

Plant-Powered People Podcast
Toni Okamoto and Michelle Cehn
Life is always easier and more exciting when you have friends to share in your journey, and the path to plant-based living is no exception! On the Plant-Powered People Podcast, you'll hear from folks who've embraced plant-based living while they share their experiences overcoming obstacles in the most graceful (and sometimes not-so-graceful) ways.
Join hosts Michelle Cehn (founder of World of Vegan) and Toni Okamoto (founder of Plant Based on a Budget) every other week as they tackle challenges like being the only vegan in the family, what it's like to be plant-based while working at a non-veg restaurant job, and more!
Join hosts Michelle Cehn (founder of World of Vegan) and Toni Okamoto (founder of Plant Based on a Budget) every other week as they tackle challenges like being the only vegan in the family, what it's like to be plant-based while working at a non-veg restaurant job, and more!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 12, 2023 • 50min
102. Live to 100: Dan Buettner's Top Tips
We're so excited to re-release this episode in honor of Dan Buettner sharing his new Netflix documentary, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones! In his documentary he explores in visual form these 5 "blue zones" that fuel vibrant, extended life. Dan Buettner is is an award-winning journalist and producer at National Geographic who has spent most of his life identifying and studying "blue zones" - the 5 areas of the world where people live the longest, with the lowest disease rates. Today he's telling us all about how a plant-based diet ties into their health and longevity. Show Notes: Dan's unique stories from his many quests and expeditions with National Geographic Dan's experience with archeological expeditions What is a blue zone? How Dan discovered the 5 blue zones and why they got the name "blue zones" The characteristics the people in blue zones Carbohydrates: the confusion and why you shouldn't be afraid of them The difference between good and bad carbohydrates How the Standard American Diet came to be How the Standard American Diet ended up including so much added sugar Why it can be so difficult to make diet changes even when we know something is bad for us The role our environment and community play in our health Blue zone-like habits that you can incorporate into your life without travelling anywhere Why Dan transitioned into a plant-based lifestyle as a result of studying blue zones How to make it easier for others to make more plant-based diet choices The importance of surrounding yourself with people that inspire your health goals Some simple guidelines for adopting a healthier, plant-based lifestyle A little challenge for you to start incorporating healthy, delicious recipes into your life long-term Evidence-based tips to get young, picky eaters to eat vegetables Healthy cultural ways of eating that we should take note of About Dan's new book Thank you to our sponsors Caraway Home and Yai's Thai (use code PLANTPOWER at checkout for 20% off at yaisthai.com) Resources: Dan's Netflix documentary Dan's books Dan's Instagram Dan's Website Plant-Based On a Budget Holiday Resources World of Vegan Holiday Resources

