098: What Animals Can Teach Us about Ourselves with Danielle MacKinnon

Julie Davis, a former aerospace engineer, shares her inspiring journey to plant-based living on the NHA Health Science Podcast with Dr. Frank Sabatino. Julie's path to becoming a plant-powered lifestyle coach is rooted in personal struggles with weight and health that led her to embrace the power of whole, plant-based nutrition. In this episode, Julie reveals: Her lifetime struggle with weight and how fast food addiction impacted her health. The pivotal moment that led her to discover plant-based eating. How transitioning from engineering to wellness coaching changed her life. Strategies she uses to help clients make sustainable diet changes. Tips for navigating relationships when adopting a plant-based lifestyle. Julie now empowers women over 40 to transition to plant-based living, focusing on manageable steps and long-term health benefits. Her coaching addresses weight loss, chronic health issues, and the challenges of incorporating plant-based meals into daily life. Listen to this episode to learn how Julie transformed her life and how you can start your own plant-based journey. https://www.HealthScience.org/111-Julie-Davis #NHAHealthSciencePodcast #PlantBasedLiving #WellnessJourney #WeightLoss #HealthyEating

In today’s crowded world of content, standing out is a challenge, especially for ethical business leaders and advocates of compassionate living. Mitali Deypurkaystha, founder of The Vegan Publisher and author of The Freedom Master Plan, is on a mission to ensure that vegan and ethical entrepreneurs gain the visibility they deserve. Through the power of publishing, Mitali helps leaders amplify their voices and transform into recognized thought leaders. This episode dives into Mitali’s personal journey, beginning with her unexpected bond with a family pet that opened her eyes to the sentience of animals and led her to embrace veganism. We explore how this passion shaped her professional goals and motivated her to create a platform for ethical business leaders to share their stories and advocate for a more compassionate, sustainable world. Learn how Mitali transitioned from ghostwriting for high-earning entrepreneurs to creating opportunities for mission-driven leaders. Discover the importance of authorship for building credibility and thought leadership, and how her signature 3-P process—Plan, Pen, Perfect—helps clients turn their visions into impactful books. Mitali also discusses the future of ethical publishing and how tools like AI are shaping the industry. By helping vegan and ethical leaders craft powerful messages, she is ensuring that alternative solutions are not just available but visible to the masses. This conversation will inspire entrepreneurs, changemakers, and advocates of compassionate living to think about the role of authorship in their mission to drive meaningful change. Whether you’re considering writing a book or seeking ways to expand your visibility, this episode provides actionable insights and inspiration. Listen now to learn how you can transform your message into thought leadership and create lasting impact. Full post: www.HealthScience.org/110-Mitali-Deypurkaystha

Dr. Gustavo Tolosa, a renowned concert pianist and educator, has transformed his life and health by embracing a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. After facing serious health challenges, including significant weight gain and low energy, he discovered the life-changing benefits of plant-based nutrition through the work of pioneers like Dr. John McDougall. By adopting a starch-based, whole-food diet, Dr. Tolosa regained his vitality and resolved many health issues, inspiring him to help others do the same. Now a certified Starch Solution educator, Dr. Tolosa uses his unique platform to blend music and wellness. His program, What Can I Cook Today?, teaches simple, nutritious plant-based recipes while incorporating his piano artistry to create an engaging, multisensory experience. Through seven-day detox programs and webinars, he provides practical tools and encouragement to those seeking a healthier, plant-powered lifestyle. In addition to his health advocacy, Dr. Tolosa continues to share the healing power of music through his nonprofit, Musical Angels, bringing joy and hope to children in hospitals. His dedication to both music and wellness inspires countless people to take control of their health and live more vibrant lives. Dr. Tolosa’s story is a testament to the transformative power of passion, purpose, and plant-based living. Full post at: www.HealthScience.org/109-Dr-Gustavo-Tolosa

