Episodes
7 days ago
7 days ago
On this episode of The Health Feast, Po and Dr. Rak are delighted to welcome Dr. Jessie Mahoney.
Dr. Jessie Mahoney is a physician, mindfulness coach, yoga teacher, and host of The Mindful Healers podcast. Jessie and I go way back—we worked together for years at Kaiser Permanente, where she led transformative efforts in physician wellness. In fact, she was the catalyst for my own journey into mindfulness, which completely changed my life. Her leadership and wisdom sparked a pivotal moment for me—one that continues to shape my life to this day.
In this conversation, Jessie shares her personal journey of leaving medicine to follow her true calling: empowering others to find alignment and joy through mindfulness, coaching, and yoga. We delve into her courageous decision to transition out of clinical practice, the profound impact of mindfulness on personal and professional well-being, and the ripple effect her work has had on so many lives—including mine.
Jessie offers practical wisdom on overcoming burnout, reframing our relationship with work and purpose, and finding small, meaningful ways to nurture ourselves every day. We also talk about her retreats, her partnership with her husband as they build a new life and business centered on healing and growth, and how yoga can be a gateway to greater awareness and self-compassion.
Jessie’s story reminds us of the transformative power of mindfulness and how small, intentional shifts can ripple out to create meaningful change in our lives. Her work is a testament to the idea that when we align with our purpose and prioritize presence, we heal ourselves and uplift those around us. This episode is filled with practical insights, heartfelt moments, and the wisdom to help you create a truly aligned and fulfilling life.
Live well and RAK ON,Dr. Rak 👊🏽
Takeaways
Take control of your own well-being and make changes within your control.
Align with your purpose and passion to find fulfillment in your career.
Practice mindfulness to manage your mindset and navigate uncertainty.
Accept the reality of the system you work in, but focus on what you can change.
Start with small steps and embrace the unknown when making career transitions. Practicing mindfulness helps balance the nervous system and creates a space for change.
Being kind to oneself and practicing self-compassion is essential for making lasting changes.
Meeting basic needs and nourishing oneself is crucial for successful change.
Personal change can inspire loved ones to make their own changes.
Taking small steps and investing in oneself can help overcome the fear of financial instability when making career changes. Self-care and mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation are essential for healthcare professionals to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Men may face unique challenges in accessing and embracing yoga, but it can be a beneficial practice for them as well.
Creating a life that feels good and nourishing oneself is important in order to better serve others.
Finding a supportive community and seeking out resources like online yoga classes can help individuals incorporate self-care practices into their daily lives.
Timestamps:(00:00) Embracing Mindfulness for Physician Wellness(08:45) Navigating Burnout in Various Professions(18:51) Shifting Mindsets for Personal Empowerment(24:30) Shifting Perspectives for Personal Fulfillment(27:40) Navigating Change With Mindfulness and Compassion(33:09) Nourishing Transformation Through Self-Compassion(45:39) Mindful Career Alignment and Personal Fulfillment(50:19) Embracing Mindful Career Transition(01:01:12) Exploring Yoga for Mind-Body Connection(01:07:11) Healing Practices for Health Professionals(01:19:17) Feasting on Health and Wellness
Links:Dr. Mahoney’s WebsiteThe Mindful Healers Podcast
Follow @thehealthfeast on Instagram and YouTube for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Have a question or comment for Dr. Rak and Po? You can submit them on our website https://www.thehealthfeast.com
- Level up your health journey! Learn how to join a Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
- Elevate your Mondays! Elevate your week with Reflection, Awareness, and Kindness. Subscribe to RAK ON for weekly inspiration: https://rakyourlife.substack.com/about
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Friday Nov 15, 2024
Building a Healthier, More Equitable World with Dr. Seth Berkowitz
Friday Nov 15, 2024
Friday Nov 15, 2024
How do we create a healthcare system that prioritizes wellness, equity, and connection? In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak sits down with Dr. Seth Berkowitz, a leading voice in health equity, to explore the root causes of health disparities and the systemic barriers that perpetuate them. Together, they discuss actionable solutions to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Dr. Berkowitz shares insights from his groundbreaking research on food as medicine, the impact of income inequality on health outcomes, and what we can learn from healthcare systems around the world. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on how we can move beyond illness care and focus on true health care for all. If you're curious about the future of equitable healthcare and practical steps toward creating a healthier society, this episode is a must-listen.
