Episodes

  • In this episode of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast, hosts John Thomas (BodybuildingVegan) and Brooke Sellers (Miss Meatless Muscle) chat with vegan bodybuilder Ben Mitchell. Ben shares his journey into vegan bodybuilding, discussing his recent competitions, including his third show last weekend and upcoming shows with the Plant Built team at the Mr. America competition in October and the WNBF World Championships in Boston in November. He explains his decision to self-coach and emphasizes the importance of firsthand experience in providing better guidance to his clients. The conversation also touches on common misconceptions about vegan bodybuilding and the mental and physical challenges of prepping for multiple shows.

    Ben highlights the significance of enjoying the journey rather than focusing solely on placings. He reflects on the importance of personal goals and how having a friend at his recent competition boosted his confidence. John shares a personal win, getting a tattoo to commemorate his father's memory and remind himself to "stop and smell the roses." Brooke talks about a recent social media post featuring her dog that received a comment from actor Dave Bautista. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about childhood grounding stories, revealing a fun and relatable side of the hosts and their guests.

  • In Season 2, Episode 7 of the "Vegans Who Lift Podcast," hosts Brooke Sellers (Miss Meatless Muscle) and John Thomas (Bodybuilding Vegan) dive into their personal experiences and achievements, starting with light-hearted anecdotes about their recognition at vegan events. They celebrate the successful launch of the Vegans Who Lift Coaching Academy, reflecting on the supportive community formed among participants. Both hosts share personal wins, with Brooke highlighting the perspective she gained from teaching Academy students and John discussing his excitement for organizing a major vegan event in Miami. Their conversation also touches on their current training regimens, emphasizing the benefits of increased recovery time and focused muscle engagement.

    The episode delves into content creation strategies, with Brooke sharing her recent shift to posting recipes and dog content to boost engagement. John explores his internal conflict about continuing competitive bodybuilding, weighing the significant sacrifices against his broader goals of activism and community impact. They highlight the importance of building meaningful relationships within the vegan and fitness communities and encourage listeners to join their upcoming Coaching Academy. The episode concludes with a promise to discuss the sacrifices involved in bodybuilding and their future plans, inviting listeners to engage with the podcast's online content.

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  • In the latest episode of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast, hosts John Thomas, aka The Bodybuilding Vegan, and Brooke Sellers, aka Miss Meatless Muscle, welcome a special guest, Greta, an OCB figure competitor who recently turned pro. They dive into Greta's journey as a vegan bodybuilder, discussing her experiences and challenges during prep, the transition from swimming to lifting, and her impressive progress over the last four years. The episode highlights the importance of mindset, posing, and the unexpected difficulties of prep, such as dealing with heavy legs during simple tasks like walking to class.

    Throughout the conversation, the hosts and Greta share personal anecdotes, from John’s stolen meal prep saga to Greta’s unique approach to learning Spanish through her phone settings. The discussion also touches on the significance of stage presence and the impact of confidence in competitions. As they explore Greta's future plans in bodybuilding, including a 9-12 month bulking phase and potential pro shows, the episode underscores the dedication and discipline required to succeed in the sport while balancing college and work commitments. This engaging and informative episode provides a glimpse into the life of a vegan bodybuilder and the supportive community of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast.

  • In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Brooke Sellers and John Thomas are joined by Kaitlin, known as Buff Vegan Barbie, an NPC bikini competitor, coach, and mother. Together, they delve into Kaitlin's journey through the challenges of balancing motherhood, competitive bodybuilding, and a vegan lifestyle in less-than-supportive environments.

  • In Season 2, Episode 4 of the "Vegans Who Lift Podcast," hosts Brooke Sellers (Miss Meatless Muscle) and John Thomas (the BodybuildingVegan) share their top 10 fitness tips, emphasizing the importance of starting your fitness journey, progressive overload, and maintaining a sustainable routine. They discuss the benefits of adding salt to your diet, establishing a morning routine, and the necessity of pushing yourself harder in workouts. The hosts also address the significance of calorie and protein intake over merely eating clean and the impact of choosing nutrient-rich foods. Personal anecdotes highlight their fitness challenges and successes, including Brooke's new email newsletter and John's recent personal records in the gym. The episode concludes with discussing the societal expectations of having children, affirming that opting out is valid, and encouraging listeners to join their Vegans Who Lift Coaching Academy for comprehensive support.

  • In this refreshing episode of "Vegans Who Lift," hosts John Thomas and Brooke Sellers welcome Nick Squire, a celebrated vegan powerlifter known as Meaty McScorely. Nick shares his compelling journey from transitioning to a vegan lifestyle to setting records in the powerlifting world. He delves into how veganism has enhanced his athletic performance and resilience, particularly highlighting his recovery from injuries and approach to maintaining peak physical condition. Nick's story is not just about sports; it's a testament to the power of plant-based eating in achieving extraordinary physical feats.

