In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Believe in Progress, the podcast presented by the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation, host Mitch Stoller sits down with Chef AJ—renowned plant-based chef, bestselling author, and host of the popular YouTube channel "Healthy Living with Chef AJ." With over 47 years of experience in whole-food, plant-based nutrition, Chef AJ has long championed the power of healthy eating.

But in early 2023, her journey took an unexpected turn with a stage 3 lung cancer diagnosis—an experience she publicly shared for the first time in November 2024. Now, Chef AJ is using her platform to speak candidly about cancer, nutrition, and what it means to live with purpose through adversity.

This conversation explores:

• Chef AJ’s transformation from “junk-food vegan” to whole-food advocate

• Her surprising cancer diagnosis and the emotional aftermath

• The evolving role of nutrition in cancer prevention and healing

• How community, mindset, and hope fuel her journey today

• What she’s learned from survivors, support groups, and sharing her platform

Whether you’re navigating cancer, exploring a plant-based lifestyle, or searching for stories of resilience and hope—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Don't forget to visit Chef AJ’s website and YouTube channel, to explore her books, including "Unprocessed" and "The Secrets to Ultimate Weight Loss," and access her “Thriving in the Face of Cancer” video series.

If this episode moved you, here’s how you can make a difference:

• Support cancer research by donating at AACR.org

• Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen

• Share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing Chef AJ’s story

Production Credits:

• Host: Mitch Stoller

• Guest: Chef AJ

• Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

• Executive Producer: Michael Leary

• Associate Producer: Heather Holland

• Director: Anthony Lopes

• Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

• Editor: Michael Leary

This episode is produced by CollegeCast LLC.