Switch4good

Did you know nearly half a billion people worldwide are grappling with type 2 diabetes? It’s a staggering statistic, revealing a global health crisis. But here’s the good news: It doesn’t have to be a life sentence!   Our guest today, Lewis Bertus, a passionate Physician Assistant with a personal connection to diabetes, has dedicated himself to transforming lives through a holistic, plant-focused approach. Inspired by the impact he’s seen in both his patients and his wife, he founded Diabetes 180 to show that reclaiming health is truly possible.   In this episode, we explore his evidence-backed strategies, the power of dietary shifts, and his mission to spread a plant-based message of hope and change. For anyone facing diabetes or supporting someone who is, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!   “Type 2 diabetes, I should say, is a disease where your body is no longer sensitive to its own insulin. So your pancreas is now in overdrive, overproducing insulin. And this is why the disease gets worse b

Dr. Monica Aggarwal is the perfect example of what can happen when you don’t take care of your body … she’s also the perfect example of what can happen when you do take care of your body. Living under the constant pressure of defined gender norms in a subspecialty medical profession, Dr. Aggarwal strived to be perfect. After finishing school and experiencing several miscarriages, she had three children in four years and tried to be Super Mom along with her full-time job as a cardiologist. Ultimately, her body broke down and she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Months passed until she took control of her health—not with medicine, but with lifestyle. When she prioritized sleep, plant-based eating, and more gentle forms of exercise, she put her disease in remission. This is part one of our two-part interview with the fabulous and knowledgeable Dr. Aggarwal. We just couldn’t cover everything in one short hour. Buckle up and get ready to learn.   “So there's a study that shows that if you have high genetic

In 2017, The Game Changers documentary caught the attention of millions, sparking a new conversation about plant-based nutrition and athletic performance. Behind its scientific integrity was David Goldman, the film’s chief science advisor, who ensured its message was grounded in robust, evidence-based findings.    David is a certified specialist in sports nutrition and strength conditioning, with a master’s degree in applied physiology and nutrition from Columbia University. He has worked with college, professional, and Olympic athletes, helping them excel through plant-powered strategies. Join us as we explore his latest research, insights, and actionable strategies for optimizing your health and unlocking your potential!   “When weight is lost, a whole bunch of things come down, generally, like inflammation, inflammatory markers, for example, like C-reactive protein or your cholesterol will drop. But then when you have people do it with a diet like a carnivore diet that's real, or a keto diet that's really

According to the CDC,  about 659,000 people in the United States die from heart disease each year. That’s 1 in every 4 deaths. A staggering 100 BILLION dollars were spent several years ago on stents and bypasses. But how effective are those dangerous, invasive, and costly procedures in improving the patient's quality of life? Is there an alternative?   Today's guest is Dr. Dean Ornish, the founder and president of the nonprofit Preventive Medicine Research Institute. He is a clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, and the author of seven books, all national bestsellers. Dr. Dean Ornish has directed revolutionary research proving that lifestyle changes can often reverse or undo the progression of many of the most common and costly chronic diseases and even begin reversing aging at a cellular level. He documented his findings in his landmark book UnDo It!   Dr. Dean Ornish studied medicine under Dr. Michael DeBakey, an American vascular surgeon and cardiac surgeon, scien

Is your diet keeping you sick?   Dr. James Loomis is a whole-food, plant-based internal medical practitioner spreading the message that food is the best way to combat illness and disease.   After experiencing a decline in his own health, Dr. Loomis made the switch and saw miraculous results: a significant drop in weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure in under three months.    He says that most problems that walk into his office can be traced back to inflammation and stress, often resulting from the Standard American Diet.    The former internist for both the St. Louis Cardinals and Rams now serves as the Medical Director of the Barnard Medical Center and advocates for using food -- over prescriptions -- as medicine.   In this episode, Dr. Loomis joins Alexandra and Dotsie to explain exactly how what we eat works to either heal or harm our bodies.   You’ll hear why whole foods are the best way to combat inflammation, why manipulation by the dairy industry is so dangerous, and how you can get empowered to cri

