Ep. 304: Dr. Sharon Bergquist: The Stress Paradox - Why You Need Stress to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier
What if stress isn’t the enemy—but a secret ingredient for a longer, healthier life? Rip is joined by Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist, physician, scientist, and author of The Stress Paradox, to explore how certain types of stress can actually help us thrive.In this conversation, we’ll explore what she calls "good stress" and her five key stressors that can enhance our longevity and healthspan:Plant-based phytochemicalsIntermittent intense exerciseThermal stress (heat and cold exposure)Circadian fastingMental and emotional challengesThese kinds of stressors can actually activate the body’s repair systems and boost our physical and mental health.You’ll also learn why modern comfort might be making us sicker, how to safely introduce beneficial stress into our lives, and practical, actionable strategies for building resilience and boosting vitality.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea that stress is something to avoid at all costs, this episode will offer you a liberating and science-backed shift in perspective.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
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Ep. 303: Dr. Jules Cormier - How This Doctor Cured His Own Asthma, Eczema, and Daily Hives
Rip sits down with Dr. Jules Cormier, a dynamic family physician from Shediac, New Brunswick, who has transformed his medical practice—and personal life—through the principles of lifestyle medicine. A former sufferer of asthma, eczema, and chronic hives, Jules shares how a whole food, plant-based diet not only healed his ailments but also revitalized his family’s health and well-being.Dr. Cormier integrates nutrition, exercise, and education into his clinical practice, empowering patients to take charge of their own health. He opens up about the challenges of shifting mindsets in a community rooted in traditional diets, and how he bridges that gap with empathy, evidence, and resources from his blog.But Jules isn’t just prescribing leafy greens—he’s living the example. A passionate athlete and Ninja Warrior competitor, he speaks about the biochemical and emotional power of movement, and how his family trains together to stay active and connected.Whether you're a physician, parent, or simply plant-curious, this episode will leave you inspired to take the next step toward better health—one plant and one pull-up at a time.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
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Ep: 302: Michelle Joy Kramer - From Personal Loss to Plant-Based Purpose
When a health scare and personal loss collided, Michelle Joy Kramer found a new path—one rooted in healing, purpose, and plants. A PLANTSTRONG retreat alum and concierge health coach, Michelle shares how she shifted from vegetarianism to a whole food, plant-based lifestyle, dramatically improving her health and inspiring others to do the same.In this episode, Michelle reveals how she:Lowered her cholesterol and improved her health in monthsNavigates social settings and restaurants with intentionUses tech tools like Garmin for accountabilityIntegrates mindfulness and meditation into client careCoaches high-powered professionals with compassion and clarityMichelle’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and support, transformation is always possible.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
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Ep. 301: "Broc and Roll" with Rip and Carrie - Eating Plantstrong Anywhere: Navigating Travel and Restaurant Options
Traveling while sticking to a whole food, plant-based lifestyle can be tricky—but it’s absolutely doable with the right mindset and tools. In this episode, hosts Rip Esselstyn and his producer, Carrie Barrett, dive into the real-life challenges plant-based eaters face when away from home.Their advice for restaurants? Don't be afraid to be FAB.Figure out what you can eatAsk for what you wantBring your own foodThey break down each part of the FAB method with humor, empathy, and personal stories—proving that with a little planning and flexibility, you can thrive anywhere, even in the most unfamiliar food settings.Whether you’re navigating airport terminals, hotel buffets, or international menus, this episode equips you with the tools to stay grounded in your health goals and enjoy the journey. Because being PLANTSTRONG isn’t just a way of eating—it’s a way of living.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
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Ep. 300: Lucas McLawhorn - How This Teacher and Cancer Survivor is Feeding His Community with Plants
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Rip sits down with Lucas McLawhorn—educator, cancer survivor, and founder of the plant-based food truck Well Fed Ed.Lucas shares his powerful story of transformation, from the classroom to the kitchen, driven by a deep desire to serve and educate his community through healthy, plant-based meals. He opens up about his battle with cancer, the life-changing role nutrition played in his recovery, and the family and cultural influences that shaped his approach to wellness.Listeners will be moved by Lucas’s reflections on:The intersection of education and nutritionThe challenges and triumphs of launching a food truck businessHis decision to return to the U.S. after living in SwitzerlandThe joy of building community through food and serviceHis love for the people of Eastern North Carolina and the United StatesThis episode is a testament to the healing power of food and the importance of purpose-driven living. Whether you're passionate about plant-based eating, curious about food entrepreneurship, or simply in need of a little inspiration, Lucas’s story is sure to resonate.Episode ResourcesEpisode WebpageWatch the Episode on YouTubeWatch A Well Fed Education Documentary FilmSupport the Mission of Well-Fed EdSPECIAL 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
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.
Ireland