Dr. Steve Blake, a pioneer in nutritional biochemistry, emphasizes the critical role of a plant-exclusive diet in reversing heart disease. By eliminating saturated fats found in animal products and focusing on nutrient-dense whole foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and seeds, individuals can significantly improve cardiovascular health. Research has shown that plant-based diets lower cholesterol, reduce arterial plaque, and enhance blood flow, effectively reversing heart disease symptoms. Dr. Blake’s findings underscore the importance of foods rich in antioxidants and fiber, which combat inflammation and oxidative stress—key contributors to heart disease. This approach not only improves heart function but also promotes overall vitality and longevity. With over 50 years of experience in plant-based nutrition, Dr. Blake’s research provides a clear, actionable roadmap for those seeking to transform their heart health through the power of food. Full post at: www.HealthScience.org/108-Dr-Steve-Blake

In the mid-1980s, when Nava Atlas released her first cookbook, Vegetariana, there were only about a dozen vegetarian cookbook authors in mainstream publishing. At the time, vegetarianism was considered unconventional, and veganism was virtually unknown to the general public. Nava was one of the pioneers pushing plant-based cuisine forward when it was still a niche, almost radical, lifestyle choice. Today, with the plant-based movement firmly in the mainstream, Nava’s influence has grown alongside it. Veganism is now ubiquitous in bestselling cookbooks, food blogs, social media, and stores. A Personal Journey from Vegetarianism to Veganism Nava’s personal journey from vegetarianism to veganism reflects this cultural shift. She initially turned away from meat in her teens, driven by instinct rather than access to much information about animal welfare. As she became more aware of the ethical and environmental consequences of animal agriculture, she and her family transitioned to a fully vegan lifestyle. A visit to a dairy farm, where she learned about the realities of dairy production, was a key turning point, reinforcing her decision to align her lifestyle with her values. Her family embraced the change, and her two children remain committed vegans today. Blending Art and Cuisine As a lifelong artist, Nava combines her creativity with cooking. Her early cookbooks were a blend of hand-drawn illustrations and food lore, creating a unique artistic approach to plant-based cuisine. Over the years, her cookbooks have evolved into visually stunning collections, with professional photography showcasing the beauty of plant-based dishes. Titles like Vegan Soups and Hearty Stews for All Seasons highlight Nava’s ability to make plant-based eating approachable, with simple, delicious recipes that emphasize ease and flavor. The Role of Family in Embracing Compassionate Living Family has played a significant role in Nava’s plant-based journey. From raising her children as vegetarians to fully embracing veganism as a family, she has always prioritized compassion and ethics in her lifestyle. Her children, who have never eaten meat, are now adults and remain dedicated vegans, reflecting the deep impact of her teachings. Full post at www.HealthScience.org/107-Nava-Atlas

Imagine if the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) could save billions of pounds simply by changing what patients eat. Dr. Shireen Kassam, a renowned consultant hematologist, is on a mission to make this a reality. As a featured guest on the NHA Health Science Podcast, hosted by Dr. Frank Sabatino, she discusses her ongoing efforts to revolutionize healthcare in the UK by advocating for plant-based nutrition and lifestyle medicine. Pushing for Change in the NHS: A Tough Road Ahead In 2022, Dr. Kassam made headlines when she argued for integrating plant-based lifestyle medicine into the NHS. The potential impact? A massive reduction in healthcare costs and a healthier population. But influencing a system as large and complex as the NHS is no small feat. “We try to get the message out, but it’s tough to reach the people in power,” Dr. Kassam explains. “It’s about starting grassroots movements, building awareness, and slowly turning the tide.” Despite the challenges, her nonprofit organization, Plant-Based Health Professionals UK, is pushing forward, spreading the message of how plant-based diets can prevent and reverse chronic diseases. A Bold New Campaign: Plants First Healthcare One of the most exciting initiatives Dr. Kassam is leading the Plants First Healthcare campaign that launched to coincide with World Food Day. This groundbreaking campaign aims to make plant-based meals the default in UK healthcare institutions. It’s inspired by the success of New York City hospitals, which have already adopted greener, plant-based menus. The campaign includes a detailed policy report from the UK Health Alliance on Climate Change and an open letter to all healthcare institutions in the UK. Dr. Kassam hopes to spark meaningful changes that will improve patient outcomes and reduce the environmental impact of the healthcare system. Full post: www.HealthScience.org/106-Dr-Shireen-Kassam 

