Paul Chatlin, founder of the Plant-Based Nutrition Support Group (PBNSG) and co-founder of SAGE Circle Alliance (SCA), has an extraordinary story that is both inspiring and transformative. Recently featured on the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ Podcast, Paul shared his journey from a dire health diagnosis to becoming a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition.
Childhood and Early Life
Paul’s story begins with a childhood marked by a love for sports and an active lifestyle. Despite his active nature, he faced challenges early on. Paul’s father and uncles suffered from severe heart conditions, a grim family history that foreshadowed his own future health struggles. These early experiences shaped his awareness of heart disease but did not deter his youthful enthusiasm for athletics and life.
The Wake-Up Call
In his late twenties, Paul received alarming news during a routine medical checkup—his cholesterol levels were dangerously high. Despite trying various medications over the years, his cholesterol remained elevated. By his fifties, Paul was experiencing severe chest pain, a symptom he naively hoped would dissipate. It wasn’t until his doctor detected a new heart murmur that the severity of his condition became undeniable. Referred to a cardiologist, Paul faced a stark choice: immediate bypass surgery or a heart transplant.
A Lifesaving Decision
Chatlin’s journey took a miraculous turn when he was referred to the Cleveland Clinic, renowned for its cardiac care. There, after a series of exhaustive tests, he was advised to undergo immediate bypass surgery. However, in a pivotal moment at the surgical door, his cardiologist offered an alternative—adopt a whole-food, plant-based diet as a potential lifesaver. Desperate to avoid surgery, Chatlin agreed, embarking on a path that would not only change his life but also inspire countless others.
Embracing a Plant-Based Lifestyle
Transitioning to a plant-based diet was no small feat for Paul, who had grown up disliking vegetables and loving meat. Under the guidance of Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, a pioneer in plant-based nutrition for heart disease, Paul began to see remarkable improvements in his health. Within weeks, his chest pain subsided, and his aversion to vegetables waned. Over time, he lost significant weight and felt revitalized, underscoring the profound impact of dietary change.
Founding PBNSG
Inspired by his own recovery, Paul felt compelled to help others facing similar health challenges. He founded the Plant-Based Nutrition Support Group (PBNSG), initially hosting small gatherings at his home. The response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to the establishment of PBNSG as a national organization. Today, PBNSG offers a variety of resources, including culinary classes, support groups, and educational events, all aimed at promoting plant-based nutrition. www.pbnsg.org/
SAGE Circle Alliance
In addition to PBNSG, Chatlin co-founded the SAGE Circle Alliance, further extending his advocacy for health and wellness. This initiative focuses on creating supportive communities for individuals transitioning to healthier lifestyles, fostering a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to plant-based living. https://www.sagecirclealliance.org/
A Legacy of Health and Hope
Paul Chatlin’s journey from a dire heart diagnosis to a thriving advocate for plant-based nutrition is a testament to the power of lifestyle change. Through PBNSG and the SAGE Circle Alliance, he continues to inspire and support others on their health journeys. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact that dietary choices can have on our health and well-being, offering hope and guidance to those seeking to transform their lives.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Introduction.
[02:15] The early days of influence.
[04:30] Heart issues were prevalent in Paul’s family.
[07:45] An “elephant” on his chest.
[10:00] Paul is surrounded by miracles.
[14:00] Bargaining with God.
[17:15] The start of three months of bedrest.
[20:00] PBNSG takes root.
[29:00] A complete lifestyle change changes everything.
[31:30] A friendship with Meryl Fury is the start of SAGE Circle Alliance
[38:00] The shocking reality that Paul was not heart attack proof.
[48:00] The vision for SAGE Circle Alliance.
[54:00] The mass manipulation of what people see on television.
[104:00] No discussion is left off the table.
About Paul Chatlin
Paul Chatlin, founder of PBNSG (Plant Based Nutrition Support Group), and co-founder of SCA (Sage Circle Alliance) is passionate about promoting Whole Food Plant Based (WFPB) nutrition as the first line of defense against chronic health issues. With a background deeply rooted in family experiences with heart disease, Paul’s journey from patient to advocate has been transformative.