Timestamps:01:01 Introduction to Dr. Seth Berkowitz03:46 Revisiting Medical Training05:06 Health Inequity as a Moral Failure05:50 Defining Health Inequity07:15 Disparities and Injustices in Health08:26 COVID-19 and Health Inequity10:59 Economic Precarity and Health12:31 Advice for Working-Class Individuals13:27 The Role of Healthcare Access20:24 The Egalitarian State24:18 Challenges in Writing and Research29:29 Food as Medicine31:46 Impact of Research on Policy35:03 Current State of Healthcare37:16 Rethinking Health Care: Illness Insurance vs. True Health Care38:07 The Flaws of the Insurance Model in Health Care39:12 Public School Model for Health Care40:29 Universal Health Care: Lessons from New Zealand and Beyond41:15 Comparing Health Care Systems: Public vs. Private43:38 The Case for Universal Health Care in the U.S.44:23 Imagining a Better Health Care System45:18 Addressing Health Care Quality and Equity46:03 The Role of Income Support in Population Health49:35 Social Wealth Funds: A Solution for Income Inequality58:44 The Potential and Challenges of Technological Advancements01:00:12 Practical Steps Towards Health Equity01:01:33 Personal Practices for Health and Well-being01:03:44 Final Thoughts and Life Philosophy
Links:Buy Dr. Berkowitz's book- Equal CareDr. Berkowitz's Website
Follow @thehealthfeast on Instagram and YouTube for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Have a question or comment for Dr. Rak and Po? You can submit them on our website https://www.thehealthfeast.com
- Level up your health journey! Learn how to join a health Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
- Elevate your Mondays! Elevate your week with Reflection, Awareness, and Kindness. Subscribe to RAK ON for weekly inspiration: https://rakyourlife.substack.com/about
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Friday Oct 25, 2024
Rethinking Aging with Scott Fulton, Longevity Expert and Ironman Triathlete
Friday Oct 25, 2024
Friday Oct 25, 2024
Join Dr. Rak and Po as they sit down with longevity expert and Ironman triathlete Scott Fulton, who offers a fresh and inspiring perspective on aging. Together, they explore how we can confront aging challenges early, adopting a proactive stance that contrasts with society’s fear-driven anti-aging narrative. Scott champions the idea of embracing aging as a rewarding phase of life, underscoring the importance of investing in physical, mental, and social well-being—and the vital role curiosity and connection play in a fulfilling life as we grow older.
The discussion also takes a critical look at Western ideologies around aging, contrasting them with communal traditions that view aging as a natural and celebrated process. Reflecting on the impact of industrialization and suburbanization, Dr. Rak, Po, and Scott emphasize the need to rebuild intergenerational support systems by learning from cultures that prioritize strong family bonds and community ties.
