NBSV 196: Fitness, veganism, and social justice: why politics belong in plant-based health

 Is “ethical meat” just a comforting bedtime story for omnivores? Philosopher and author John Sanbonmatsu joins me to unpack the myths that keep animal exploitation hidden in plain sight — from the illusion of “humane” farming to the deep cultural stories we tell ourselves to feel morally innocent. Drawing from his new book The Omnivore’s Deception, John explores why confronting speciesism, and the civilizational systems built on it, is essential not just for animals, but for the future of life on Earth. This is a thought-provoking, no-B.S. conversation that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable realities.

For the first time ever, The No-Bullsh!t Vegan Podcast goes LIVE! Join me in my Powell River recording studio (with a tiny kitten desperately trying to break in) as we celebrate 200 episodes of myth-busting, strength-building, and plant-powered badassery. I’m joined by amazing listeners, clients, and members of the K.I. team for an unscripted, community-powered conversation. We chat about vegan strength training, climate-friendly diets, suspension trainers, home gym hacks, and more — plus I take live questions, suggestions, and even cat name ideas. Thank you for being part of this no-nonsense, ad-free corner of the internet. Let’s do this!

What happens when going vegan transforms more than just your plate? In this episode, I’m joined by psychologist and author Dr. Angela Crawford to explore the emotional, psychological, and even spiritual shifts that often come with the vegan journey. We talk about the myth of deprivation, the reality of abundance, and the inner alignment that comes from living according to your values. We also dig into the challenges of being “the one vegan at the table,” how to navigate tricky social dynamics, and why emotional wellbeing isn’t about being happy all the time. Whether you’re vegan-curious or decades into the lifestyle, this conversation offers insight, empathy, and plenty of practical takeaways.

In this episode I speak with Thom Norman, co-founder of FarmKind, a nonprofit organization working to end factory farming through evidence-based giving. Thom shares his personal journey to veganism and why he left a legal career in nuclear energy policy to pursue systemic change for animals. He discusses the unique approach FarmKind takes in identifying and supporting high-impact charities, how donations can rival or even surpass individual dietary change in reducing animal suffering, and the importance of pragmatism in creating long-term shifts toward animal liberation. Thom also emphasizes how even small actions—whether donations or activism—can help dismantle a $2 trillion industry built on animal exploitation.

In this final volume of my free strategy call series, you’ll listen in on two coaching sessions packed with plant-based problem solving, strength training tweaks, and behaviour hacks. Anna wants to build muscle alongside MMA and dance without being sore for days, while Rebecca’s focused on navigating menopause, portion sizes, and protein goals (with a side of DIY vegan high-protein ice cream). We cover everything from barbell boredom and tofu techniques to food prep strategies and how to outsmart your own brain so you don’t need to rely on willpower.

In this episode, I’m diving into why fitness and veganism aren’t just personal choices—they’re political whether we realize it or not. Based on a recent article I wrote, I’m exploring how things like race, class, and ability shape who gets access to fitness and plant-based foods, and why pretending otherwise is itself a political act. This episode was sparked by a podcast review I received telling me I should keep social commentary and political opinion out of my show. So, naturally, I decided to lean all the way in.

Agrologist Cory Davis joins me to unpack the environmental toll of animal agriculture—and the enormous potential of plant-based food systems to reduce emissions, reclaim land, and restore ecosystems. Cory brings a systems-level perspective that blends science, ethics, and practical solutions. He also does some serious myth-busting about “sustainable” local meat and “regenerative grazing”. Whether you're a climate advocate or curious about food’s environmental impact, this episode will challenge what you thought you knew about sustainable eating. Cory is a licensed professional agrologist with over 10 years of experience in natural resource and environmental management. He is a co-author of “Plant-Powered Protein: Nutrition Essentials and Dietary Guidelines for All Ages” along with Vesanto Melina and Brenda Davis, where he breaks down the environmental impacts of different protein choices. He also recently coauthored a paper in the Annals of Medicine titled "Health Disparities and Climate Change in the Marshall Islands".

In this episode, I’m joined by renowned registered dietitian and plant-based pioneer, Brenda Davis. With decades of experience and 13 books to her name, Brenda shares powerful insights on fine-tuning plant-based diets for every stage of life, and using nutrition to prevent and treat chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. We explore the role of processed foods and faux meats in a healthy diet, and her inspiring journey of being vegan for 36 years (she started back when plant-based diets were dismissed as mere fads). Whether you're a long-time vegan or just plant-curious, this conversation is packed with wisdom you won't want to miss.

In this episode of the No-Bullshit Vegan Podcast, registered dietitian and award-winning author Vesanto Melina returns to dive deep into all things vegan protein.   With decades of experience in plant-based nutrition, Vesanto shares insights from her latest book, Plant-Powered Protein, debunking common myths about protein intake and addressing how different populations—from strength trainers to older adults—can optimize their nutrition. We discuss how protein needs change with age, why plant-based athletes may need to tweak their intake, and how the science behind protein recommendations has evolved. Plus, Vesanto shares her thoughts on the growing mainstream acceptance of plant-based diets, how restaurants and food industries are adapting, and why environmental sustainability is an essential part of the conversation. We also chat about fitness and longevity, including Vesanto’s own inspiring approach to strength training at age 82 (spoiler alert: she holds a two-minute plank and takes five fitness classes a week!). We discuss how protein plays a role in maintaining muscle mass, especially for those in a calorie deficit, and why strength training is essential for long-term health. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with evidence-based advice to help you fuel your body effectively—without falling for the protein myths. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation that might just change how you think about protein on a vegan diet!

Kettlebell training should be for every body. Coach Damali—kettlebell expert, speaker, and owner of Lift Off Strength & Wellness—joins me to challenge diet culture in the fitness space and share how to make kettlebell coaching more inclusive. She breaks down what it means to approach training from a size-inclusive, trauma-informed, and judgement-free perspective, rethinks the use of props in kettlebell coaching, and discusses why language matters when working with clients. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on making strength training accessible to all!