(Check back for 2025 info.)
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Second Floor, Reggie Lewis Athletic Center
11:30am – 12:30pm
The Political Psychology of A Kinder Human World: Why Breaking The Animal Taboo in Politics is Possible and Needed (But Elites Think It Is Impossible)
Sparsha Saha, PhD, Lecturer at Harvard University
Discover groundbreaking insights from Dr. Sparsha Saha, a leading political scientist and experimentalist at Harvard University. As a Lecturer in the Department of Government at Harvard University and the 2023 Innovator in Residence at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Dr. Saha has been driving innovative research and teaching that explores the intricate links between food, climate, animal rights, and social justice. Her pioneering work addresses key barriers and opportunities in advancing a more sustainable food system.
In her compelling talk, Dr. Saha will explore why breaking the animal taboo in politics is essential and achievable. Her research is not just theoretical; it directly informs policy, including contributions to the 2023 U.S. Farm Bill. Her insights have been spotlighted by major media outlets like The Washington Post and The New York Times.
Dr. Saha also teaches the influential course “The Great Food Transformation” at Harvard, connecting students with prominent figures such as Senator Cory Booker and the Mayor of NYC to tackle real-world food system challenges.
Join us for a session that promises to deepen your understanding of how innovative research and advocacy can pave the way for compassionate, sustainable food policies. Don’t miss the chance to hear from an award-winning educator who is actively shaping the future of food systems in the U.S. and beyond.
12:30pm – 1:30pm
How Inflammation Triggers Chronic Illness, and the Diet and Lifestyle Tools We Have to Fight It
Jyothi Rao, MD, Author and Physician
Join Dr. Jyothi Rao, MD, ABAAHP, FAARFM a seasoned expert with over 20 years in conventional, alternative, and integrative healthcare, for an enlightening presentation on how to battle chronic illness through diet and lifestyle changes. As a founder of Shakthi Health & Wellness, Dr. Rao promotes “A Whole-Body Approach” to health, integrating multiple disciplines to provide a comprehensive assessment and customized treatment plans.
Dr. Rao’s talk will delve into her newly updated book, Body on Fire, co-authored with Dr. Monica Aggarwal. This book helps readers evaluate their energy, lifestyle, dietary habits, and mental state while offering actionable interventions to reclaim health. Discover the dangers of stressors like sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, and inadequate sleep, and learn about plant-based foods and habits that reduce inflammation and support healthy digestion.
Dr. Rao will offer tools to improve sleep, increase activity, and ensure hydration. She will also discuss techniques for enhancing the mind-body connection, the benefits of intermittent fasting, and the crucial role of the microbiome.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a holistic understanding of health and wellness from a distinguished integrative medicine practitioner. Dr. Rao’s insights promise a roadmap to a healthier, more vital life.
1:30pm – 2:30pm
Cooking Demo: Creamy Roasted Tomato Pasta and Nut Free Vegan Caesar
Sara Tercero, BetterFoodGuru, Chef, Cookbook Author, and Influencer
Join Sara Tercero, cookbook author and the creative genius behind the beloved vegan food blog and Instagram hit BetterFoodGuru, for a mouth-watering cooking demonstration. Known as “The Salad Queen” for her vibrant, balanced meal salads, Sara brings almost three decades of restaurant experience and a flair for creating delicious plant-based recipes to the internet.
With a following of over 1.4 million captivated by her unique voiceovers and charm, her mission is to make vegan food appealing and accessible to everyone. Her recipes, brimming with healthy whole foods and bold global flavors, resonate with both vegans and omnivores. Sara’s “soft” approach to veganism creates an inviting, non-judgmental space that encourages everyone to enjoy plant-based eating.
In this engaging demo, Sara will showcase her two of her popular dishes: Creamy Roasted Tomato Pasta and Nut-Free Vegan Caesar.
A Massachusetts native and UMass Amherst alum, Sara now shares her passion for plant-based cuisine with her rowdy young family, relishing the local scenery, culture, and food. Don’t miss this chance to learn from the best! Come and be inspired to change the world one plate at a time.