The episode concludes with a look at Scott’s concept of "WHealthspan," the name of his book and an approach that integrates health and wealth to redefine successful aging. Scott shares his own story of transformation from a sedentary lifestyle to competing in Ironman races at 47, challenging stereotypes around aging and athleticism. Together, they unpack the importance of career transitions, financial responsibility, and the impact of technology on cognitive health, encouraging listeners to engage in proactive planning and meaningful conversations around aging and end-of-life considerations.Timestamps:
(00:00) - Teaser Clip
(00:29) - Introducing Scott Fulton
(13:04) - Navigating Western Ideologies and Aging
(21:09) - Exploring WHealthspan and Aging Perspectives
(27:09) - Planning for Health and Housing
(42:08) - Rediscovering Endurance Sports and Aging
(48:27) - Endurance Journey and Shifting Goals
(55:16) - Career Transitions and Financial Responsibility
(01:01:12) - Technology, Aging, and Curiosity
(01:14:49) - Preparing for Aging and Care Planning
(01:22:23) - Healing Conversations and Life Values
Online Platforms:Buy Tim’s book- WHealthspanWebsiteLinkedIn
Follow @thehealthfeast on Instagram and YouTube for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Have a question or comment for Dr. Rak and Po? You can submit them on our website https://www.thehealthfeast.com
- Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health coaching Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
- Elevate your Mondays! Elevate your week with Reflection, Awareness, and Kindness. Subscribe to RAK ON for weekly inspiration: https://rakyourlife.substack.com/about
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Thursday Sep 12, 2024
Escaping Death and Embracing Life with Tim Kaufman
Thursday Sep 12, 2024
Thursday Sep 12, 2024
What if your greatest struggle became your greatest strength? In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po engage in a powerful conversation with Tim Kaufman, who shares his remarkable transformation from addiction, chronic pain, and obesity to reclaiming his life through small, purposeful changes. Diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Tim once faced a grim prognosis, but his journey to health started with a single step. The episode explores how Tim overcame addiction, embraced a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle, and how gratitude, purpose, and mindset played pivotal roles in his recovery. This episode is an inspiring deep dive into the process of change, resilience, and the profound connection between our health and the choices we make each day.
Timestamps:
01:20 Dr. Rak's Intro04:40 Just Start: The Power of Small Steps04:56 Introducing Tim: An Inspiring Journey07:21 Tim's Transformation: From Farm Life to Factory Work09:51 The Diagnosis: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome10:35 The Downward Spiral: Addiction and Pain15:33 Rock Bottom: The Turning Point22:16 Finding Gratitude: A New Perspective39:59 The First Steps: Journaling and Small Changes58:55 Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle59:11 The Click Moment: Choosing Health Over Old Habits59:36 Health as an Opportunity, Not a Chore01:00:02 Navigating Food Choices and Environment01:02:03 Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet01:03:09 Struggles and Successes with Plant-Based Eating01:04:17 The Impact of Bariatric Surgery01:07:13 Discovering Plant-Based Living Through Documentaries01:08:43 Juicing: A Life-Changing Experience01:12:15 Family Reactions to Plant-Based Transition01:23:52 The Importance of Goals and Habits01:27:16 Overcoming Physical Challenges01:32:23 Managing Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)01:38:43 The Power of Starting Now01:41:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Online Platforms:Buy Tim’s book! Fat Man RantsFacebook Instagram
Follow @thehealthfeast on Instagram and YouTube for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Have a question or comment for Dr. Rak and Po? You can submit them on our website https://www.thehealthfeast.com
- Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health coaching Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
- Elevate your Mondays! Elevate your week with Reflection, Awareness, and Kindness. Subscribe to RAK ON for weekly inspiration: https://rakyourlife.substack.com/about
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Friday Aug 16, 2024
Debunking Myths and Embracing True Health with Dr. Tom Rifai, MD, FACP
Friday Aug 16, 2024
Friday Aug 16, 2024
In this enlightening episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po are joined by Dr. Tom Rifai, MD, FACP, a pioneering leader in lifestyle medicine and the creator of the Flex5 system. With a refreshing approach to health and wellness, Dr. Rifai shares his journey from overcoming personal struggles with binge eating to becoming a vocal advocate for truth in the wellness industry.
Together, they dive into the myths and misinformation that dominate today's health landscape, offering listeners practical insights on how to navigate these challenges. Dr. Rifai discusses the importance of finding your "why" in health, the transformative power of self-love, and how his Flex5 system empowers individuals to achieve sustainable, long-term well-being.
Whether you're seeking to cut through the noise of fad diets or looking for inspiration on your wellness journey, this episode is packed with actionable advice and powerful insights that will help you embrace true health.