Veganism is becoming quite the lifestyle in many circles, yet rarely do you meet someone who has been vegan from birth. Sarina Farb, featured on the NHA Health Science Podcast with Dr. Frank Sabatino, is one such individual. Born and raised vegan in Kansas—a state not exactly known for its vegan culture—Sarina's unique upbringing has shaped her into a dedicated science educator and passionate activist. Throughout the episode, she shares how her early life experiences sparked a lifelong commitment to advocating for a more compassionate and just world, both for animals and the planet. Born and Raised Vegan: A Unique Upbringing Sarina’s vegan journey began before she was even born, thanks to her mother’s decision to adopt a plant-based lifestyle after witnessing the horrors of animal testing and factory farming during her career in the pharmaceutical industry. Despite living in Kansas, a place where veganism was far from the norm, Sarina’s mother was determined to raise her children without contributing to the exploitation of animals. By the age of seven, Sarina was already reading food labels, educating herself about non-vegan ingredients like gelatin, and making her own informed choices about what to eat. This early exposure to vegan ethics and activism set the stage for her lifelong advocacy. Early Activism: A 14-Year-Old Fighting for the Planet Sarina’s passion for activism started young. At just 14, she was protesting against a Kansas coal plant, but her activism truly began much earlier. By the age of seven, she was educating her friends about animal rights and the environmental impact of their food choices. “For my 14th birthday, I didn’t want a party—I wanted to protest a coal plant,” Sarina recounts, highlighting her deep-seated commitment to making the world a better place from an early age. Her homeschooling experience played a pivotal role in fostering this activism, as it allowed her to get involved in civic issues and take part in local government meetings. This blend of education and activism shaped Sarina into a fearless advocate for justice and sustainability. Combining Science with Activism Sarina’s love for science was another driving force in her advocacy work. As a high school student, she conducted cell biology research at the University of Kansas, exploring the effects of chemicals like BPA on breast cancer cells. Through this experience, Sarina witnessed the influence of corporate interests on scientific research, which only strengthened her resolve to advocate for unbiased, ethical science. Her passion for science and critical thinking eventually led her to teach high school chemistry and environmental science, where she emphasized the importance of questioning research and understanding bias. “Science is about asking questions and being open to new information,” Sarina says, echoing her commitment to educating others on how to approach science with a critical and ethical mindset. Full post: www.HealthScience.org/105-Sarina-Farb 

Did you know that the fight for animal rights shares deep parallels with the human rights movement? Both causes emphasize the protection of sentient beings from exploitation, whether it's humans or animals. Legal scholars, like Michael Dorf, argue that the moral and legal frameworks that protect vulnerable humans also apply to non-human animals, challenging societal norms and pushing for greater empathy and justice across species. This connection forms the basis for some of the most progressive legal arguments today, blending compassion with constitutional law. In this episode of the NHA Health Science Podcast, hosted by Dr. Frank Sabatino, attorney Michael Dorf takes center stage. Dorf, a Robert Stevens Professor of Law at Cornell Law School, has authored numerous books and scholarly articles, many of which explore the intersections of constitutional law, human rights, and animal rights. This fascinating discussion highlights Dorf's legal expertise and his journey into the vegan lifestyle, along with insights into the growing movement for animal advocacy. Michael Dorf’s Journey to Veganism and Animal Advocacy Michael’s journey toward veganism began in 1995 when his family adopted dogs. However, it wasn't until his late wife, Sherry Colb, a colleague of renowned animal rights activist Gary Francione, introduced vegan baked goods to their home that the shift toward a fully vegan lifestyle began. By 2006, Michael had committed to a vegan diet, initially motivated by animal rights. Over time, he embraced the health and environmental benefits of a whole food, plant-based (WFPB) and SOS-free (salt, oil, sugar) diet, underscoring how multiple factors contribute to veganism. Legal Expertise in Animal Rights As an influential legal scholar, Michael Dorf has played a crucial role in shaping discussions on animal rights, frequently participating in landmark cases. He collaborated with Steve Wise, a pioneer in animal law, on the Nonhuman Rights Project (NhRP) and worked on the well-known case of Happy the Elephant. Although the case didn’t result in a legal victory, Dorf highlights the importance of these cases in raising awareness and shifting public perceptions about animal rights. Tobacco and Vaping Research: A Legal Perspective Beyond animal rights, Michael has contributed to vital public health research, particularly on the effects of tobacco and vaping warning labels. He discusses the challenge of crafting messages that deter teens from vaping while encouraging smokers to switch to less harmful alternatives. His research has contributed to FDA regulations and highlights the critical role of legal frameworks in promoting public health. Full post at: www.HealthScience.org/104-Michael-Dorf

