Rip Esselstyn spent a decade as one of the premier triathletes in the world. He then joined the Austin Fire Department where he introduced his passion for a whole-food, plant-based diet to Austin’s Engine 2 Firehouse in order to rescue a firefighting brother’s health. To document his success he wrote the national bestselling book, The Engine 2 Diet, which shows the irrefutable connection between a plant-based diet and good health. He is featured prominently in the documentary Forks Over Knives.

As the founder of Engine 2, Rip develops and implements a range of programs and events geared toward education, inspiring and nurturing plant-strong living for individuals, families, and organizations across the globe.

He has appeared on hundreds of radio and national television shows, including the Today Show, CBS Sunday Morning, Good Morning America and The Dr. Oz Show. Rip is a New York Times Bestselling Author who has published four books. His most recent book is The Engine 2 Cookbook.

He is the host of the “New & Noteworthy” Plant-Strong Podcast where each week he shares conversations showcasing the latest science and practical applications of a plant-based diet as a means to achieve optimal wellness.

Rip is an executive producer of The Game Changers film; a revolutionary documentary that shatters the myths about meat, protein, and strength. Rip broke the World Record in the 200 meter backstroke for men 55-59 in July of 2019.

Rip lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Jill, and their three beautiful children.