Episodes

Cardio vs Lifting Weights
32
Dec. 29, 2025

Cardio vs Lifting Weights

This week we talk about how to prioritize and balance time between cardio and resistance training. We also discuss the benefits of each and how they help with various goals. Chapters 0:06 Welcome to Deficient Vegans 0:13 Exciting Chocolate News 2:23 Ikea's Plant-Based Venture 4:01 YeastUP's Protein Innovation 5:36 Cardio vs. Weight Lifting 9:42 Combining Cardio and Lifting 12:43 The Weight Loss Dilemma 18:33 Muscle Building Goals 21:42 Myth of the Week: B12 Sources 28:06 Protein Deficient Vegan ...
From Performance to Policy: A Switch4Good Conversation (ft. Lucy Whitney)
31
Dec. 22, 2025

From Performance to Policy: A Switch4Good Conversation (ft. Lucy Whitney)

This week we have a guest! We speak with Lucy Whitney from Switch4Good about the ways they educate, lead, and support students, athletes, and others that are looking to ditch dairy for plant-based alternatives. Links Mentioned in the Episode Adam Schiff's PROTEIN Act and the Congress tracker link Chapters 0:03 Welcome to Deficient Vegans Podcast 5:06 Introducing Lucy Whitney from Switch4Good 17:26 The FISCAL Act and School Lunch Reform 19:36 Plant-Based Athletes Program Overview 24:17 Getting In...
Vegan Gifting Guide - Fitness & Nutrition Edition
30
Dec. 15, 2025

Vegan Gifting Guide - Fitness & Nutrition Edition

In this episode we go through some things to avoid, along with some recommendations, for vegans getting or buying gifts for the holidays. We focus mostly on kitchen and gym equipment that helps support a healthy lifestyle, but we do discuss other categories briefly as well. PDV Video on Best Vegan Protein Sources Chapters 0:04 Holiday Gifts for Vegans 3:05 Vegan News and Innovations 3:16 Navigating Gifting as a New Vegan 4:57 Tips for Shopping for Vegans 18:58 Recommended Gifts for Vegans 19:09 ...
So Your Kid Wants to Go Vegan
29
Dec. 8, 2025

So Your Kid Wants to Go Vegan

Send this this one to the parents you know with a kid who's decided to go vegan or vegetarian. We discuss everything from mindset to practical tips and advice on how to help support a new vegan in your family or in your life. Best Vegan Protein Sources Database Chapters 00:02 Introduction 01:45 Vegan Bodybuilding News 02:54 Restaurant Closures 04:05 Supporting Your Vegan Child 08:01 Concerns of Parents 10:11 Addressing Health Concerns 12:18 Social Aspects of Veganism 13:47 Cooking Challenges ...
Protein vs Fiber
28
Dec. 1, 2025

Protein vs Fiber

This week we dive into the discussion around protein and fiber. Information online pits these two nutrients against each other, but do you really need to choose between them? We don't think so! We also talk about the differences between vegan and plant-based in our myth of the week. Chapters 0:04 Welcome to Deficient Vegans 0:38 New Season of Stranger Things 1:44 Protecting Endangered Dolphins 3:23 Social Media and AI Trolls 5:34 Protein Versus Fiber Debate 9:48 The Importance of Fiber 12:36 Und...
Finding Vegan Protein At Restaurants
27
Nov. 24, 2025

Finding Vegan Protein At Restaurants

In this episode, we talk about how to find restaurants with reliable vegan protein options. Whether that is fast food, road trips, or trying to find sit-down restaurants near you with protein options, we've got you covered with our time-tested tips and tricks. The same ideas will also work for just finding more general vegan options, even if you aren't specifically seeking out protein. Chapters 0:02 Welcome to Deficient Vegans Podcast 0:18 News Updates 3:26 Thoughts on Wicked 4:12 Main Topic: Fi...
Surviving the Holidays as a Vegan (Without Losing Your Mind)
26
Nov. 17, 2025

Surviving the Holidays as a Vegan (Without Losing Your Mind)

The holidays are here, which means travel, family gatherings, work potlucks, awkward conversations, and the annual tradition of someone proudly offering you a dish that’s “definitely vegan” (it’s not). In this episode of Deficient Vegans, we’re breaking down how to survive the holiday season as a vegan with your sanity, nutrition, and boundaries intact. YouTube - High Protein Pizza Dough and Fresh Vegan Mozzarella Chapters 0:02 Introduction to Holiday Survival 0:25 New News Update 2:43 Navigatin...
Hitting Your Protein Goals on a Budget
25
Nov. 10, 2025

Hitting Your Protein Goals on a Budget

In this episode, we talk about hitting your protein goals on a budget as money is tight with the holidays coming up. We introduce a new interactive protein database that features over 200 vegan protein sources, sortable by cost, protein content, and other criteria. We also discuss the latest news, including Miyoko's Creamery's potential comeback and a new sunflower-based meat substitute from Brazil. Finally, we break down some of the cheapest and most expensive protein sources and bust the myth ...
Does meal and protein timing really matter?
24
Nov. 3, 2025

Does meal and protein timing really matter?

