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Dr. Akil Taher is the author of OPEN HEART a book that chronicles his transformational journey. Dr. Taher had angioplasty at 56, open heart surgery at 61, and ran his first half marathon less than a year later. He then proceeded to run the Chicago, Boston, and Mumbai marathons, and also climbed mountains. He transformed from a middle-aged couch potato with a dangerously bad diet into a vital, energetic athlete, ever seeking new challenges and adventures. His whole food plant-based diet played a major part in his transformation.

Guy Vaknin is a renowned chef famous for his innovative plant-based creations. After serving in the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), Vaknin moved to New York in 2005 to study computer engineering. But he quickly realized that his calling was in the food industry. Chef Vaknin then enrolled in the Institute of Culinary Education. Upon graduating in 2007, he became the Executive Chef at Esprit Events, an established kosher catering company in Manhattan. In this role, he met his future wife and co-founder Tali. Together, they developed their signature vegan sushi and the Beyond Sushi brand was born. He is the founder and owner of City Roots Hospitality, New York City's leading vegan restaurant group, which includes Beyond Sushi, Willow, and his latest vegan restaurant, Coletta. beyondsushi.com willownewyork.com colettanyc.com cityrootsnyc.com

Rachel McCrystal is the Executive Director at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary. She has been at the Sanctuary for seven years. Rachel has volunteered for and worked at various animal rights, conservation, and sheltering organizations over the last 15 years with a focus on development, marketing, campaigns, and strategic planning. She's been widely published with stories on animal rights and liberation.

Sarah Strickland is currently a junior in high school and the Lead Outreach Raven at the Raven Corps, a youth-led activist organization. Raven Corps current goal is to get big dairy out of schools and increase plant-based milk access in the over 100,000 schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program. The Raven Corps is a youth-centered movement of activists devoted to building a just and sustainable future for ALL animals and our natural world. We take action through a consistent anti-oppression lens and trust that we can achieve liberation for ALL if we join forces and strike at the roots of oppression.

Jamie Logan is a NYC-based filmmaker, podcast host, and animal advocate who uses humor, health and fitness, public speaking, and social media to inspire others and cultivate change.

Stefanie Ignoffo is a plant interventionist, CEO & Founder of Plantspiration NFP Inc., and Food For Life Instructor with the Physicians Committee For Responsible Medicine and has completed the American College of Lifestyle Medicine Coaching program. She advocates and promotes Lifestyle Medicine by educating, motivating, and inspiring people to adopt a plant-based lifestyle in order to prevent and reverse chronic diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, autoimmune disorders, obesity, and chronic illnesses.

Kartikeya Talreja is a Los Angeles based certified Ayurvedic Nutritionist, Digestive Health and Lifestyle Coach. Ayurveda is one of the oldest health systems in the world which originated in India more than 5000 years ago. Ayurveda believes that most diseases originate with imbalances in the digestive system. Kartikeya guides his clients who are suffering from digestive issues by educating them to eat a healthy whole food plant-based diet, spices, herbs, and to adopt a healthy lifestyle using the principles of Ayurveda.  

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Episode with Dr. Mari Mitrani In this episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Mari Mitrani, a physician-scientist and co-founder of Gattaca Genomics. With a passion for regenerative medicine and a vegan lifestyle, Dr. Mitrani shares her journey and insights into the world of preventive health and the power of plant-based living. What You'll Learn: Dr. Mitrani's transition to a vegan lifestyle and the motivations behind her choice. The supportive role her family played in her vegan journey. Advice for those curious about starting a plant-based diet. The challenges Dr. Mitrani faced early in her vegan journey and how she overcame them. How she addresses curiosity about her plant-based diet and educates others. The importance of the motto "Dare to Fail" in Dr. Mitrani's personal and professional life. Leading by example to help others understand cognitive dissonance regarding diet and lifestyle. Dr. Mitrani's involvement in projects like Slay, They Are Trying To Kill Us, and Christspiracy. The particular resonance of veganism with women and Dr. Mitrani's perspective on this connection. The impact of being a vegan scientist-physician on Dr. Mitrani's life and career. Dr. Mitrani's passion for regenerative medicine and its future. Observations on the trend of doctors adopting plant-based diets and the responses from the medical community. Dr. Mitrani's experiences with pushback regarding her child's vegan diet and navigating those conversations. Recommended resources for those interested in exploring a plant-based diet. Insights into maintaining physical fitness and understanding one's body on a vegan diet. Strategies for staying committed to a plant-based diet amidst a busy schedule. Exciting developments in Dr. Mitrani's practice and what she looks forward to. Timestamps: 1:07 - Vegan Diet Transition 3:42 - Family Support for Veganism 4:49 - Beginning a Plant-Based Lifestyle 5:49 - Initial Struggles with Veganism 7:02 - Educating Others About Vegan Diet 8:00 - "Dare to Fail" Philosophy 9:03 - Leading by Example 10:34 - Involvement in Vegan Projects 14:32 - Veganism's Appeal to Women 15:23 - Veganism in Science and Medicine 16:24 - Love for Regenerative Medicine 17:43 - Doctors Going Plant-Based 20:05 - Navigating Pushback 21:09 - Resources for Starting Vegan 22:52 - Veganism and Physical Fitness 24:13 - Staying Vegan While Busy 25:34 - Excitement in Practice 28:03 - Contacting Dr. Mitrani Resources & Links: Follow Dr. Mitrani on Social Media: @marimitrani Dr. Mitrani's Recommended Resources: Slay and They're Trying To Kill Us Dr. Mari Mitrani's story is a fascinating blend of scientific rigor and compassionate living, demonstrating that health and wellness thrive on a foundation of plant-based nutrition and preventive care. Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Subscribe to Plant Your Seed Podcast and leave a review. Let's spread the message of health, wellness, and compassion together. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and actionable advice from leaders in health, wellness, and sustainability.

