Meet Coach Ruben

The autopsy that changed his life

Before medical school, a young Ruben worked as a pathologist’s assistant at a hospital in Southern California and helped with about 75 autopsies. Most were people who had died of chronic disease. Then came a woman in her mid-seventies whose organs, the pathologist said, looked as healthy as a young athlete’s, even though she had lived for decades with a serious heart defect. Her family described her life: a plant-based diet with no processed food, a backyard garden, long daily walks, strong faith, and close family.

That moment set the course of his life. Ruben changed how he ate in 1981, went on to three years at the UC Davis School of Medicine, and then earned his Master of Public Health at UCLA, specializing in behavioral sciences and health promotion, because he wanted to help people stay well, not just treat disease.

Then life knocked him down

In 1990, a ruptured Achilles tendon ended the basketball he loved. He fell into depression and comfort food, and over four and a half years gained more than 55 pounds, with rising blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. In 1995, one honest comment from a friend woke him up. He took full responsibility, changed one habit at a time, returned to plant-based eating and daily exercise, and lost the weight in about a year. He has kept it off for three decades.

🪔 Why we celebrate him: Coach Ruben has lived both sides of the story, the science and the struggle. He doesn’t sell quick fixes, powders, or magic formulas. He teaches mindset, habits, and support, one step at a time. That’s exactly the spirit of Nursed to Flourish.

🌱 The How to Fully Live 12-week program

Coach Ruben leads a 12-week online lifestyle medicine immersion program on Zoom, with group sessions, one-on-one coaching, and a copy of the book. The weeks move from purpose and mindset through nutrition, movement, sleep, stress, habits, forgiveness, happiness, communication, and building your support team.

The fall 2026 session starts in late October, with Tuesday evening and Saturday morning groups (Pacific Time). See his program page for current dates, cost, and how to register.

A paid program run independently by Coach Ruben. Kitchen Monk does not run, endorse, or earn anything from it. Check with your healthcare provider before major lifestyle changes.

🍜 Free Sunday community dinners

Coach Ruben has hosted open Sunday community dinners at Pho Fresh in Rancho Cordova, California, 5 to 7 pm, with a vegan menu and oil-free and gluten-free options. Everyone is welcome: vegan, vegan-curious, or simply health-minded. You pay for your own meal. Check his page before you go to confirm it’s still happening.