#22 - Can Soy Help with Hot Flashes? Dr. Neal Barnard Explains the Science
In this evidence-packed episode of Thrive on Plants, Dr. Daphne Bascom sits down with Dr. Neal Barnard, renowned researcher, author, and founder of the Barnard Medical Center, to explore how simple dietary changes can dramatically reduce menopause symptoms.Dr. Barnard shares the origin story behind one of his most impactful studies, inspired by a single woman’s dramatic improvement through three key lifestyle strategies:A fully plant-based (vegan) dietMinimizing added oilsEating half a cup of cooked soybeans dailyTogether, they explore:The science behind hormonal health through foodWhy isoflavones in soy are effective and what makes whole soybeans superior to other soy productsHow and why women may respond differently to dietary changesThe role of consistency and adherence in achieving symptom reliefWhether you are navigating menopause, supporting others through it, or simply interested in using food as medicine, this conversation is filled with science-backed insights and practical tips to support long-term health and vitality.If you loved this episode, please leave a review! Here’s how to do it on Apple Podcasts:Go to Inside Out Health Podcast page: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-on-plants/id1793550910Scroll down to the ‘Ratings & Reviews’ section. Tap ‘Write a Review’ (you may be prompted to log in with your Apple ID). Thank you!
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#21 - Struggling to Stay Consistent? Try This 3-Step System
These three simple words hold the key to creating real, lasting transformation, and in this solo episode of Thrive on Plants, we're diving deep into what they really mean.Whether you're just starting a health journey, struggling to stay consistent with your habits, or ready to level up your mindset, this episode offers a realistic, empowering framework for growth that works with your life, not against it.In this episode, you'll discover:• Why commitment is the spark that ignites transformation• How to improve with small, consistent steps (instead of chasing perfection)• The secret to maintaining habits, even when motivation fades• How to bounce back from setbacks without losing momentum• Real-life examples and personal stories to inspire your own journeyThis isn’t about overnight success or all-or-nothing thinking. It’s about showing up, one step at a time, with clarity, patience, and compassion.Action steps are included throughout to help you apply the Commit–Improve–Maintain model in your own life right away.What resonated most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media, I’d love to hear what you’re committing to today!🌱 Access the free Plant-Powered Body course: https://plantpoweredbody.thevegangym.com🌱 Join our free Thrive on Plants community: http://thriveonplantslife.com/🌱 Take the free health assessment for women 40+: https://www.mymenoscore.com/startIf you loved this episode, please leave a review! Here’s how to do it on Apple Podcasts:Go to Inside Out Health Podcast page: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-on-plants/id1793550910Scroll down to the ‘Ratings & Reviews’ section. Tap ‘Write a Review’ (you may be prompted to log in with your Apple ID). Thank you!
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#20 - Redefining Resilience: Laura's Journey Through Healing
This week on Thrive on Plants, host Dr. Daphne Bascom sits down with nurse practitioner, Gulf War veteran, and lifestyle medicine advocate Laura Valero for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation.Laura’s path has taken her from Air Force intelligence and pandemic planning at the FAA to rural clinics and Spanish-language health equity initiatives. But beneath that remarkable résumé is a woman who’s lived with invisible illness, fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, and ADHD, while raising a family, caring for aging parents, and helping underserved communities thrive.In this episode, Laura shares:• Her transition from omnivore to plant-based healer• How military exposure led to chronic illness and the road to diagnosis• Why fibromyalgia and ADHD are so often overlooked in women• Her honest reflections on menopause, medication stigma, and learning to rest• Strategies for improving rural healthcare and culturally relevant support for the Hispanic communityLaura doesn’t just talk about resilience, she lives it. Whether you’re a veteran, a healthcare provider, or navigating your own chronic health journey, this conversation will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to take empowered steps toward healing.Contact Laura Valero:Office Visits: https://plantbaseddocs.com/places/united-states/virginia/culpeper/family-nurse-practitioner/laura-valero-msn-aprn-fnp-c/PCRM Find a Doctor: https://www.pcrm.org/findadoctor/laura-valero-npLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauravalerofnp/🌱 Access the free Plant-Powered Body course: https://plantpoweredbody.thevegangym.com/🌱 Join our free Thrive on Plants community: http://thriveonplantslife.com/🌱 Take the free health assessment for women 40+: https://www.mymenoscore.com/startIf you loved this episode, please leave a review! Here’s how to do it on Apple Podcasts:Go to Inside Out Health Podcast page: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-on-plants/id1793550910Scroll down to the ‘Ratings & Reviews’ section. Tap ‘Write a Review’ (you may be prompted to log in with your Apple ID). Thank you!
