Shawn Stratton – Endurance, Compassion & A Life of Purpose

For 35 years, Shawn Stratton has continuously challenged his limits as an endurance athlete, completing more than 40 triathlons, including two Ironman races, multiple marathons and ultramarathons, and an incredible 100-mile trail ultramarathon.

In this episode of the Plant-Powered Athlete series, Shawn shares what inspired him to embrace veganism 11 years ago, reflects on his remarkable athletic journey, and challenges common myths about plant-based nutrition and performance. He also explores how developing a deeper connection with animals can transform the way we see the world and the choices we make.

For Shawn, compassion is more than an individual commitment — it's a family journey. His wife and all three of his children are vegan, making plant-based living and kindness towards animals a shared family value. He also reveals how Joyful Vegan's 30-Day Vegan Challenge and the documentary Forks Over Knives helped inspire their transformation.

Beyond endurance sports, Shawn is the founder of the International Vegan Film Festival (IVFF), established in 2018 as the world's first and only film festival dedicated to veganism. Through the power of film, he brings important stories to the screen, raises awareness, sparks meaningful conversations, and inspires a more compassionate and sustainable world.

A story of extraordinary endurance, family, compassion, and purpose — proving that true achievement isn't just about how far we can go, but what we stand for along the way.