Aug 1, 2023 • 59min
101. Is Fungi The Future of Meat? Paul Shapiro Thinks So!
Is the future of meat fungi? Paul Shapiro thinks so! In this episode we dive deep into the world of alternative proteins with the author of the national bestseller Clean Meat: How Growing Meat Without Animals Will Revolutionize Dinner and the World. Paul is also the CEO of The Better Meat Co., a five-time TEDx speaker, the host of the Business for Good Podcast, and a long-time leader in food sustainability. Podcast Website (PlantPoweredPodcast.com) Episode Show Notes Support The Show Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto & Michelle Cehn Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subcribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters. More From Toni & Michelle Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans 7 Days Mini Documentary Show Notes Dear friends, Get ready to sink your teeth into the juicy topic of alternative proteins—including cultivated meat (aka cultured meat or lab-grown meat), plant-based meats, and even fungi meat! Oh, but hold your tofu—it's not just some veggie tale. These innovations are true game-changers that are redirecting what the future of food will look like! And guess what? We've got the ultimate protein pro in the house! Please welcome the incredible Paul Shapiro, a bestselling author, podcaster, CEO extraordinaire, and yep, you guessed it, Toni's better half. Paul is a fun-guy who spends his days whipping up a fungi storm at The Better Meat Co., fighting for food sustainability and a world where animals can live their best lives. Join us as Paul spills the mushrooms on mind-blowing alternative protein solutions. Brace yourselves for the scoop on growing meat without the moo, and get ready to feast your ears on the tantalizing wonders of mycoproteins—nature's very own superfood. Whether you're a devoted herbivore or a curious carnivore, this episode will have you drooling with excitement! So, if you're hungry for a taste of the future, pull up a chair and tune in, because we're serving up a sizzling blend of entertainment and education. It's time to meat the revolution! ♡ Michelle & Toni Key Points From the Episode: Paul's journey toward becoming vegan The evolution of Paul's approach to helping animals How Paul and Toni met Paul's experience making and distributing animal welfare documentaries A short history of how animal exploitation has decreased due to human inventions Paul's journey toward founding the Better Meat Co. Paul's take on why cultivated (human-grown) meat is beneficial for the world, even among so many plant-based options The surprising statistics about the demand for animal products The process of creating cultivated meat Understanding that there is no perfect way to be vegan Why cultivated meat is a cleaner and safer way to produce meat The top 3 things that motivate food purchasing decisions Mycoprotein: What it is and why it is a superfood whether you are vegan or not Related Resources Plant-Based Meat Guide 10 Innovative Vegan Meats Brands Make Your Own Vegetarian Roasts Connect With Toni & Plant-Based on a Budget Website Instagram (@plantbasedonabudget) TikTok (@plantbasedonabudget) YouTube Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Connect With Michelle & World of Vegan Website Instagram (@vegan) TikTok (@worldofvegan) YouTube Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Connect With Our Guest, Paul Shapiro: Paul's Website Paul's Book Paul's Instagram Paul's Podcast Thank You to Our Episode Sponsors Caraway Home makes the most beautiful modern non-toxic, eco-friendly, non-stick, easy-to-clean cookware. Visit CarawayHome.com/plantpoweredkitchen and use our special code PLANTPOWEREDKITCHEN to get 10% off your next purchase. Organifi is a line of organic superfood blends that offers plant-based nutrition made with high quality ingredients. Each Organifi blend is made with ingredients that are organic and free of fillers and contain less than 3g of sugar per serving. Head over to organifi.com/plantpower and use our coupon code PLANTPOWER for 20% off your order.

Jul 15, 2023 • 44min
100. Season Ending + Life Updates
Michelle and Toni celebrate on 100 episodes together! Here they get personal, revealing their tips on goal setting and mindset that leads to success - both professionally and personally, sharing what habits and routines have turned their lives around, and discussing how they stay fresh and motivated in the face of an ever-changing social media world. Show Notes Newsletter Sign-Up Support The Show Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto & Michelle Cehn Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subscribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters. Resources Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans Connect with World of Vegan Website Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Newsletter Connect with Plant-Based on a Budget Website Instagram TikTok YouTue Facebook A big heartfelt thank you to our patreon supporters and episode sponsors: Sucker Punch + Almond Cow! Almond Cow - The Almond Cow plant milk maker revolutionizes the way we enjoy plant-based milk. With just nuts or oats and water, this innovative device allows you to create your own fresh and creamy plant milk in just one minute. Say goodbye to store-bought cartons and hello to a sustainable, zero waste option. The Almond Cow not only eliminates the need for single-use packaging but also gives you control over the ingredients, ensuring a pure and wholesome beverage. By effortlessly transforming nuts or oats into delicious plant milk, the Almond Cow empowers individuals to embrace a healthier and eco-friendly lifestyle. Enjoy the convenience and sustainability of homemade plant milk with the Almond Cow. Sucker Punch Pickles - Known for their 'On the Go' pickle packs and juices, Sucker Punch offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy pickles anytime, anywhere. Made with a commitment to quality and health-conscious consumers in mind, Sucker Punch ensures that their pickles are Non-GMO, providing a natural and wholesome snacking option. Bursting with flavor and packed with essential nutrients, these pickles and juices from Sucker Punch can be savored guilt-free, allowing pickle enthusiasts to satisfy their cravings on the move. To explore their range of products and learn more about Sucker Punch, visit getsuckerpunch.com.

