328: Becoming an Impactful Vegan with Robert Cheeke

In this episode of I AM HUMAN we learn from Robert Cheeke about effective altruism, how our personal biases can get in the way of doing the most good, how we can best determine what organizations to allocate resources to and how we can lead by example. This is a very powerful and important episode especially if you want to learn how to decrease the suffering of animals in the most effective way.

Robert's journey is not just about personal transformation but also about the broader impact we can have by making mindful, strategic choices. He shares how his upbringing among animals ignited his commitment to stand against animal suffering and how even small compromises can make veganism more accessible and effective. By sharing his experiences, Robert explains that leading by example can inspire others to make compassionate choices, even if those choices aren't perfect. We take a closer look at the stark contrasts in global resource distribution and the importance of effective giving. We discuss organizations like The Humane League, Dharma Voices for Animals, and the Good Food Institute, showcasing their influential work in reducing animal suffering. By reflecting on these insights, we recognize the potential for significant positive change through conscious consumption and supporting high-impact charities. Tune in to discover how authenticity, optimism, and gratitude can help foster a more compassionate world.

Robert Cheeke grew up on a farm in Corvallis, Oregon, and embraced a vegan lifestyle at age 15 in 1995. Today, he is a prominent figure in the fitness world, authoring influential books such as The Plant-Based Athlete and *The Impactful Vegan*, released last month. e 25, 2024. Dubbed the "Godfather of Vegan Bodybuilding," Robert has played a pivotal role in the industry since 2002. As a natural bodybuilding champion and a key contributor to major vegan platforms, he tours globally, sharing his journey from a skinny farm kid to a renowned vegan bodybuilder. Robert lives in Colorado with his wife and two rescued Chihuahuas.

Discussion points:
(00:00) Guest intro, background, Robert’s path to veganism as a teen
(10:00) Bodybuilding and a vegan diet
(13:21) Do “perfect vegans” exist?
(16:30) Reduction of animal suffering is the priority
(19:00) Effective altruism and examples of doing the most good
(30:05) Personal bias can prevent altruistic acts
(40:38) Resources to identify effective altruistic organizations
(55:22) Leading by example
(1:05:42) Closing questions, what we wish people knew

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Resources:

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Book: The Impactful Vegan by Robert Cheeke - https://amzn.to/4fbTMYJ
Robert's Book Tour: https://impactfulvegan.com/
Instagram:   / veganbodybuildingandfitness  
Facebook:   / veganbodybuildingandfitness  
Twitter:   / robertcheeke  
YouTube:    / @robertcheekeshow  
https://animalcharityevaluators.org/
The Humane League https://thehumaneleague.org/
The Good Food Institute https://gfi.org/
Faunalytics https://faunalytics.org/
Dharma Voices for Animals https://www.dharmavoicesforanimals.org/

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional.

The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to [email protected]

Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker.

More From Dr. Yami:
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