    Throughout the episode, the trio explores the interplay between veganism and traditional perceptions of strength and masculinity. Nick discusses the misconceptions he faces as a tattooed, bearded vegan in the athletic community and how he uses his platform to advocate for veganism. The discussion also touches on his role as a father, promoting a vegan lifestyle to his daughter, and the broader implications of raising the next generation on plant-based diets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the synergy between high-level athleticism and a vegan lifestyle, offering valuable insights and inspiration for all.

  • This episode of the "Vegans Who Lift" podcast on the Vegans Explore Network provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of leaving traditional employment for entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the critical role of mindset and self-belief in achieving personal and professional success.

    Introduction:

    John and Brooke introduce the episode’s theme: transitioning from a traditional 9-to-5 job to starting your own business, framed as moving to a "9-to-9" entrepreneurship lifestyle.

    Discussion Topics:

    Mindset for Success: The hosts discuss the importance of mindset in taking risks and believing in oneself when leaving a steady job to pursue personal business ventures.Practical Steps: They share their personal experiences and practical steps for starting a business, managing time, and handling the psychological stresses of entrepreneurship.Overcoming Challenges: Brooke talks about her struggles with health issues that impacted her physical fitness goals and how she adjusted her lifestyle and mindset to overcome these challenges.Personal Wins: Both hosts share their recent personal victories. Brooke details her unexpected weight loss after overcoming health hurdles, and John discusses implementing work-life balance techniques.

    Listener Interaction:

    The hosts encourage listener participation through questions and share how they connect with their audience.

    Concluding Thoughts:

    The episode wraps up with reflections on personal growth, the importance of health, and maintaining balance while pursuing ambitious goals.
  • In this episode of the "Vegans Who Lift" podcast, hosts Brooke Sellers and John Thomas welcome back listeners to Season 2. They start with an exciting guest, Giacomo Marchese, also known as Muscles by Brussels. Giacomo shares the backstory of his intriguing nickname, initially coined by his wife, Danny.

    The episode primarily focuses on sharing 'wins of the week' among the hosts and guests, discussing their business successes, client achievements, and personal victories. Giacomo discusses expanding their coaching business and shares stories about overcoming physical limitations through vegan bodybuilding.

    Additionally, the episode delves into the broader vegan bodybuilding community, highlighting various athletes' journeys and the impact of a plant-based diet on their performance and recovery. There is also a lively discussion about the potential influence of celebrities adopting a vegan lifestyle.

    The episode is packed with motivational stories, practical coaching advice, and insights into the benefits and challenges of vegan bodybuilding, aiming to inspire listeners and promote the vegan lifestyle in the fitness community.

  • In the season finale of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast, John Thomas, the BodybuildingVegan, and Brooke Sellers, Miss Meatless Muscle, are joined by Vegans Explore founder and Vegans Who Lift producer Sean Russell. They discuss how the podcast was formed, how they all met, the importance of knowing your Vegan Why, and a long list of topics designed to uplift and inspire you.

  • Brooke Sellers Miss Meatless Muscle and John Thomas The BodybuildingVegan continue their second round of Q&A where they cover various topics ranging from Fitness, bodybuilding, coaching, relationships, business, and more. As always, this episode is valuable, so listen until the end. Be sure to leave a review on your favorite podcast provider and share this episode with someone to help us continue to grow the show.

  • Natalie Matthews joins hosts John Thomas The BodybuildingVegan and Brooke Sellers Miss Meatless Muscle on the Vegans Who Lift Podcast.

    Natalie Matthews was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, and she has always shown an interest in living a healthy and active lifestyle. She began surfing competitively at a professional level at the age of sixteen. Professional surfing required a level of athleticism and commitment that sparked his interest in living a healthier lifestyle. Her athletic pursuits, combined with other life-altering events, inspired her to become a compassionate, cruelty-free vegan known to the world as Fit Vegan Chef.

  • Brooke Sellers Miss Meatless Muscle and John Thomas The BodybuildingVegan devote the entire episode to answering listener questions. This episode is jam-packed with value and covers a wide range of topics. Be sure to visit VegansExplore.com to leave your questions to be featured on future Vegans Who Lift Podcast episodes.

  • In this episode, Brooke Sellers Miss Meatless Muscle, and John Thomas The BodybuildingVegan take a deep dive into coaching. They share advice on being both a coach and client and break down the fundamentals of excelling at both. They also share some exciting news about the Vegans Who Lift Coaching Academy.

  • In this emotionally charged and thought-provoking episode of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast, hosts Brooke Sellers and John Thomas delve into the complex and often challenging world of relationships. They engage in a deep and meaningful conversation, exploring the intricacies of breakups and the harrowing reality of abusive relationships, among other related topics. Their candid discussion aims to shed light on these sensitive issues, offering insights and perspectives that resonate with listeners navigating similar experiences.

  • Dani Taylor, co-founder of Vegan Proteins and a prominent figure in Team Plantbuilt, graces the Vegans Who Lift Podcast, hosted by John Thomas, known as The Bodybuilding Vegan, and Brooke Sellers, recognized as Miss Meatless Muscle. In this engaging episode, the trio delves into a variety of topics pertinent to the vegan lifestyle. They explore the nuances of raising children on a vegan diet, offering practical advice and insights for parents. The conversation also navigates the complexities of maintaining relationships while adhering to vegan principles, providing listeners with strategies for balancing personal beliefs with social dynamics. This episode is rich in content, offering valuable guidance and support for individuals at any stage of their vegan journey, making it a must-listen for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the vegan lifestyle.