Heart disease remains one of the world’s leading causes of death, yet it can be reversed with the right lifestyle choices. According to the groundbreaking work of Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, a whole food, plant-based diet is scientifically proven to prevent and reverse heart disease. In this episode of the NHA Health Science Podcast, hosted by Dr. Frank Sabatino, Paul Chatlin shares his powerful story of how switching to a plant-based diet not only saved his life but inspired him to create the Plant-Based Nutrition Support Group (PBNSG), a community dedicated to helping others reclaim their health. The Turning Point: From Heart Disease to Plant-Based Healing Paul’s journey to plant-based nutrition was prompted by a series of severe heart issues in his family. After losing two uncles to heart disease and witnessing his father undergo quadruple bypass surgery, Paul found himself on a similar path. Despite being under medical supervision and following a typical “heart-healthy” diet, Paul’s cholesterol levels remained dangerously high, and he experienced worsening angina, which led him to face the possibility of a heart transplant. The turning point came when Paul was introduced to Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, a pioneer in plant-based heart health. Dr. Esselstyn offered Paul an alternative to surgery: adopting a whole food, plant-based diet. Within weeks of following this approach, Paul saw a dramatic reduction in his symptoms, including weight loss, reduced angina, and improved cholesterol levels. Full shownotes of this episode at: www.HealthScience.org/103-Paul-Chatlin 

Dr. Zach Burns, a board-certified family medicine physician and rising leader in plant-based healthcare, recently joined Dr. Frank Sabatino on the NHA Health Science Podcast for a compelling discussion on the future of medicine. As the Assistant Director of Moving Medicine Forward, an initiative founded by the iconic Dr. Michael Klaper, Dr. Burns is at the forefront of a movement to revolutionize medical education by integrating plant-based nutrition into the fight against chronic disease. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Burns shared his passion for empowering future physicians to harness the transformative power of plant-based medicine to prevent and reverse the global burden of chronic illnesses. Moving Toward Plant-Based Medicine Dr. Burns' journey toward plant-based living began during his college years, where a class on American food systems opened his eyes to the realities of factory farming. This, combined with his personal background of avoiding red meat for environmental reasons, led him to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, eventually transitioning to veganism. His philosophical studies also played a significant role in this shift, as he explored the ethics of animal treatment and questioned the superiority humans often attribute to themselves over other species. Addressing Health Disparities One of Dr. Burns' earliest experiences in healthcare came from his work with underserved communities in East Boston as part of AmeriCorps. There, he observed the devastating effects of preventable chronic diseases, particularly within immigrant populations struggling with limited access to education, nutritious food, and healthcare. This experience fueled his desire to tackle chronic disease head-on and led to his focus on the role of diet in health outcomes. The Vision of Moving Medicine Forward Dr. Burns shared the mission of Moving Medicine Forward, which seeks to fill a critical gap in medical education: the lack of training on the role of nutrition in preventing and reversing chronic disease. Medical schools often allocate minimal time to nutrition, focusing primarily on deficiencies rather than how diet can impact chronic illness. Moving Medicine Forward is working to change that by connecting with medical students, helping them form groups and advocate for plant-based education on their campuses. Dr. Burns is passionate about empowering students to create lasting change that will benefit both their future patients and the medical field as a whole. www.HealthScience.org/102-Dr-Zach-Burns