I’ve been a vegan for many years – back to when a vegan lifestyle was only for earth-loving hippies. Veganism has gained popularity over the past ten years or so. There is more awareness and education around the effects that factory farming has on our planet, as well as what’s going on with over-consumption and mass production. A lot has changed. Science is now supporting plant-based diets for optimal health, and Veganism has even been gaining popularity among athletes. As a vegan athlete myself, I often get asked common questions, such as: “How are you not anemic? How come you never get sick? Where do you get your protein? How do you have enough energy to run as much as you do?” I love this dialogue and being an example that contradicts the misconceptions that a plant-based diet can improve strength, performance and overall health. I’m board certified as a holistic health practitioner and trained in more than 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovative coaching methods with some of the world’s top health and wellness experts, leading researchers and nutrition authorities (Institute for Integrative Nutrition). And when it comes to plant-based health, I understand how beneficial this diet is for overall health and wellness, as well as improving recovering and optimizing performance. Plants are powerful and plants do it better. Following my passion and commitment to helping others, I thrive while helping people transition into and understand the benefits of a whole-food plant-based lifestyle. I works with health nuts, athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, families and those interested in their long-term health. I'm a proponent of living authentically, developing mindfulness, following your dreams, and creating lasting healthy habits! I love living a simple life with my husband, Erich and our six cats (all rescues) in Seattle area. We enjoy many spontaneous outdoor adventures together, like waking up early on the weekends for day hikes, paddling fast to catch the sunset in our canoe, playing golf 10 days straight, and training to summit tall mountains. We feel fortunate to have so many natural options around us in the Pacific Northwest, as well as our friendly neighbor, British Columbia, Canada.