00:48 Dr. Rak's Intro to the Guest05:20 Meet Tom Rifai: A Social Media Truth Teller06:42 The Dangers of Misinformation in Health07:40 Tom Rifai's Journey into Lifestyle Medicine08:49 Early Inspirations and Career Path10:17 Personal Struggles and Family Influences12:26 The Turning Point: Choosing Medicine14:43 The Evolution of Lifestyle Medicine19:06 Balancing Health and Enjoyment22:05 Binge Eating: A Personal Battle34:37 Reverse Discrimination and Healthy Executives34:52 Larry's Non-Negotiable Journey36:28 Respecting Choices and Slips38:11 Compassionate Accountability38:52 Exercise and Non-Exercise Activity39:45 The 5 Percent Fun Zone41:36 Understanding Slips and Corporate Manipulation43:52 The Journey to Maintenance47:14 Bariatric Surgery Insights58:37 Final Thoughts and Self-LoveGuest BioDr. Tom Rifai is a distinguished physician and expert in lifestyle medicine and metabolic health, renowned for his work in wellness, weight management, and disease prevention. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Rifai has helped countless patients reverse or significantly improve conditions like type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, and heart disease through his "lifestyle first" approach.
He has served as the Regional Medical Director of Metabolic Health and Weight Management at the Henry Ford Health System, where he led efforts to standardize and integrate multidisciplinary care based on his Reality Meets Science® program. This program, centered on the 5 Keys to optimal wellness, has been instrumental in transforming the lives of many.
Dr. Rifai is also a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Wayne State University and a Harvard Medical School Continuing Medical Education (CME) course director, where he has educated thousands of healthcare providers on the prevention of type 2 diabetes. His contributions to the field have earned him the title of Fellow of the American College of Physicians.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Rifai is a passionate educator, public speaker, and media contributor, with appearances on TV, radio, and in print. His personal journey, including overcoming challenges with binge eating, adds a layer of empathy and insight to his coaching and patient care, making him a trusted expert and a relatable mentor in the pursuit of health and wellness.Online Platforms:Website: https://realitymeetsscience.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flex5/Follow @thehealthfeast on IG and YT for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
The Secrets to Living Young and Loving Life with Bob and Fran German
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
Sunday Jul 28, 2024
Discover the secrets to living a fulfilling life full of vitality with Bob and Fran German, a remarkable couple in their 80s who have redefined healthy aging. In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po dive into Bob and Fran's inspiring journey from battling chronic illnesses to achieving vibrant health through a holistic lifestyle. They discuss how a plant-based diet, mindfulness practices, and staying active have transformed their lives. Bob and Fran also share their experiences teaching Tai Chi and Qigong, volunteering, and fighting human trafficking. Gain practical tips, heartwarming stories, and insights into the essence of true vitality and joyful living at any age.
Guest BioBob and Fran German are an inspiring couple in their 80s, living life with extraordinary vitality and joy. They have traveled to over 75 countries, raised a wonderful family of three children and four grandchildren, and enjoyed successful careers. Their journey has been marked by their roles as human rights activists, martial artists, mediators, negotiators, students and teachers in the Buddhist tradition, public speakers, and international volunteers. They continue to serve as advisers to various non-profit organizations and businesses globally.
Bob and Fran have faced and overcome significant health challenges, transforming their lives through a commitment to holistic well-being. They strongly believe that aging does not have to mean declining health. Instead, they advocate for being proactive about health through research, alternative methods, and lifestyle changes. This approach has enabled them to stay young in mind, body, heart, and spirit.
Their passion for helping others has driven them to share their knowledge and experiences, aiming to inspire and support others in leading healthier and happier lives. They emphasize the importance of living with purpose, staying active, reducing stress, and maintaining meaningful connections.