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#19 - Stronger with Every Step: How Rucking & Weighted Vests Transform Your Fitness
Ever wondered how simply adding weight to your walk could transform your health? In this episode of the Thrive on Plants Podcast, Dr. Daphne Bascom unpacks the power of rucking and weighted vest training, two simple but science-backed strategies to build muscle, protect bone density, and boost metabolic health.You’ll learn:• What rucking really is (hint: it’s more than walking with a backpack)• How a weighted vest turns everyday movement into a strength builder• Why these practices are low-impact but high-benefit, especially for aging strong• How to start safely and progressivelyPlus, the bonus twist: plucking, a mindful, eco-friendly way to give back while you get fitIf you’re looking to age powerfully, move with purpose, and deepen your connection to the planet, this episode is your starting point.What is Rucking?:https://www.goruck.com/pages/what-is-rucking?srsltid=AfmBOoqhBMn7cdzIgRiDX9FH0Eh1GGXGh1J7UDpE8_gWKAcSJSvLvXlgRucking: The Ultimate Guide: https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/rucking-the-ultimate-guide-to-this-exercise-trendWeighted Vests: https://garagegymrevisited.com/best-weighted-vests/Best Weighted Vests for Women: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/g29641621/best-weighted-vest/🌱 Access the free Plant-Powered Body course: https://plantpoweredbody.thevegangym.com/🌱 Join our free Thrive on Plants community: http://thriveonplantslife.com/🌱 Take the free health assessment for women 40+: https://www.mymenoscore.com/startIf you loved this episode, please leave a review! Here’s how to do it on Apple Podcasts:Go to Inside Out Health Podcast page: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-on-plants/id1793550910Scroll down to the ‘Ratings & Reviews’ section. Tap ‘Write a Review’ (you may be prompted to log in with your Apple ID). Thank you!
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#18 - Your Misogi Awaits: Embrace Discomfort, Redefine Possible
In this solo episode of Thrive on Plants, Dr. Daphne Bascom invites you to lean into the edge of fear, discomfort, and growth. Inspired by the powerful concepts of Misogi and Colin O’Brady’s 12-hour walk, Daphne explores what it means to take on a challenge so bold that it redefines your sense of what’s possible. She shares moving stories from the 2025 Momentum Retreat in Zion, moments of cold plunges, rappelling cliffs, and emotional breakthroughs — and unpacks the deeper truths behind resilience, fear, and self-belief.You’ll learn why perfectionism is not protection but a prison, and how embracing vulnerability and imperfection can unlock real transformation. Whether you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or ready for your next level, this episode is your invitation to dare greatly, rewrite limiting beliefs, and commit to lifelong growth.Why? Because you are not finished, and your next breakthrough might be just one brave step away.🌱 Join our free Thrive on Plants community: http://thriveonplantslife.com/🌱 Take the free health assessment for women 40+: https://www.mymenoscore.com/start🌱 Access the free Plant-Powered Body course: https://plantpoweredbody.thevegangym.com/If you loved this episode, please leave a review! Here’s how to do it on Apple Podcasts:Go to Inside Out Health Podcast page: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-on-plants/id1793550910Scroll down to the ‘Ratings & Reviews’ section. Tap ‘Write a Review’ (you may be prompted to log in with your Apple ID). Thank you!
The Thrive on Plants podcast, hosted by Dr. Daphne, empowers women to navigate menopause and midlife with confidence through expert insights on plant-based nutrition, weight loss, hormones, and mindset. Each episode blends education, inspiration, and real-life success stories to help listeners thrive on a plant-based lifestyle.https://www.youtube.com/@drdaphnebascom