Welcome to an insightful episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast, featuring the dynamic Jessica Karwat, a renowned Health Coach for Women, Vegan Nutritionist, TEDx Speaker, and Reiki Healer. Jessica shares her transformative journey and provides valuable insights into holistic health and vegan nutrition.   What You'll Learn: The inspiration behind Jessica's transition to a plant-based diet. The obstacles she faced while switching to veganism and how she overcame them. An intimate look at Jessica's struggle with an eating disorder and her path to recovery. Practical advice for those considering a plant-based lifestyle. The story of Jessica's entrepreneurial journey and the bravery behind starting her business. Unique challenges women face in losing weight, especially on a plant-based diet. The relationship between food, menstrual cycles, and weight loss. Jessica's passion for women's health, veganism, and why it matters. How to connect with Jessica and follow her work for more insights and guidance.   Timestamps: 00:55 - Jessica's Motivation for Plant-Based Diet 10:44 - Challenges in Transitioning to Veganism 19:10 - Jessica's Personal Battle with an Eating Disorder 23:20 - Top Tips for Adopting a Plant-Based Diet 32:05 - The Courage to Start Her Business 36:54 - Women's Weight Loss Challenges on a Plant-Based Diet 39:56 - Syncing Food with Menstrual Cycle for Weight Loss 49:25 - Jessica's Passion for Women's Health and Veganism 56:01 - Connecting with Jessica Karwat   Resources & Links: Follow Jessica Karwat on Social Media: iamjessicakarwat Jessica's website and contact information: womensacademyoftransformation.com   Connect with Jessica: Instagram: iamjessicakarwat   Thank you for tuning into this powerful episode with Jessica Karwat. Her journey and dedication to improving women's health through plant-based nutrition are truly inspirational. Whether you're new to veganism or looking to deepen your understanding of holistic health, Jessica's insights offer something for everyone.   Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice aimed at fostering a healthier, more compassionate world.

Cassie Gaffaney is a tattoo artist and musician originally from New Zealand and now currently based in Las Vegas. Her vegan journey started after she saw the film, Joker. Joaquin Phoenix's performance in that movie had such a profound effect on her that it led her to LA Animal Saves Pig Vigils at Farmer Johns. She is passionate about living a compassionate lifestyle and supporting local animal rescues/organizations and sanctuaries and sharing the message of kindness for all beings.

Beth Love is the founder of Eat for the Earth, an ordained New Thought minister, and the author of the Tastes Like Love book series. She has brought a message of transformation to multiple audiences with her speaking and facilitation skills, in contexts as diverse as the California state prison system, schools, nonprofits, churches, radio, various online forums, local community television, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. She is known for her fierce commitment, wise counsel, strategic mind, and huge capacity for love. Rev. Beth's life calling has taken many twists and turns but has always been centered on human transformation. She has taught in and run Montessori schools, helped to found a New Thought church and served in various capacities in that community for over 20 years, facilitated training on issues of power and privilege, run non-profit organizations focused on the topic of child abuse, and done extensive volunteer work with prison inmates. Her current focus is running Eat for the Earth, a nonprofit organization that supports a human dietary shift towards more plants and fewer animal products to sustain all life on Earth. Learn more and find out how you can get involved at EatForTheEarth.org.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Episode with Anne Molina Join us on this episode of the Plant Your Seed Podcast as we sit down with the compassionate Anne Molina, founder of Hogs & Kisses Farm Sanctuary. With nearly 13 years of living a vegan lifestyle, Anne has dedicated her life to rescuing farm animals and promoting a message of love and respect for all beings. What You'll Learn: The origins and inspirations behind Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary. Unexpected aspects and challenges of running an animal sanctuary. Strategies and motivations for continuous operation in sanctuary management. Practical advice for individuals aspiring to start their own sanctuary. An introduction to the concept of micro sanctuaries and their significance. Future ambitions and plans for the growth of Hogs & Kisses. The most fulfilling aspects of life at the sanctuary. Anne's personal journey to veganism and its impact on her life. Effects of veganism on Anne's social and family dynamics. The driving force behind Anne's passion for animal welfare. Ways to connect with Anne and support Hogs & Kisses Farm Sanctuary. Timestamps: 00:47 - Founding Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary 3:02 - Surprises of Sanctuary Life 7:14 - Sustaining Sanctuary Operations 10:02 - Advice for New Sanctuary Founders 12:53 - Explaining Micro Sanctuaries 16:41 - Future Visions for Hogs & Kisses 23:55 - Joyful Moments at the Sanctuary 26:41 - Anne's Vegan Transition Story 35:30 - Veganism's Impact on Personal Relationships 40:44 - Anne's Advocacy for Animals 47:07 - Connecting with Anne Molina Connect with Hogs and Kisses: Instagram: @hogskisses Website: hogsandkisses.org Resources & Links: MicroSanctuary.org OpenSanctuary.org  