Through their website and YouTube channel, Bob and Fran continue to educate and motivate people around the world to embrace a vibrant and balanced lifestyle.Online Platforms:Website: Health Lifestyle With Bob and FranYouTube ChannelNon profit: ACT (Abolish Child Trafficking)Follow @thehealthfeast on IG and YT for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
Sunday Jul 07, 2024
Unleash Your Inner Joy with Charles Inniss, Mental Wellness Coach
Sunday Jul 07, 2024
Sunday Jul 07, 2024
Join Dr. Rak and Po on The Health Feast as they welcome Charles Inniss, a certified health and wellness coach with a doctorate in physical therapy from Boston University, for one of their most insightful and impactful episodes yet. Charles delves into the power of mindset and shares practical tips and daily mental workouts to foster optimism and transform stress into joy. The conversation explores finding meaning in work, enhancing self-awareness, and building resilience through gratitude and self-compassion. Packed with actionable advice and personal anecdotes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to live a more fulfilling and joyful life. Takeaways
The timing and readiness for positive change are crucial, and individuals may need to acknowledge and sit with their emotions before moving toward growth.
Self-compassion and self-appreciation play a significant role in mental wellness and personal growth.
Gratitude and focusing on the positive aspects of life can elevate well-being and decrease symptoms of depression.
The concept of post-traumatic growth highlights the potential for growth and positive change following trauma.
Rehabilitating the mind through self-care, self-compassion, and seeking support is essential during challenging times. Small, consistent doses of positivity are essential for cultivating emotional well-being.
Self-awareness plays a crucial role in understanding and improving emotional wellness.
The ripple effect of positive influence can have a significant impact on behavior change and emotional well-being.
Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for enhancing emotional wellness and mindset. Cultivating optimism and positivity is crucial for emotional wellness.
Finding meaning in work can transform the experience of a challenging job.
Shifting from threat to challenge and hassle to uplift can change the experience of stress at work.
A short daily optimism workout can transform mental and emotional health.
Service and compassion can be meaningful aspects of challenging jobs, contributing to a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Online Platforms:Website: CharlesInniss.com
Free Ebook: A Happy Mind
YouTube Channel: Charles Inniss
Follow @thehealthfeast on IG and YT for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
- Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health coaching Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.comDisclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
Plant-Based Power to the People with Jill and Jeffrey Dalton
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
Dr. Rak and Po are thrilled to welcome Jill and Jeffrey Dalton from The Whole Food Plant-Based Cooking Show. With nearly 400,000 YouTube subscribers and two bestselling cookbooks, the Daltons have been transforming kitchens and lives for nine years with their delicious plant-based recipes. In this episode, they share their journey from facing significant health challenges to embracing a whole-food, plant-based diet. They discuss their adventurous move to New Zealand, their dietary experiments, and the pivotal moment they discovered Dr. Fuhrman's "Eat to Live." The Daltons offer practical tips for making plant-based eating accessible and enjoyable, emphasizing the importance of involving kids in cooking. They also explore how their Bahá'í faith influences their commitment to service, community, and integrity. This inspiring conversation is packed with heartfelt stories and practical advice, perfect for anyone looking to embrace a healthier, plant-based lifestyle.
Takeaways
The food industry manipulates our taste buds and creates addictive foods.
Transitioning to a healthier way of eating requires a gradual change and allowing our bodies to adapt.
Understanding the influence of marketing can help us make more informed food choices. Transitioning to a plant-based diet can help liberate individuals from food addiction and improve their health.
Finding delicious and easy-to-make plant-based recipes is key to sustaining a plant-based lifestyle.
Being plant-based has a positive impact on the environment, addressing climate change and reducing carbon emissions.
A plant-based diet also addresses food injustice and animal cruelty.
Starting a YouTube channel can be challenging, but consistency and perseverance can lead to success.
Creating a community and offering additional content through a membership program can provide financial support and a closer connection with the audience.
Maintaining integrity and only promoting products or services that align with your values is important for building trust with the audience.
