Clean Plates

Brian Romain
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  • NUTRITION
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Food. It's intertwined with our culture, emotions, memories, and even our identities. Our relationships with food are complex and multifaceted, shaped by a myriad of factors including upbringing, geography, socioeconomic status, and personal experiences. At its core, food is a means of nourishing our bodies, providing essential nutrients and energy to fuel our daily activities. Here are the stories behind those relationships.

  1. 26/09/2025

    #31 Evan Slaughter - Rewriting the Narrative: Addiction, Identity, and Authenticity

    In this powerful episode of Clean Plates, I sit down with Evan Slaughter (fit2serve1). Evan is a comedian, veteran, and fitness influencer. We unpack his journey through addiction, recovery, and the evolving relationship he’s had with food, fitness, and self-worth. Evan opens up about how food became both a source of comfort and a coping mechanism post-rehab, mirroring the addictive behaviors he was trying to overcome. From fast food and emotional eating to developing a healthy, mindful approach to nutrition, Evan’s transformation is one rooted in authenticity and self-awareness. Through laughter and vulnerability, Evan shares how comedy became his most authentic outlet, helping him inspire others while staying grounded in his own journey. This episode is a raw and real look at mental health, physical transformation, and the power of being true to yourself in life, on stage, and online. Early eating habits were unintentional, often revolving around fast food and school lunches. Food became emotionally tied to joy, and later, a replacement for drugs during recovery. Weight gain became a new challenge as comfort eating mirrored addictive patterns. Shifted focus from appearance to overall health and longevity. Comedy serves as a tool for connection, healing, and staying authentic. Mental health is the foundation for any lasting physical change. Real brand relationships are built through honest, relatable content. Understanding the cycle — from fit to unfit and back — creates empathy and relatability. "Food was not deliberate.""Post-rehab, food replaced drugs.""Comedy is my authentic voice.""Mental health first, then physical.""Authenticity builds brand relationships.""From fit to unfit and back.""Food linked to happiness and joy.""Healthy relationship with food is key.""Comedy connects and inspires.""Focus on health, not just looks." 00:00:03 – Introduction to Evan Slaughter00:00:17 – Evan's Early Relationship with Food00:03:05 – Post-Rehab and Food as Comfort00:05:25 – Mental Health and Fitness Journey00:12:22 – Comedy and Authenticity00:21:05 – Building Brand Relationships00:28:36 – Current Fitness and Health Goals Evan Slaughter, fitness, sobriety, mental health, comedy EVAN'S INSTAGRAM: @fit2serve1 FOLLOW EVAN'S YOUTUBE: https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutube.com%2F%40fit2_serve%3Fsi%3DK75rLaF1Ba1x5PwJ%26fbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadaIrOxj5HJnJHZD8fsD2uEo78uVIVRLyTbhQ6I4RWsK_NIuJ4TZXnnSA448w_aem_cUDMU6VQmf-rqQ344nsJqA&e=AT3IE5GfAx49Sl2P8R_T42Giyk9zzUchRIZm3xPrTUDLeAlq6amkNhl_9tAyEaEUKZH0--K89XHlqdK25vYhpikz3ciIQtWR2DpnDiWUk7ts3qtMOSQpAhcSjA FIT2SERVE WEBSITE: https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Ffit2serve.co%2F%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeiD8UGfDm0rTEYTqmQa91A1HkX-Cqlg5jpcg18l29OdT6IaHWA1Zc31oXvXQ_aem_kyovPzVdwDOio7wLvIiQLw&e=AT0S_SPg3Q8-LT8LK7SBnykNRTQYtZFrrVFkPTKKICV7c9t3goBt_2WCb3I36ZbYkwJgXxcG8Ew-qOd9ok3Z_engY037J8n8EnwqfUG96vw1gv8OM13x2TjIxQ

    52 min

  2. 24/09/2025

    #30 Ryan Sprague - The Birth of a Parent: Lessons in Love, Loss, and Lifestyle Shifts