Jul 1, 2023 • 44min
99. Environmental Reasons to Go Vegan with Nick Cutsumpas
Have you felt compelled to take more action to support the environment, but aren't sure where to start, or feel overwhelmed by how expensive and daunting it seems? Join our conversation with Farmer Nick to learn what's really contributing to our environmental woes, what's at stake, and better yet, three actionable (and affordable!) steps that anyone can take, starting today. Podcast Website (PlantPoweredPodcast.com) Episode Show Notes Support The Show Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto & Michelle Cehn Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subscribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters. More From Toni & Michelle Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans 7 Days Mini Documentary Connect With Michelle & World of Vegan Website Instagram (@vegan) TikTok (@worldofvegan) YouTube Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Connect With Toni & Plant-Based on a Budget Website Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn A Big Heartfelt Thanks Our Patreon Supporters and Episode Sponsors: Ritual - Synbiotic+ and Ritual are here to celebrate, not hide, your insides. It's time to listen to your gut. Ritual is offering our listeners 20% off during your first month. Visit ritual.com/PLANTPOWERED to start Ritual or add Synbiotic+ to your subscription today. Check out their plant-based vitamins and fully vegan Synbiotic+ 3-in-1 prebiotic, probiotic, and a postbiotic to help support a balanced gut microbiome. Panacheeza - Ready to meet our latest cheezy obsession? The brand new vegan parmesan cheese brand Panacheeza is a winner across the board in our opinion. The ingredients are clean and healthy. It's packed with protein. But best of all, it tastes like the parmesan cheese we grew up with! You've gotta try it. It's not widely available in stores (yet!) but you can order it online at Panacheeza.com.

Jun 15, 2023 • 56min
98. Miyoko Schinner on Innovation, Ethics, and the Cheese Revolution
Miyoko Schinner shares her journey pioneering a plant-based cheese revolution, discusses the vital importance of ethical business practices and corporate responsibility, and reveals some exciting plans she has for the future. Show Notes Newsletter Sign-Up Support The Show Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto & Michelle Cehn Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subscribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters. Resources Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans Connect with World of Vegan Website Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Newsletter Connect with Plant-Based on a Budget Website Instagram TikTok YouTue Facebook A big heartfelt thank you to our patreon supporters and episode sponsors: Sucker Punch + Almond Cow! Almond Cow - The Almond Cow plant milk maker revolutionizes the way we enjoy plant-based milk. With just nuts or oats and water, this innovative device allows you to create your own fresh and creamy plant milk in just one minute. Say goodbye to store-bought cartons and hello to a sustainable, zero waste option. The Almond Cow not only eliminates the need for single-use packaging but also gives you control over the ingredients, ensuring a pure and wholesome beverage. By effortlessly transforming nuts or oats into delicious plant milk, the Almond Cow empowers individuals to embrace a healthier and eco-friendly lifestyle. Enjoy the convenience and sustainability of homemade plant milk with the Almond Cow. Sucker Punch Pickles - Known for their 'On the Go' pickle packs and juices, Sucker Punch offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy pickles anytime, anywhere. Made with a commitment to quality and health-conscious consumers in mind, Sucker Punch ensures that their pickles are Non-GMO, providing a natural and wholesome snacking option. Bursting with flavor and packed with essential nutrients, these pickles and juices from Sucker Punch can be savored guilt-free, allowing pickle enthusiasts to satisfy their cravings on the move. To explore their range of products and learn more about Sucker Punch, visit getsuckerpunch.com.

Jun 1, 2023 • 1h 8min
97. Ethics in Action: A Conversation with Peter Singer
The moral arc of the universe was changed by Peter Singer, a philosopher, Professor of Bioethics at Princeton University, and author of the groundbreaking book Animal Liberation, which first came out in 1975 and sparked the animal rights movement. In this episode, he discusses practical ethics, utilitarianism, and how to make the greatest positive impact with your life. Podcast Website (PlantPoweredPodcast.com) Episode Show Notes Support The Show Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto & Michelle Cehn Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subscribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters. More From Toni & Michelle Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans 7 Days Mini Documentary Connect With Michelle & World of Vegan Website Instagram (@vegan) TikTok (@worldofvegan) YouTube Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Connect With Toni & Plant-Based on a Budget Website Instagram TikTok YouTube Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Thank You to Our Episode Sponsors Ritual - Synbiotic+ and Ritual are here to celebrate, not hide, your insides. It's time to listen to your gut. Ritual is offering our listeners 20% off during your first month. Visit ritual.com/PLANTPOWERED to start Ritual or add Synbiotic+ to your subscription today. Check out their plant-based vitamins and fully vegan Synbiotic+ 3-in-1 prebiotic, probiotic, and a postbiotic to help support a balanced gut microbiome. Panacheeza - Ready to meet our latest cheezy obsession? The brand new vegan parmesan cheese brand Panacheeza is a winner across the board in our opinion. The ingredients are clean and healthy. It's packed with protein. But best of all, it tastes like the parmesan cheese we grew up with! You've gotta try it. It's not widely available in stores (yet!) but you can order it online at Panacheeza.com.