Direct communication with the audience can be valuable in building a loyal and engaged community. Moderating a community can be challenging and time-consuming
Batch cooking and combining staple ingredients throughout the week can make meal preparation easier
Involving kids in the cooking process can empower them and help them develop culinary skills
The Ninja Creami is a game-changer for making healthy and creamy ice cream
Simplicity is key in creating plant-based recipes that are accessible and easy to make.
Service is a way of life
Online Platforms:Whole Food Plant Based Cooking Show Website Whole Food Plant Based Cooking Show on YouTube
Follow @thehealthfeast on IG and YT for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
- Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health coaching Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots are available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
- Elevate your Mondays! Elevate your week with Reflection, Awareness, and Kindness. Subscribe to RAK ON for weekly inspiration: https://rakyourlife.substack.com/about
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Sunday Jun 09, 2024
James Wilks is on a Mission to Change the World
Sunday Jun 09, 2024
Sunday Jun 09, 2024
In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak welcomes James Wilks, former MMA fighter, elite Special Forces trainer, and the mastermind behind the groundbreaking documentary The Game Changers. James shares his incredible journey from overcoming severe knee injuries to revolutionizing the conversation around plant-based nutrition. The film, viewed by over 200 million people, challenges longstanding myths about meat and athletic performance, showcasing the powerful benefits of plant-based eating. In their conversation, Dr. Rak and James delve into the making of the documentary, the challenges faced, and the impact it has had on public perception. They also discuss the exciting sequel, The Game Changers 2, and James's ongoing mission to combat misinformation in the nutrition industry.
James also shares the vision and mission of his innovative plant-based protein company, FȲTA. Listeners of the podcast can save 10% using offer code HF10 at checkout. Visit https://fyta.com/discount/HF10
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in health, fitness, and the transformative power of a plant-based diet. Timestamps:
[00:52] - Dr. Rak’s Introduction to James Wilks [07:28] - Unexpected Impact [09:09] - Early Filming and Journey to Make the Film [18:51] - Maintaining Control and Mission Integrity [21:02] - Addressing Critics and Misinformation [22:52] - Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet [26:21] - The Mission of The Game Changers Institute [28:39] - Vision for The Game Changers 2 [31:02] - Thoughts on the Carnivore Diet [35:11] - Introducing FȲTA Plant-Based Protein [36:59] - Benefits and Features of FȲTA [42:14] - Battling Misinformation [44:29] - What James is Bringing to The Health Feast [47:29] - A Day in the Life of James Wilks Guest Bio: James Wilks is a film producer, vegan activist, and former professional mixed martial artist. He is best known for directing and starring in The Game Changers, a documentary that has been seen by over 200 million people and is arguably the most-watched documentary of all time. According to Google Trends, interest in plant-based diets tripled within a week of the movie being released on Netflix. As an MMA fighter, James made his professional debut in the UFC in 2009 and was crowned welterweight champion. Extensive injuries eventually caught up with him, and he retired from professional MMA in 2012. Setting off on a path of physical recovery, James researched how diet might help him train faster and better. He came across a study on the original Roman gladiators and found their diets were predominantly vegetarian. This sparked his decision to follow a plant-based diet himself. The Game Changers followed James through his recovery and adoption of a vegan diet. James experienced huge benefits, including increased physical stamina and improved health markers. In the documentary, James discussed his findings with other elite athletes who follow plant-based diets, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lewis Hamilton, and Dotsie Bausch. The show also looked at the potential environmental benefits of decreased meat consumption. In November 2019, Joe Rogan addressed the documentary on his podcast with paleolithic diet proponent Chris Kresser. Both harshly criticized it. A month later, Rogan invited James on his show alongside Kresser to debate the topic. The resulting four-hour discussion caused Rogan to change some of his own views. “James knocked it out of the park and defended himself and the film quite spectacularly,” Rogan said.
James is also the founder of FȲTA, an innovative plant-based protein company that uses whole ground lupin bean and upcycled barley protein to deliver best-in-class nutrition.