Is everything you’ve been told about finding the perfect partner missing the mark? Beyond mere attraction, what really makes relationships endure? Today, Dr. Darren M. George joins us to challenge conventional wisdom and unveil surprising truths that can reshape your understanding of love.   As a professor of psychology, researcher, and co-author of The Compatibility Code, Dr. George has spent decades exploring what truly makes relationships thrive. His insights offer a compelling roadmap for navigating the complexities of partner choice and cultivating lasting, meaningful connections.    Join us as we explore these groundbreaking ideas and consider new perspectives to enhance your love life!   “The younger you marry, the greater the likelihood of change, which will render you incompatible. I find, for instance, when I teach the class on marital compatibility, some years ago, if there is an 18-year-old who'd never dated, she would be so naïve they couldn't even benefit from it because they hadn't experienced

Prepare to explore the groundbreaking realm of microdosing psychedelics with Paul Austin, a leading figure in the modern psychedelic movement, known for his mission to harness these substances to enhance mental health and personal growth. As the founder of The Third Wave, Paul is dedicated to educating others on the transformative potential of psychedelics, promoting their safe and intentional use to unlock creativity, boost performance, and improve well-being.   In this episode, we delve into the possible effects of microdosing to inspire behavioral change, deepen spiritual awareness, and sharpen focus. Paul also shares his experiences with psychedelics and how they’ve contributed to his healing journey and expanded sense of consciousness.   Join us for this eye-opening discussion as we explore how psychedelics might influence modern life and expand our understanding of human experience!   “Microdosing is a very low dose of a psychedelic, and it's typically defined as a sub-perceptual or even sub-intoxicatin

Access to healthy food should be a right, but in reality, it’s often a privilege due to systemic inequalities. What if the food on your plate were not just nourishment but also a reflection of deeper power dynamics and historical struggles?   Today’s guest, Andrea Freeman, is a trailblazer in food politics, exposing the disturbing ways food has been weaponized throughout American history. In her new book, Ruin Their Crops on the Ground, she uncovers how food policies—from the Trail of Tears to today’s school lunch programs—have been systematically used to marginalize and oppress, with echoes of this injustice still reverberating in our modern food systems.   As a professor at Southwestern Law, her expertise in Constitutional Law and Food Policy has led her to challenge the structures that keep nutritious food out of reach for vulnerable communities. Her work has been featured in The Washington Post, The New Yorker, and NPR, and she is reshaping the conversation about race, law, and food justice. Join us as we

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Chad Sarno, a visionary chef and entrepreneur who has transformed plant-based eating globally. As co-founder of Wicked Kitchen and Good Catch Foods, Chad has revolutionized convenience foods with bold, flavor-packed meals and sustainable seafood alternatives. His journey began when health issues from dairy consumption led him to explore plant-based cuisine, sparking a passion that propelled him onto the international stage, where he launched several vegan restaurants and co-authored bestsellers like Crazy Sexy Kitchen.   Chad’s influence extends beyond the kitchen—he's been a driving force behind making plant-centric diets a lasting part of our food culture. From leading Whole Foods Market’s Healthy Eating Program to teaching audiences on shows like The Morning Show and Good Day LA, Chad’s mission is clear: to make nutritious, cruelty-free food accessible to all. So stay with us as we delve into his culinary adventures and explore how he’s changing the world, one dish at a tim

Join us for a profound conversation with the visionary artist whose groundbreaking albums like Play and iconic film tracks have shaped the soundtrack of a generation. With over 20 million albums sold, Moby’s impact on music and society is undeniable, but his influence extends far beyond the charts. A devoted vegan and animal rights advocate for over 30 years, he has tirelessly championed environmental sustainability and ethical living, using his platform to inspire change.   In this riveting episode, Moby delves into his journey of overcoming addiction, embracing activism, and sharing how his art and beliefs have evolved over time. We’ll explore the intersections of creativity, conscience, and his commitment to making the world a better place. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to gain insight into the mind of a true cultural pioneer!   “When I was growing up, my parents were fighting, you know, one minute they'd be in love, the next minute they were fighting. One minute, they'd be peaceful; the next minute, th

