The Health Feast - podcast cover

The Health Feast

The Health Feast is a podcast about making good health feel joyous, communal, and abundant—like a feast. Hosted by Dr. Rak (short for Rakesh Jotwani), a board-certified internist and Lifestyle Medicine physician, the show dives deep into what truly supports well-being in real life. Each episode, Dr. Rak talks with physicians, chefs, athletes, artists, and changemakers who are redefining what it means to be healthy—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Conversations are rooted in science, but never lose sight of heart, culture, and lived experience. Whether you’re working to reverse chronic disease, reconnect with purpose, or simply show up for your life with more energy, The Health Feast offers practical tools, fresh perspectives, and stories that nourish. New episodes weekly. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Live well and RAK ON.
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Episodes

Living With Intention and Building Plant-Based Muscle After 50 with Dr. Rich Rosenfeld

What if your best body, clearest mind, and strongest sense of purpose were still ahead of you? That’s the question I explore in this episode with Richard Rosenfeld, MD, MPH, MBA. He’s a board-certified ENT, Director of Guidelines and Quality at the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, and one of the most published ENT researchers in the world—with nearly 400 peer-reviewed articles to his name. But what really sets Rich apart is his personal story. In his mid-50s, he hit a turning point—and de...

Jun 23, 20251 hr 18 minEp. 46

Learning to Listen to Your Body and Your Life with Dean Pohlman, Founder of ManFlow Yoga

What if falling off track wasn’t failure—but the way real change actually begins? In this episode of The Health Feast, I sit down with Dean Pohlman, founder of Man Flow Yoga and host of The Better Man Podcast. Dean’s work has helped 1000s of men build mobility, strength, and confidence—but more than that, he’s created space for something deeper: what he calls courageous authenticity. I’ve had a tremendous personal experience with Dean's program. In my 40s, when the aches started creeping in—back...

May 22, 202556 minEp. 45

How Beans Can Save the Planet—and Our Kids with Barbara Gates

What if the answer to a healthier future… lay in the humble bean? In this episode of The Health Feast, Po and I sit down with Barbara Gates—a passionate educator, food activist, and founder of Healthy Kids Happy Planet. Barbara has spent the last two decades on a mission to bring joy, culture, and plant-based nutrition into schools across the country. Her journey began with a single act of advocacy as a mom pushing back on school milk policy—and grew into a statewide resolution promoting vegetar...

May 07, 20251 hr 20 minEp. 44

The Trail to True Health with Dr. Melissa Sundermann

What if the most powerful medicine for your health wasn’t found in a bottle — but under your feet, in the trees above, and in the sky stretching out before you? Dr. Melissa Sundermann is a lifestyle medicine physician, endurance athlete, and passionate advocate for reconnecting with the natural world. In this inspiring episode of The Health Feast, we explore how nature isn’t just a backdrop to our busy lives — it’s a potent, evidence-based healing force. Drawing from her own journey as a runner,...

Mar 31, 20251 hr 30 minEp. 43

The Mindset Shift that Makes Plant-Based Eating Effortless with Rachael Brown

What if eating healthier wasn’t about restriction—but about gaining more energy, better health, and a deeper connection to food? Rachael Brown knows this transformation firsthand. Despite believing she was eating well, she faced serious health challenges that weren’t improving. But one shift changed everything—not just for her, but for her entire family. She reversed major health concerns, helped her loved ones embrace a plant-based lifestyle without resistance, and turned her passion into a mis...

Mar 03, 20251 hr 13 minEp. 42

Fixing a WACK Healthcare System with Dr. Marsha-Gail Davis

What if the healthcare system wasn’t just broken—but actually keeping people sick? Hey there, Health Feast listeners! Dr. Rak here, and in this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Marsha-Gail Davis to The Feast. You may know her as Dr. D, a board-certified physician, a leader in Lifestyle Medicine, and a fierce advocate for health equity. She’s someone who brings an incredible mix of energy, creativity, and passion to everything she does—and let me tell you, it’s contagious. In this episode, we...

Feb 10, 20251 hr 5 minEp. 41

Love, Purpose, and Transformation with Dinesh Chandra

What if success isn’t about what you achieve, but how you live each day? In this week’s episode of The Health Feast, I sit down with Dinesh Chandra, co-founder of the Global Wellbeing Network and a coach for personal transformation. Dinesh has spent his life helping individuals and organizations align their values, actions, and purpose, drawing from decades of leadership experience and a deeply personal journey of transformation. Our conversation is deeply personal. Dinesh was a profound source ...