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Iye Bako | Iye Loves Life Welcome to another compelling episode of the Plant Your Seed Podcast. This time, we are joined by the inspiring Iye Bako, a passionate advocate for veganism, social justice, beauty and wellness. With her roots in Nigeria and her life now in the United States, Iye shares her unique journey and how it has shaped her mission today.   What You'll Learn: Iye's motivations for adopting a plant-based lifestyle and the impact it's had on her life. The challenges and rewards that came with transitioning to a vegan diet. The deeper meanings and personal convictions that resonate with Iye about veganism. How Iye's journey into activism began and its connection to her vegan lifestyle. The inspiration behind her influential Instagram page, Iye Loves Life. Strategies for making the vegan movement more inclusive, especially for people of color. Iye's passionate reasons for her vegan advocacy. Exciting updates and ventures in Iye's life. Tips and advice for maintaining a plant-based lifestyle. How listeners can connect with Iye and follow her journey. Timestamps: 00:54 - Introduction to Iye's vegan journey 4:41 - Personal changes from adopting a plant-based diet 6:40 - Overcoming struggles in transitioning to veganism 9:42 - Deep dive into Iye's connection with veganism 12:11 - Iye's entry into activism 17:01 - The story behind Iye Loves Life Instagram 19:32 - Discussing diversity in the vegan community 20:42 - Iye's fervent belief in veganism 26:02 - What's new and exciting in Iye's life 26:53 - Iye's top tips for sticking to a vegan diet 30:47 - How to stay connected with Iye   Resources Mentioned: Iye Loves Life Instagram: @iyeloveslife Connect with Iye: Follow Iye on Instagram: @IyeLovesLife   Thank you for joining us for this enlightening conversation with Iye Bako. If you're looking to blend veganism with activism or simply seeking to live a life aligned with compassion and wellness, Iye's story is sure to inspire.   Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.   Tune in next time for more inspiring stories and practical advice aimed at fostering a healthier, more compassionate world.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Ella Magers | Sexy Fit Vegan Welcome to another inspiring episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Ella Magers, the vibrant force behind Sexy Fit Vegan®. With 29 years of vegan living, Ella brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and energy to the discussion on transforming lives through compassionate choices and fitness. Ella is also a Board Member at Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary. What You'll Learn: Ella's personal journey from a meat-eating background to becoming a passionate vegan advocate. The founding of Sexy Fit Vegan® and the mission behind it. Practical advice for those looking to transition to a plant-based diet without feeling overwhelmed. The intertwining relationship between fitness, nutrition, and mental health in Ella's life and coaching. How to use compassion as a guiding principle for lifestyle changes and personal development. Timestamps: 00:59 - Introduction to Ella Magers and her vegan journey. 10:11 - What it was like to be a vegan kid. 17:37 - Challenges and rewards of transitioning to a plant-based diet. 19:34 - Combining veganism with fitness: Tips and strategies. 21:40 - The importance of self-love in the journey towards wellness. 31:52 - Sexy Fit Vegan success story 36:08 - What is next for Sexy Fit Vegan? 39:52 - Ella's advice for newcomers to the plant-based lifestyle. 43:32 - Closing thoughts and where to find more about Ella Magers. Resources Mentioned: Sexy Fit Vegan® website Connect with Ella: Instagram: @SexyFitVegan Facebook: Sexy Fit Vegan  YouTube: Sexy Fit Vegan Channel  Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary Thank you for tuning in to this episode with Ella Magers. If you're inspired to make a change or want to learn more about living a compassionate, fit, and healthy lifestyle, make sure to check out all the resources listed and follow Ella on social media for daily inspiration and guidance. Remember, the journey to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle starts with one small step. Let's continue to plant seeds of positivity, health, and compassion together. Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Don't forget to subscribe to the Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you. Tune in next week for another inspiring episode aimed at empowering you on your journey to a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle!

Rey Ortega is a pioneer in the plant-based sector with over 30 years of experience. In 1994, he founded the Alternative Baking Company, one of the first vegan cookie brands on the market, which generated $1 million in sales in 1995. In 1997, he founded Sun Flour Baking Co. to create new flavors, tastes, textures, and nutrition products with a longer shelf life and higher profit margins. With extensive knowledge across the entire product life cycle, he is an experienced formulator within the industry, has designed three facilities, and has sold millions of vegan cookies, keeping eggs and dairy out of the mouths of many. Besides owning five plant-based brands, he has also published two children's books and is an expert at cannabis infusion for topical and edible products.