2:30pm – 3:30pm
TRANSFARMATION: The Movement to Free Us From Factory Farming
Leah Garcés, CEO and President of Mercy for Animals
Step into an enlightening and transformative narrative with Leah Garcés, CEO and President of Mercy For Animals, as she unveils her compelling new book, Transfarmation: The Movement to Free Us From Factory Farming. In this powerful session, Garcés takes us deep into the hidden realities of industrial animal agriculture, sharing profound stories of resilience, transformation, and hope.
Hear about struggling farmers like those at Halley farm who have transitioned from factory farming to sustainable practices like growing hemp and rescuing dogs. Discover the heartwarming story of Felix, a rescued pig finding love and family, and the harrowing experiences of communities suffering from environmental injustices linked to factory farming.
Garcés’ narrative is not just about highlighting the problems but also about inspiring us to reimagine our food system for a humane and sustainable future. With over 20 years in the animal protection movement, Garcés brings a wealth of experience and passion to her mission of transforming how we relate to food, animals, and the environment. She is the founder of Mercy For Animals’ Transfarmation program, working to transition factory farmers from industrial animal agriculture to production of specialty crops, such as mushrooms and hemp.
Join us for an emotionally moving and thought-provoking experience that will leave you empowered to be part of the solution. Whether you’re an animal advocate, environmentalist, or curious about your food’s origins, this talk promises to inspire and motivate you to take action.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a visionary leader who is shaping the future of food and agriculture.
3:30pm – 4:30pm
Building Your Body on a Plant-Based Diet
Robert Cheeke, Author and Champion Bodybuilder
Joining for Q & A: Dani Taylor, Vegan Athlete and Fitness Coach
Join renowned bodybuilder, motivational speaker, and vegan activist Robert Cheeke for an empowering talk on how to achieve peak athletic performance on a plant-based diet. Co-author of The Plant-Based Athlete and author of the new book The Impactful Vegan, Robert will share evidence-based insights into how plant foods can enhance recovery times, prevent injury, and support restorative sleep, enabling athletes to train more effectively.
Drawing from his extensive research and experiences from his fitness site, Vegan Bodybuilding and Fitness, Robert debunks the myths that athletes need meat for strength. He will highlight the importance of macronutrients, micronutrients, and calories from plant sources in building a strong, muscular physique. In addition, Robert will offer practical advice on how to navigate dietary changes to optimize performance.
This session will also delve into inspirational stories from elite plant-based athletes, providing real-life examples and motivational insights. Learn about the specific plant-based foods that can boost your energy, support digestive health, and improve overall wellness.
Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or a seasoned professional looking to enhance your performance through a plant-based diet, this talk will provide you with the guidance and inspiration you need. Discover how to power your workouts and everyday life with plant-based nutrition, and become part of the growing community of athletes achieving greatness without animal products.
4:30pm – 5:00pm
Plant-Powered Plates: Nutritional Insights, Helpful Cooking Tips, and Delicious Vegan Recipes for Everyone
Diana Goldman, Beantown Kitchen, Chef and Cookbook Author
Join Diana Goldman – the engaging vegan chef, Sierra Club cooking show host, and plant-based nutrition educator – for a delightful cooking demonstration that promises both health and flavor. Based in Boston, Diana is the creative force behind the award-winning Beantown Kitchen and author of Plants For You.
In this engaging demo, Diana will share two of her favorite recipes: a refreshing Kale Salad with Mango & Black Beans and a delectable Chocolate Mousse with Raspberries. Diana’s approach to plant-based cuisine is all about using nutrient-rich, planet-friendly ingredients to create meals that everyone will love.
With a B.S. in Nutrition Science from Cornell University and an Ed.M. from Harvard University, Diana brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her cooking. Her plant-based recipes focus on whole foods that are minimally processed, offering incredible health benefits and mouth-watering flavors.
Diana’s enthusiasm for plant-based living is infectious, and her demo will inspire you to embrace the joy, health, and environmental benefits of this lifestyle. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a seasoned educator and chef who is dedicated to making plant-based eating accessible and enjoyable for all. Join us for a session that will leave you both nourished and inspired!
On Sunday, our focus will be entirely on the exhibitor room, savoring flavors and cuisines, exploring new vegan products, and stocking up on favorites!
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Food Fest Speaker Archive
See a complete list of speakers going back to 2005.