Breaking Up with Dairy: Chef Bailey Ruskus on the PLANTSTRONG Podcast
Giving up dairy might seem impossible to many, but Chef Bailey Ruskus is here to show us that breaking up with milk, butter, and our beloved cheese is not only doable but transformative. Her new book, Breaking Up with Dairy, launched today and offers over 100 plant-based recipes for dairy lovers ready to make the leap. In this episode of the PLANTSTRONG Podcast, Rip Esselstyn dives deep with Chef Bai to explore the inspiration behind her book, her personal journey, and how this is more than just a diet change—it's a movement.
Listen to the full podcast interview HERE.
Why Is Dairy So Hard to Quit?
Bailey likens dairy to a toxic relationship, describing it as "the toxic, abusive, and narcissistic boyfriend that you can’t get away from." For many, dairy feels addictive because of its comforting qualities and widespread presence in our culture. Yet, the consequences of staying in this relationship are far-reaching, affecting our health, the planet, and, of course, the animals.
"Dairy is the number one source of saturated fat in the American diet. It’s time to stop ignoring its impact." – Rip Esselstyn
From Personal Struggle to Public Advocacy
Chef Bai opens up about her own health battles with endometriosis, hormone imbalances, and chronic acne—all exacerbated by dairy. When she finally broke free from dairy, her symptoms improved dramatically. Her journey inspired her viral TikTok series on quitting dairy, which resonated with millions but also drew backlash from the dairy industry. Undeterred, she turned her passion into Breaking Up with Dairy, a guide to help others navigate their own dairy-free journey.
"When you stop spending your money on dairy, you start making a dent in the industry. That’s where the power lies." – Chef Bailey Ruskus
The Five Stages of Breaking Up with Dairy
Bailey structures her book around the emotional journey of breaking up with dairy, modeled after the five stages of grief:
- Denial – “It’s not that bad, right?”
- Bargaining – “But I love cheese. How bad could it really be?”
- Anger – “Why did I not know this sooner?!”
- Depression – The tough realization of the system’s impact on animals, health, and the planet.
- Acceptance – Relief and empowerment as you embrace a dairy-free lifestyle.
"We’re taught that cow’s milk is for us, but milk is for babies—full stop." – Chef Bailey Ruskus
Eye-Opening Industry Insights
The conversation also highlighted the insidious role of the dairy industry. From government subsidies under the Dairy Checkoff Program to aggressive marketing campaigns, Bailey and Rip exposed how dairy products have been falsely positioned as essential.
"The dairy industry isn’t just selling a product; it’s selling addiction." – Rip Esselstyn
A Recipe Revolution
Breaking Up with Dairy isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a toolkit. Chef Bai reimagines dairy favorites like creamy mac and cheese, feta cheese, and even whipped cream, all made with whole, plant-based ingredients. She also ensures that her recipes are allergy-friendly, with options for nut-free, soy-free, and oil-free substitutions.
"Cheese doesn’t need to define comfort food. You can have indulgence and compassion in the same bite." – Chef Bailey Ruskus
How to Support the Movement
Chef Bai’s book is more than a resource—it’s a chance to shift cultural norms. By pre-ordering Breaking Up with Dairy or buying it in its launch week, you can help propel it onto the New York Times bestseller list, amplifying its message of change.
"If we can get this book on the bestseller list, it shows the world that we’re ready for something new." – Chef Bailey Ruskus
To celebrate the book’s launch, Bailey is offering $175 worth of bonus content to those who pre-order. Visit BreakingUpWithDairy.com to claim yours. Let’s rally behind this movement and make breaking up with dairy a cultural moment.
Listen to the full podcast interview HERE.