May 15, 2023 • 59min
96. Is Fungi The Future of Meat? Paul Shapiro Thinks So!
Is the future of meat fungi? Paul Shapiro thinks so! In this episode we dive deep into the world of alternative proteins with the author of the national bestseller Clean Meat: How Growing Meat Without Animals Will Revolutionize Dinner and the World. Paul is also the CEO of The Better Meat Co., a five-time TEDx speaker, the host of the Business for Good Podcast, and a long-time leader in food sustainability. Podcast Website (PlantPoweredPodcast.com) Episode Show Notes Support The Show Your Hosts: Toni Okamoto & Michelle Cehn Thanks for tuning in to the Plant-Powered People Podcast! Be sure to subcribe at PlantPoweredPodcast.com to get our podcast e-mail newsletters. More From Toni & Michelle Plant-Based on a Budget (budget recipes) World of Vegan (vegan recipes and guides) The Friendly Vegan Cookbook Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plans 7 Days Mini Documentary Show Notes Dear friends, Get ready to sink your teeth into the juicy topic of alternative proteins—including cultivated meat (aka cultured meat or lab-grown meat), plant-based meats, and even fungi meat! Oh, but hold your tofu—it's not just some veggie tale. These innovations are true game-changers that are redirecting what the future of food will look like! And guess what? We've got the ultimate protein pro in the house! Please welcome the incredible Paul Shapiro, a bestselling author, podcaster, CEO extraordinaire, and yep, you guessed it, Toni's better half. Paul is a fun-guy who spends his days whipping up a fungi storm at The Better Meat Co., fighting for food sustainability and a world where animals can live their best lives. Join us as Paul spills the mushrooms on mind-blowing alternative protein solutions. Brace yourselves for the scoop on growing meat without the moo, and get ready to feast your ears on the tantalizing wonders of mycoproteins—nature's very own superfood. Whether you're a devoted herbivore or a curious carnivore, this episode will have you drooling with excitement! So, if you're hungry for a taste of the future, pull up a chair and tune in, because we're serving up a sizzling blend of entertainment and education. It's time to meat the revolution! ♡ Michelle & Toni Key Points From the Episode: Paul's journey toward becoming vegan The evolution of Paul's approach to helping animals How Paul and Toni met Paul's experience making and distributing animal welfare documentaries A short history of how animal exploitation has decreased due to human inventions Paul's journey toward founding the Better Meat Co. Paul's take on why cultivated (human-grown) meat is beneficial for the world, even among so many plant-based options The surprising statistics about the demand for animal products The process of creating cultivated meat Understanding that there is no perfect way to be vegan Why cultivated meat is a cleaner and safer way to produce meat The top 3 things that motivate food purchasing decisions Mycoprotein: What it is and why it is a superfood whether you are vegan or not Related Resources Plant-Based Meat Guide 10 Innovative Vegan Meats Brands Make Your Own Vegetarian Roasts Connect With Toni & Plant-Based on a Budget Website Instagram TikTok YouTue Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Connect With Michelle & World of Vegan Website Instagram (@vegan) TikTok (@worldofvegan) YouTube Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Connect With Our Guest, Paul Shapiro: Paul's Website Paul's Book Paul's Instagram Paul's Podcast Thank You to Our Episode Sponsors Caraway Home makes the most beautiful modern non-toxic, eco-friendly, non-stick, easy-to-clean cookware. Visit CarawayHome.com/plantpoweredkitchen and use our special code PLANTPOWEREDKITCHEN to get 10% off your next purchase. Organifi is a line of organic superfood blends that offers plant-based nutrition made with high quality ingredients. Each Organifi blend is made with ingredients that are organic and free of fillers and contain less than 3g of sugar per serving. Head over to organifi.com/plantpower and use our coupon code PLANTPOWER for 20% off your order.

