer in the field of undercover investigations and farm animal rescue, Gene has visited hundreds of farms, stockyards, and slaughterhouses, documenting the deplorable conditions. His pictures and videos exposing factory farming cruelties have aired nationally and internationally, educating millions about the plight of modern farm animals, and his rescue work inspired an international farm sanctuary movement. Gene was instrumental in passing the first U.S. laws prohibiting inhumane animal confinement and continues working on systemic food industry reforms. His work has been covered by major media outlets including ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, the New York Times, LA Times, and Wall Street Journal among others. Gene Baur has been hailed as “the conscience of the food movement” by Time magazine and named one of Oprah Winfrey’s SuperSoul 100 Givers. Episode Resources Farm Sanctuary Website - The Power of Sanctuary PLANTSTRONGFoods.com - Order our new popcorn and dessert-inspired granolas Our Virtual PLANTSTOCK Returns September 8-12th - Register today Join the PLANTSTRONG Community Theme Music for Episode Promo Theme Music

One of the many side benefits of this global plantstrong community -- besides a daily dose of health, motivation, and education -- are the long-lasting friendships developed with people along the way, especially with the pioneers who have long laid the groundwork for those of us out there today. I’m sure you feel this way too.  When you are so invested and so passionate about something, you can’t help but develop a deep respect and mutual admiration with the people you meet in your journey. Today’s guest is one of those people. Julianna Hever and I have been contemporaries and friends in the plant-based movement together for well over a decade. In fact, as we discuss today, she was one of the first authors to actually put the phrase, “plant-based” in the title of a book...and now, without a doubt, “plant-based” is having its moment! Since then, she’s written multiple books including the crafty Vegiterranean Diet, The Healthspan Solution, and the forthcoming, “The Choose You Now Diet” due out in December.  She also just recently launched her own “Choose You Now” podcast that I guested on just a couple of weeks ago. Today, we turn the tables and I shine the spotlight on the marvelous career and work of THE ORIGINAL plant-based dietitian herself, Julianna Hever. You'll learn: Julieanna's "Galileo Moment" when she learned the truth about health and nutrition How she fought to use the phrase, "plant-based" in her first book The biggest mistakes beginners make when adopting a plant-based diet Why and when someone should be gluten-free How she has pivoted to teaching her clients about "adding life to your days" in her book, The Healthspan Solution The importance of modeling behavior for both parents and children   About Julieanna Hever There is nothing Julieanna loves more than diving into a colossal bowl of salad. Known as The Plant-Based Dietitian,  Julieanna has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre from UCLA in and a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from Cal State Northridge, bridging her three biggest passions for food, performing, and helping people. As a Registered Dietitian, Julieanna has authored six books, including The Healthspan Solution, Plant-Based Nutrition (Idiots Guide), Vegiterranean Diet, and two peer-reviewed journal articles on plant-based nutrition for healthcare professionals (in Journal of Geriatric Cardiology and Permanente Journal). Julieanna is the host of The Choose You Now Podcast and her new book, The Choose You Now Diet, will be published in December 2021. Past projects have included being the host of What Would Julieanna Do?; giving a TEDx talk; writing as the nutrition columnist for VegNews Magazine; and teaching the eCornell Plant-Based Nutrition Certification Program. She recently co-hosted Science and Saucery and Facebook Watch’s Home Sweat Home, and has appeared on Harry, The Dr. Oz Show, The Steve Harvey Show, Reluctantly Healthy, The Marie Osmond Show, and E! News. New adventures include speaking, presenting, traveling, helping a wide variety of clients achieve their goals, and sharing her passion for healing and happiness eating a whole food, plant-based diet. Episode Resources Julieanna Hever 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 a 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

Welcome to Episode Four 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, they 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 4, Rip and Jess talk about all things plant-based milk - their tremendous growth, the challenges they face, and tips for how to choose from the incredible variety of options in your local grocery store.  We wrap up with a simple demonstration of how to make truly whole food, plant-based milk (no filtering or straining required!) In this episode, we cut the confusion and help you discover: The most environmentally friendly plant-based milk The healthiest plant-based milk The tastiest plant-based milk on the shelves More Tasty Bites from Today's Episode: 00:00-06:30 Welcome from Rip and Jess - Rip’s current favorite foods (can you say “peaches and creme sweet corn?") 06:30-53:20 An In-depth Dive into Plant-Based Milk Varieties Education on plant-based milk politics, headlines, finance, and chemistry (yes, chemistry!) Discussions on the most environmentally friendly, healthiest, and tastiest milk in the market 53:20-58:40 Jessica’s Recipe and Demo on a creamy pumpkin and hempseed milk - perfect for cereals Additional Episode Resources Homemade Plant-Based Milk Recipes For all PLANTSTRONG Resources, visit plantstrong.com  Shop PlantStrong Foods Now 

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

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  

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

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 

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.