  • In this exciting episode, we're thrilled to welcome Brent Hagood from the renowned nonprofit, One to Save Many. He joins our vibrant hosts, John Thomas, affectionately known as the Bodybuilding Vegan, and Brooke Sellers, famed as Miss Meatless Muscle. Together, they delve into the heartwarming topic of giving back to charities and the remarkable impact that One to Save Many has on animal sanctuaries nationwide. But that's not all! Get ready to be inspired as our hosts share their personal journeys and reveal the captivating story of how Brent played a pivotal role in their transformation into the dynamic duo we all admire today.

  • Join John Thomas, The Bodybuilding Vegan, and Brooke Sellers, Miss Meatless Muscle, as they tackle and debunk 20 of the most pervasive fitness myths in the latest episode of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast. Dive into a discussion that challenges common misconceptions and sheds light on the truth behind effective fitness and nutrition.

    Episode Highlights:

    Wins of the Week: Celebrate recent successes in the vegan fitness community.Game: Engage in a fun, fitness-related challenge.Caffeine Conversation: Explore the role of caffeine in fitness and health.

    20 Biggest Fitness Myths Debunked:

    Sweating More Burns More Calories: Uncover the truth about sweat and calorie burn.Waist Trainers Will Make Your Waist Small: Find out if waist trainers really work.Muscle Confusion: Is changing your workouts necessary for muscle growth?Ab Workouts Burn Belly Fat: Discover the reality of spot reduction.Fat Turns into Muscle: Learn the difference between fat loss and muscle gain.Carbs Are Evil: Reevaluate the role of carbohydrates in your diet.Lifting Heavier Weights Makes You Bulky: Understand the impact of weightlifting on body composition.Soreness Equals Effectiveness: Does feeling sore after a workout mean it was successful?Eating Fat Makes You Fat: Debunking the myth about dietary fat.Protein Hurts Your Kidneys: Explore the relationship between protein intake and kidney health.Steroids Are Magic Pills: The truth about steroids and their effects.More Training Is Better: Discussing the importance of rest and recovery.Squats Are Bad for Your Knees: Addressing the misconceptions about squats.Salt Is Bad for You: Revisiting the role of salt in your diet.Stretching Before a Workout: Is pre-workout stretching beneficial?Starting with SBD for Beginners: Should beginners start with squats, bench press, and deadlifts?Cutting Water Before Bodybuilding Shows: Unveiling the risks and realities.Getting Enough Vitamin D3 from the Sun: Examining the adequacy of sun exposure for vitamin D3.Melatonin for Sleep: Assessing the effectiveness of melatonin in different doses.Stair Master Builds Legs: Evaluating the effectiveness of the stair master for leg development.Bonus Myth: No Carbs After 8 PM: Debunking the myth about nighttime carb consumption.

    Tune in to the Vegans Who Lift Podcast for an enlightening and myth-busting episode that will empower your fitness journey with knowledge and truth.

  • Robert Cheeke, the Godfather of Vegan Bodybuilding joins John Thomas and Brooke Sellers on the Vegans Who Lift Podcast. Robert Cheeke gets candid about his Vegan and professional journey and shares some of his challenges as a pioneer in this industry. As the episode title implies, we tackle some important issues. 

    Robert Cheeke is a prominent figure in the vegan fitness community, renowned author, and influential speaker. Born in Corvallis, Oregon, Cheeke transformed his passion for plant-based nutrition into a thriving career. His journey from a small-town basketball player to a celebrated vegan bodybuilder inspired millions worldwide. Cheeke's commitment to ethical living and physical excellence is evident in his bestselling books like "Vegan Bodybuilding & Fitness" and "Shred It!" as well as his motivational speeches. He continues to advocate for compassionate living, health, and environmental sustainability through his work as an athlete, entrepreneur, and activist.

  • Listen to the latest episode of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast with John Thomas and Brooke Sellers where they get real about Bodybuilding.

    Topics discussed:

    Wins for the weekIdentification GameWhat to expect when competing Vegan and otherwiseFinancing expectationsTime commitmentSetting realistic expectationsIs bodybuilding a sport?Potential health complications for men and womenPerformance-enhancing drugs (PEDs)Post-show blues
  • In the first official episode of the Vegans Who Lift Podcast, hosts Brooke Sellers (Miss Meatless Muscle) and John Thomas (The Bodybuilding Vegan) take a deep and real look at Veganism and share tips that have helped them thrive.

    Topics Discussed:

    What is Veganuary?Vegan vs Plant-basedMaking a differenceMaking mistakesSay Grace is sending Vegan protein overseasProtein Intake20% off meal plan, shirt, or hat from One to Save ManyPlant-based as a marketing strategy Nutrition Label