Why Plant-Based Fitness Works: Insights from Vegan Gym COO Dr. Daphne Bascom

If you've ever wondered whether a plant-based lifestyle can truly support your health and fitness goals, this episode of Nacho Fitness Coach has answers. Dr. Daphne Bascom, MD, PhD, Chief Operating Officer of The Vegan Gym, brings a powerhouse of experience to the table — from reconstructive surgery to executive leadership in health systems, and now coaching hundreds of women toward strength, longevity, and confidence.

Meet Dr. Daphne Bascom: From Surgery to Strength Coaching

• MD, PhD with a background in otolaryngology and microvascular surgery
• Former VP and Chief Medical Officer at major health systems (Cerner, Cleveland Clinic, YMCA, etc.)
• Current COO at The Vegan Gym, the world's largest online fitness coaching platform for vegans
• Passionate about holistic, evidence-based wellness for women aged 35-65

What Is The Vegan Gym?

• Online global coaching platform with 16 health coaches across four continents
• Over 400 active community members known as "vegan superheroes"
• Offers:
• 1:1 coaching
• Weekly group calls
• Masterclasses (including Menopause Mastery)
• 300+ on-demand learning modules in a "Transformation Portal"

"We meet people where they are. It doesn’t matter if you're vegan-curious or a baby vegan—we're here to guide you meal by meal." — Dr. Daphne

Not Just a Diet: A Full Lifestyle Shift

Dr. Daphne emphasizes that plant-based eating is just one part of the transformation.

Other pillars of success:

• Mindset coaching to foster long-term change
• Progressive strength training tailored to all levels
• Community support that breaks isolation and builds motivation
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The Power of Strength Training for Women Over 40

• Lifting weights doesn't make you bulky — it builds bone density, confidence, and resilience
• Strength training helps reverse age-related muscle loss and supports metabolic health
• Progressive overload is the key: start where you are and gradually challenge your body

"I wish I could bulk up easily. Muscle takes work—but the benefits are mental and physical." — Dr. Daphne

Client Success Stories That Inspire

• A woman in her 60s now leg-presses over 400 lbs and does unassisted pull-ups
• Another client reversed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease through diet and movement
• Many come for weight loss and leave with stronger careers, identities, and health

Real Talk on Going Vegan

• Dr. Daphne herself wasn't always vegan—her shift came after seeing research in the film The Game Changers
• Benefits she experienced:
• Reduced joint pain
• Improved athletic performance
• Easier competition prep as a bodybuilder

Simple Plant-Based Meal Prep That Works

• Vegan Gym offers easy, realistic recipes and meal prep videos
• No fancy tools or hours of cooking required
• Registered dietitians create all plans — tailored to your current habits

"We use Chronometer to see what you're already eating, then build from there."

Breaking Myths: It's Never Too Late to Start

• Strength training is key for menopause, bone density, and healthy aging
• Even in your 50s, 60s, or beyond, you can build strength, muscle, and independence
• Lifestyle changes can prevent, manage, or even reverse chronic diseases

Want More?

• Listen to The Vegan Gym Podcast or find recipes on their YouTube channel
• Try the free coaching content at sarahsutherlandfitness.com (available through December 31!)

Final Takeaway

You don’t need to be perfect or already plant-based. You just need the willingness to start, the support to keep going, and the belief that you’re capable of more. Strength is built one rep — and one habit — at a time.