Growing up, Paul witnessed the toll of heart issues on his family, losing two uncles to bypass surgery and seeing his father undergo quadruple bypass surgery. His own health scare came in his fifties when he was diagnosed with angina, mirroring his father’s experience. Determined to avoid the same fate, Paul embraced a lifestyle change after being offered an alternative by his doctor at the Cleveland Clinic, whose mentor was Caldwell Esselstyn.
Embracing a WFPB diet, Paul experienced remarkable improvements in his health, avoiding bypass surgery and feeling better than ever. Motivated by his own journey, he founded the Plant Based Nutrition Support Group (PBNSG) to help others facing similar health challenges.
PBNSG stands as the only national support group dedicated to WFPB living, offering resources, support, and education to people of all ages. Paul’s mission is clear: to empower individuals to prioritize food choices over pills and procedures for better health outcomes.
With PBNSG, Paul provides a platform for sharing his story and hearing others’, emphasizing the profound impact of nutrition on health. His vision is simple: to spread awareness about the benefits of WFPB living, giving people the knowledge and choice to improve their well-being.
Driven by his promise to help others understand the power of nutrition, Paul invites conversations and connections, encouraging individuals to explore the health benefits of WFPB living.
For more information, visit www.pbnsg.org and https://www.sagecirclealliance.org/
About Kathleen Gage
Kathleen Gage is a multifaceted professional, renowned as the founder of Vegan Visibility and co-founder of Vegan Visibility Productions. With certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Plant-Based Nutrition from eCornell University, she’s a seasoned business consultant, keynote speaker, and marketing strategist.
Kathleen’s impact extends to hosting the Vegan Visibility Virtual Summit, a niche event supporting vegan and plant-based entrepreneurs with top-tier training from industry experts. Since establishing her business in 1994, she’s navigated economic challenges across various sectors, including high-tech, healthcare, and publishing.
Her influential voice resonates through popular podcasts like “Vegan Visibility” and “Plant Based Eating for Health,” where she advocates for a sustainable, compassionate world and provides guidance to thousands globally. Moreover, as an award-winning speaker and past president of Utah’s National Speakers Association chapter, Kathleen excels in crafting effective marketing strategies.
Kathleen is a founding member of SAGE Circle Alliance, an organization dedicated to a plant-based lifestyle, animal compassion, and environmental regeneration. Founded by a group of passionate change-makers and thought leaders, Sage Circle Alliance aims to inspire individuals to make positive lifestyle changes for the benefit of future generations.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kathleen resides in Central Oregon, where she champions animal rescue and enjoys outdoor activities. Her commitment to creating a more compassionate and sustainable world shines through in both her personal and professional pursuits.
About Vlynn Hawkins
VLynn Hawkins is a formidable figure at the intersection of vegan entrepreneurship, extreme athleticism, and business leadership. As the Co-Founder of Vegan Visibility Productions and the Chief Executive/Engagement Officer at P3Academy, she channels her expertise to elevate health and wellness businesses. With over three decades in commercial real estate lending, VLynn boasts a track record of leading high-performing teams to exceptional success, consistently generating substantial revenue for multi-billion dollar enterprises.
Transitioning from her corporate career, VLynn’s journey towards holistic wellness began after a knee injury redirected her focus. Exploring healing modalities like tapping, NLP, and hypnotherapy, she discovered a passion for holistic health practices. Today, armed with certifications in business development, hypnotherapy, joint venture brokering, and digital marketing, VLynn empowers Healthpreneurs to thrive in their endeavors.
As a Certified Plant-Based Ambassador, VLynn passionately advocates for the transformative power of a Whole Food, Plant-Based Vegan lifestyle. She hosts the insightful “Health Wisdom & Wealth Show,” sharing invaluable insights into holistic living. Additionally, VLynn serves as the CEO of CrowdfundingHacker.org, assisting small businesses and nonprofits in fundraising for impactful projects.
VLynn is a founding member of SAGE Circle Alliance, an organization dedicated to a plant-based lifestyle, animal compassion, and environmental regeneration. Founded by a group of passionate change-makers and thought leaders, Sage Circle Alliance aims to inspire individuals to make positive lifestyle changes for the benefit of future generations.
Based in Atlanta, GA, VLynn enjoys an active lifestyle, often engaging in workouts and leisurely walks with her Cairn Terrier, Hiro. Her multifaceted skill set and unwavering dedication make her an influential advocate for veganism, health entrepreneurship, and impactful business strategies.
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