    In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Ryan Sprague to unpack the life-altering experience of becoming a new parent. Together, we explore the emotional, psychological, and physical changes that come with fatherhood, and how embracing intentional lifestyle shifts can lead to deeper wellness. From managing sleepless nights to making conscious dietary choices, and from finding moments of peace amidst chaos to redefining your identity, this episode offers relatable insight, inspiration, and actionable advice for parents and wellness-seekers alike. Whether you’re a new parent, expecting, or simply curious about how parenthood impacts your health and mindset, this episode is filled with real talk, vulnerability, and transformative takeaways. The emotional and spiritual impact of becoming a new parent Ryan’s personal journey into fatherhood How to stay grounded during the early days of parenting The connection between diet, energy levels, and emotional stability Mental health tools for navigating overwhelm and burnout Strategies for integrating wellness practices into a chaotic schedule Letting go of perfection and embracing presence Why community and vulnerability are vital for new parents Time Stamps: 00:00 – Intro & welcome03:12 – Ryan shares his initial experience as a new parent08:45 – Identity shifts and the emotional rollercoaster of fatherhood14:10 – The unexpected lifestyle changes that come with parenting18:30 – Nutrition hacks for new parents: eating for energy & clarity25:50 – The role of mental health in physical wellness31:00 – Mindset tools for staying present under pressure37:20 – How to ask for help and create a support system43:10 – Letting go of the “old self” to embrace transformation48:00 – Ryan’s message to new and expecting parents52:00 – Outro & where to connect with Ryan Ryan Sprague is a passionate advocate for conscious living, and the owner of Rhino Coffee Co. Instagram: @rhinotothemoon Podcast: Highly Optimized Ryan’s meditation practice recommendation If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the podcast on your favorite platform. It helps us grow and reach more listeners on their wellness journey. 👉 Follow the podcast on [Spotify] / [Apple Podcasts]👉 Share this episode with a friend or parent in your life

    1h 10m

  3. 09/09/2025

    #29 Michael Miraglia - The Art of Endurance: A Fitness Revolution

    In this episode of Clean Plates, we dive deep into the world of extreme endurance and creative expression with Michael Miraglia, a fitness visionary who breaks all the rules of traditional training. Michael has carved out a unique path in the fitness world, treating endurance challenges not just as athletic feats, but as immersive, expressive experiences. Whether he's running ultra-distances in unconventional gear or choreographing physically demanding stunts, he uses his body as a canvas to tell stories, provoke thought, and challenge norms. Join us as we explore: How Michael redefines fitness as an art form The mental and emotional aspects of extreme endurance Why creativity is key to lasting motivation Lessons learned from pushing beyond physical limits How you can find deeper purpose in your own fitness journey If you're looking to reignite your passion for movement, get inspired to break boundaries, or simply hear a fascinating story of human grit and creativity — this episode is for you. Michael is a performance athlete, creative strategist, and endurance artist known for his unconventional approach to fitness. With a background that blends sports, art, and performance, Michael turns endurance challenges into bold expressions of personal identity and storytelling. Through viral stunts, ultra-endurance events, and deeply personal projects, he encourages others to view physicality not just as training, but as transformation. Time: 00:00 – Intro 02:15 – Who is Michael Miraglia? 07:45 – How fitness became a form of art 14:30 – Mental strategies for extreme endurance 21:50 – The role of creativity in pushing limits 29:00 – Stories from the most outrageous challenges 36:20 – Advice for those wanting to reinvent their own fitness 42:10 – Final thoughts + what's next for Michael Michael's Instagram @michaelmirag Michael’s Featured Projects / Website If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, leave a review, or tag us on social @cleanplatespodcast. Want more creative takes on fitness? Subscribe and don’t miss future episodes!