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Level up your health journey! Learn how to work with Dr. Rak 1:1 or join a health coaching Tribe for a transformative health journey. Limited spots available! Visit us at https://www.rakyourlife.com
Follow @thehealthfeast on IG and YT for more. The Health Feast is available wherever you get podcasts and at thehealthfeast.com.
Disclaimer: The Health Feast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. As with any changes affecting your health, we recommend and encourage you to consult your medical doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals before making lifestyle changes. The opinions expressed are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our employers.
Sunday May 26, 2024
Sunday May 26, 2024
In this episode of The Health Feast podcast, Dr. Rak welcomes Jordana Confino, a Yale Law School graduate, certified professional coach, and expert in positive psychology and well-being. Jordana shares her compelling journey from experiencing severe burnout in her legal career to transforming her life through self-compassion and positive psychology. The conversation delves into the impact of perfectionism on mental and physical health, and Jordana offers practical strategies for overcoming it. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with daily actions and how small, actionable steps can lead to significant changes in overall well-being. Additionally, Jordana discusses the link between perfectionism and chronic pain, offering insights into mind-body medicine and how positive psychology principles can address physical health issues. Join Dr. Rak for a deep dive into how self-compassion can lead to lasting success and well-being and discover transformative insights that can help you thrive both personally and professionally.
Timestamps:
01:23 Dr. Rak’s Intro to the Episode
04:56 Exploring Moral Injury in Healthcare and Beyond
06:28 The Universal Struggle of High Achievers Across Industries
07:39 The Journey from Law School to Recognizing a Misaligned Dream
11:20 Unpacking the Roots of Perfectionism and Its Impact
19:53 The Transformational Power of Self-Compassion
25:19 Harnessing Self-Compassion for Personal and Professional Growth
42:45 Redefining Success: From Obsessive to Harmonious Passion
45:57 Unlocking Performance with Positive Psychology
47:32 Navigating the Demands of Law Careers: Strategies for New Attorneys
49:14 The Power of Self-Compassion and Boundaries in High-Pressure Jobs
53:05 Exploring Alternatives and Aligning Values in Your Career
59:08 The Link Between Perfectionism and Physical Health
01:01:24 Embracing Small Changes for Big Impact
01:08:49 Cultivating Connection and Gratitude in the Workplace
01:19:22 Self-Care as a Foundation for Helping Others
01:21:48 Bringing Self-Compassion to the Health Feast
Online Platforms:JC Coaching and ConsultingJordana’s Blog: Chronicles of a Recovering Type A+ PerfectionistConnect with Jordana on LinkedIn
Guest BioJordana is a certified professional coach, speaker, and advisor. She is valued for her expertise in positive psychology and well-being and her unparalleled ability to connect with and inspire everyone she meets.
Seven years after graduating from Yale Law School, Jordana founded JC Coaching & Consulting to empower lawyers and other high-achieving professionals to transform their lives and work for the better.
Having spent the bulk of her career working as a lawyer and in legal education at elite institutions, Jordana knows that many high-achieving, successful people hold limiting beliefs that prevent them from truly flourishing. For many years, she was one of them. Jordana transformed her life by leveraging the science of positive psychology and human motivation theory, and she is passionate about helping others do the same.
Jordana is an Adjunct Professor at Fordham Law School, where she previously served as the inaugural Assistant Dean of Professionalism. She teaches a course on Positive Lawyering, which educates students on harnessing positive psychology's insights and science-backed strategies to reach their highest potential and build meaningful, satisfying legal careers. She also teaches Peer Mentoring & Leadership, a one-of-a-kind course designed to equip mentors with the tools and training they need to optimally support their mentees and emerge as leaders in the profession.
Jordana was voted Fordham Law Adjunct Professor of the Year in 2021.
Education
Yale Law School, JD
Yale University, BA, Psychology
NY Open Center, Certification in Applied Positive Psychology
iPEC Coaching, CPC, CLDS, CTDS
Int’l Coaching Federation, ACC
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