Some oils are advertised as health foods. But no oil is really healthy, not even olive oil. If you don't want to spend your days eating steamed, poached, or boiled food and you think oil-free food is boring, this episode is for you. Today's guest, Chef Del Sroufe, will teach you how to sauté, stir-fry, bake, and roast without oil or butter. With 33 years of cooking experience, Chef Del is an expert in oil-free cooking methods. At eight years old, he was creating dishes from whatever he could find in their kitchen. By thirteen, he was flaunting his culinary talents by preparing family dinners.    Chef Del worked at a premier vegetarian restaurant in Ohio, The King Avenue Coffeehouse. He later opened his bakery, Del’s Bread, serving delicious vegan pastries and assorted delicacies. In 2001, he transitioned from his bakery business to start a vegan Personal Chef Service. In 2006, Chef Del joined Wellness Forum Foods as Executive Chef, where he continued the tradition of delivering great-tasting plant-based meals

In a time when chronic illnesses are on the rise and the pursuit of optimal health can often feel daunting, understanding the link between our diet, environment, and our wellness is crucial. Today’s guest, James Marin, returns to the show to share his expert insights. As an Integrative Registered Dietitian and Environmental Nutritionist, James focuses on gut health and sustainable lifestyle changes, guiding individuals toward lasting improvements. Tune into this episode full of actionable tips to help you make informed dietary choices and improve your overall approach to well-being!   “It wasn't until high school I was like, ‘Wait a minute, if I start moving and eating better, I'm noticing like I feel better and then the weight started coming off.’ But then you struggle with that if those links are there mentally of any time you're stressed out, which still can happen, you know, even though you're not in that kind of a negative environment, you can still get stressed out with a lot of things. Are you going to

Change can be intimidating, especially when it involves giving up something you love, like sugar. But what if you could enjoy delicious alternatives without feeling deprived? Today’s guest is here to show us just how easy and satisfying it can be.   Chef AJ, a culinary instructor, author, and motivational speaker, is known for her no-nonsense approach to transforming lives through nutrient-dense recipes. On her YouTube show, Chef AJ Live, she offers expert interviews and live cooking demos that educate and inspire.   Her best-selling books, "Unprocessed" and "The Secrets to Ultimate Weight Loss," are must-reads for anyone embracing a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. In her latest book, "Chef AJ's Sweet Indulgence: Guilt-Free Treats Sweetened Naturally with Fruit," she shares dessert recipes free from gluten, sugar, added salt, and oil, proving that healthy eating can delight your taste buds.   Her practical advice and vibrant personality have empowered countless people to take control of their health. So st

In 1980, Ingrid Newkirk co-founded People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), revolutionizing the animal rights movement. As PETA's president, she has led the organization to become the world's largest animal rights group, known for its groundbreaking campaigns and significant societal changes. Under her leadership, PETA has conducted undercover investigations, organized high-profile protests, and engaged in corporate negotiations and legislative efforts, saving countless animals’ lives.   Ingrid returns to our show to discuss her legacy, the challenges she’s faced, the victories she’s achieved, and her vision for the future. We’ll explore how her tireless advocacy has elevated global standards for compassion and humane practices. Additionally, she will share actionable steps listeners can take, both big and small, to make a meaningful impact in the fight for animal rights.   “Yes, it's a bit shocking to realize that that lovely hamburger with, you know, maybe the dancing cow on the label, didn't com

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, a beacon of compassion, justice, and spiritual wisdom.   Rabbi Shmuly is a spiritual leader and passionate advocate for animal rights and veganism. As the Founder & President of Shamayim: Jewish Animal Advocacy, he promotes ethical treatment for all beings and a plant-based lifestyle. He also founded Uri L'Tzedek, dedicated to social justice and ethical leadership, and YATOM, a foster and adoption network for children.   Author of 24 books, Rabbi Shmuly’s writings have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. Newsweek has recognized him twice as one of America's Top Rabbis.   Rabbi Shmuly’s extraordinary personal commitment to compassion extends beyond his advocacy. He has donated a kidney to a stranger and, along with his wife Shoshanna, opens their home to foster children, embodying the values he teaches.   Stay tuned as we delve into an inspiring conversation with Rabbi Shmuly,