Jan 10, 202559 minEp. 40

Finding Purpose and Presence with Dr. Jessie Mahoney

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...

Dec 16, 20241 hr 28 minEp. 39

Building a Healthier, More Equitable World with Dr. Seth Berkowitz

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 impa...

Nov 15, 20241 hr 6 minEp. 38

Rethinking Aging with Scott Fulton, Longevity Expert and Ironman Triathlete

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...

Oct 25, 20241 hr 33 minEp. 37

Escaping Death and Embracing Life with Tim Kaufman

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-f...

Sep 13, 20241 hr 44 minEp. 36

Debunking Myths and Embracing True Health with Dr. Tom Rifai, MD, FACP

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 practi...

Aug 16, 20241 hrEp. 35

The Secrets to Living Young and Loving Life with Bob and Fran German

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 teach...

Jul 29, 20241 hr 30 minEp. 34

Unleash Your Inner Joy with Charles Inniss, Mental Wellness Coach

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 se...

Jul 08, 20241 hr 37 minEp. 33

Plant-Based Power to the People with Jill and Jeffrey Dalton

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, a...

Jun 24, 20241 hr 53 minEp. 32

James Wilks is on a Mission to Change the World

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. ...

Jun 10, 202451 minEp. 31

The High Achiever's Guide to Self-Compassion with Jordana Confino, Professional Coach

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. S...

May 27, 20241 hr 25 minEp. 30

Redefining Health and Wellness with Jason Gootman, Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Nutritionist and Exercise Physiologist

In an age where the complexities of healthcare often obscure the straightforward paths to wellness, one man’s dedication to truth and simplicity brings us back to the essentials of human health. In this episode of The Health Feast (Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube), Dr. Rak is joined by Jason Gootman, a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, certified nutritionist, and certified exercise physiologist. He’s known for his refreshingly honest approach to health and well-bei...

May 13, 20241 hr 15 minEp. 29

RAK Your POtential: The Weight of Change

In this compelling episode of The Health Feast, we explore the themes of transformation and resilience with our co-host, Po. He shares the pivotal moments from his health journey and recent bariatric surgery, reflecting on the profound impact of his decision. Po discusses his long battle with obesity, the rigorous preparations for surgery, and the essential support systems that have helped him navigate his recovery. We delve into the psychological renewal and lifestyle shifts resulting from his ...

Apr 29, 202448 minEp. 28

From Hardship to Healing with Dr. Gebre Nida, MD, FACE, DipABLM

In this episode, Po and Dr. Rak welcome Dr. Gebre Nida, MD, FACE, DipABLM, whose remarkable journey from the rugged terrains of rural Ethiopia to the forefront of lifestyle medicine in North Carolina epitomizes resilience and transformative care. Born in a village without electricity, Dr. Nida walked hours to school daily, a testament to his commitment to education and betterment. Now a triple board-certified endocrinologist, he integrates lifestyle medicine into his practice, profoundly impacti...

Apr 15, 20241 hr 33 minEp. 27

Embracing Joy in Our Health Journey with Dr. Michelle Segar, PhD, MPH, MS

In this enlightening episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po sit down with Dr. Michelle Segar, a leading expert in health behavior and motivation from the University of Michigan. Dr. Segar's extensive research has revolutionized the way we approach exercise and self-care, emphasizing sustainable practices that fit into the unpredictability of everyday life. From her advisory roles with global health organizations to her transformative books, "No Sweat" and "The Joy Choice," Dr. Segar offers ...

Apr 01, 20241 hr 16 minEp. 26

Changing the Game of Health & Performance with David Goldman, MS, RD, CSSD, CSCS

In today's relentless pursuit of peak performance, might the real key to enduring success lie in understanding our unique rhythms and the notion of 'just enough'? In this episode of The Health Feast podcast, Dr. Rak and Po welcome David Goldman, MS, RD, CSSD, CSCS. David is an accomplished sports nutritionist and exercise physiologist, perhaps best known for his role as Chief Science Advisor for the groundbreaking documentary The Game Changers. His expertise has been instrumental in propelling t...

