257 - What Beating Cancer and Amazing Holiday Recipes Have in Common: Chef & Nutritionist Lauren Kretzer

·1 hr 8 min·5 clips

A chef went to urgent care for pneumonia and was told she had a large mass abutting her heart.

The episode begins with hosts Dotsie Bausch and Raphael Wrobel introducing guest Lauren Kretzer, a vegan chef, recipe developer, and holistic nutritionist. The first segment addresses a recent Wall Street Journal article where Dotsie debates another Olympian over keeping dairy as its own category in the Dietary Guidelines. Dotsie argues for its removal based on lactose intolerance rates and inclusivity. Lauren agrees, citing examples like Serena Williams. The conversation then shifts to Lauren's personal health journey. She recounts her 2020 diagnosis of primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma, discovered incidentally after an X-ray for pneumonia revealed a large chest mass. Lauren describes the emotional turmoil and her decision to opt for surveillance instead of chemotherapy, guided by one supportive oncologist. She outlines her holistic recovery plan, emphasizing anti-cancer foods like broccoli sprouts, cruciferous vegetables, and turmeric, while reducing alcohol and processed foods. Lauren also discusses stress management through meditation, nature walks, and therapy. The hosts explore practical topics: Lauren's tips for reducing alcohol, her experience with two vegan pregnancies, and the pressures of 'momfluencer' culture on breastfeeding. As a recipe developer, she offers advice for plant-based holiday meals, suggesting alternatives like mushroom Wellington and cashew cream. She also recommends non-toxic cookware, favoring ceramic or cast iron over traditional nonstick pans. Lauren mentions her work developing recipes for Dr. Will Bulsiewicz and Chris Carr. The episode concludes with gratitude and a call to support the podcast.

As heard by us

Plant-based holiday ideas lead into Lauren Kretzer's candid reflection on habits, stress, meditation, and healing after cancer.

Holiday food gets a practical, inviting rethink, with plant-based eating around the holidays presented as less daunting than it can seem. Sides do much of the persuasive work, while non-bird centerpieces make the table feel generous rather than obligatory.

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Why you'd press play

Want a plant-based holiday table and a candid reset around food, alcohol, stress, and time in nature?

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