In this episode, we talk about timing for meals, protein, supplements, and macros. Which ones matter and which ones don't? We also tackle our myth of the week! Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats Video Chapters 0:03 Welcome to the Podcast 0:14 Meal and Protein Timing 4:16 Protein Timing Myths 10:16 Macro and Supplement Timing 17:21 Timing vs. Overall Intake 18:13 Myth of the Week 22:11 The Soy Stigma 25:12 Upcoming Episode Teaser How to Get In Touch ⭐️ Deficient Vegans Discord ⭐️ Deficient Vegans ...
Stocking Your High Protein Vegan Pantry
23
Oct. 27, 2025

Stocking Your High Protein Vegan Pantry

In this episode, we embark on an essential discussion about stocking a high-protein vegan pantry and fridge. There is a focus on underscoring the importance of having accessible and diverse sources of protein at home to streamline meal prep and achieve nutrition goals. TVP Apple Cinnamon Muffins on YouTube Chapters 00:02 Welcome to the Deficient Vegans Podcast 01:14 Stocking Your Vegan Pantry 09:58 Exploring TVP Options 15:08 High-Protein Vegan Snacks 16:48 Protein Sources in the Pantry 22:16 Fr...
What equipment do you really need for home workouts?
22
Oct. 20, 2025

What equipment do you really need for home workouts?

In this episode, we dive into the essentials of building a home gym and what workout equipment can optimize at-home fitness routines. The conversation begins with a reminder that fitness is a personal journey, and the equipment you need largely depends on your individual goals and fitness level. High Protein Pumpkin Spice Seitan YouTube Video Chapters 00:05 Home Workout Essentials 00:16 Equipment for Beginners 02:25 Intermediate Gear Upgrades 04:23 Advanced Strength Training 07:11 Cardio Equipme...
Tracking Progress: Tools and Apps for Vegan Fitness
21
Oct. 13, 2025

Tracking Progress: Tools and Apps for Vegan Fitness

In episode 21 of the Deficient Vegans podcast, we discuss various methods for tracking fitness and nutrition progress. We explore the utility of tracking apps, tips for maintaining motivation, and avoiding burnout from over-tracking. The episode highlights specific apps for different activities, such as Strong and Hevy for lifting, and fitness wearables like Fitbit. Nutrition tracking and the importance of monitoring macros and micronutrients, especially for vegans, are covered. We caution again...
Busting Fitness Myths
20
Oct. 6, 2025

Busting Fitness Myths

In this episode of the revamped Deficient Vegans Podcast, formerly known as the VeGAINS Fitness and Nutrition Podcast, we discuss our journey to offering vegan fitness and recipe content. We also debunk common fitness myths and respond to a listener Q&A on protein powder recommendations. EarthChimp 10% Discount Code Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Deficient Vegans Podcast 00:27 The Evolution of Our Brand 01:00 From Recipes to Fitness: Our Journey 01:58 The Emergence of Protein Deficient Vegan 04:1...
State of the Podcast Update - Future Plans
19
Sept. 1, 2025

State of the Podcast Update - Future Plans

Just a brief update about the future of the podcast. The name will be changing to "Deficient Vegans" on Monday, October 6th. We just wanted to give some info and a heads up so you all aren't surprised when you see the change in your podcast app! For YouTube listeners, the new channel for the podcast will be at: https://www.youtube.com/@DeficientVegans How to Get In Touch ⭐️ Deficient Vegans Discord ⭐️Deficient Vegans WebsiteInstagramYouTubeMuscle Deficient Vegan - Fitness & Nutrition Webs...
A Beginner's Guide to Resistance Training
18
Sept. 16, 2024

A Beginner's Guide to Resistance Training

In this episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we give a comprehensive introduction to resistance training. We explain what resistance training is and how you can start with simple exercises using body weight or small weights. We discuss the key benefits, including muscle growth, bone density improvement, and enhanced mobility. The episode covers various training tools like resistance bands, dumbbells, barbells, and machines, and emphasizes the importance of having a program and sticking to it...
Exploring Basic Exercise Types for Beginners
17
Aug. 27, 2024