When dieting doesn’t work, it’s time to stop dabbling in healthy eating. Dr. Joel Fuhrman is a highly respected physician who has made his mark by focusing on nutrition. He is the founder of the Nutritarian Diet, which is based on whole, plant-based foods that have been scientifically shown to reduce cancer risk and extend longevity. In his seven bestselling books, you won’t find “cheat days” or “moderation,” and he explains why in this riveting episode. Fuhrman educates us on the fundamentals of health, nutrition, and disease prevention with a fiery energy that is instantly motivating.   “Nutritional science gives us control of our health destiny.” - Dr. Joel Fuhrman   What we discuss in this episode: - The benefits of GBOMBS  - The connection between nutrition and immunity - The Nutritarian Diet and battling cancer - Food addiction - Understanding how metabolism is affected by food   Resources: - Dairy Does a Body Bad report:  Dairy Does a Body Bad  - https://switch4good.org/dairy-does-a-body-bad/ - Websit

Have you ever wondered what's hidden in your garden fertilizer or how organic produce is truly grown?   Our guest today is Erin Riley, the founder and CEO of Cabbage Hill organic, animal-free fertilizers. Erin's foray into the world of gardening and urban agriculture began with Hope Gardens, a landscaping company through which she has designed, installed, and maintained hundreds of gardens across Los Angeles, including those of A-list celebrities.     Frustrated by the manipulation of organic labels, Erin set out to make a real difference. Her commitment to true organic gardening standards fueled her advocacy and led to the development of a sustainable, plant-based fertilizer. By ensuring transparency and integrity, Erin is setting a new standard in organic practices.   Join us as we explore Erin’s incredible journey and insights, and learn how you can make more informed choices to protect yourself as a consumer while supporting a healthier planet.   “You might be shocked to learn that most organic fertilizer

Every day, more evidence emerges about fasting's potential to transform health and well-being. From treating autoimmune disorders and reducing blood pressure to aiding in addiction treatment, support for this practice continues to grow.   Today, we are joined by Dr. Alan Goldhamer, a leading advocate of medically supervised water-only fasting. As the founder of TrueNorth Health Center, he has expertly guided thousands of patients through this process. His work has profoundly influenced integrative medicine, promoting natural, non-invasive methods for achieving optimal wellness.   Dr. Goldhamer is the co-author of "The Pleasure Trap," offering groundbreaking solutions for overcoming self-destructive habits and making positive lifestyle choices. His latest book, "Can Fasting Save Your Life," co-authored with Toshia Myers, provides a comprehensive exploration of the benefits and science of fasting. He has also been featured in documentaries like "Fasting" and "What the Health."   Stay with us as we delve into hi

Cardiovascular disease is the global leading cause of death and was responsible for more than 15 million fatalities in 2016.    What would you do to prevent yourself and your loved ones from becoming part of that statistic?   Today’s guest, Dr. Joel Kahn, says it’s as simple as plant-based nutrition.   Dr. Kahn is one of the world’s top cardiologists, a restaurateur, and is known as America’s Healthy Heart Doc. He’s committed to making the world healthier through the preventative and healing power of plants.   He joins Dotsie and Alexandra to discuss the different factors that can lead to cardiovascular disease and the solutions to prevent or reverse early symptoms.    Tune in to hear what this vegan doctor has learned in his almost 40 years of practice, his advice for protecting yourself against fatal diseases, and his tips for living a healthier lifestyle.   “A healthy plant-based lifestyle puts the power back in the patients—where it should be.” - Dr. Joel Kahn   What we discuss in this episode: - What d

In today's episode, we welcome Dr. Ellen Langer, a pioneering researcher and the first woman to become a tenured professor of psychology at Harvard University. Often referred to as the "mother of mindfulness," Dr. Langer has spent over four decades revolutionizing our understanding of the mind-body connection.   The bestselling author of books like "Mindfulness," "The Power of Mindful Learning," and "Counterclockwise," Dr. Langer presents ideas from her latest work, "The Mindful Body," revealing how our mindset can significantly impact our physical health and offering practical advice for leading a more conscious and intentional life.   Join us as Dr. Langer discusses her groundbreaking research, the extraordinary potential of mindfulness, and how embracing this approach can be a catalyst for profound personal transformation. This conversation is packed with insights that could change the way you think about health and well-being!   “When you have a notion of dualism, mind and the body, the main problem is ho