    48 min

  4. 02/09/2025

    #28 James Barry - Eat Well, Live Better: The Power of Eating with Intention

    🎧 Episode Summary:In this episode of Clean Plates, I sit down with Chef James Berry, founder of Pluck, a company that blends functional nutrition with flavorful eating. Together, we explore the importance of consistent eating habits in our busy, modern lives. You’ll hear personal stories, expert tips, and practical advice on how to bring more structure, intention, and nourishment to your daily meals. Whether you're a wellness enthusiast or just trying to eat a little better, this episode offers tools to help you transform your approach to food, one habit at a time. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why consistency matters more than perfection in your eating habits How to build a sustainable routine around meals The connection between consistent eating and mental clarity How Chef James created Pluck and the philosophy behind it Simple, realistic changes that can improve your overall health How to stay grounded in your wellness journey amid life’s chaos 👨‍🍳 Guest Spotlight: Chef James BerryChef James is a seasoned culinary expert and the founder of Pluck, a line of seasoning blends that infuse organ meats into your meals, making nutrient-dense eating both easy and delicious. With a passion for helping people reconnect with food in a nourishing way, James brings both heart and science to the table. 🌐 Learn more: EatPluck.com 🧩 Resources & Mentions: Pluck Organ-Based Seasonings Chef James Berry on Instagram: @chefjamesberry Follow Clean Plates for more episodes and healthy tips 📝 Call to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the podcast on your favorite platform!And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Clean Plates. 🎵 Music by: Supa Nova🎤 Produced by: Supa Nova

    1h 1m

  5. 27/08/2025

    #27 Bryce Brenton - From Pasture to Plate: A Rancher’s Role in Food Leadership

    📌 Description:In this episode of Clean Plates, host Brian Romain sits down with Bryce Brenton, the passionate owner of Frank's Butcher Shop in Wyoming. Together, they explore the journey of beef from the open range to your dinner plate—and why it matters. Bryce shares his experience running a family-owned butcher shop, diving into the values of sustainable ranching, transparency in food sourcing, and the art of high-quality butchery. Whether you're a meat enthusiast or just curious about where your food comes from, this conversation offers an honest look into modern cattle operations and the importance of community-driven food systems. 🎧 Key Highlights: Life behind the counter at a Wyoming-based butcher shop Why knowing your food source matters more than ever Grass-fed vs. grain-finished: what’s the real difference? The year-round hustle of cattle ranching and local partnerships Bryce’s mission to educate and empower meat buyers 🔗 Connect with Bryce Brenton & Frank’s Butcher Shop:🌐 Website: franksbuttershop.com📱 Social: Follow on Facebook and Instagram

    49 min

  6. 11/08/2025

    #26 Ali Schlichter - From Set Backs To Sauces: Building A Flavor Empire

    Join Brian Romain on "Clean Plates" as he sits down with Ali Schlichter, the dynamic founder of Chin Dribbling Sauses. Discover Ali's journey from her earliest food memories to becoming a culinary entrepreneur. Listen as she shares her passion for cooking, the challenges of running a business, and her inspiring experience on a Gordon Ramsay show. Whether you're a foodie or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights and heartwarming stories. Tune in for a taste of Ali's world and the flavors that drive her success. Follow/Shop Chin Dribblin: https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chindribblin.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafiXPxeSas2HwcuC1SfpWQ9B_CnKARANju1UtMfmtfTo3JOQfER_QTbCTbIwQ_aem_Q5I6JAYIZZoCQvSMx54p0g&e=AT1CAgTAzR_Z1mEYGFkJs3E6GyHEGBN6_dX7g_mi_5RfhvYT3h6OfPLuyk20MnFFaprUQFgEgJ0h_dNHUsvdYjf1OOkG0zfkLG5U5_KzrhyoATTbq5-_Eg