Exploring Basic Exercise Types for Beginners

In this episode, we discuss different forms of exercise suitable for those new to fitness. We cover flexibility, mobility, strength training, and cardio, providing valuable insights and practical tips. They also highlight yoga, Pilates, P90X, and even exercise video games as effective ways to get started. The episode concludes with recent vegan fitness news and a discussion on homemade vegan recipes including pizza sauce and cashew mozzarella. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to VeGAINS Fitness and N...
Why and How to Start Moving More Every Day
16
Aug. 12, 2024

Why and How to Start Moving More Every Day

What if simply strolling around your neighborhood could drastically improve your health? In this invigorating episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we explore why mid-year is the perfect time to reboot your fitness goals just in time for summer. Learn about the benefits of daily walking, including "cozy cardio," a delightful and enjoyable way to get your steps in. We underscore the importance of daily movement for heart health, cardio endurance, and bone strength, while also tackling the hidd...
All About Protein
15
Aug. 5, 2024

All About Protein

Can a vegan diet truly provide all the protein you need for optimal health and fitness? Join us on this enlightening episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, where we uncover the remarkable benefits of protein for vegans. Promising insights into how protein functions as a fundamental building block for bones, muscles, organs, and even hair, we emphasize its crucial role in muscle growth, recovery, and overall wellness. You'll learn how protein helps curb cravings, supports weight loss, and maint...
The One About (Dietary) Fat
14
July 29, 2024

The One About (Dietary) Fat

In this episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we unpack the intricacies of dietary fats, comparing their caloric density to proteins and carbohydrates and stressing the importance of mindful consumption to manage your calorie intake effectively. We dive deep into the necessity of accurate portion measurements for high-fat foods like peanut butter and the critical role of essential fatty acids.We also break down the various types of fats, identifying polyunsaturated fats as the champions for h...
The One About Carbohydrates
13
July 22, 2024

The One About Carbohydrates

In episode 13 of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we dive deep into the role of carbohydrates in the diet. We discuss the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates and the body's ability to generate glucose The episode also covers glycogen storage and its importance for athletes, recommendations for carbohydrate intake, and tips for replenishing glycogen during intense workouts. We end the episode with vegan news items including Walmart's new vegan line, lab-grown meat for pets in Britain...
The One About Fiber
12
July 15, 2024

The One About Fiber

In this episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, the hosts delve into the topic of fiber, discussing its role in overall health and its classification as a carbohydrate that does not count towards calorie intake. They examine the health benefits of fiber, including its impact on reducing all-cause mortality and lowering the risk of colon cancer, as supported by meta-analyses and studies. The hosts also highlight different types of fiber—soluble and insoluble—and their respective health benefits,...
Hitting Your Protein Target Without Powder
11
July 8, 2024

Hitting Your Protein Target Without Powder

What if you could completely transform your vegan fitness and nutrition game with easy, high-protein recipes? Join us in this episode as we unveil our newly split websites, ProteinDeficientVegan.com and MuscleDeficientVegan.com , designed to cater to all your vegan protein and fitness needs. We'll redefine what it means for food to be "high protein" by emphasizing the importance of scrutinizing nutritional labels and avoiding misleading marketing tactics. Learn to evaluate recipes effectively, e...
Tackling Vegan Myths and Misconceptions
10
Jan. 20, 2024

Tackling Vegan Myths and Misconceptions

Ever wondered if vegans really just live on a diet of "rabbit food"? This week, we're plucking apart the misconceptions surrounding veganism. We'll also squash the protein deficiency scare, reassuring you that with a dash of insight and a sprinkle of planning, building muscle on a plant-based diet isn't just possible, it's been done by many vegan athletes. Hold onto your aprons as we stir the pot on the quality of plant-based proteins, proving they're anything but incomplete. We serve up fac...
Vegan Micronutrients
9
Jan. 11, 2024

Vegan Micronutrients

Unlock the secrets to thriving on a plant-based diet as we traverse the landscape of micronutrients essential for vegans. We'll explore the mighty kale's calcium offerings and dive into the ocean of algae oil for that omega-3 goodness. Come along for an inspiring journey into the world of vegan nutrition, where knowledge meets flavor and every bite is a step toward a healthier you. Referenced in episode Wholier Multi-vitamin Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:09 Understanding Micronutrients 00:55 Im...