Mar 18, 20241 hr 41 minEp. 25

Healing Eyes and Saving Lives with Shilpi Pradhan, MD, DipABLM

In this episode of 'The Health Feast,' Dr. Rak is joined by Dr. Shilpi Pradhan, an ophthalmologist and an innovator in Lifestyle Medicine and publishing. Dr. Pradhan delves into her transformative journey into lifestyle medicine after a personal health scare, which not only led to significant improvements in her well-being but also the unexpected birth of her third child at age 40 after lifestyle changes corrected underlying hormonal issues. As a result, she has shifted in her medical practice t...

Mar 04, 202450 minEp. 24

RAK Your POtential: Transform Your Chronic Pain

In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po explore chronic pain's intricate dynamics, emphasizing its realness and the importance of validation. They delve into the brain's role in pain processing, highlighting how psychological and social factors shape one's experience. Discussing modulation techniques like mindset and social support, they provide practical insights and guide listeners through a calming meditation. The episode culminates in a soothing breathing meditation, inviting lis...

Feb 19, 20241 hr 3 minEp. 23

The Power of Tiny in Transforming Our Lives with Simon Matthews, Lifestyle Medicine Psychologist and Executive Coach

In this episode of The Health Feast, join Dr. Rak and Po as they explore the multifaceted world of Simon Matthews FACLM, FASLM, MHlthSci, DipIBLM, MAPS, NBC-HWC, PCC. Discover his unique journey from radio to psychology, his profound insights into health and wellness coaching, and his influential work in Lifestyle Medicine. Simon shares his wisdom on the subtle art of asking the right questions and the transformative power of tiny but mighty changes. A blend of personal narratives and profession...

Feb 05, 20241 hr 13 minEp. 22

Unlocking Your Inner Power with Qigong Master Cathy Mu, CPA

In this episode, Dr. Rak and Po interview Cathy Mu, a Qigong practitioner and financial advisor, who shares a personal story of her mother's remarkable recovery from late-stage cancer through Qigong. The conversation explores the concept of Qi and how qigong allows individuals to manipulate and cultivate their life force for improved well-being. Cathy emphasizes breath awareness and deep breathing as accessible practices for connecting with internal energy. The discussion delves into the connect...

Jan 22, 20242 hrEp. 21

Conquering Clutter and Finding Calm in an Organized Life with Marsha Sims

In this episode, Dr Rak and Po discuss the transformative power of organization with guest Marsha Sims. They share personal experiences and stories about the impact of clutter and disorganization on people's lives. Marsha's firsthand account of helping someone in desperate need highlights the deeper emotional and psychological aspects of organizing. They also talk about their own organizational habits and how it affects their daily lives. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of creating a c...

Jan 07, 20241 hr 38 minEp. 20

Transforming Lives Through Conversations with Margaret Moore, MBA aka Coach Meg

In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak dives into an enlightening conversation with Coach Meg, a trailblazer in health and wellness coaching. From her initial career in biotechnology to founding WellCoaches, Coach Meg shares her journey and the evolution of health coaching. She emphasizes the art of generating transformative insights and integrating scientific principles into coaching practices. Key topics include the role of confidence and motivation in behavioral change, the gradual natu...

Dec 18, 20231 hr 32 minEp. 19

From Success to Significance with Dr. Amit Mirchandani

Dive into the inspiring world of Dr. Amit Mirchandani, aka Dr. Mirch, as he shares his transformative path from achieving personal milestones to making a significant impact in pain medicine and encouraging others to find their purpose in life. Discover how his unique perspective on luck, the influence of his upbringing, and his dedication to selfless service shapes his approach to treating chronic pain and beyond. This episode is a deeper exploration of finding true significance in life's work a...

Dec 04, 20231 hr 21 minSeason 1Ep. 18

RAK Your POtential: Dr. Rak on Confronting Cancer and the Power of Letting Go

RAK Your POtential: Dr. Rak on Confronting Cancer and the Power of Letting Go. In the first of a new series on 'The Health Feast,' Dr. Rak opens up to Po about his family's tumultuous journey through his wife's breast cancer diagnosis. From the initial shock to the ongoing treatment, he shares their story of resilience, the emotional process of letting go and finding strength in the present. Dr. Rak also ventures into an enlightening discussion on the environmental risks of plastics, weaving his...

Nov 20, 20231 hr 24 minEp. 17
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