May 1, 2023 • 1h 7min
95. Preventing Alzheimer's & Cognitive Decline with The Brain Doctors
Can we prevent Alzheimer's? It turns out our genes only account for about 3-5% of dementia cases, and we have a lot more control of our long-term cognitive health than we once thought. World-renowned Alzheimer's researchers Dr. Dean Sherzai and Dr. Ayesha Sherzai join us on the podcast to share how food—most notably plant-based whole foods—play a huge role in preventing the onset of Alzheimer's. Show Notes: How to take care of your cognitive health long term with a well-planned plant-based diet Why and how Dean and Ayesha decided to become neurologists Why it's a privilege to take care of your family members in need A personal story from Toni about the devastating effects of dementia The shocking, growing statistics of Alzheimer's and dementia The difference between Alzheimer's and dementia Genetics vs. lifestyle as dementia risk factors A discussion on treatments for dementia The encouraging statistics on how effective lifestyle factors can be for preventing dementia How to effectively support people who are living with dementia The cost-effectiveness of a more holistic preventative approach to dementia treatment Blue zones and how the brain doctors take them into account in their work What you can and should do to optimize your brain health and well-being over time Remember: NEURO - Nutrition, Exercise, Unwind, Restorative sleep, Optimize cognitive activity Toni's tips for managing stress and getting better sleep The importance of community and socializing for our health Why positive stress, challenges, and discomfort are valuable for our brain health The Neuro 9: Greens Beans/lentils Berries Nuts and seeds Herbs and spices Cruciferous vegetables Whole grains Tea Caraway Home (use code plantpoweredkitchen at checkout for 10% off) Organifi (use code plantpower at checkout for 20% off ) Resources: Book: The 30-Day Alzheimer's Solution Follow the Brain Doctors on Instagram The Brain Doctor's Website Join The Neuro Academy

Apr 15, 2023 • 1h 10min
94. Cat Rescue With the Kitten Lady
Hannah Shaw aka "The Kitten Lady," is a kitten rescuer, humane educator, and New York Times bestselling author who has dedicated her life to finding innovative ways to protect animals. She strives to create global change in the way we perceive and treat the tiniest and most vulnerable felines, and has grown a community 1+ million strong on Instagram eagerly awaiting her daily adorable rescued kitten photos and educational videos. She is an incredible example of what one person can do. Show Notes: How Hannah developed innovative ways to rescue animals Hannah's experience fostering kittens and piglets The moment that Hannah decided not to eat animals anymore as a young child Hannah's journey from deciding not to consume animals to actively helping to rescue and raise animals How Hannah navigated her family not understanding her lifestyle change The importance of connecting with a community that has shared values and interests Hannah's passion for baking and cooking delicious vegan food Transitioning out of anger and into compassion and solutions How Hannah got started rescuing kittens The many different careers that you can have within animal welfare How to find what you are passionate about and become an expert in that field Why neo-natal kittens aren't able to be adopted The truth about finding kittens outside, why you shouldn't immediately bring them to the shelter The importance of spaying/neutering pets The shocking stats about kittens in the USA How to help community cats get sterilized through community programs The risks of not intervening when you see stray kittens/cats The importance of a full circle approach when finding kittens What's the best way to go about acquiring a breed specific cat? The issue with de-clawing cats The reality of no-kill shelters & why we need to support all types of shelters What you should do if you find a kitten How to meet your animals' dietary needs, how to navigate feeding your animals other animal products Caraway Home (use code plantpoweredkitchen at checkout for 10% off) Organifi (use code plantpower at checkout for 20% off ) Resources: Hannah's Instagram Hannah's Facebook Page Hannah's Twitter Hannah's Books Hannah's website

Apr 1, 2023 • 38min
93. How Not to Die & The Daily Dozen
Many of the leading causes of death are preventable through a plant-based diet. But how exactly do we optimize our diet? Dr. Michael Greger, the bestselling author of How Not to Die, shares his top tips for how to minimize our chances of premature death and eat healthfully with the help of the Daily Dozen checklist. Show Notes: The amazing story that led Dr. Greger onto the path of lifestyle medicine and plant-based eating How a plant-based diet helped Dr. Greger's grandmother recover from end-stage heart disease Chronic diseases that are lifestyle related rather than genetic-based What most chronic diseases have in common How to incorporate the daily dozen into your life for improved health The spices that are superfoods, and how to consume more of them What you might not have known about garlic and turmeric The difference between fresh and dried herbs and spices Dr. Greger's technique for consuming spices daily without taking lots of capsules/pills How Dr. Greger decided on what to include in the daily dozen Caraway Home (use code plantpoweredkitchen at checkout for 10% off) Organifi (use code plantpower at checkout for 20% off ) Resources: Dr. Greger's Website The Daily Dozen Resources Dr. Greger's Books