    53 min

  7. 10/06/2025

    #25 Samuel Farley - Food, Faith & Self-Discipline

    In this episode of Clean Plates I sit down with my good friend Samuel Farley. Sam is a real estate agent as well as one of the most balanced and disciplined humans I know. We delve into the interplay between food, health, and spiritual growth. We highlight how that eating is an act of energy exchange and explore the spiritual aspects of food, such as faith and intentionality. Key topics include water quality, mindful consumption, and the power of consumer choice (“voting with your dollar”). We both advocate for balance and self-discipline, emphasizing fasting, moderation, and the alignment of mind, body, and soul. The conversation also encourages growing your own food and staying open to diverse perspectives as part of a holistic approach to personal and collective well-being. Takeaways: Food has a significant connection to personal faith. Every ingredient has a life cycle and energy transfer. Eating high-quality ingredients contributes to overall well-being. People often overlook the importance of water quality. Voting with your dollar influences food industry practices. Aligning mind, body, and soul leads to a healthier life. Moderation is key in dietary choices. Fasting can have numerous health benefits. Self-control is crucial in managing cravings and diet. Continuous improvement in health is achievable by small daily changes. Chapters: 00:00 The Connection Between Food and Faith 03:05 Energy Transfer in Food 06:06 The Importance of Water Quality 08:53 Voting with Your Dollar 11:57 Aligning Mind, Body, and Soul 14:53 Moderation and Mindfulness in Eating 18:06 Fasting and Its Benefits 21:04 The Role of Self-Control in Diet 24:06 The Mind Over Matter Approach to Weight Loss 27:00 The Value of Diverse Perspectives 30:03 Growing Your Own Food 33:06 Continuous Improvement in Health FOLLOW SAMUEL FARLEY: https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.samuelsellshomes.net%2F%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadPEyN6XGvB5bMQ8vuTzPZoRl6QGI7dCo2K1xx1CjKmGjURmGPobC9OecS3gg_aem_LjM8RWNhL5eB_ksQ9iT-jg&e=AT3t7rOuXx_MM2cpYwwP_YkHYrssEjywyBKkEpvSJR5JVpO01SBjAlVdHy_zATKtKxgq1CohLH3D6rNa59xZEb9UzjwvbLm2VI76CZUkgSDu6ajiRYMDIQ

    1h 1m

  8. 27/05/2025

    #24 Anais Dominguez - Heritage on a Plate: How Culture Shapes The Way We Eat

    Summary: In this episode of Clean Plates my guest is Anais Dominguez. In this conversation her and I reflect on her cultural and personal journey with food, wellness, and more. Growing up in a Cuban-Puerto Rican household in Miami, Anais shares how her heritage and early experiences with traditional foods like plantains shaped her identity and approach to nutrition. We explore the interplay between cultural pride, community, and self-care, with Anais emphasizing mindful eating and the balance between social life and wellness. Together, Anais and I discuss the complexities of health journeys, including the influence of societal pressures, the time and financial costs of healthy eating, and the personal nature of health goals. We also address misconceptions about diet culture and the importance of having a supportive environment when navigating wellness. Highlights include how identity, relationships, and intentional living all contribute to a sustainable and empowering approach to health. Takeaways: Food is a central part of Anais's cultural identity. Navigating body image issues is a common struggle in diet culture. Plantains are a versatile and nutritious ingredient. Miami's culinary scene has evolved significantly over the years. Wellness and social life can coexist harmoniously. Self-care routines are essential for mental well-being. Mindful eating involves being aware of one's dietary choices. Community engagement enhances the wellness experience. Balance is key in both social and wellness activities. Cultural heritage influences dietary preferences and practices. You have the time or you have the money. It's hard to compare yourself to the fittest person. Choosing what works best for you is essential. People project their own issues onto others. Surrounding yourself with supportive people is crucial. Diet culture is often misunderstood. Personal health journeys are unique and private. Decision fatigue can be alleviated by simplifying choices. Relationships can greatly influence eating habits. It's important to focus on personal goals and well-being. Chapters: 00:00 Cultural Roots and Early Food Memories 02:51 Navigating Identity and Body Image 06:12 Local Ingredients and Culinary Traditions 09:07 Balancing Wellness and Social Life 11:53 Self-Care and Home Routines 15:11 Mindful Eating and Dietary Choices 28:25 Balancing Time and Money in Nutrition 30:20 Personal Journeys and Dietary Choices 32:52 Understanding Priorities and Goals in Health 34:35 Navigating Social Pressures and Body Image 38:58 The Impact of Relationships on Eating Habits 41:33 Challenging Diet Culture and Personal Experiences 46:53 Finding Clarity in Personal Nutrition Choices FOLLOW Anais: https://www.instagram.com/anaisinbalance?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

    48 min
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About

Food. It's intertwined with our culture, emotions, memories, and even our identities. Our relationships with food are complex and multifaceted, shaped by a myriad of factors including upbringing, geography, socioeconomic status, and personal experiences. At its core, food is a means of nourishing our bodies, providing essential nutrients and energy to fuel our daily activities. Here are the stories behind those relationships.

Information

  • Creator
    Brian Romain
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Brian Romain
  • Show Website
    Clean Plates